Summer is almost here! And you know what that means? It’s moving season!
Moving during the summer can be exciting and overwhelming—with packed schedules, crazy temperatures, and ALL the logistics to juggle. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or relocating for a fresh start, a little planning goes a LONG way. Because there are so many moving pieces (see what I did there?), we’re launching a three-part blog series to guide you every step of the way!
Part one kicks off with Pre-Move Prep — our expert tips for getting ahead of the chaos. Coming soon: Moving Day Must-Haves (including product recommendations!) and Post-Move Strategies to help you settle into your new home with ease. Stick around—we’re here to make your move seamless from start to finish. Let’s dive into the essential steps you can take before the boxes arrive to ensure a smoother, more organized move from day one.
1. EDIT EDIT EDIT
I know that editing/decluttering always feels like my first tip but that’s because it never fails to be a helpful one! Especially when it comes to moving, you don’t want to move (or pay to move) more items than you need, use, and love! So in the weeks leading up to your move date, go through one space, area, or room at a time and designate which items will move with you, what should be donated, and what should be discarded.
If you need help knowing where to donate your items, make sure to download our FREE Decluttering guide for a full list of recommendations!
2. HIRE MOVERS
I’m going to drop a truth bomb right now: if you are over 30, your friends don’t want pizza. They want to come over for a housewarming party after you’re settled in. Hire a team of professional movers. Line up your movers and any other vendors you may need for your move well in advance. The summer books up quickly and you want first dibs on your preferred dates and teams! Hiring professionals will give you a smooth process to get you settled into your new space as soon as possible.
Sage Shoutout: Westside Movers are an incredible team to work with and are at the very top on our list of moving companies! Tell them/Matt we sent you, you won’t regret it ;)
Need other vendor recommendations? Don’t hesitate to reach out!
3. PACK A THREE-DAY SURVIVAL KIT
Pack a bag for the days in between/around your move dates with all your necessities. Items may be boxed up in advance or remain boxed up longer than planned so it’s best to have at least three days worth of clothes, toiletries, and other daily necessities on hand. Don’t forget to pack your cords and chargers; the last thing you want is to have a big presentation the day after your move and your computer is on its last 4% of battery! This should also include a set of sheets, pillows, and blankets for each family members’ bed, snacks so you don’t get hangry, and maybe even your favorite slippers. Pack like you’re going on a weekend getaway to a delightful AirBnB. You want to make yourself as comfortable as possible to eliminate any unnecessary stress.
4. PREPARE YOUR LITTLES FOR THE MOVE
Along with a survival kit, preparing your children and/or pets for a move can be hugely helpful. Not only should you keep toys, stuffies, and creature comforts accessible and ready, starting to get them acquainted with the idea of a move and a new home will benefit you in the long run. If possible, show them the new home or neighborhood, so it’s already a familiar space when the move happens!
5. SCOUT OUT YOUR NEW NEIGHBORHOOD
If you are moving locally and have the opportunity, we recommend scoping out your new area and make note of the following spots so you’re prepared if and when you need something!
pharmacy- We all get sick
grocery store- We all get hungry
post office- I still use stamps every once in a while
bank- Get dat cash
train stop- This is a must
pet store/vet- Don’t forget your littles!
park- A relaxing walk in the park helps us all
coffee shop- Caffeine pleeeease
happy hour- I always want a cold beer after moving!
6. TIE UP THE LOOSE ENDS
Plan ahead for the logistics and small loose ends that tend to get forgotten and can add up! This includes transferring utilities and internet, filing a change of address form, updating your ID, spackling walls, and final cleaning/clearing of your old home. The sooner you can list out these items and come up with a plan of action, the better! Plus, who doesn’t love checking off boxes or crossing items off a to do list?
7. MAKE A PLAN AND PACK WITH INTENTION
Whether you’re preparing on your own or you’re enlisting a moving company, packing your items with intention will help smooth out the unpacking and settling in process on the other end. Consider any items you may want to move yourself rather than leaving it to a moving company (this could mean extra fragile or sentimental items). Use ziplock bags to contain smaller items that tend to get lost (I’m looking at you tv remote) before the moving company comes in. Clearly label boxes or furniture items according to the destination in the new space so there is no confusion as to what will go where!
These seven steps will help you feel under control as you head into a stressful time! We guarantee if you follow these suggestions, you will feel ahead of the game (and that you won’t be able to contain your expertise when it’s your friend’s turn to move. 😉)
If you’re looking for more resources, we’ve got you! Make sure to check our decluttering guide or head over to our services page to learn how we can help you experience a smooth move from start to finish! And don’t forget to stay tuned for our next blog in our moving series: Moving Day Must-Haves!
Have a friend or family member moving soon? Forward them this blog!