Moving your home, whether it’s across town or across the street, can be a daunting task. But it doesn’t have to be a chaotic one. If you’re organized, moving can be accomplished without stress. Promise.

Follow the tips and tricks below for a stress-free move to your new home.

  1. Organize now. Don’t leave everything to the last minute. If you begin a check-list the moment you make the big decision to move, you’re already ahead of the game. Working backwards in time, figure out what you need to accomplish week by week so there’s no rush as the day approaches. Here’s a great example of a moving checklist from HGTV.
  2. Logistics. How will you get from A to B? Will you hire movers or do it yourself with a group of friends? Reserve a van or book those movers as soon as possible – the end / beginning of the month is their busiest time. Check out reviews on Yelp or ask friends for recommendations on which company to use. If you decide on movers, give them as many details as possible, such as approximate number of boxes and type of furniture. They can even help you take apart and assemble some furniture – but be sure to let them know ahead of time so they’re equipped with the right tools and factor in the time.
  3. Destination details. There may be a moving procedure for your new home. Speak with the property manager to schedule an elevator or loading dock for your big day. Ask where your truck should park and pass that info on to your movers. Find out if there’s a deposit for your move and be prepared with a cheque.
  4. Boxes. There are lots of different ways to pack up your belongings. Stop by your local moving supply or storage company for cardboard boxes. Or go the environmentally friendly route with BungoBox or Gorilla Box. You can also check out Craigslist for free used boxes from someone else’s move.
  5. Purge. This is an incredibly cleansing step in your move. You’ll feel lighter setting foot into a new home when you only take what you absolutely must have. Assess your closets, and toss, donate, or sell those items you don’t really need. Lots of charities accept used furniture and clothes if they’re in good condition. Do you really need that stack of old magazines? Or the shelves of DVDs you never watch?
  6. Packing. When you begin to pack, take an inventory of what goes in your boxes. Label the outsides so you know exactly where everything is – write down what room the box goes in and a brief description of contents. And, surprise, surprise, there’s an app for packing: Sortly.
  7. Get connected. Contact your service providers to make sure everything is hooked up to align with your occupancy. Hydro, internet, and cable are the big-ticket items to schedule ahead of time.
  8. Valuables. Reserve a small box for all your essential items – like medications, passports, important documents, and small valuables. Keep this one aside from the movers and beside you when you transition between homes.
  9. You’ll need music. Create the perfect packing and unpacking playlist to get you spirited and in the mood.
  10. You’ll also need food. Have some healthy snacks and water on hand to keep you going throughout the day.