7 Expert Tips for a Stress-Free Move

Moving—it's one of life's most exciting yet overwhelming transitions. Whether you’re settling into your dream home, downsizing to a more manageable space, or making a big cross-country leap, the process can quickly feel like a mountain of tasks. In fact, studies show that it can take anywhere from 6 to 9 months to truly unpack and settle in. But with the right preparation and expert guidance, your move can be the start of an exciting new chapter. Follow these tips to make your transition smoother, more efficient, and even enjoyable.

1. Don’t Skip the Edit

Before you dive into packing, take a step back and assess your belongings. Moving is the perfect opportunity to refresh your space and rethink what truly belongs in your new life. Ask yourself: Does this item serve a purpose? Is it something I love, use, or need? If not, it’s time to let it go. Curating a space that’s functional, beautiful, and reflective of your style is key. Plus, a lighter load means a smoother move—and less to unpack later!

Start with closets, drawers, and cabinets. If something is in great condition but no longer serves you, donate or consign it. After all, you don’t want to pay to move items you don’t need or want in your new home. Simplifying now will save you time, money, and stress down the road.

2. Invest in Quality Packing Materials

It may be tempting to cut corners with inexpensive packing supplies, but a little extra investment in quality materials goes a long way. Sturdy boxes, strong tape, and bubble wrap will protect your belongings and keep everything safe during the move.

For delicate items like glassware or china, wrap each piece individually and pack them on their sides. Fill any empty space with packing peanuts or extra paper to prevent shifting. Mark these boxes “Fragile” for an extra layer of caution.

3. Label Like a Pro

Keeping your move organized starts with a simple yet effective labeling system. Not only will this ensure nothing is lost, but it will also make unpacking a breeze. In addition to creating an inventory list, take photos or videos of your items as you pack. This added layer of documentation offers peace of mind and can be helpful in the rare event of an insurance claim.

Number your boxes and create an inventory list—whether in a spreadsheet or moving app. As you pack each box, note its contents and the room it belongs to. This simple system will help you locate specific items with ease when it’s time to unpack.

4. Pack with Purpose

Packing isn’t just about throwing things into boxes. It’s about setting yourself up for a smooth and efficient unpacking process. When packing, consider how your new space will be organized. Will your kitchen items stay in the same area, or be relocated to a new pantry or bar area? Label your boxes accordingly.

Group like items together and label boxes based on the room they’ll go to in your new home. For example, if your primary entrance will be a mudroom (rather than the main entryway), label boxes “Mudroom: Coats” or “Mudroom: Shoes.” A little planning now will make unpacking so much easier.

5. Prepare an Essentials Kit

When you arrive at your new home, the last thing you want to do is dig through boxes for the basics. An essential kit will save you from scrambling for toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, and even your charging cables. Think of it as your moving-day survival kit, designed to keep you comfortable and stress-free during the first few days.

Pro Tip: Include toiletries, a few outfits, medications, and fresh linens (sheets, towels, and bedding). Add in basic kitchen tools like a coffee maker, a few utensils, and some snacks for the family. And for extra convenience, consider arranging a grocery delivery for your first evening in your new home.

6. Handle Valuables with Special Care

Some items - jewelry, artwork, antique furniture, wine collections, designer handbags - deserve extra care during a move. Irreplaceable items should never be packed with the rest of your belongings. Instead, hand-carry them or pack them in specialty containers with ample padding to ensure their safety.

Pro Tip: For high-value items, consider hiring professional movers who specialize in transporting delicate possessions. They have the expertise, tools, and experience to ensure your items are protected. For smaller valuables, such as jewelry or handbags, use a lockable case or safe, and always keep them with you during the move.

7. Moving with Little Ones

Moving with children requires a bit of extra thought and planning. Maintaining their routines and minimizing disruption will help them adjust more easily to their new home. We recommend packing a bag of their favorite toys, books, and comfort items. Also, coordinate with movers to ensure their rooms are set up first on moving day.

If possible, arrange for a family member or friend to care for the kids on moving day. This will allow you to focus on the logistics without worrying about their comfort, making for a more efficient and stress-free experience for everyone.

Ready to Make Your Move with Ease?

Packing up and moving can feel daunting—but with a bit of preparation and the right tools, the process doesn’t have to be stressful. If you’d rather leave the heavy lifting to the professionals, DECANTT Organized Living is here to help. Our Concierge Moving Service ensures a seamless, stress-free transition, handling everything from packing and unpacking to organizing your new space. Contact us today to learn how we can make your move effortless and enjoyable.