How to Organise and Prepare for a Move- The Ultimate Guide
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Abstract<br />
No matter how many times you move, you always seem <strong>to</strong> find something that<br />
you wished you'd done differently. We've created this pdf <strong>to</strong> help you get ready<br />
<strong>to</strong> move <strong>and</strong> <strong>to</strong> keep your move on track <strong>and</strong> on schedule.<br />
I. Introduction<br />
Be<strong>for</strong>e you do anything, the first thing on your list should be <strong>to</strong> prepare <strong>for</strong> your<br />
move by creating a plan that will ensure you keep your move on track. It will<br />
also help relieve any stress <strong>and</strong> help you get through the next few weeks<br />
without <strong>to</strong>o much frustration.<br />
II.<br />
<strong>Organise</strong> Your <strong>Move</strong> <strong>and</strong> Don't Go Crazy in <strong>The</strong> Process<br />
Moving house can be a very stressful ordeal <strong>for</strong> a number of good reasons. After<br />
all, your savings will be at risk of getting depleted <strong>and</strong> your prized possessions<br />
will be at risk of getting damaged in the house moving project.<br />
And as if that weren’t enough, there are so many things <strong>to</strong> do be<strong>for</strong>e moving<br />
away that you’re likely <strong>to</strong> feel completely overwhelmed by the amount of work<br />
ahead of you.<br />
And partly due <strong>to</strong> the insane amount of workload while you’re trying hard <strong>to</strong><br />
keep everything organized, sometimes you feel like you’re going crazy,<br />
especially when friendly help is reluctant <strong>to</strong> come <strong>to</strong> your aid.<br />
Follow these moving tips <strong>to</strong> be able <strong>to</strong> move house without losing your mind in<br />
the meantime.<br />
1. <strong>Organise</strong> your time with a moving checklist<br />
One of the things that might drive you insane while you’re getting ready <strong>to</strong><br />
move out is the realization that you’re not using your time efficiently. In other<br />
words, you’ve come <strong>to</strong> the conclusion that you’re wasting precious time simply<br />
because you’re not sure what <strong>to</strong> do next.<br />
<strong>The</strong> thing that should keep your mind at ease is a good moving checklist <strong>to</strong><br />
manage your time in the best possible way. You just have <strong>to</strong> plan ahead every
step of your residential move <strong>to</strong> prevent confusion, disorganization, <strong>and</strong> loss of<br />
time during that super-dem<strong>and</strong>ing period – both physically <strong>and</strong> mentally.<br />
NEVER lose time again when moving <strong>to</strong> a new home – use our interactive<br />
moving checklist as a basis <strong>to</strong> create a new highly-cus<strong>to</strong>mized moving timeline.<br />
MOVING TIMELINE: INTERACTIVE WEEK BY WEEK MOVING CHECKLIST<br />
No matter how dire the circumstances, people find it easier <strong>to</strong> face the challenge<br />
when they have a clear plan <strong>to</strong> follow <strong>and</strong> a specific task <strong>to</strong> focus on. Having a<br />
strategy gives them reassurance <strong>and</strong> a sense of control, so that they don’t panic<br />
or get stressed. Doing things one step at a time helps them concentrate <strong>and</strong><br />
progress faster <strong>and</strong> more effectively.<br />
So, if you’re about <strong>to</strong> embark on a <strong>to</strong>ugh <strong>and</strong> overwhelming endeavor, such as a<br />
residential move, you need <strong>to</strong> make a good plan <strong>and</strong> break your final goal in<strong>to</strong><br />
achievable mini-goals you’ll be able <strong>to</strong> accomplish in a timely <strong>and</strong> organized<br />
manner. In the event of moving house, your best bet is a detailed moving<br />
timeline – a week-by-week moving checklist that will not only include all the
tasks you need <strong>to</strong> take care of be<strong>for</strong>e moving day, but will also set a specific<br />
timeframe <strong>for</strong> their completion.<br />
You won’t overlook anything important or <strong>for</strong>get <strong>to</strong> do a moving chore<br />
because all the relocation tasks (big <strong>and</strong> small alike) will be clearly stated<br />
in your comprehensive moving house checklist;<br />
You’ll be able <strong>to</strong> organize your time in the best possible way, as your<br />
moving packing checklist will let you know exactly what needs <strong>to</strong> be done<br />
every single month, week, <strong>and</strong> day be<strong>for</strong>e moving day, so that you can get<br />
everything ready in time;<br />
You’ll be able <strong>to</strong> keep track of your progress as every completed task will<br />
be crossed out in your moving checklist <strong>and</strong> you’ll know how much you<br />
have left <strong>to</strong> do.<br />
In a word – a moving out checklist will help you bring order <strong>to</strong> the relocation<br />
chaos, speed up your moving preparations, <strong>and</strong> keep stress at bay. It will be<br />
even easier <strong>for</strong> you though, if you have an interactive moving checklist that will<br />
help you stay on <strong>to</strong>p of things with just a few clicks of the mouse.<br />
For your convenience, we have created an interactive week by week home<br />
moving checklist <strong>and</strong> planner that spans the 2-month period prior <strong>to</strong> Moving<br />
day <strong>and</strong> provides a practical <strong>and</strong> easy way <strong>to</strong> organize your relocation <strong>and</strong> keep<br />
track of your moving preparations.<br />
Make sure you take advantage of our free printable moving checklist when<br />
getting ready <strong>for</strong> your relocation adventure!<br />
Moving checklist – Two months be<strong>for</strong>e Moving day<br />
Ideally, your moving preparations should start about two months prior <strong>to</strong> the<br />
