Relocating? Here's How to Make the Big Move Better

Whether you’re relocating across the country or just across town, moving can be stressful even given the best circumstances. Without a clear plan, packing up a household, getting a family prepared and orchestrating myriad services at both ends of a move can be a nightmare.

You can avoid the pitfalls with a little preparation. I put my head together with the great minds at Tucson Professional Organizers, and we came up with these tried and true tips for planning and executing a seamless move.

Create a moving file. As soon as you even start thinking about moving, create a moving file on your computer or in a binder. Gather all related papers in one place, such as:

• Notes on potential moving companies
• Random lists
• A calendar and a timeline for doing things
• Your master packing list
• Contact information for utilities, Realtors, veterinarian etc.

Your moving file will be your indispensable ally; keep it with you at all times.


Centralize your operation. Designate one spot as packing central, where you will keep boxes, packing materials, scissors, tape, markers, labels and a box cutter.


Purge before packing. Avoid the temptation to dump an entire drawer of stuff into a box. This is the perfect time to declutter, purge, sift, sort, thin out … whatever you call it, just do it! Every item being moved should be moved for a reason — either you use it or you love it. Be brave and ruthless so you don’t have to move more stuff than necessary. Remember, you pay movers based on the amount of stuff you have, and the more you move, the more you’ll have to unpack later.

Keep a master packing list. Number each box as you pack it and write the number visibly on all four sides. Don’t list the contents on the box. Instead, keep a master packing list in your moving file. List the contents of each numbered box; be specific, so you’ll waste less time searching for things later.

Use masking tape and a marker to tag electronics cables for easy setup later.


Secure your valuables. Pack your jewelry and legal documents yourself in an unmarked (or misleadingly marked) box and carry it with you personally. While I’ve never had an issue with a mover, it is unwise to label a box “Lots of valuable gold in here!” before putting it in other people’s hands.


Plan for moving day. Put together a moving-day box with essentials that you will keep in your car. Moving is kind of like camping, so pack accordingly. Include:

Your moving fileSupplies from packing centralToilet paper, soap, toiletries, medications, chargers and batteries for electronics (invest in chargers that plug into your car’s lighter), paper towels, bath towels and bedsheets, so you can settle in quicklyBasic cleaning suppliesA small tool kitHealthy snacks, paper plates, cups, utensils and a coffeemakerPet food, bowls, leash, pet bedFirst aid kit
The Moving-Day Survival Kit: Lifesaving Items and Niceties


Involve the kids. Get kids involved by helping them pack their own travel bag with toiletries, pajamas and a few days’ worth of clothes. If your child has a favorite, comforting toy, bring it with you rather than packing it out of sight and out of reach.


Care for pets. Moving is hectic with pets, especially if there will be several pit stops along the way. And moving day will be chaotic, with lots of open doors. Before moving day have ID tags made for your pets with your new address and be sure they wear their collar and new tags every moment of the move.


By mastering the logistics, you can focus on your family and the emotions surrounding a big change or simply make moving day go off without a hitch. Hopefully, your process will be smooth, your trip a great adventure and your new home a place you will love for a long time to come.

Coming next: A guide to moving in

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