The #1 Thing That Makes Moving Feel Easier (Hint: It’s Not What You Think)

by Elevated & Co. Realty RE/MAX Escarpment Realty Inc.

🏡 How to Move Without Losing Your Mind: A Step-by-Step Moving Guide

Moving is one of the biggest life transitions you’ll experience—and let’s be real—it’s rarely stress-free.

Between sorting, packing, coordinating logistics, and navigating the emotional toll of leaving one home behind for another, it can feel overwhelming before you even begin.

But here’s the real secret to making moving easier 👉
Have a proactive, well-structured game plan that eliminates last-minute chaos.

It’s not just about hiring movers or buying boxes—it’s about strategically preparing every step to avoid frustration and unnecessary headaches.

✅ Step 1: Create a Moving Timeline (and Stick to It!)

One of the biggest reasons moving feels stressful? Leaving things until the last minute.

Start planning at least 6–8 weeks before moving day to stay ahead. Here's how to break it down:

8 Weeks Before Moving Day:

✅ Declutter & Donate – Less to pack = less stress. Go room by room.
✅ Gather Packing Supplies – Boxes, tape, markers, bubble wrap—stock up!
✅ Research & Hire Movers – Good ones book up early.
✅ Create a Moving Binder – Store contracts, receipts, and checklists in one place.

4 Weeks Before:

✅ Pack Non-Essentials – Things you won’t need (like seasonal decor or spare linens).
✅ Confirm Your Moving Help – Whether friends or pros, lock them in.
✅ Change of Address – Notify banks, subscriptions, utilities, and your insurance provider.

2 Weeks Before:

✅ Pack 80% of Your Home – Leave only daily-use items.
✅ Set Up Utilities at New Home – Hydro, gas, internet—get them running before you arrive.
✅ Pack a Moving Day Bag – Include clothing, toiletries, chargers, and documents.

Moving Week:

✅ Finish Packing – Wrap up the last-minute essentials.
✅ Final Walkthrough – Check all closets and storage spaces.
✅ Label Everything – Room + priority = easy unpacking.

🧹 Step 2: Declutter Before You Pack

One of the most common mistakes people make when moving?

Packing everything, even what they haven’t used in years. Decluttering now means:

Less to pack
Less to move
Less to unpack
Less stress—win!

What to Get Rid of:

❌ Clothes you haven’t worn in 12+ months
❌ Expired pantry or bathroom products
❌ Furniture that won’t work in your new space
❌ Unnecessary paperwork

💡 Pro Tip:
Create 3 piles — KEEP | DONATE | TOSS — and be ruthless about it.

📦 Step 3: Genius Packing Hacks

Cut packing time in half with these smart tips:

✅ Use Clear Bins for Essentials – Easy to spot on day one.
✅ Label Boxes on Multiple Sides – Room + contents = no more digging.
✅ Pack Heavy Items in Small Boxes – Your back will thank you.
✅ Keep Clothes on Hangers – Garbage bags over top make them easy to move.
✅ Take Photos of Electronics – Know exactly where wires go when you plug back in.