John Le

Psychologist, Mother, and Designer in London

Moving house can be a big task, but with some careful planning, it can be a smooth process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you manage the move:

Create a timeline: Start by setting a date for your move and create a schedule leading up to it. This will give you plenty of time to organize everything without feeling rushed.
Make a moving checklist: Write down all the tasks you need to complete before, during, and after the move. This will help you stay on track.

Sort through your items: Before you pack, go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. The less you have to move, the easier it will be.
Sell or donate items: Consider having a yard sale or listing items online (e.g., clothes, furniture, electronics) to lighten your load.

Hiring movers: If you have a lot of items or heavy furniture, hiring professional movers can save you time and energy. Get quotes from several moving companies and book well in advance.
Renting a van: If you’re doing the move yourself, you can rent a van or truck. Make sure to book the vehicle early and choose one large enough for all your belongings. Consider getting insurance for the rental in case of accidents.
Get packing supplies: You'll need boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers. Many moving companies offer packing kits, or you can buy supplies from a local store.

Pack room by room: Start with items you use less frequently, such as books, seasonal clothes, and decor. Leave daily essentials for the last week.
Label everything: Label each box with the room it belongs to and a brief description of the contents. This will help you unpack more easily.
Use protective materials: Wrap fragile items with bubble wrap, towels, or clothing to prevent breakage.