You’ve finally found the perfect home or apartment. Congrats! You likely have a busy few weeks ahead of you as you prepare for the move, but there’s no need to stress. From packing up your home or apartment to set up services at your new place, it’s all doable with the right tips and a positive mindset.
Keep reading to learn how to make the moving process as seamless as possible—we promise.
1. Set goals
Whether you’re moving ASAP or you’ve got some time to prepare, it’s smart to put together a timeline of when you’ll need to get things done. This includes giving notice to your landlord (if you’re a renter), packing your stuff, moving your internet service and setting up other utilities, researching and scheduling movers, and arranging your day-of transportation.
While it may seem like a long list, setting weekly or daily goals can help you stay on schedule and continue checking things off your to-do list. When you get to the packing stage, goals can also be broken down even further. If the living room as a whole feels overwhelming, break it down to packing up a certain corner or a certain item (like a bookshelf). You can also try making a home inventory list to help organize your packing schedule.
2. Pack smart
Using your home inventory list from tip #1, think about what packing supplies you’ll need. This includes the basics (boxes and tape) but also any extras you might need. For example, if you have a lot of fragile items or glassware, you’ll want to have a lot of bubble wrap on hand. If you’ve got a closet full of clothes and shoes, a couple of wardrobe boxes can be a lifesaver.
Also, don’t move things you don’t need! If it’s something you haven’t worn or used in the last six months to a year, consider donating it. Moving is the perfect time to reevaluate the items you have.
One last tip for packing smart: don’t overpack your boxes. Think strategically when it comes to heavy items like books, and try to distribute weight across boxes instead of packing them all together. Not sure what kind of boxes you’ll need? A moving kit will cover your bases. Our large kit includes a variety of box sizes, two wardrobe boxes, a tape gun, packing paper, bubble wrap, and much more to get you started.
3. Review your bank statements
Don’t forget to file your change of address with the postal service, as well as notify anyone you do business with directly! The postal service will forward your mail for 12 months, but it’s up to you to contact everyone individually to change your address on file.
If that sounds daunting to remember everything, here’s an easy trick: pull up your bank account or credit card statement for the last few months. Comb through the statements and you’ll likely find some easy-to-forget changes, like Amazon and other online shopping go-to’s, your health insurance, and your cell phone provider.
4. Leave the essential (and sentimental) items for last
As you chip away at packing each day, your home might start to feel pretty empty. While you may feel accomplished for having most of your packing completed early on, you might find yourself scrounging around for an item you need—think cooking supplies and toiletries. To combat this, make sure to leave out any items you know you’ll need between now and then.
Also, think about leaving sentimental items for the end! Keeping photos, decor, and kids’ toys out will ensure it still feels like home in the meantime.
5. Pack an “open first” box
In addition to leaving certain things for last-minute packing, it’s also smart to designate (and label) a specific “Open First” box. Why is that so important?
Imagine moving into your new home. Your boxes are all lined up neatly in each room, thanks to the professional moving company you hired (phew!). It’s time to celebrate! Until… you have no idea which box you packed the toilet paper in.
Instead of opening every box to find it, make your life easier with an “Open First” box. Even better: be responsible for moving it yourself, so you know right where it is at all times.
- Put all of your essentials for your first few days in this box, such as:
- Toilet paper and soap
- Hand and bath towels
- Bedsheets and blankets
- Snacks and water
- Prescriptions you might need
- Night-time essentials, like face wash and contact lens solution
6. Stay positive
Moving can be stressful, so it’s important to take care of yourself throughout the process! Some ideas that can help with this:
- Visualize yourself in your new home and your new neighborhood
- Start a Pinterest board with decor or home project ideas
- Visit your new neighborhood often, and check out some of the local spots to get the lay of the land (restaurants, library, etc.)
When snags appear—and they will—keep the bigger picture in mind. Soon enough, you’ll be at your new apartment or home and back to your (new) normal.
7. Create a moving-day schedule
As you get close to moving day, think about your creating a schedule or timeline for the day of. When will you get up? What last-minute packing or to-dos are left on your list? When do the movers get there? Having a clear plan for the day will ensure everything gets done.
Don’t forget to plan for snacks and mealtime, too—even when you’ve hired professionals, moving day can be exhausting! You’ll be relieved when you remember you have plenty of water and energizing snacks on hand. 
8. Get pets out of the way, if possible
Moving day can be stressful for pets, too! Think through how you’ll handle your pet on the day of, like keeping them in a quiet, closed room and making sure your movers know your plan. If your move is a short distance, consider taking your dog to daycare while the movers are working. For longer distances, you’ll need to think through how you’ll transport your pet to your new destination, including purchasing a carrier if you don’t already have one.
Check out our other tips for moving with pets here
9. Trust the professionals
Last but not least, one of the best tips for a seamless move is hiring professionals. At FlatRate, we’ve moved people since 1991, and we’re proud to be the leading NYC mover. We also offer box delivery, partial and full Contact us today for a free quote, and you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free move.