There are few things in life more stressful than moving. Not only does it require you to organize, stage, and sell your home, but then you have to pack everything you own and move it to a new house. The physical and mental process of moving is exhausting and overwhelming to say the least. Luckily, there are things you can do to make the process smoother and easier. Whether you’re moving down the street or across the city, consider these helpful tips for a better moving experience.

Plan Ahead: Make a Moving Checklist

Moving is not something you should take lightly, given that it’s quite a big task. A successful move starts with proper planning. Start by making a moving checklist of everything that needs to get done before, during, and after your move. This can help you stay organized throughout the process so you aren’t scrambling around trying to make last minute arrangements. Unless you have to move in a hurry, you typically have between 4-6 weeks to make sure everything is completed. Make a list of each task that needs to be accomplished in order of importance. This can help you create a timeline so you can be sure everything is done right on time.

Declutter and Purge

Packing all of your belongings is a big job but you can simplify the task by cutting out the clutter. Before you pack anything, go through each room in your house and get rid of any items you no longer need. You can choose to sell them, donate them, or throw them away, but the less you have to pack means the less you have to move and unpack.

Create a Moving Binder

There is so much to keep track of when you are moving so it can be extremely helpful to keep everything organized in a moving binder. This is where you can keep addresses, phone numbers, contact information, moving and rental contracts, donation receipts, financial statements,  school records, and any other important paperwork.

Pack in Advance

Ideally, you want to start purging and then packing as soon as you know you will be moving. Start by packing out of season clothing, seasonal items, and stored items first. It can be helpful to rent a portable storage container to keep on site so you can pack your items at your own convenience. That way, when it comes time to move, most of your belongings will be packed and ready to go.

Book Early

If you are hiring movers, renting a portable storage container, hiring painters or hiring any other professionals, be sure to book them as early as possible. Waiting could mean paying a higher price or not being able to get movers at all. This is especially important during peak moving season.

Stock Up on Supplies

It is helpful to stock up on all your moving supplies before you begin packing. The last thing you want is to be running out of supplies and making trips to the store at the last minute. Be sure to gather plenty of moving boxes, packing paper, packing tape, and bubble wrap. It is also important to rent proper supplies and equipment including moving blankets, dollies, moving straps, and any other accessories that you may need during your move.

Pack an Essentials Bag

Make sure you have those items that you will need right away packed separately. This would include things like extra clothes, toiletries, toilet paper, medications, phone chargers, and a few snacks. You will need to do this for every member of your family. That way you will at least have the most important items right with you when you arrive at your new home.