We speak about our top tips to getting organized with no time to do so, we give you the no fluff version of moving steps when you are on a last second timeline, and answer your pressing moving questions.
Top Tips To Get Organized Fast
1. Take time to breathe even though you are in a time crunch
a) Don’t overdo it trying to make unhealthy progress will end up setting you back.
b) Staying healthy is more important than any other task during this time. Prioritize your personal health above all deadlines
2. Start ASAP by booking your mover on the needed date
a) This will help you work backwards creating a timeline.
b) Make sure you are not giving up on anything too important by compromising on the quality of your moving company due to the time crunch.
c) Try to be flexible on the time or book midweek to save some money since you are booking last minute, many companies may even be able to reward you with a discount for booking an open slot. Try your luck.
3. Get all your packing materials asap or settle your packing plan
a) Stock up on packing materials like cartons, boxes of all sizes, tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and permanent markers. Since you don’t have the time to run back and forth just buy all the things you need at one store.
b) Know that you also have the option to pay extra for a full packing service that doesn’t require you to use their unpacking service. This can take the immense pressure off if your move is extremely last second.
4. Start boxing up your entire home while decluttering in the process
a) Since you are in a time crunch you won’t have time for that deep clean scrub but that doesn’t mean you can’t declutter at least a little. While packing up those boxes, go through your stuff and get rid of as much as you possibly can. Donate, sell, or throw away any items you don’t need. The less the better. Having less to pack will make unpacking easier in your new home.
b) A time crunch doesn’t mean you should skimp on the labels! Make sure to take those extra 30 seconds to write which room and basic contents is inside each and every carton. You will hate yourself later if you skip this step.
5. Despite the rush don’t skip your personalized inventory list
a) When we rush to complete a task sometimes we need to decide what steps we skip over. This step should not be one of those. Your list will save you hundreds when an item either doesn’t show up at your new home, or shows up totally damaged. It will allow you to present claims to your moving company if needed.
6. You need help to reach your deadline, call on your friends
a) Don’t think twice about reaching out to friends, family, or professional movers for assistance since you really need it. Delegate the main tasks to get them done and accept help when offered. Moving is a team effort, and sharing the packing will reduce stress and make the process less stressful. Since you didn’t’ have time to properly plan out this move, you really need the extra hands to succeed.
7. Acknowledge each small milestone as you progress through the moving process
a) Since the move as a whole is a huge task, you should break it down into smaller tasks and celebrate as you manage to complete each one. Even if it means taking a coffee break each time you finish one room or a meal out every time you pack a certain number of boxes, whatever works for you, do it.
b) Unexpected challenges will pop up during the moving process, but keep up your cheery attitude to keep the vibes positive. Stay flexible and adaptable, and be prepared to change your plans as needed. Keep your smile up!
8. Start packing as fast as you can
a) Start with the lesser used rooms like the garage, laundry room, closets that hold items of other seasons and more to get things going.
b) Pack your essentials bag as the first thing you do with chargers, important documents, laptop and work equipment, a change of clothes and sheets and anything else critical. You are likely to not know where your things are for a few days so this bag will be your best friend.
9. Simply eat out and simplify your life
a) Since you are in a big rush, don’t break up the kitchen packing into phases, just pack it all up in one go, ideally as the last room.
b) When you have time to plan, you can save money on not eating out by not yet packing up everything, but in your case, Dunkin Donuts is a better option. Maybe leave out the coffee maker as the last item, but don’t spend too much time overthinking this room which can be time consuming.
10. Don’t forget to update everyone
a) Update your address with the post office, banks, insurance companies, credit card company, and don’t forget to update your utilities so you aren’t paying for your old residence and make sure you have water in your new home.
b) You need your address to be updated first in order for other companies to allow you to change your address with them so start with this. You can make this call while packing up your bags and spend your time on hold finishing off some cartons.
All in All Let's Wrap Up Quickly
It is always ten times smarter to take the time to properly plan out a move. Sometimes life gets in the way and we have to move at the last second. If this happens to you, first off take a deep breath and go through our list to understand what things you can slack on for the move and what other things are critical to still make sure you squeeze in.
No matter what your timeline is, don’t fall for scammer moving companies. You can get everything done with a reputable vendor no matter what. Throw those items into boxes, label sloppily, but get that job done! Best of luck from all of us at Moving APT. We can provide you with a full last second packing service if needed. You are not alone in this challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find cardboard boxes?
There are ways to purchase or source free cartons. Most movers are happy to deliver you boxes for a fee when you book with them. You can also buy them at hardware stores. Another option is to go to major chain and grocery stores and request their boxes from their daily deliveries for free.
How much time does it take to pack up a bedroom?
From 5 hours to a few days is the average we have seen. It really depends on multiple factors such as size, clutter, clothing preferences, and other items.
It’s more of a question for yourself if you plan to declutter and go full minimalist style or if you plan to throw everything in a box and call it a day. Plan accordingly so you will finish all your packing in a stress free manner. No matter what you plan, don’t forget to label!
How can I make my kids feel at home in the new place?
Get them back to routine as quickly as possible, have them back in after-school activities and meet the friends they love. Try to involve them in the moving process so they too can feel a sense of accomplishment and can learn to embrace the changes. Have them help pack up and unpack their new rooms so they can get excited.
Why would using a packing service be needed and is it worth it?
Professional packers will work at lightspeed to get all your items packed up safely in record speed. While you might get stuck sorting through old nostalgia, they will have your entire home packed up and bubble wrapped in no time. If you are in a rush, stuck at work, have young kids or are elderly, this option should be seriously considered.
How do I help my pets acclimate to the change in homes?
Pets pick up on our energy. If you are stressed, you are likely to stress out your furry friend. Try and make the experience fun for them with lots of walks and treats. Associate the move with positive things your pet loves to make the day less hard for them.
Ensure to set up their home base as soon as you get into the new home so that they can feel they have their own corner with food, water and their bed.
