{"id":878,"date":"2024-07-25T11:37:21","date_gmt":"2024-07-25T16:37:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/?p=878"},"modified":"2025-01-11T13:10:58","modified_gmt":"2025-01-11T18:10:58","slug":"moving-hacks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/moving-hacks\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 Moving Hacks to Make Your Move Easier"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Everyone wants their move to a new home to go as smoothly as possible. Regardless of whether you plan to hire <a href=\"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/chicago-moving-company\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">professional movers<\/a> to help you with your pack and relocation, there are several moving hacks that you can take advantage of to make the overall moving process manageable, stress-free, and maybe even a little fun. Here are some professional tips and tricks to help you along the way. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Start Planning Your Move Early<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most important things you can do to ensure a smooth move is to start planning early. There are a lot of details involved in packing up your old place and settling into your new one, so giving yourself a couple of months\u2014and keeping yourself on track with a <a href=\"https:\/\/pubdls.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/Move-Tastic+Moving+Checklist.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">free moving checklist<\/a>\u2014will help the overall moving process seem like a list of manageable tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind that in addition to the move itself, you\u2019ll have to handle some additional logistics, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Updating your address with the <a href=\"https:\/\/moversguide.usps.com\/mgo\/address-info?referral=SEM&amp;kwd=Address&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_cmpid=20908432956&amp;utm_adgid=158233331758&amp;utm_tgtid=kwd-16045516&amp;utm_locintid=&amp;utm_locphysid=9021748&amp;utm_matchtypeid=b&amp;utm_network=g&amp;utm_device=c&amp;utm_adid=686519006766&amp;utm_adpos=&amp;utm_plid=&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw74e1BhBnEiwAbqOAjJ962ekcoZQJ_x0B6vpYU_GO1r1Fujda2r0PHMWUh6tbUfAqh1XzExoC_3MQAvD_BwE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">United States Postal Service<\/a> as well as any subscription services like online retailers or meal deliveries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Schedule time to get a new driver\u2019s license or state ID with your new address<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Move utilities to your new place, including water, gas, electrical, and internet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get new homeowner\u2019s or renter\u2019s insurance policies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Everyone will have a different list of logistics they need to handle and services they need to update, so it\u2019s often best practice to take some time to brainstorm a list so you don\u2019t forget about anything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Declutter Your Home<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s no need to waste time and money packing and moving unnecessary items. Moving to a new place is a great opportunity to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/reasons-to-declutter-before-your-move\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">declutter your home<\/a> by getting rid of things you don\u2019t want, don\u2019t need, or maybe haven\u2019t used in a couple of years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, if you\u2019ve been hanging on to really old or damaged items, consider throwing them out or recycling them. You can also invite your family and friends over to take their pick of any belongings you\u2019re getting rid of. Whatever is left over could be a great fit for a local charity donation. Or, you can organize a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thisoldhouse.com\/storage-organization\/reviews\/how-to-downsize-with-a-yard-sale\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">yard sale<\/a> to put a little cash in your pocket, which you can then add to your moving budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Decluttering also lets you create a thorough inventory list of the furniture, boxes, and miscellaneous items you\u2019re going to move, which sets you up for a great moving experience in a number of ways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Create an Inventory List<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>After you\u2019ve purged your old dwelling of unnecessary or unwanted items, create an inventory list of what you\u2019re bringing to your new home. This might be a computerized spreadsheet or a scribbled-down list, but it should include the items that are in each room. This will be a living document that you can add to and make notes on as you pack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Creating an inventory list assists your moving process in multiple ways. First, if you\u2019re hiring a professional moving and\/or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/chicago-packing-service\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">packing service<\/a>, that company will ask for the size of your home and approximate inventory so they can create an estimate for you. Second, it\u2019ll help keep you organized during your move. Picture your youngest child not being able to sleep the first night in your new place without their favorite stuffed animal. Instead of a panicked and disorganized look through dozens of boxes, you can just refer to your handy moving inventory to find out where you packed it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, if you\u2019re handling your pack and move on your own, this cohesive list will help you determine what packing supplies you need, the approximate quantity of boxes, and maybe even how to save a little money on these materials. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Learn How to Save Money on Packing Materials<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Moving doesn\u2019t have to break the bank. In fact, you can save a lot of money on packing materials if you have enough time to do a little research and legwork. Start with these ideas:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><em>Use what you have around the house.<\/em><\/strong> Totes, bins, suitcases, and duffle bags are great substitutes for moving boxes. As another packing tip, use clothing and towels to wrap up delicate items so you can save money on packing paper and padding.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>Find free moving boxes.<\/em><\/strong> If someone you know has recently moved, ask if they have some used moving boxes they wouldn&#8217;t mind giving to you. Neighborhood social media groups are also great venues to find free moving and packing supplies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>Pick up some vacuum bags.<\/em><\/strong> These reusable bags let you remove the air from bulky items like comforters, pillows, and winter coats. They\u2019re great space savers that\u2019ll allow you to pack more efficiently and use less packing supplies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>Rent moving bins.<\/em><\/strong> Some companies let you <a href=\"https:\/\/boxbeaters.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">rent packing supplies<\/a> like sturdy plastic bins, wheeled dollies, and wardrobe boxes. This will save you money <em>and<\/em> help you have an eco-friendly move!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Saving a little cash is great, but most moves do require some sort of budget for packing materials. Fortunately, if you follow these <a href=\"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/10-genius-packing-tips-for-moving\/\">packing tips<\/a>, you can be more selective about the materials you pay for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pack Seasonal Items First<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It can be hard to force yourself to start packing up your old home. However, a great way to kick off your pack is to make a dent in the stuff you\u2019re not currently using on a daily basis. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, if you\u2019re moving in the spring, summer, or fall, you can probably pack up your winter clothing, holiday decorations, and any other gear like skis and sleds. You might notice that once you start packing and making a little progress, you\u2019ll get some good momentum and you\u2019ll want to keep going!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Empty Your Drawers and Cabinets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As you pack and prep for your move, you\u2019ll need to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/moving-drawers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">empty the contents<\/a> of all drawers and cabinets. Furniture like dressers, nightstands, china cabinets, and other pieces with storage must be completely empty for a few different reasons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>It\u2019s safer for the movers, as any contents inside can unexpectedly shift the item&#8217;s weight and cause injury to the people lifting and carrying the piece<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It\u2019s safer for the furniture and the contents since anything left inside drawers or cabinets can rattle around and cause damage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Less weight in each piece of furniture can lead to an easier, smoother move<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As an added bonus, going through each drawer and cabinet is another chance to declutter your home and get rid of anything you don\u2019t want or need to bring to your new place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Clean as You Go<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most important moving hacks\u2014and one that\u2019s often forgotten\u2014is to clean as you pack. Your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/the-ultimate-moving-cleaning-checklist\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cleaning checklist<\/a> should include washing any clothes or linens that might\u2019ve gotten a little stale sitting in a closet for a while, wiping down or vacuuming dusty furniture, and, of course, sweeping up those dust bunnies that collect under your couch and TV stand. Moving into a new home is a fresh start, so make sure everything you bring into your new place is clean and dust-free. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, don\u2019t forget to give your entire old home a thorough clean before you move out. Dust the ceilings and walls, clean the windows, and get into all the nooks and crannies. Let your old dwelling\u2019s new residents know how much you care about that place, and let them move into the same fresh and clean house, condo, or apartment that you\u2019d want to live in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Keep Your Personal Items With You<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Regardless of whether you\u2019re hiring professional movers or doing a DIY move with your family\u2019s and friends\u2019 help, there are a few things that should never leave your possession. Important documents like your passport, car title, and tax or medical records should be transported in your personal vehicle, along with any cash or expensive jewelry. Think of it this way: if something is easy to lose during the moving process (or if you&#8217;re worried about particular valuable items getting lost), keep it with you at all times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, keep in mind that there are some <a href=\"https:\/\/www.movebuddha.com\/blog\/items-movers-will-not-move\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">items that movers will not move<\/a>\u2014and these are often mandated by the state you live in. The State of Illinois, for instance, prohibits moving companies from transporting things like propane gas tanks, firearms, currency, and medication. If you have questions on what your local mover can and cannot move, just chat with their customer service team and they\u2019ll be happy to clarify.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pack a \u201cFirst Night\u201d Box<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>After the move is over, you\u2019ll be at your new place with stacks and stacks of boxes. Over the coming days and weeks, you\u2019ll start chipping away at the <a href=\"https:\/\/thehomeedit.com\/blogs\/the-blog\/unpacking-an-organized-home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">unpacking process<\/a>. However, since moving can be exhausting, you might not be up for it your first night. So give yourself a break and just pop open a single box of essentials. This box could include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Nonperishable snacks so no one gets hangry<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pajamas for your first sleep at your new place<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chargers for your phones and tablets &nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and any other important toiletries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coffee supplies for the first morning in your new home (unless there\u2019s an awesome local coffee shop, of course!)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You should also clearly label everyone\u2019s bed linen boxes so you can quickly make the bedrooms livable, at least for the first night. After you\u2019ve relaxed a bit and gotten used to your new surroundings, you can get a good night\u2019s sleep and attack the unpack in the morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hire a Great Moving Company \u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of Chicago\u2019s favorite moving hacks is to hire the best movers in the area. Let the trained professionals bring the packing supplies, wrap and box up your kitchenware and artwork, and handle the transportation to and unload at your new home. If you need short-term or long-term <a href=\"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/chicago-storage-service\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">storage<\/a>\u2014including secure overnight storage\u2014most moving companies can help out there as well. So as you plan your move, consider hiring a professional moving company to reduce your stress and save you a sore back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Move-tastic! Will Teach You Some Moving Hacks and Handle the Heavy Lifting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We love moving hacks that make the packing and moving processes smoother for our team and our clients. And we\u2019ll be happy to share them with you! After all, we\u2019re the experts on every facet of moving throughout the Chicagoland Area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/contact\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Contact us<\/a> today for a free estimate and to find out how we can help you have a smooth and stress-free move!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Everyone wants their move to a new home to go as smoothly as possible. Regardless of whether you plan to hire professional movers to help you with your pack and relocation, there are several moving hacks that you can take advantage of to make the overall moving process manageable, stress-free, and maybe even a little [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":881,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rop_custom_images_group":[],"rop_custom_messages_group":[],"rop_publish_now":"initial","rop_publish_now_accounts":[],"rop_publish_now_history":[],"rop_publish_now_status":"pending","footnotes":""},"categories":[184,21,3,6],"tags":[8,237,22,24,18],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/878"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=878"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/878\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":885,"href":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/878\/revisions\/885"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/881"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=878"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=878"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=878"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}