Whether you have a long distance move or a short distance move, stress is sure to come with the task. However, a little planning and the right supplies can make your move significantly smoother.

Streamlining your move will take some stress out of the equation so check out these tips for making your move easier.

Designate a Packing Area

Your home may be in a state of chaos in the days leading up to a move but it can be very helpful to designate a central area for packing anyway. Make sure the area has enough flat space (either a large, clear area of the floor or a large table) so that you can fit large boxes and safely pack fragile items.

In your space, have your supplies (scissors, packing tape, markers, etc.) at the ready so consider including a small table for these.

Plan your Move

It is almost impossible to account for all the situations that arise during a move but making a packing list can help. Before moving day, list some of the items that need to be packed in order of priority. Then as you pack them, check them off the list.

This will help you to remember everything. It will also prevent situations where you have to go back and pack an item into a box that is already full.

Pack Items in Your Luggage

Turning your luggage into packing vessels is a smart way to save space. Instead of packing your luggage, put items inside them.

Pack Similar Items Together

Putting similar items in the same boxes can help when you are unpacking in your new space. Some people prefer to pack items according to rooms. However, if you are unsure about where you are going to put items in your new home pack like items together until you can decide where things will be placed.

For instance, you can keep utensils with other kitchen items like appliances, tablecloths, and placemats. You can keep bathroom items like rugs, toothbrush holders and towels together too.

Get the Right Supplies

Before your move be sure to procure the supplies you will need. Luckily, most of these items can be purchased at your local storage facility or hardware store.

Some of the items you may need include: labels, packing peanuts, old newspapers, packing tape, plastic containers, markers, scissors and of course cardboard boxes.

Make A Cleaning Kit

If you are renting your current space, landlords will withhold security deposits if your place isn’t cleaned after you move. Many people forget about this and end up packing their cleaning supplies.

Before you start packing be sure to make a cleaning kit and keep it out of the way so that it isn’t packed by mistake. Your cleaning kit can contain items like brooms, mops, cleaning rags, wet wipes, a cleaning solution, and a dust rag.

Wear Comfortable Clothes

While moving you’ll be lifting and lugging a lot so be sure to wear comfortable clothing. Consider a well broken-in pair of jeans that fit comfortably because denim is relatively tough and provides some impact protection.

Keep Track of What you Pack

As you pack you may want to number the boxes and write down what is packed inside them. Use the list you made before the move and itemize it according to which boxes certain items went into. This will help a ton when you are unpacking.

Color coding could also be helpful if you are working with a moving company. Marking boxes with a certain color (with a marker or stickers) and then marking rooms in your new home with the corresponding color will let the movers know where to put what boxes.

Pack Non-Essential Items Early

You can ease the burden of moving day a bit by packing items that you don’t need daily well before your move. It may only be a drop in the bucket but every little bit helps when it comes to moving. This could include out of season clothes or sporting equipment.

Hire the Right Movers

If you want to hire movers to help you make sure the company is reputable. Ask for references, insurance policies they carry and make sure they are local. Be very clear about how many rooms you need to move so they don’t send too few or too many men to help.

Stay Cool

We mean this both literally and figuratively. Don’t overexert yourself and don’t allow yourself to get too wound up. Take breaks to decompress and stay properly hydrated throughout the day of the move.

Moves can be taxing mentally and physically so always be aware of how you are feeling.

Follow these tips and have a stress-free, safe and happy move!