Moving house is often one of life’s most stressful events. From packing and planning to adjusting to a new space, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed both physically and emotionally. But with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be.
In this simple blog, we’ll share quick tips and tricks like stress-free packing ideas and the pros and cons of doing it yourself versus hiring help, to make your move feel less stressful and overwhelming.
Why Moving Is So Stressful
Moving house is generally a stressful life event filled with unpredictability. Studies actually show that 57% of brits find moving one of the most stressful life events. Even more stressful than having a child or going through a divorce!
Additionally, the emotional stress of moving can be so large that 47% of brits report increased stress levels due to moving, with 41% reporting anxiety and 31% suffering from sleep deprivation during the process. So you are not alone if moving stresses you, or even just the thought of it.
Planning Ahead: The Key to a Smooth House Move
I know you’ve probably heard it a million times, but preparation really is key when it comes to moving house. If you prepare and cover all grounds beforehand you’re more likely to feel less stressed, if god forbid anything goes a little south.
Creating a moving house checklist is a great way to prepare for a move, and the good news is we’ve already created one for you making it just that little bit easier. You can download our free moving home checklist here.
We also recommend starting early around 4-6 weeks in advance, especially if you’re looking to utilise removal services, hire a van or even put your stuff into storage that may not fit into your new home.
Stress-Free Packing Tips
1. Create a Moving Timeline
Break the process into weekly tasks leading up to your move. For example:
- 6–8 weeks before: Start decluttering and researching moving companies.
- 4 weeks before: Begin packing non-essential items.
- 2 weeks before: Confirm moving arrangements and update your address.
- Moving week: Pack essentials, clean, and do final checks.
2. Make a Room-by-Room Packing Plan
Focus on one room at a time to avoid spreading yourself too thin.
- Start with areas you use the least (like guest rooms or storage).
- Label boxes clearly by room and priority (e.g., “Kitchen – Essentials”).
3. Set Daily or Weekly Goals
Rather than packing all at once, aim to pack a few boxes each day.
- Set small targets like: “Today I’ll pack the bathroom,” or “This weekend we’ll tackle the garage.”
4. Use a Checklist for Everything
Create checklists for:
- Packing
- Utility transfers
- Change of address
- Items to donate or sell
Ticking things off helps reduce anxiety and gives a sense of progress.
5. Organise Important Documents Separately
Designate a folder for key documents (ID, lease, contracts, moving company details). Ensure you keep it with you, instead of in the moving truck in case anything happens.
6. Pack an Essentials Box
Include items you’ll need immediately: toiletries, a few outfits, chargers, snacks, basic cookware. It saves you from rummaging through boxes on day one, especially when you feel really tired.
7. Get Help and Delegate
Whether it’s friends, family, or professional movers, don’t try to do everything yourself. Even having someone tape boxes or run errands can lighten your load.
Hiring Help vs DIY Moving
While we are all more than capable of doing things ourselves, sometimes it’s better to delegate certain things to help reduce stress and the amount of strain you’re putting on yourself. So we’ve broken down the pros and cons of hiring help or doing the move yourself.
Hiring Movers
Pros:
- Time-saving: Movers handle packing, loading, and transport efficiently.
- Less physical stress: No heavy lifting or back-and-forth trips.
- Expertise: Professionals know how to handle fragile or bulky items.
- Insurance coverage: Many companies include coverage in case of damage.
Cons:
- Cost: Hiring movers can be expensive, especially for long-distance moves.
- Scheduling limitations: Availability may be limited during peak times (e.g., summer weekends).
- Less control: You’re relying on others to handle your belongings.
DIY Move
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: Renting a van and doing the heavy lifting yourself is usually cheaper than hiring a professional moving service.
- Full Control: You manage the schedule, packing style, and how your belongings are handled.
- Flexible Timing: Pack and move at your own pace and reduce stress.
- Good for Smaller Moves: If you’re moving out of a small flat or don’t have a lot of heavy furniture, it might be quick and easy to handle yourself.
Cons:
- Physically Demanding: Lifting and moving furniture can be exhausting and cause injury if done incorrectly.
- Time-Consuming: Packing, loading, transporting, and unloading everything takes significantly more time without professional help.
- Higher Risk of Damage: Your belongings may be more likely to get damaged during the move.
- Logistical Stress: Organising transport, equipment (like trolleys or straps), and friends to help can be complicated and stressful.
Did You Know...
Using temporary self storage can significantly help during a house move. Giving you room to declutter whilst providing you with peace of mind that your belongings are safe.
Conclusion
Moving can be stressful, but through early planning, proper organisation and delegating tasks you can feel on top of things and reduce your overall stress.
Luckily at Kelly’s Storage we provide mobile self storage, making delegating much easier. We collect, store and deliver your belongings right to your doorstep. Plus they will be carefully wrapped and handled with extra care, so you can relax and take some weight off your shoulders while you focus on settling into your new home.
So now that we’ve equipped you with the best tips and tricks on how to make your house move stress-free, we wish you the best of luck on your new ventures. Plus if you ever need storage, we’ll be right here.
Preparing for a house move?
Check out how our self storage services can help make your move easy and stress-free.
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