Moving last minute can be stressful and unexpected, but sometimes it’s your only option! Whether you’ve been notified of a sudden job relocation or your original plans have changed, here’s how to make your last-minute move a little less chaotic. With our expert tips on decluttering, staying organized, and efficient packing, you can minimize stress during your unexpected transition.
1. Prioritize and Create a Checklist
The key to tackling a last-minute move is creating a clear, actionable plan. Time is of the essence with these kinds of moves so having a checklist can help you prioritize essential tasks and keep track of what needs to be done.
Key actions to consider:
- Cancel Utilities and Set Up Services: Notify your utility providers of your moving date as soon as possible. This includes electricity, water, internet, and trash collection services at both your old and new location.
- Forward Your Mail: Use a service like Canada Post to forward mail to your new address. This ensures you don’t miss important correspondence.
- Notify Important Contacts: Inform your employer, financial institutions, and any other key contacts of your change in address.
Why it matters: A well-organized checklist keeps you on task, reduces decision fatigue, and ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
2. Declutter Quickly: Downsizing Tips for a Last-Minute Move
When you’re short on time, you won’t have the luxury of a lengthy decluttering process. However, a quick decluttering session can be just as effective and will save you time, space, and money in the long run. Focus on getting rid of anything you don’t need to bring to your new home.
Check out our blog, A Complete Guide to Downsizing Before a Move, for additional decluttering tips.
Tips for fast decluttering:
- Stick to the essentials: Prioritize keeping only what you need. Sort items into categories: “keep,” “donate,” and “trash.”
- One Room at a Time: Instead of trying to do everything at once, tackle one room at a time, and don’t overthink each decision.
- Leave Bulky Items Behind: If you’re moving a short distance, consider leaving behind bulky furniture and replacing it at your new home.
Why it matters: Decluttering before packing helps lighten the load, saving you time and money, especially if you’re hiring movers.
3. Pack Strategically
When you’re short on time, the goal is to pack as efficiently as possible. Start by purchasing a moving supplies kit like this one so you don’t have to spend time finding each packing item separately. You can also make use of items you already have like suitcases, laundry baskets, and tote bags. Being resourceful is key with a last minute move!
Pro packing tips:
- Use the “Essentials First” Approach: Pack the items you use daily in a separate “essentials” box that will travel with you. This could include toiletries, important documents, phone chargers, and basic kitchen items.
- Label Boxes Clearly: Use clear labels on every box to identify its contents and which room it should go in. For last-minute moves, color-coding boxes by room can save you a lot of hassle when unpacking.
- Don’t Overpack Boxes: Avoid packing boxes that are too heavy or overloaded, as this can lead to damaged items. Keep each box light enough to lift comfortably.
Why it matters: Efficient packing ensures you can easily locate essentials at your new home, making the unpacking process smoother.
4. Enlist Professional Movers
A last-minute move can be difficult if you’re planning on DIYing it. Hiring professional movers will make the process a lot easier, and a lot quicker. Movers are equipped with the tools and expertise to pack, load, and transport your belongings quickly and safely.
Why it matters: Hiring movers takes much of the physical and mental burden off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on other aspects of the move.
5. Utilize Short-Term Storage During Downsizing
If you’re unsure where everything will fit in your new home, or you’re transitioning to a temporary living situation, consider renting a storage unit. This is especially useful for downsizing, as it provides a safe space for your belongings until you can fully settle in.
Situations where storage comes in handy:
- Downsizing: If your new home is smaller than your current one, using a storage unit can give you more time to decide what you want to keep.
- In-Between Moves: If your new home isn’t ready yet, storage units are a practical solution for keeping your items secure during the gap.
Why it matters: Short-term storage offers flexibility during chaotic moves, giving you more time to sort through your items without rushing.
6. Stay Calm and Flexible with Last-Minute Decluttering
Moving is always a stressful experience, but it’s essential to keep calm and remain flexible, especially when decluttering at the last minute. Things may not always go as planned, but with a positive mindset, you’ll be better equipped to handle unexpected challenges.
Mindset tips for a stress-free move:
- Focus on the Big Picture: Don’t sweat the small details; what’s important is making sure all your belongings arrive safely at your new home.
- Take Breaks: Moving is exhausting, so make sure you rest and recharge when needed.
- Ask for Help: Whether it’s friends, family, or professional movers, don’t be afraid to ask for help when things get overwhelming.
Why it matters: A positive mindset makes you more effective in handling the inevitable curveballs that come with a last-minute move.
7. Unpack the Essentials First
Once you arrive at your new home, you’ll want to make it livable as soon as possible. Unpack the essential items first, such as bedding, toiletries, and essential kitchen supplies. Having these items readily available will help you settle in faster and make the space feel like a home sooner.
How to organize your unpacking process:
- Start with the Rooms You Use Most: Unpack your bedroom and bathroom first so you can rest and freshen up after a long day of moving.
- Kitchen Next: Unpacking your kitchen next allows you to get back to cooking meals, saving you from ordering takeout.
- Tackle Other Rooms Gradually: Once you have your essentials unpacked, you can work on the rest of the house at your own pace.
Why it matters: Focusing on essentials first makes your new home comfortable right away, reducing the stress of unpacking all at once.
A last-minute move doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By staying organized, enlisting help from professionals, and prioritizing essential tasks like downsizing, you can tackle the move with confidence. Remember, even with little time to prepare, a well-thought-out strategy can make all the difference. Stay calm, and focus on what’s most important to ensure your move goes smoothly.
