10 Steps to Make Moving Easier

Moving can be exciting — a fresh start, a new environment, maybe even new opportunities. But let’s be honest: it can also be overwhelming. Between packing, logistics, deadlines, and costs, even a small move can feel chaotic if you’re unprepared.

The good news? With the right strategy and organization, you can make your move smoother, faster, and completely stress-free. In this guide, we’ll break down 10 simple steps about how to make moving easier, from early preparation to settling into your new home. Whether you’re moving locally or across the country, these tips — along with the professional help of VanLinesMove — will ensure a seamless relocation experience.

How to Make Moving Easier? - 10 Quick Steps

Step 1: Start Planning Early — The Key to a Smooth Move

Why Early Planning Matters

Most moving stress comes from last-minute chaos — missing packing materials, forgotten tasks, or rushed decisions. Starting early gives you time to plan carefully and avoid surprises.

How to Plan Efficiently

• Create a moving checklist outlining each stage: decluttering, packing, notifying utilities, and scheduling movers.
• Set deadlines for each phase — ideally, start 6–8 weeks before your move.
• Break big tasks into smaller ones (e.g., packing one room at a time).
• Keep all moving documents, receipts, and contacts organized in a single folder or app.

Pro Tip: Use digital reminders and a shared checklist if multiple people are involved in the move.

Step 2: Declutter and Downsize Before You Pack

Why Decluttering Makes Moving Easier

Every extra item you move adds to your cost, time, and effort. Decluttering before packing can reduce moving expenses and make unpacking simpler.

How to Declutter Effectively

1. Go room by room and separate items into four categories — Keep, Donate, Sell, Trash.
2. Be realistic — if you haven’t used something in a year, you probably don’t need it.
3. Sell valuable items online or host a garage sale for extra moving cash.
4. Donate usable items to local charities or shelters.

A lighter load means fewer boxes and lower moving costs. VanLinesMove can even help with moving donations or properly disposing of bulky items.

Step 3: Gather Quality Packing Supplies

Invest in the Right Materials

Having sturdy, reliable packing supplies can make or break your move. Using cheap boxes or thin tape can lead to damaged items or unnecessary stress.

What You’ll Need

• Heavy-duty boxes in multiple sizes
• Bubble wrap or packing paper
• Packing tape and a dispenser
• Markers and labels
• Furniture covers or moving blankets

Avoid using old grocery store boxes — they often weaken easily. If you hire professionals like VanLinesMove, they can provide premium-grade packing materials and even handle full-service packing for you.

Step 4: Pack Smart — Room by Room

Why Systematic Packing Works

Random packing leads to confusion and frustration during unpacking. Instead, focus on packing one room at a time. This keeps items organized and ensures nothing gets lost.

How to Pack Smart

• Start with low-use rooms like the guest room, basement, or attic.
• Pack heavier items (books, tools) in smaller boxes and lighter items in larger boxes.
• Wrap fragile items individually and fill empty spaces with soft materials like towels or paper.
• Label each box with its contents and destination room (e.g., “Kitchen – Plates & Glasses”).

You can also use color-coded labels to make unloading even faster. It’s an efficient trick used by professional movers.

Step 5: Label and Inventory Everything

Importance of Labeling

Labels save hours during unpacking. They also help movers know exactly where to place boxes, reducing back-and-forth confusion.

Tips for Efficient Labeling

• Write the room name and brief contents on every box.
• Use bright markers or stickers — red for kitchen, blue for bedroom, etc.
• Number boxes and maintain a simple inventory list on your phone.

Pro Tip: Mark boxes containing fragile items with bold “FRAGILE” tags. If you use VanLinesMove, their professional team ensures your boxes are properly labeled and placed in the right rooms upon delivery.

Step 6: Take Care of Utilities and Change of Address

Handle Utilities Ahead of Time

Few things are worse than arriving at your new home with no electricity or Wi-Fi. Schedule utility transfers at least two weeks before moving day.

Checklist for Utility Management

• Electricity, water, and gas
• Internet, cable, and security systems
• Trash and recycling services

Update Your Address

Notify the post office, banks, credit cards, and subscription services. Also, inform your employer and insurance providers to prevent billing or communication issues.

