Moving an entire household isn’t a simple process. Fortunately, with the help of these smart moving tips and tricks, it’s about to get a bit easier.

 Here are 10 easy moving tips and tricks that anyone can use when moving to a new home. Best of luck and happy moving!

  • If possible, clean the bathroom and kitchen in your new place before you move in.
  • For the 2-3 weeks leading up to your move, plan your meals around whatever frozen food, perishable items, or half open containers that you have around the kitchen. You can also donate your nonperishable items to the less privileged
  • Obtain quotes from at least three different moving companies

Don’t hire the first moving company you interview. Instead, try to obtain quotes from at least three companies to compare prices and services. When interviewing a moving company, make sure they are properly licensed and insured

  • As you dissemble furniture, keep all screws and hardware in a plastic bag. Label the bag and tape it to the furniture itself, or designate a separate box with hardware for all your furniture.
  • Choose a mid-week, mid-month move date

The easiest way to save money when moving is to opt for a mid-week, mid-month moving date. Moving on the weekends when demand is highest will undoubtedly be pricier. Moving company and truck rental rates tend to be lower Monday to Friday. They also tend to be lower in the middle of the month as opposed to the first and last weekends.

  • Use foam pouches for plates, bowls and glassware

Covering items in plastic wrap and cushioning takes time and a lot of packing tape to secure. Instead try using simple foam pouches to hold everything from dinnerware to glassware. All you have to do is slip the item inside the foam pouch and place it inside a box.

  • Place heavy items in small boxes.

While it’s tempting to place heavy items in large boxes, it’s always best to put them inside small boxes instead. Not only will this will make it easier to carry the boxes, but it will also prevent your items from falling out the bottom and breaking the box.

  • Check cabinets, drawers, appliances and closets before moving out.

When moving out, it’s easy to leave things behind. We recommend double checking all kitchen cabinets, bedroom closets, drawers and appliances (think: your fridge) before handing over the keys

  • Rekey your new house as soon as possible.

From handymen and cleaning services to friends and family, there’s no telling who was given a copy of the keys from the previous owners. For safety purposes, we recommend rekeying your entire house prior to moving in. All you have to do is call a locksmith to come out to the house to change the locks. They should be able to do so in a matter of hours.

  • If you’re moving with kids, incorporate them into the moving process by giving them a special box for all their favorite things. Let them decorate the box as wildly as they like!

Moving soon? Use our checklist.

Whether you need to forward your mail or set up cable and internet, our free moving checklist will get you organized and ready to move.