Big day. This way, you’ll have the time <strong>to</strong> complete every single task in the long<br />
list of things <strong>to</strong> do when moving.<br />
‣ Weeks 7 & 8 be<strong>for</strong>e the move<br />
Get <strong>to</strong> know your new area (if you’re moving <strong>to</strong> a new city). Gather as<br />
much in<strong>for</strong>mation as possible about the economic situation, cost of living,
climate, housing options, crime rate, educational opportunities, cultural<br />
practices <strong>and</strong> other specifics of your future area;<br />
Start searching <strong>for</strong> an appropriate new home <strong>for</strong> you <strong>and</strong> your family. If<br />
possible, visit your new area <strong>to</strong> choose your new property in person;<br />
Start organizing your belongings <strong>and</strong> decluttering your home <strong>for</strong> moving.<br />
Sort your items in four categories – things <strong>to</strong> bring along, things <strong>to</strong> donate,<br />
things <strong>to</strong> sell, <strong>and</strong> things <strong>to</strong> throw away. Make a moving inven<strong>to</strong>ry of the<br />
items you’re going <strong>to</strong> take <strong>to</strong> your new home;<br />
Research your moving options <strong>and</strong> decide if you’re going <strong>to</strong> move by<br />
yourself or hire professional movers <strong>to</strong> help you relocate. Make sure you<br />
fill out a moving quote <strong>to</strong> see what different moving companies have <strong>to</strong><br />
offer, so that you can make an in<strong>for</strong>med decision about your move;<br />
If you’re going <strong>to</strong> use professional moving services, start looking <strong>for</strong><br />
af<strong>for</strong>dable <strong>and</strong> trustworthy moving professionals – ask <strong>for</strong><br />
recommendations, read moving reviews, visit moving companies’<br />
websites, etc.;<br />
Get estimates – narrow down your choice <strong>to</strong> three or four moving<br />
companies that seem <strong>to</strong> best suit your needs <strong>and</strong> requirements <strong>and</strong> ask<br />
them <strong>for</strong> in-house estimates of the moving costs;<br />
Choose the best movers <strong>for</strong> you. Provide the moving company<br />
representatives with all the relevant in<strong>for</strong>mation (show them everything<br />
you want <strong>to</strong> relocate, discuss possible obstacles, special requirements,<br />
delivery windows, etc.) in order <strong>to</strong> get accurate moving cost estimates,<br />
compare the offers (prices, services, <strong>and</strong> conditions), <strong>and</strong> be careful <strong>to</strong><br />
avoid moving scams when choosing your moving partners.<br />
‣ Weeks 6 & 5 be<strong>for</strong>e the move<br />
Book your move <strong>and</strong> confirm all the details (pick-up <strong>and</strong> delivery times,<br />
payment method, insurance, etc.) with your chosen movers;<br />
Make a moving binder <strong>and</strong> keep all moving-related documents in it. It<br />
may be a good idea <strong>to</strong> put all your documents in the same binder (in<br />
separate sleeves or pockets) as well;<br />
Set up a moving budget <strong>to</strong> organize your finances <strong>and</strong> keep better track<br />
of your expenses;
In<strong>for</strong>m your current employer of your move <strong>and</strong> arrange your first day of<br />
work at your new company in your new area (or start looking <strong>for</strong> a new<br />
job);<br />
If you’re moving out of a rented property, notify your l<strong>and</strong>lord of your<br />
upcoming move <strong>and</strong> negotiate a move-out agreement;<br />
Collect yours <strong>and</strong> your family’s medical records <strong>and</strong> your children’s<br />
school records. Start looking <strong>for</strong> a new family physician <strong>and</strong> a new school<br />
<strong>for</strong> your kids (if relevant);<br />
Organize a garage sale or post online those of your unwanted items that<br />
you’d like <strong>to</strong> sell;<br />
Request a list of the non-allowable items your movers won’t load on the<br />
moving truck because of their hazardous or perilous nature <strong>and</strong> decide<br />
what <strong>to</strong> do with them (discard them, give them away, relocate them<br />
yourself, or use them up be<strong>for</strong>e the move);<br />
Get packing supplies. See if you can get any moving boxes <strong>and</strong> other<br />
packing materials <strong>for</strong> free <strong>and</strong> buy whatever else you need. Make sure<br />
you have high quality packing supplies <strong>for</strong> your more delicate <strong>and</strong> more<br />
valuable possessions.<br />
Moving checklist – One month be<strong>for</strong>e Moving day<br />
It’s time <strong>to</strong> set your moving preparations at full speed (just remember <strong>to</strong><br />
frequently consult your checklist <strong>for</strong> moving in<strong>to</strong> a new house <strong>to</strong> make sure you<br />
don’t miss a moving task).<br />
‣ Weeks 4 & 3 be<strong>for</strong>e the move<br />
Donate your unwanted items that are still in good condition (things you<br />
don’t want <strong>to</strong> sell or couldn’t sell) <strong>to</strong> local charities. Don’t <strong>for</strong>get <strong>to</strong> get<br />
receipts showing the items’ approximate value <strong>for</strong> possible tax<br />
deductions;<br />
Change your address with the USPS <strong>and</strong> in<strong>for</strong>m your bank, insurance<br />
providers, lawyers, <strong>and</strong> other important people <strong>and</strong> institutions of your<br />
new address;
Transfer utilities (arrange <strong>to</strong> have electricity, gas <strong>and</strong> water running in<br />
your new home on move-in day) <strong>and</strong> cancel memberships <strong>and</strong><br />
subscriptions;<br />
Take your pets <strong>to</strong> the vet <strong>for</strong> a complete check-up <strong>and</strong> collect their<br />
immunization records <strong>and</strong> health certificates. Make travel arrangements<br />
<strong>for</strong> your animal friends;<br />
