Moving into a new home is a major milestone in life — a fresh start filled with excitement, opportunities, and change. But anyone who’s gone through the process knows that moving can also be stressful, time-consuming, and physically demanding. Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, one big question often arises: should you handle the move yourself (DIY), or should you hire professionals like a Flyttfirma Malmö or Allied’s Residential Moving Services?
Step 1: Planning and Preparation
The moving process starts well before the moving truck arrives. The first step is planning.
Create a Moving Timeline
Ideally, start planning your move at least 6–8 weeks in advance. Create a timeline to help you stay organized. Include tasks like decluttering, packing, hiring movers, changing your address, and setting up utilities at your new home.
Budgeting Your Move
Moving can be costly. Decide early whether you’re hiring professional movers or going the DIY route. Account for expenses like moving supplies, truck rental, mover fees, insurance, and travel costs. It’s also a good idea to budget for any new furniture or home essentials you might need.
Research Moving Companies
If you’re using a professional moving company, get quotes from at least three reputable movers. Read reviews, verify licensing and insurance, and ask about additional fees. A good mover will also conduct a virtual or in-home survey to provide an accurate estimate.
Step 2: Decluttering and Organizing
Before you start packing, go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. Moving is the perfect opportunity to downsize.
Organize by Room
Tackle one room at a time. Separate items into categories: keep, donate, sell, and discard. Be honest about what you really use or need.
Hold a Garage Sale or Donate
You can offset some of your moving costs by selling unwanted items through a garage sale or online marketplace. For items that don’t sell, consider donating to local charities or shelters.
Step 3: Packing Your Belongings
Packing is one of the most time-consuming parts of moving, but doing it strategically can save you time and hassle on the other end.
Gather Supplies
You’ll need boxes (small, medium, and large), packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, labels, and markers. Specialty boxes for items like dishes, wardrobes, or electronics may also be helpful.
Label Everything
Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in. Consider color-coding boxes by room for even easier unpacking.
Protect Fragile Items
Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or packing paper and label those boxes as “fragile.” Make sure heavier items go in smaller boxes to avoid overpacking.
Pack an Essentials Box
Prepare a “first night” box with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival: toiletries, a change of clothes, basic kitchenware, phone chargers, and important documents.
Step 4: Notifying Key Parties
As you get closer to moving day, notify relevant parties about your change of address.
Change of Address
Update your address with the post office, banks, credit card companies, subscriptions, and any government agencies. You can do this online through USPS or by visiting your local post office.
Utilities and Services
Schedule disconnection of services at your old home and setup at your new one. This includes electricity, gas, water, internet, cable, and garbage collection. Don’t forget to transfer or cancel any local memberships (like gyms or clubs).
Step 5: Moving Day
Moving day is when all the preparation pays off. Whether you’ve hired professionals or are doing it yourself, try to stay calm and focused.
If You’ve Hired Movers
Make sure the movers have clear instructions and a copy of your inventory list. Walk them through your home and point out any fragile or high-value items. Keep snacks, water, and cash tips on hand for the movers.
If You’re Moving Yourself
Recruit help from friends or family, and rent a truck that’s the right size for your load. Be sure to lift with your knees and use proper equipment like dollies and straps to prevent injury and damage.
Do a Final Walkthrough
Before leaving your old home, do a final walkthrough to ensure nothing is left behind. Check closets, drawers, the attic, basement, and garage. Turn off lights, close windows, and lock doors.
Step 6: Settling Into Your New Home
Arriving at your new home marks the start of another phase of the move.
Unpack Strategically
Start by unpacking your essentials box, followed by the kitchen, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Take your time with other rooms. Unpacking over several days can prevent burnout.
Set Up Utilities and Internet
If you haven’t done so already, activate your utilities and internet. Test everything to make sure it’s working properly.
Safety and Cleaning
Do a safety check: test smoke detectors, locate the fuse box and main water valve, and make sure all locks are working. You may want to deep clean your new home before unpacking fully.
Update Documents
Update your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and voter registration to reflect your new address. These changes are especially important if you’ve moved to a new state.
Step 7: Getting Settled and Adjusting
It takes time to adjust to a new home, neighborhood, and routine. Give yourself and your family time to adapt.
Explore Your Neighborhood
Find your nearest grocery store, pharmacy, hospital, and other essential services. Meet your neighbors and explore parks, restaurants, and community centers.
Establish New Routines
Start creating a sense of normalcy by establishing new daily routines. This is especially helpful for children and pets who may be more affected by the change.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
Moving can be emotionally draining. Give yourself space to rest and reflect. Celebrate the milestone, and remember that homes become “home” over time, not overnight.
Final Thoughts
The household moving process may feel daunting at first, but breaking it down into manageable steps can make a world of difference. From early planning and packing to settling into your new environment, being organized and proactive is key. Every move is a fresh start, offering new opportunities and experiences. With the right approach, you can navigate the process confidently and start this next chapter of your life on the right foot.
