Most of us have moved at least once in our lifetime and know that moving brings out a plethora of emotions ranging from stress, and nervousness to anticipation and excitement. The best way to get the most positive experience out of your move is to plan ahead, probably further in advance than you’d expect.

Here are a few ways you can plan to make your future self a happy mover:

Downsize your belongings.

Have you ever looked around your house right before a move and wondered: “Why do I have so much stuff?” It’s amazing how quickly belongings can accumulate over the years. Between items purchased for ourselves and our homes, and gifts received from loves ones, the sheer amount of “stuff” can seem overwhelming. Before you begin packing for your move, it’s a good idea to evaluate your belongings and ensure you are bringing what you really want to keep, and have space for, into your new home.

If you are moving into a smaller space, you may find it beneficial to draft a layout of your furniture setup. Having a plan for where your furniture will go will not only make the process of settling in easier, but also presents an opportunity to visualize your future space and decide if you want to bring all of your furniture with you. Any unwanted furniture can be donated, given to family or friends, or sold. If you use a neighborhood app like Nextdoor, you can list your items for sale and your furniture will be picked up by a neighbor – no delivery required. Additionally, if you are purchasing new furniture for your home, we recommend that you do so after your move so that you don’t have to haul extra items.

For smaller belongings, the application of a method like Marie Kondo’s Konmari Method™, where you approach items individually and only keep those that spark joy, can help you find peace while downsizing your belongings.

Start packing earlier than you think you need to.

Most moving companies recommend that you begin your packing process 2-3 weeks before your move, beginning with items that don’t get frequent use. Pods Moving and Storage has a handy week-by-week breakdown of the packing and moving process that can help keep you organized and on schedule.

If you don’t have time for packing or find that you are encountering too many obstacles during your packing process, it may be time to ask for help. Professional packers utilize their expertise to safely pack your items, often in only a few hours. They also bring their own packing materials, saving you multiple trips to purchase boxes, tape, and safety wrap.

Consider Professional Movers or Moving Manager Services.

There are many benefits to hiring professional movers. With their expertise, they save you time, and energy, and can save your back! Additionally, they can save you money. Consider the time taken away from work, the cost of moving trucks, gasoline, and packing materials – it all adds up!

Here are a few tips on how to get the most out of your moving service:

• Know what they can and can’t take. Most moving services have regulations regarding what they are allowed to handle. While they can move the majority of your belongings, there are a few items you will need to move yourself, such as any potentially hazardous or flammable items, food, valuables or money, and live plants. It’s a good idea to touch base with your movers before they arrive as to what items they can and cannot transport.
• Ask if packing materials are built into the cost and if there are any possible additional fees. You don’t want to be surprised by a bill that exceeds what you expected, so it’s a good idea to talk to your moving company in advance about anything that could affect your bill. Many companies include the cost of packing materials such as tape and bubble wrap into the total cost, but that is not the case for all moving companies.
• Be ready. Most moving companies charge by the hour, so it’s best to be ready for them come moving day! Make sure you are fully packed, have the moving area staged, and have a plan in place for your day.

If moving to a senior living community, it’s a good idea to talk with the team. At Radiant Senior Living, our communities have built relationships with moving companies and moving managers, so we can help set you up for success.

FAQ:

How far in advance should I start planning my move?
Ideally, begin planning at least 4–6 weeks before your move. This gives you enough time to declutter, organize, and book any professional services without feeling rushed.

What should I get rid of before moving?
Focus on items you no longer use, need, or have space for in your new home. This can include duplicate items, outdated furniture, or anything that no longer serves a purpose in your daily life.

Is it worth hiring professional movers or packers?
For many people, yes. Professional movers can save time, reduce physical strain, and help prevent damage to your belongings. Packers are especially helpful if you’re short on time or feeling overwhelmed.

What should I keep with me on moving day?
Keep important documents, medications, valuables, chargers, and a few essentials (like a change of clothes and toiletries) with you rather than packing them in the moving truck.

How can I make moving day less stressful?
Preparation is key. Finish packing ahead of time, label boxes clearly, and have a simple plan for the day. The more organized you are beforehand, the smoother your move will feel.