Plan your trip <strong>to</strong> your new home. If you’re driving <strong>to</strong> your final<br />
destination, get your car serviced <strong>and</strong> plan <strong>for</strong> meals <strong>and</strong> lodgings on the<br />
way (if needed). If you’re flying <strong>to</strong> your new city, book your flight <strong>and</strong> find<br />
a trustworthy au<strong>to</strong> transport company <strong>to</strong> ship your vehicle;<br />
Start packing. Pre-pack rarely used items, specialized equipment, out-ofseason<br />
clothing <strong>and</strong> decorations, <strong>and</strong> everything else you’re not going <strong>to</strong><br />
need be<strong>for</strong>e moving day;<br />
Set aside the items that will be packed in your essentials box <strong>and</strong> the<br />
valuables you’re not going <strong>to</strong> entrust <strong>to</strong> the movers.<br />
‣ Two weeks be<strong>for</strong>e Moving day<br />
Contact your moving company <strong>to</strong> make sure everything is going<br />
according <strong>to</strong> plan <strong>and</strong> discuss any last-minute details;<br />
Pay up any bills or debts you may have. Return library books <strong>and</strong><br />
anything you have borrowed from friends or neighbors. Collect any items<br />
you have left <strong>for</strong> cleaning or repair;<br />
Say your goodbyes. Visit all your favorite places in <strong>to</strong>wn <strong>and</strong> organize a<br />
farewell party <strong>to</strong> get all your friends <strong>to</strong>gether one last time;<br />
Pack the s<strong>to</strong>rage areas in your home, as well as most of your artwork,<br />
decorations, books, office supplies, <strong>and</strong> hobby materials;<br />
Reserve a parking place <strong>for</strong> the moving truck close <strong>to</strong> the entrance of your<br />
home, as well as an eleva<strong>to</strong>r (if you live in an apartment building) <strong>for</strong> the<br />
time of your move;<br />
Start using up your food supplies <strong>and</strong> get rid of any remaining items that<br />
are not going <strong>to</strong> your new home.<br />
‣ One week be<strong>for</strong>e Moving day
Get on with packing. Pack most of your clothes <strong>and</strong> shoes, kitchen items,<br />
jewelry, kid’s games <strong>and</strong> <strong>to</strong>ys, <strong>and</strong> other bric-a-brac;<br />
Make sure you have all the necessary documents <strong>and</strong> get a lockbox <strong>to</strong><br />
keep them safe during the trip <strong>to</strong> your new home.<br />
‣ Two days be<strong>for</strong>e Moving day<br />
Finish packing. Pack any remaining miscellaneous items <strong>and</strong> doublecheck<br />
your home <strong>to</strong> make sure you haven’t <strong>for</strong>gotten anything;<br />
Pack your first-night box <strong>and</strong> all the items that are going <strong>to</strong> travel with<br />
you. Keep them separately from your other belongings <strong>to</strong> make sure they<br />
won’t be accidentally loaded on the moving truck;<br />
Pack your electronics <strong>and</strong> prepare the furniture <strong>and</strong> appliances you’re<br />
going <strong>to</strong> take <strong>to</strong> your new place <strong>for</strong> moving.<br />
Moving checklist – Moving day
You will need your focus more than ever when the Big day knocks on your door.<br />
Keep your moving checklist at h<strong>and</strong> <strong>to</strong> keep a cool head during this culmination<br />
period of your relocation adventure.<br />
Get ready <strong>for</strong> the big day. Have a good night’s rest <strong>and</strong> get up early in the<br />
morning <strong>to</strong> have enough time <strong>for</strong> last-minute tasks;<br />
Ensure moving day safety. Take measures <strong>to</strong> protect your old home from<br />
damage <strong>and</strong> <strong>to</strong> prevent accidents <strong>and</strong> injuries while your items are being<br />
taken out of the property <strong>and</strong> loaded on the moving truck. Keep kids <strong>and</strong><br />
pets away from the moving chaos;<br />
Meet the movers <strong>and</strong> give them all the necessary in<strong>for</strong>mation, so that they<br />
can per<strong>for</strong>m your move in a safe <strong>and</strong> efficient manner. Provide some<br />
snacks <strong>and</strong> drinks if it will take them more than 3-4 hours <strong>to</strong> finish the<br />
job. Do not <strong>for</strong>get <strong>to</strong> tip them if you’re happy with their services;<br />
Give the truck driver the accurate destination address <strong>and</strong> your phone<br />
number, so that they can reach you if necessary;<br />
Give your old house or apartment a final cleaning, take a last look around,<br />
lock the door, <strong>and</strong> start on your journey <strong>to</strong> your new home.<br />
2. Gather your packing supplies in advance<br />
Starting <strong>to</strong> pack up your things without having acquired the proper packing<br />
materials by your side is a mistake that will cost you extra lost time <strong>and</strong> wasted<br />
nerves. In fact, it can be rather frustrating <strong>to</strong> have <strong>to</strong> interrupt the packing<br />
process <strong>to</strong> go look <strong>for</strong> more cardboard boxes, packing paper or bubble wrap.<br />
To keep your sanity during the <strong>to</strong>ughest <strong>and</strong> most time-consuming job in your<br />
moving checklist, prepare all the necessary packing supplies in advance so that<br />
things go smoothly <strong>and</strong> according <strong>to</strong> plan. Get hold of free moving boxes <strong>to</strong> save<br />
on packing materials <strong>and</strong> ease the financial strain on your budget.<br />
3. Start packing as early as possible<br />
One of the major sources of stress when moving house is the thought that you<br />
may not be able <strong>to</strong> finish packing by the day you’re scheduled <strong>to</strong> move out. After<br />
all, how are you supposed <strong>to</strong> move away when you still have many possessions<br />
waiting <strong>to</strong> be packed safely <strong>for</strong> the move.
