13 Moving Hacks for a Faster, Easier and Less Stressful Move
Moving to a new home can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies, you can simplify the process, save time, and reduce stress. These moving hacks will help you pack and unpack efficiently, protect your belongings, and make your moving day smoother.
Whether you’re moving across town or to another state, planning ahead is key to avoiding common moving day headaches. From organizing your packing process to ensuring your essentials are easily accessible, these practical tips will make your move more manageable. By following these steps, you can transition to your new home with minimal stress and maximum efficiency.
1. Call Utility Companies Early
When to do it: At least two weeks before your move
To avoid service interruptions or last-minute stress, contact your utility providers to schedule disconnections at your old place and activate services at your new home. This includes:
- Electricity
- Water
- Gas
- Internet and cable
- Trash collection
If you’re keeping the same providers, notify them of your move-in date to ensure a seamless transition.
2. Book a Moving Company ASAP
When to do it: At least a month in advance (sooner for peak moving seasons)
Get at least three quotes from reputable movers to compare pricing, services, and availability. Booking early ensures you get the best rates and avoid last-minute panic. If hiring professionals isn’t in your budget, consider renting a moving truck or using portable storage options.
Pro Tip: Look for movers with good reviews and insurance coverage to protect your belongings.
3. Set a Moving Budget
Moving costs can add up quickly.
Expenses may include:
- Moving company fees
- Packing supplies
- Storage fees
- Utility deposits
- Travel expenses (gas, hotels, flights)
Use an online moving cost calculator or a simple spreadsheet to set a realistic budget and track expenses.
4. Declutter Before Packing
Don’t waste time moving things you don’t need.
Sort your items into four categories:
- Keep – Things you use regularly
- Donate – Clothes, furniture, and items in good condition
- Sell – Host a yard sale or list items on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or OfferUp
- Trash – Anything broken, outdated, or unusable
Local Tip: The Salvation Army in Fort Worth offers donation pickups—schedule one online for convenience.
5. Use Up Perishable Food
Plan meals to empty your fridge and pantry before moving day.
Instead of throwing away food, start meal prepping a week in advance. Make creative recipes using what you already have. If you have unopened non-perishables, donate them to a local food bank.
6. Keep Clothes in Your Dresser
Skip unnecessary packing.
No need to remove clothes from drawers. Instead:
- Take drawers out of the dresser
- Wrap them in plastic wrap or secure them with tape
- Transport them separately and slide them back in at your new home
Bonus Hack: This also works for small items in nightstands and cabinets.
7. Keep Hanging Clothes on Hangers
Avoid wrinkles and extra work.
Instead of folding and boxing your clothes, keep them on hangers and group them in sections. Then:
- Slide a large garbage bag over each group of 10-15 hangers
- Tie the bottom of the bag shut
- Lay them flat or hang them up in your moving truck
When you arrive, just remove the bags and hang everything up. No refolding is necessary.
8. Use Linens & Towels Instead of Bubble Wrap
Save money and protect fragile items.
Instead of buying packing paper or bubble wrap, wrap breakable items with what you already have:
- Towels for dishes and picture frames
- Socks for cushioning glassware and small items
- Pillowcases for protecting electronics
- Dish towels for securing knives (use rubber bands for safety)
This method reduces waste and saves money on packing materials.
9. Use Large Pots for Storage
Maximize space in your kitchen boxes.
Large pots and slow cookers take up space, so fill them with smaller kitchen items like spices, utensils, or measuring cups. Secure lids with tape or rubber bands to prevent spills.
10. Prevent Leaks with Plastic Wrap
Avoid messy spills during the move.
Before packing liquids like shampoo, soap, or cleaning supplies:
- Remove the cap
- Cover the opening with plastic wrap
- Screw the cap back on securely
This prevents leaks and spills in your moving boxes.
11. Color-Code Your Boxes
Easier than writing labels.
Assign each room a different color and place a matching sticker or tape on each box. Example:
- Blue for the kitchen
- Green for the living room
- Red for the bedroom
At your new home, stick a matching color label on each room’s door. Movers can then drop boxes in the right place without asking you.
12. Take a Picture of Your Electronics Setup
Reassemble electronics in minutes.
Before unplugging your TV, Wi-Fi router, or gaming console, take a photo of the cables and connections. This makes setting everything up fast and frustration-free at your new home.
13. Pack a Moving Day Survival Kit
Stay fueled and hydrated on a moving day.
Moving is exhausting, and it’s easy to forget to eat or drink water. Pack a cooler with:
- Bottled water
- Easy-to-eat snacks like granola bars, fruit, or trail mix
- Coffee or energy drinks
- Paper towels and wipes
Also, pack an essentials bag with:
- Phone charger
- Change of clothes
- Medications
- Toiletries like a toothbrush, soap, and deodorant
This saves you from digging through boxes to find what you need right away.
What to Expect on Moving Day
Moving day can be hectic, but staying organized will make it smoother.
- Start early – Movers usually arrive in the morning, so have everything packed and ready.
- Final walkthrough – Check all rooms, secure valuables, and pack an essentials bag.
- Loading process – Heavy furniture goes in first, followed by boxes. If moving yourself, secure items to prevent shifting.
- Clean and lock up – Do a final sweep, take photos for records, and turn in keys if needed.
- Travel to your new home – Plan your route and confirm arrival details with movers.
- Unloading and setup – Direct boxes to the correct rooms, and set up essential areas like the kitchen and bedroom first.
- Check inventory – Ensure everything arrives safely and report any damages immediately.
- Settle in – Unpack essentials, order takeout, and enjoy your new space!
Make Moving Stress-Free with Luke’s Moving Services
Moving day doesn’t have to be chaotic. By staying organized, planning ahead, and knowing what to expect, you can make your transition smooth and hassle-free.
At Luke’s Moving Services, we handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on settling into your new home. Get a free quote today and see how easy moving can be.
Let us know if we can help!