Tip: File an official address change with USPS — it takes less than 10 minutes online.

Step 7: Prepare for Moving Day

What to Do the Week Before

Moving day can be chaotic, but a little preparation makes it easier. Confirm details with your moving company, clean your old home, and pack a moving essentials bag with things you’ll need immediately:

• Toiletries and towels
• Medications
• Snacks and water
• Chargers and basic cleaning supplies

On Moving Day

• Clear hallways and doorways for movers.
• Do a final walkthrough to check closets, attics, and basements.
• Keep valuables and documents with you — never in the truck.

Bonus: Take photos of furniture and appliances before the move for insurance documentation.

Step 8: Protect Fragile and Bulky Items

Handling Fragile Items

Your most delicate possessions need special care. Use bubble wrap, soft padding, and sturdy boxes. For added security, fill any empty spaces in boxes with packing paper or linens.

Handling Bulky Items

Large furniture, TVs, or appliances should be dismantled (if possible) before moving. Remove legs, cords, or glass shelves and store them in labeled bags.

Pro Tip: Wrap furniture moving blankets to prevent scratches. VanLinesMove offers professional packing and loading services designed for heavy, fragile, or high-value items.

Step 9: Unpack Strategically and Settle In

How to Unpack Without Chaos

Unpacking can be just as stressful as packing, especially if you don’t have a plan. Take it one room at a time.

Where to Start

• Begin with essential spaces: kitchen, bathrooms, and bedrooms.
• Use your color-coded labels and box numbers to stay organized.
• Break down empty boxes as you go to avoid clutter.

Unpacking doesn’t have to be done in a single day. Give yourself time to make the new space feel like home.

Step 10: Hire Professional Movers for a Hassle-Free Experience

Why Professional Help Makes Moving Easier

While DIY moving can seem affordable, it often leads to exhaustion, damage, and delays. Hiring a reputable moving company can save time, money, and stress.

What VanLinesMove Offers

At VanLinesMove, we specialize in local, long-distance, and commercial moves. Our services include:

• Full packing and unpacking options
• Disassembly and reassembly of furniture
• Safe transport with insurance protection
• Transparent pricing and flexible scheduling

We handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on what matters — settling into your new home.

Bonus Tips to Make Moving Easier

1. Take Breaks: Don’t exhaust yourself. Rest, hydrate, and eat regularly.
2. Use Technology: Moving apps can help you track progress and organize lists.
3. Label Cables: Before unplugging electronics, take photos for easy reconnection.
4. Keep Kids and Pets Safe: Arrange sitters or dedicate one room for them on moving day.
5. Clean Before You Leave: Leave your old home tidy — it’s courteous and often required by lease agreements.

Moving Made Simple with VanLinesMove

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful when you have the right partner. Whether it’s a small apartment or a long-distance relocation, VanLinesMove ensures a smooth, organized, and stress-free move from start to finish.

Our team of experienced movers handles everything — packing, transport, and unpacking — while offering full protection for your belongings. With our transparent pricing, insurance coverage, and nationwide service, you can trust us to make your moving experience easier than ever.

Conclusion

Moving marks a new chapter — one that should feel exciting, not exhausting. By following these 10 smart steps, you’ll reduce stress, stay organized, and ensure a smoother relocation.

And if you want complete peace of mind, let VanLinesMove do the heavy lifting. From careful packing to safe delivery, our experts make every move easy, efficient, and affordable.

Ready to move? Visit VanLinesMove.com and get your free quote today.

FAQs

1. How early should I start preparing for my move?

Start planning your move at least 6–8 weeks in advance. This gives you time to declutter, organize, and book movers without rushing.

2. What’s the best way to pack for moving?

Pack one room at a time, use sturdy boxes, and label everything clearly. Protect fragile items with padding and bubble wrap.

3. How do professional movers make moving easier?

Professional movers handle packing, lifting, transportation, and even setup — saving you time and ensuring your belongings are safely moved.

4. How can VanLinesMove help with my move?

VanLinesMove provides full-service moving solutions, including packing, transport, unpacking, and insurance coverage — making your relocation simple and worry-free.