And instead of going crazy with worry on Moving day, surrounded by <strong>to</strong>o many<br />
unpacked boxes, you should do everything in your power <strong>to</strong> start packing as<br />
early as you possibly can. Don’t underestimate the time it’ll take <strong>to</strong> pack up your<br />
home – packing the s<strong>to</strong>rage areas alone requires much more time than you’ll<br />
think.<br />
4. Declutter your home be<strong>for</strong>e packing<br />
Be<strong>for</strong>e you start packing <strong>for</strong> moving though, there’s something you just have <strong>to</strong><br />
do <strong>to</strong> be able <strong>to</strong> keep your sanity throughout the move – <strong>to</strong> get rid of old, useless<br />
or unwanted items. Doing so will not only make packing <strong>and</strong> moving easier <strong>for</strong><br />
you, but it’ll also enable you <strong>to</strong> save big by reducing the transportation costs.<br />
Don’t part with things you love <strong>and</strong> wish <strong>to</strong> continue <strong>to</strong> use in the new place –<br />
everything else you should seriously consider selling <strong>for</strong> extra cash, gifting <strong>to</strong><br />
friends, donating <strong>to</strong> charity or throwing away <strong>for</strong> eco-friendly recycling.<br />
Remember: fewer items <strong>to</strong> pack <strong>and</strong> move will mean fewer things <strong>to</strong> worry<br />
about.<br />
5. Label your moving boxes<br />
You might be thinking that not labeling your boxes after you’ve packed them up<br />
will save you a bit of time. On the contrary, not only will that bad decision lead<br />
<strong>to</strong> hours of lost time after the move is over – when you’re about <strong>to</strong> start<br />
unpacking in the new home, but it can also drive you crazy when being <strong>for</strong>ced<br />
<strong>to</strong> open 15 r<strong>and</strong>om boxes <strong>to</strong> find the coffee maker.<br />
Don’t let simple routine packing tasks get the best of you – make sure you label<br />
all boxes with their destination room, contents <strong>and</strong> h<strong>and</strong>ling instructions so<br />
that you can identify those containers more easily later on. It’s interesting how<br />
a black marker <strong>and</strong> 30 seconds per box can save you from a lot of post-move<br />
headaches.<br />
6. Reduce the stress levels
<strong>The</strong> infamous stress of moving will start building up from the moment your<br />
move has become only a matter of time. And as Moving day approaches, those<br />
stress levels are likely <strong>to</strong> spike <strong>and</strong> may even reach unhealthy values.<br />
Yes, moving house can be a really stressful period (What makes moving so<br />
stressful?), so you should do all in your power <strong>to</strong> control those stress levels in<br />
order <strong>to</strong> keep your sanity. Organize your time well, pare down your<br />
possessions, start packing ASAP, ask friends <strong>for</strong> help <strong>and</strong> hire a <strong>to</strong>p-rated <strong>and</strong><br />
trustworthy mover <strong>to</strong> reduce stress when moving.<br />
7. Control your emotions<br />
One thing is clear – moving away from everything you know – home, city, <strong>and</strong><br />
most importantly, friends – will most likely bring out a potent cocktail of strong<br />
emotions <strong>for</strong> you. Sometimes such emotions may be hard <strong>to</strong> control, especially<br />
if you don’t really want <strong>to</strong> move out but are <strong>for</strong>ced <strong>to</strong> do so by a number of<br />
external fac<strong>to</strong>rs.<br />
Surprise, denial, excitement, confusion, fear, sadness, stress, anger, anxiety,<br />
depression – these are only a few of the emotions you may have <strong>to</strong> deal with<br />
when moving <strong>to</strong> a new home. Keep reminding yourself that you’re in control of<br />
your own feelings <strong>and</strong> emotions, <strong>and</strong> organizing a smooth move will contribute<br />
greatly <strong>to</strong> your mental equilibrium during that <strong>to</strong>ugh transitional period.<br />
8. Get help from your friends<br />
At times, a house move can become so overwhelming that you may get the<br />
unwelcoming feeling that you’re starting <strong>to</strong> lose your mind in the process. <strong>The</strong><br />
truth is that organizing a move often turns out <strong>to</strong> be <strong>to</strong>o much <strong>for</strong> one person<br />
<strong>to</strong> h<strong>and</strong>le successfully, so the solution is more than obvious – get help from your<br />
pals.<br />
It’s very important <strong>to</strong> know that you have your friends there by your side during<br />
that <strong>to</strong>ugh transitional stage. Also, their moral support <strong>and</strong> physical assistance<br />
will be invaluable <strong>for</strong> you, especially during the packing <strong>and</strong> furniture moving<br />
phases.
