First-Time Mover’s Guide

First-Time Mover’s Guide

Moving—almost everyone goes through it. That’s why most will agree when we say it’s exhausting, overwhelming, and takes a toll on you mentally and physically. However, there are ways to make it easier on yourself.

A storage unit is a mover’s tool. Having the additional space on hand can keep the process smooth, and if you get into your new place and realize you don’t have the room for everything you’ve brought, a storage unit can keep it in the meantime until you find a solution.

We’re here to help you get through your first move, no matter how much you’re bringing with you. Follow these steps to stay organized and on top of your move from start to finish.

Preparing To Move

Preparation is key to a successful move. You always want to have a plan. Designate a specific date for your move, and be sure to give yourself a generous amount of time to get things done. You don’t want to rush yourself, as doing so puts pressure on you and anyone helping you.

Finding Help

There’s nothing wrong with asking for help with your move. Whether you reach out to friends, family, or professional movers, having some extra sets of hands has a significant impact. Be sure to communicate with your help when the move is, what time, and where to be.

Decluttering

If you’re already feeling overwhelmed by how much you need to move, consider taking on a decluttering project prior to moving. Get rid of items you no longer need, use, or want, and instead focus on the essentials.

Packing Up

As your moving day grows near, you can start packing. Begin with the items that are least essential to your daily life, and over the course of several days or even weeks, gradually pack away more and more until you’re left with just enough to get through the day of your move.

Everything should get packed except the bare necessities, such as bathroom toiletries, a change of clothing, a phone charger, and other things you’ll need the day you move.

Gather Your Supplies

The right supplies will do you many favors throughout the moving process. You’ll want plenty of boxes in various sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, furniture and mattress covers, and tarps or blankets.

Save yourself a trip and pick up all of your packing and moving supplies at a Total Storage Solutions facility! Many of our locations have supplies conveniently available for sale.

Pack With Organization

Pack your items in a way that feels intuitive to you. Go room by room and put like items together in boxes. As you pack, try not to make boxes any heavier than you can comfortably lift, and put heavier items at the bottom of the box and lighter items on top.

Label Your Boxes

With a permanent marker, write in large letters some sort of label to indicate what’s inside the box. Label the sides and top so you won’t have to turn the box several times when you’re looking for the label later on.

Separate Fragile Items

Pack fragile items snugly in separate boxes. When the box moves, you don’t want the fragile item inside to be bounced around, so a smaller box will do a better job of holding the item in place. Fill in space with bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or paper.

Breaking Your Move Into Steps

Just because you’re moving doesn’t mean you have to get it all done in one go. Save energy and separate your move into multiple steps, such as by placing a number of belongings into storage to move in later when you have the time and space for them. Focus on moving over what’s most important and leave other items in a storage unit to retrieve at a later date.

Using Self Storage While You Move

A storage unit gives you a little extra breathing room while you transition from one place to another. It’s a great resource to have. If you get to your new place and realize your couch can’t fit up the stairs or your table is too large for the dining area, leave it in storage. You can fill your storage unit with the clutter you don’t yet want to go through or put away your out-of-season clothing and decorations to dig out at the right time.

Moving In

When moving day arrives, it’s good to get excited. You’re stepping into a new chapter in your life, so we hope you’re looking forward to everything that’s yet to come. However, if you’re also feeling uncertain and stressed, that’s perfectly normal.

What’s important is that you get through the day successfully. With our expert tips, you’ll be done and getting settled in your new place before you know it.

Communicate With Your Help

Double check with anyone helping you that they’re still able to make it. Keep an eye on the weather forecast for the day, and have bottles of water or light snacks on hand to keep people refreshed should they need it.

Stay on Track, but Be Flexible

While having a plan is important, you still need to stay flexible. All sorts of surprises and mishaps can spring up on your moving day. Bad weather, expected delays, and more can create stressful situations, so stay open to changing plans.

Take More Trips

You might be tempted to carry as much as you can and reduce the number of trips you take from your moving truck to your new home, but doing so can burn up your energy much faster and leave you exhausted. Instead, take lighter loads and more trips.

Unpacking

Boxes are everywhere. Furniture is set wherever. Your friends, family, or movers are gone. It’s time to start unpacking and settling into your new home.

Focus On What’s Important

Especially if you’re worn out from your move, you might just be ready to crash and call it a day. Make your bed, find some of your comfy clothing, order some food for delivery (to your brand-new address), and relax.

If you still have some energy left in you to unpack, prioritize your clothing, dishes, and bathroom essentials.

Make Your Move Happen With Total Storage Solutions

Whether you’re moving for the first time or the last time, the process is always stressful one way or another. Let a storage unit from a Total Storage Solutions facility be a helping hand. Our units are affordable, convenient, and easy to rent. Find a storage unit near you to get started today.