If you are planning to move quickly and you don’t have even two weeks to move, it’s easy to get stressed. Moving is daunting even over an extended amount of time, so imagine having to do it in just one week. Luckily, with this guide, you’ll have an easier time.
1. Plan your move
Be honest about how many things you’re keeping and how many boxes you’ll need to move them. You can try using a moving calculator to help you estimate how many boxes you’ll need for your short-notice move. You can also ask friends if they have leftover boxes from a recent relocation. If not, packing materials are easy to buy online. Some local retailers might even give you boxes for free if you ask nicely!
Keep a notebook nearby as your planner, and write things down as soon as you think of them. This way, it’ll be less likely that you leave anything valuable behind or forget to tie up any loose ends. Use this notebook as a budgeting workshop and a checklist for your most important possessions.
If you’re going to need the help of a moving team, schedule them as early as you can. Scheduling a moving team well ahead of time increases the chances that you’ll score a discount. Last-second booking, on the other hand, can come with hefty fees on top of already hefty hourly rates.
If you’re planning on selling some of your precious things, plan a yard sale or post online as soon as possible. Relieving yourself of lesser-used but still valuable and functional items can provide a nice cushion in your budget.
2. Ask for some help
If you need help carrying boxes or don’t have a vehicle of your own, try asking a friend or family member. If you have a roommate, sorting your things and packing boxes together can make a dreadful task fun! Blast some music, reminisce, and say goodbye to your soon-to-be old apartment.
As for other help, renting a truck can be expensive and stressful. If you have a friend with a car whom you trust to get you safely to your new home, don’t hesitate to ask.
3. Sort and eliminate your things
Saying goodbye is hard, but holding onto things you don’t need can be even more difficult, especially when it’s time to carry boxes upstairs. Try cutting down your inventory. The more you get rid of, the less you have to pack.
In-person and online, people are looking for a good deal on things they want and need. If possible, don’t just throw things away if they’re still in good shape. Sell items you know you’re going to miss and give them a safe, new home. Think of it as recycling with a plus!
4. Pack your belongings
Since you’re in a time crunch, not everything needs to be packed and sorted perfectly. Try to group similar things, or things that go in the same place, together in the same boxes. Sorting your belongings like this can make unpacking quick. Labeling your boxes can help cut down the time you’d spend opening and closing boxes checking them for contents.
5. Do last-minute tasks and clean
Open up those windows and doors and give the place one nice last sweep. Take a second to remember your time in this place and get excited about your new home! Don’t forget to change your address after you settle in.
How will you plan your week to move? Will you be using any of these tips? Share your thoughts in the comments!