Make sure you reach out <strong>to</strong> your friends as early as possible <strong>to</strong> minimize the<br />
disruption of their own plans.<br />
9. Guarantee everyone’s safety<br />
Property damage during a house move is bad, but it’s even worse <strong>to</strong> have<br />
personal injuries during the house moving process. <strong>The</strong> thought alone that<br />
somebody could get hurt when big <strong>and</strong> heavy furniture pieces are being lugged<br />
around the house <strong>and</strong> taken out <strong>to</strong> the awaiting moving vehicle.<br />
Avoid going insane with worry about the safety of your family members <strong>and</strong><br />
your helpers. <strong>How</strong>?<br />
KEEP all exit pathways clear of obstacles,<br />
KEEP small children <strong>and</strong> pets away from the moving action;<br />
USE proper moving equipment <strong>to</strong> move heavy objects, <strong>and</strong><br />
WEAR appropriate clothes <strong>and</strong> shoes <strong>to</strong> prevent injuries.<br />
10. Save money with proven cost-saving techniques<br />
One of the major reasons why residential moving tends <strong>to</strong> be so stressful is<br />
because a house move can be a rather expensive affair. And whenever your<br />
savings are at risk, it’s only normal that you’d want <strong>to</strong> spend as little money as<br />
possible <strong>to</strong> cover the moving expenses.<br />
Keep your sanity when moving by knowing that you’ve done everything you<br />
possibly can <strong>to</strong> reduce the moving costs as low as they can go. Without a doubt,<br />
the three major ways <strong>to</strong> save money when moving <strong>to</strong> another home are:<br />
FIND an af<strong>for</strong>dable mover that still offers high-quality services. Yes, it<br />
does sound like an impossible task, but in reality, it’s quite possible.<br />
GET rid of any items that you no longer want <strong>and</strong> need <strong>to</strong> move only the<br />
things that make sense <strong>to</strong> be moved.<br />
PACK whatever items you can by yourself so that you won’t need <strong>to</strong> pay<br />
professional movers <strong>to</strong> do it <strong>for</strong> you.<br />
III.<br />
Why Some People Feel Overwhelmed When Relocating Or Moving?
<strong>The</strong>re are so many reasons <strong>for</strong> which people feel overwhelmed while<br />
relocating. You have so many areas <strong>to</strong> h<strong>and</strong>le that you are already under<br />
immense pressure <strong>and</strong> then this uncertainty that always hovers over your<br />
mind; Will everything be okay? Will my purpose <strong>for</strong> the relocation fulfil? Will I<br />
be able <strong>to</strong> adapt well <strong>to</strong> the new environment <strong>and</strong> new people? And a lot more<br />
questions. I can certainly relate <strong>to</strong> these emotions, as I have gone through this<br />
whole process, <strong>and</strong> thus am sharing some vital points on why you feel<br />
overwhelmed while relocating. And trust me you are not the only one who feels<br />
so, so open up about it <strong>and</strong> feel free <strong>to</strong> talk with your friends <strong>and</strong> family<br />
members about the same.<br />
IV.<br />
<strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> Cope With Relocation Depression<br />
It is believed that the <strong>to</strong>ughest stage of a move is the tricky period of dealing<br />
with a post-move phenomenon known as relocation depression.<br />
‣ <strong>How</strong> can relocation cause depression?<br />
<strong>The</strong> depression due <strong>to</strong> relocation is not something that can be <strong>to</strong>uched, or<br />
smelled, or seen, but it surely is a powerful <strong>for</strong>ce <strong>to</strong> be reckoned with. This<br />
unwelcoming physiological state comes as a direct result from leaving your old<br />
life behind – a life where you enjoyed the highly familiar <strong>and</strong> com<strong>for</strong>ting daily
outine, the un<strong>for</strong>gettable moments with good <strong>and</strong> loyal friends, the<br />
unquestionable support of your family <strong>and</strong> maybe even a greatly satisfying job<br />
you loved.<br />
In other words, the post-relocation depression is your mourning period of the<br />
life you no longer have <strong>and</strong> could never bring back.<br />
‣ Relocation Depression Symp<strong>to</strong>ms<br />
Here are some of the more typical symp<strong>to</strong>ms of relocation depression that you<br />
need <strong>to</strong> watch out <strong>for</strong> once the dust of unpacked moving boxes settles down in<br />
your new house.<br />
Excessive sleep. One of the most common depression symp<strong>to</strong>ms is <strong>to</strong> find<br />
out that you sleep much more than you normally do. If approximately 8<br />
hours were enough <strong>to</strong> fully recharge your batteries, then the sudden 12<br />
or more hours of sleep is usually a good indica<strong>to</strong>r that something is not<br />
quite right.<br />
Uncharacteristic tiredness. Waking up tired <strong>and</strong> devoid of energy even<br />
after a good night’s sleep, <strong>and</strong> then starting about your day in a painfully<br />
sluggish way as if you were moving underwater could be a sign you’ve<br />
fallen victim of relocation depression.<br />
Unwillingness <strong>to</strong> leave the house. Are you spending most of your time<br />
inside your home <strong>and</strong> feel strong reluctance or even fear <strong>to</strong> step beyond<br />
your doorstep? Do you au<strong>to</strong>matically reject any invitations or<br />
suggestions <strong>to</strong> go out <strong>and</strong> do something outside the confines of your<br />
house or apartment? If yes, you may be down with relocation depression.<br />
Lack of desire <strong>to</strong> socialize. <strong>The</strong> mere thought of meeting <strong>and</strong> interacting<br />
with new people sounds very unappealing <strong>and</strong> even frightening, <strong>and</strong> you<br />
prefer <strong>to</strong> spend your days on your own.<br />
Tangible apathy. You exhibit a notable lack of interest in doing anything<br />
special, except maybe sleep <strong>and</strong> watch TV all day.<br />
It’s hard <strong>to</strong> know whether the symp<strong>to</strong>ms you’re exhibiting are the result of the<br />
post-relocation separation anxiety or not – it’s possible that you don’t feel your<br />
<strong>for</strong>mer self <strong>for</strong> some other medical reasons. One way <strong>to</strong> know <strong>for</strong> sure that
