It’s true that moving can be one of the most stressful experiences one can go through but with a little planning and support, it doesn’t have to be for you.

Florida Moving Systems, Central Florida, sifted through years of experience and put together this list to help you keep your cool.

 

Make a Plan

Don’t let the move date sneak up on you, start planning as soon as you know you are on your way out. Eight to twelve weeks should be enough time to make all of the arrangements, including selecting a reputable moving company and to pack mindfully.

Create a Budget

As part of making a plan, set a budget and add twenty percent for unexpected costs. Being prepared financially will help reduce stress in a big way.

Resources

Do your research and hire a mover that suits your needs. Make sure to have enough boxes, tape, markers, wrapping paper and cutting instruments on hand. Walk through your home and make arrangements for special packaging needs, storage or shipping.

Organization is Key

Label boxes clearly with detailed list of contents and the name of the room. You don’t want find yourself digging in a bunch of boxes to find a roll of toilet paper. Also, know what needs to go in the truck first and what goes in last.

Give yourself Time

Take time to categorize items and pack mindfully, for example, keep all bathroom items together and toss or donate what you don’t need. This is a great time to de-clutter your life and start fresh.

Create a Priority Box

Plan for basic and personal items you will need during the first couple of days after moving, including toiletries, towels, bed linens, sleepware and personal effects you can’t live without. Keep these items separate and easily accessible. Also plan for fundamental grocery needs.

Only Pack What You Want

A move affords you an opportunity to downsize and simplify your life. Not to mention, that you’ll be moving and unpacking less stuff. Donate what you don’t use on a regular basis.

Handle with Care

Pack important documents, jewelry, personal effects, medications, weapons, etc. Separately and keep them with you so they don’t get lost in transit.

Eat, Sleep, Drink, Rest

Get a good night’s sleep before the move so that you are alert and able to handle anything that comes your way. Eat light nutritious meals, avoid caffeine and stay hydrated with lots of water. Remember to pace yourself and take breaks when needed.

Ask for Help

Have a packing party or ask a friend who is an organization machine to help with your plan. Whatever the case, make sure you plan for all of your needs, ask for help and assign tasks, especially to any family members that are present on move day.

Check Expectations

Even under the best of circumstances there are bound to be hiccups so don’t sweat the small stuff. Save your emotional energy and if something comes up, accept what happens and look for a solution avoid focusing on the negative. Don’t be too proud to ask for or accept help. Remember, this too shall pass.

Take Care of Yourself

Emotionally, moving can be difficult. Acknowledge any feelings of fear, sadness or loss and talk about them with a confidant. Bottled up feelings can spill over on moving day and cause additional stress. Say good-byes, visit favorite spots, have a massage, exercise and try to keep your regular routines. It’s important to support family members and their feelings as well.

Explore your New Neighborhood

Visit the new neighborhood, if possible and familiarize yourself with potential new spots. If moving to a new city, take virtual tours of the area via the internet.  Look for a new hairdresser, coffee shop, grocery store, gym, churches and parks. The sooner you establish new routines, the faster you’ll feel settled and at home.

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful. Check expectations at the door and remember that change opens the door to new opportunities, so relax and breathe. Good luck!

For more tips or to discuss moving and storage needs call Florida Moving Systems, Melbourne today at (800) 283-6683 or visit www.flmove.com.