The idea of moving can sound like a great adventure, but for most people, the actual process of moving is a giant headache, or much worse. In fact, a lot of people equate it to some of life’s biggest annoyances.
In a recent survey, 19% of respondents said they would rather get a root canal than spend the day moving, and nearly half would choose sitting next to a screaming baby on a one-hour flight over packing up their place. (But what about a two-hour flight?)
Hey, relocating is a reality of life. The good news: There are ways to make it less stressful. No, it won’t be a barrel of laughs, but moving doesn’t have to be a traumatic experience. So when the time comes, consider putting the following tips to use.
The idea of moving can sound like a great adventure, but for most people, the actual process of moving is a giant headache, or much worse. In fact, a lot of people equate it to some of life’s biggest annoyances.
Follow the rule of twos
When you know a move is imminent, there’s a tendency to procrastinate, and this adds to the stress. A good way to stay on track is to follow the rule of twos: Start planning two months before moving day, and start packing two weeks before.
“If possible, give yourself eight weeks to handle your moving checklist in an orderly, low-stress manner,” says Laura McHolm, co-founder of NorthStar Moving Co. in Los Angeles. “This will give you time to send change-of-address information, pack up your home, arrange to transfer your child’s school records, etc.”
Make a checklist
Don’t even try to commit your moving to-do list to memory!
Laurence Jankelow, co-founder of Avail, a Chicago startup that makes software for landlords, recommends making a checklist that includes the following items:
Contacting your utilities company to change or cancel service
Scheduling cable and internet installation
Updating your home or renters insurance
Hiring a moving company
Updating your billing address