you’re under the influence of this highly undesirable side effect of relocation is<br />
if you feel energized <strong>and</strong> ready <strong>to</strong> take the world head-on only when you talk<br />
with your old friends or when you plan a visit <strong>to</strong> your old home in your old city.<br />
‣ <strong>How</strong> To Overcome Relocation Depression?<br />
Do not despair if you fear that you may be struggling with separation anxiety,<br />
<strong>for</strong> there are a number of proven relocation depression strategies <strong>to</strong> help you<br />
find a way out of your current cul-de-sac <strong>and</strong> start enjoying your new life as you<br />
should have done by now. Some useful ideas can be found in this concise but<br />
in<strong>for</strong>mative article.<br />
Try hard <strong>to</strong> make new friends<br />
Making new friends may not be a walk in the park, especially if you don’t have<br />
it in you <strong>to</strong> befriend strangers almost seamlessly like some people do. And yet,<br />
it’s imperative that you do your best. It’s no secret that friends will give you<br />
exactly what you need <strong>to</strong> break free from your nostalgic post-relocation<br />
sadness.<br />
Get <strong>to</strong> know your new city<br />
Unfamiliar settings can easily bring about ungrounded fear <strong>and</strong> darker<br />
thoughts. <strong>The</strong> solution? Turn the unfamiliar surroundings in<strong>to</strong> more familiar by<br />
exploring your neighborhood first <strong>and</strong> then your city. Be brave enough <strong>to</strong> step<br />
outside the illusionary safety of your new residence <strong>and</strong> you’ll see how fresh<br />
possibilities will open in front of you one by one. Take a walk in a beautiful city<br />
park, dare <strong>to</strong> go shopping in a crowded shopping district, visit his<strong>to</strong>ric city<br />
l<strong>and</strong>marks <strong>and</strong> locate important places (hospitals, post offices, police stations,<br />
etc.).<br />
Introduce familiarity <strong>to</strong> your new home<br />
Some people will probably not underst<strong>and</strong> your nostalgic home interior<br />
recreation <strong>and</strong> that’s okay. After all, you’re the only one who knows the secret<br />
<strong>and</strong> highly complicated household arrangement pattern that has the power <strong>to</strong><br />
res<strong>to</strong>re your inner harmony <strong>and</strong> peace of mind.
Keep meaningful relationships alive<br />
Making new friends is probably the most effective technique out there <strong>to</strong> fight<br />
depression due <strong>to</strong> relocation. And while your new life is taking you <strong>for</strong>ward, do<br />
not <strong>for</strong>get <strong>to</strong> look back <strong>and</strong> keep in <strong>to</strong>uch with your old pals.<br />
Nowadays, it takes nothing more than a mouse click or a single finger tap <strong>to</strong> talk<br />
<strong>and</strong> even see an old friend, so distance is a poor excuse <strong>to</strong> let great relationships<br />
slip between the cracks of your new reality.<br />
If you do happen <strong>to</strong> find yourself a bit overwhelmed by your new life, keep<br />
repeating <strong>to</strong> yourself that sometimes backward is the only way <strong>for</strong>ward.<br />
Do something crazy<br />
If you can’t seem <strong>to</strong> find a way out of your depressed state of mind, consider<br />
breaking your set daily rhythm <strong>and</strong> your inner pattern by doing something you<br />
wouldn’t do under normal circumstances. Simply put, do something crazy<br />
(reasonably crazy, of course) like joining a chess club or signing up <strong>for</strong> yoga or<br />
dance classes or learning how <strong>to</strong> play a musical instrument. Find yourself new<br />
hobbies <strong>and</strong> interests <strong>to</strong> clear your head out of any sad thoughts <strong>and</strong> help you<br />
meet new interesting people seamlessly.<br />
Give yourself more time<br />
And most importantly, don’t be <strong>to</strong>o hard on yourself. You have just survived a<br />
stressful <strong>and</strong> testing move which, even without you realizing it, may have<br />
turned your world upside down, broken your daily routine <strong>to</strong> pieces <strong>and</strong><br />
wreaked havoc on your internal biological clock.<br />
Are you familiar with the concept of communicating vessels? Your new postmove<br />
life <strong>and</strong> your old pre-move life are the interconnected vessels, <strong>and</strong> you’re<br />
playing the role of the medium between these two entities.<br />
Now, similar <strong>to</strong> the homogeneous liquid inside interconnected containers<br />
which requires time <strong>to</strong> balance itself out <strong>to</strong> the same level inside the vessels,<br />
you also need time <strong>to</strong> acclimatize properly <strong>to</strong> the unfamiliar surroundings <strong>and</strong><br />
advance slowly but steadily through the adaptation period. You need more
time, so give yourself more time. One little step at a time, just like a baby<br />
learning how <strong>to</strong> walk <strong>for</strong> the very first time. Right?<br />
<strong>The</strong> relocation depression strategies described above will help you find the<br />
right path much faster but the best way <strong>to</strong> fight the post-move side effect is <strong>to</strong><br />
avoid relocation depression al<strong>to</strong>gether. <strong>The</strong> moment you set foot in your new<br />
home, believe in your inner strength <strong>to</strong> h<strong>and</strong>le change, use your strong will <strong>to</strong><br />
avoid the cleverly set depressing traps, <strong>and</strong> counterattack the unexpected<br />
enemy with the healing power of positive thinking.<br />
Yes, occupy your mind with positive thoughts <strong>and</strong> soon you’ll be ready <strong>to</strong> have<br />
your relocation depression <strong>for</strong> breakfast. Bon appétit!<br />
V. What Moving Day Mistakes <strong>to</strong> Avoid?<br />
Moving isn’t most people’s idea of fun. Relocating from one residence <strong>to</strong><br />
another takes time, ef<strong>for</strong>t, <strong>and</strong> money, <strong>and</strong> the process can be highly stressful.<br />
To make your next move easier <strong>and</strong> less emotionally charged, consider these<br />
eight common moving mistakes <strong>and</strong> how <strong>to</strong> avoid them.
1. YOU’RE A PROUD PACKRAT.<br />
Over the years, you’ve collected an impressive treasure trove of clothing, books,<br />
magazines, kitchen <strong>to</strong>ols, <strong>and</strong> knick-knacks. You’re not quite in hoarding<br />
terri<strong>to</strong>ry, but no one would ever call you a minimalist. And it <strong>to</strong>ok time <strong>to</strong> amass<br />
all your possessions, so why wouldn’t you move them <strong>to</strong> your next house?<br />
<strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> avoid it: Be<strong>for</strong>e you pack, spend a few days going through your home,<br />
identifying items that you haven’t used in the last year or two. Getting rid of<br />
unnecessary items is not only mentally liberating, but it can also save you<br />
money <strong>and</strong> time (since you’ll pay <strong>to</strong> move less stuff <strong>and</strong> spend less time packing<br />
<strong>and</strong> unpacking). Take pho<strong>to</strong>s of sentimental items that you no longer need, <strong>and</strong><br />
donate or sell anything that you no longer want.<br />
2. PROCRASTINATION IS YOUR MIDDLE NAME.<br />
You know that moving requires <strong>to</strong>ns of planning, but you figure that things will<br />
come <strong>to</strong>gether quickly once you get started. After all, how long could it take <strong>to</strong><br />
throw your stuff in some boxes <strong>and</strong> tape it all up?<br />
<strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> avoid it: Get started early. Relocating requires multiple steps, from<br />
choosing a moving company <strong>to</strong> preparing your possessions <strong>for</strong> moving day. Use<br />
a checklist, like Allstate’s Moving <strong>Guide</strong>, <strong>to</strong> ensure you don’t <strong>for</strong>get anything in<br />
the chaos <strong>and</strong> excitement. And if you’re moving during a busy time of year, such<br />
as spring or summer, you’ll probably need <strong>to</strong> book your moving company even<br />
further in advance.<br />
3. YOU EQUATE DOING EVERYTHING YOURSELF WITH SAVING MONEY.<br />
You might think that renting a truck <strong>and</strong> convincing your friends <strong>to</strong> carry your<br />
stuff will save you a <strong>to</strong>n of cash. DIY-ing some moves can make sense financially,<br />
depending on the distance you’re moving <strong>and</strong> how much stuff you’re hauling,<br />
but most moves require the services of a professional moving company.<br />
<strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> avoid it: Consider what a reputable moving company offers that you<br />
can’t provide if you’re doing all the work yourself. Depending on your contract<br />
with the moving company, you may receive valuation protection, liability<br />
coverage, or some <strong>for</strong>m of insurance, so you’ll be covered (at least partially) if
your items get damaged or lost in transit. Moving companies may also provide<br />
packing services <strong>for</strong> delicate items or disassembly of large furniture. Moving<br />
across state lines also means that gas <strong>and</strong> parking costs will add up, <strong>and</strong> imagine<br />
the aches, muscle strains, <strong>and</strong> injuries that you can prevent by leaving the heavy<br />
lifting <strong>to</strong> the professionals.<br />
4. YOU’RE TOO TRUSTING.<br />
If you plan <strong>to</strong> sit back, relax, <strong>and</strong> write a check after you’ve picked the cheapest<br />
moving company, you’re being <strong>to</strong>o trusting. Some moving companies may steal<br />
your possessions, be unreliable, or refuse <strong>to</strong> reimburse you <strong>for</strong> damage caused<br />
by the move.<br />
<strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> avoid it: Do your research. Read online reviews, consider advice from<br />
friends, <strong>and</strong> talk <strong>to</strong> different moving companies on the phone be<strong>for</strong>e deciding<br />
which company is right <strong>for</strong> you. Ask the moving company if they’re licensed <strong>and</strong><br />
insured, <strong>and</strong> listen closely when they give you a nonbinding estimate. Read your<br />
contract carefully be<strong>for</strong>e you sign it, paying attention <strong>to</strong> extra fees, how much<br />
insurance the company has, <strong>and</strong> if the company has workers’ comp insurance.<br />
5. YOU SKIMP ON THE BUBBLE WRAP.<br />
By the time you finally get around <strong>to</strong> boxing up fragile items such as plates <strong>and</strong><br />
vases, you might be sick <strong>and</strong> tired of packing. Putting delicate glassware or<br />
china in some bubble wrap is better than nothing, but letting your laziness win<br />
is a big mistake.<br />
<strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> avoid it: Get plenty of bubble wrap, cushioning rolls, <strong>and</strong> tape <strong>to</strong><br />
adequately cover your fragile items. It’s better <strong>to</strong> go slightly overboard with the<br />
padding so you don’t open your boxes in your new home <strong>and</strong> find shattered<br />
pieces of glass or ceramic.<br />
6. YOU FORGET TO TAKE INVENTORY.<br />
You’ve packed all your stuff in boxes, taking care <strong>to</strong> bubble wrap delicate items<br />
<strong>and</strong> not make any one box <strong>to</strong>o heavy. You think you’re good <strong>to</strong> go, until you<br />
realize that you have no idea what’s inside any of the boxes.
<strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> avoid it: As you pack, make a list of what you’re putting in each box.<br />
Number the boxes <strong>and</strong> label their contents, as well as what room of your new<br />
house they should go, so you’ll have a grasp on where your stuff is. Making an<br />
inven<strong>to</strong>ry will save time when you unpack <strong>and</strong> help you ensure that the movers<br />
didn’t leave anything behind. Use an app like Allstate’s Digital Locker be<strong>for</strong>e<br />
your move, <strong>and</strong> you’ll have a list of your possessions on h<strong>and</strong> should you ever<br />
need <strong>to</strong> file a claim with your home insurance company.<br />
7. YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHERE YOUR TOOTHBRUSH IS.<br />
So your boxes are properly labeled, <strong>and</strong> you’re feeling supremely organized <strong>and</strong><br />
on <strong>to</strong>p of things. But how will you get through your first few nights in your new<br />
residence, especially if you have <strong>to</strong> wait <strong>for</strong> utilities <strong>to</strong> be turned on?<br />
<strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> avoid it: Pack a suitcase that contains everything you’ll need <strong>for</strong> the<br />
first few days in your new home. Your <strong>to</strong>othbrush, <strong>to</strong>othpaste, cosmetics, <strong>to</strong>ilet<br />
paper, soap, medicine, water bottles, snacks, pajamas, linens, lap<strong>to</strong>p, <strong>and</strong> pet<br />
food are a few necessary items that you might <strong>for</strong>get you’ll need immediately.<br />
And don’t <strong>for</strong>get a pair of scissors—you’ll need them <strong>to</strong> actually open your<br />
boxes!<br />
8. THE MAIL SLIPS YOUR MIND.<br />
You’ve notified your l<strong>and</strong>lord <strong>and</strong> utility companies about your move-out date,<br />
but don’t <strong>for</strong>get about your mail.<br />
<strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> avoid it: Head <strong>to</strong> the post office’s website <strong>to</strong> fill out a change of address<br />
<strong>for</strong>m. Select whether your move is permanent or temporary, choose your start<br />
date (when you want the post office <strong>to</strong> begin <strong>for</strong>warding your mail), <strong>and</strong> enter<br />
your new address. Luckily, it only costs $1.05 <strong>for</strong> this service, <strong>and</strong> you can pay<br />
with a credit card.<br />
VI.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Final Words<br />
<strong>The</strong>re’s no denying that moving is a mammoth job, but these tips <strong>and</strong> tricks are<br />
designed <strong>to</strong> cut the chaos <strong>and</strong> take the pain out of moving.<br />
References
By Diane Schmidt .(2019) | <strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> Organize, Plan <strong>and</strong> <strong>Prepare</strong> <strong>for</strong> a Household<br />
<strong>Move</strong> | <strong>The</strong> Spruce, Retrieved September 18, 2019 from<br />
https://www.thespruce.com/organize-plan-prepare-household-move-<br />
2436542<br />
By Ethan Greenfield .(2019) | <strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> move house without losing your mind |<br />
Moving.tips, Retrieved September 18, 2019 from<br />
By David .(2019) | Why Some People Feel Overwhelmed When Relocating Or<br />
Moving? | Gold Coast Diary, Retrieved September 19, 2019 from<br />
https://moving.tips/bonus-tips-<strong>and</strong>-tricks/how-<strong>to</strong>-move-without-losingyour-mind/<br />
http://goldcoastdiary.zohosites.com/blogs/post/Why-Some-People-Feel-<br />
Overwhelmed-When-Relocating-or-Moving/<br />
By Joshua Green | <strong>How</strong> To Cope With Relocation Depression | My Moving<br />
Review, Retrieved September 19, 2019 from<br />
By Kathryn Madden .(2019) | <strong>How</strong> To <strong>Prepare</strong> For Moving Day | Home<br />
Beautiful, Retrieved September 19, 2019 from<br />
https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/how-<strong>to</strong>-prepare-<strong>for</strong>-moving-day<br />
8 Common Moving Mistakes And <strong>How</strong> To Avoid <strong>The</strong>m | Mental Floss, Retrieved<br />
September 19, 2019 from<br />
https://www.mymovingreviews.com/move/overcome-relocationdepression/<br />
http://mentalfloss.com/article/85046/8-common-moving-mistakes-<strong>and</strong>how-avoid-them