Moving F*cking Sucks. Here are 3 Tools That Are Helping Me
A photo of a variety of cardboard boxes piled on top of each other creating an overwhelming feeling.
Maybe it’s the fact that I’m a millennial, or maybe it has to do with having grown up low-income (and still falling in this category) but I’ve moved easily 20 times in my lifetime. Each move, however, has taught me a good deal about what it takes to make the process easier. So I thought I’d share what I learned.
One: You need a system
For this go-around, I have already developed my skills in Notion so I’m relying on a template I found (and adjusted) to help me make the process easier. I found this free “Relocation Dashboard” that’s helping me track my subscriptions, change my address, find new doctors and pet services, and so much more. My favorite tool in it is the box tracker. In so many previous moves, I’ve had to focus on simple box notes like “Kitchen” to narrow down what is where. Now, I have each box numbered in the notion template, with a few keywords sharing what is inside. This helps me figure out where the mugs are (because coffee is life), see what boxes need to be unpacked first, and find the exact shirt I need for my work meeting.
If you don’t know how to use Notion, you can replicate some of these systems in your own notes, in a bullet journal, in Google Sheets, or on your phone. Either way, having something that tells you where your most important goodies are will make the move go smoother.
Two: You need a “first week” tub
I don’t know where my mom heard about this but she recommended it on my previous move. For this, you’ll want to get a clear storage container of some kind (I like the ones with locking lids). Inside you’ll want to put some items that you’ll need for the first week of your move. The list below is a starting point, but I cannot stress enough, how much of a lifesaver this is.
Toothbrushes and toothpaste for everyone in the house (temporary or long-term)
Disposable/Compostable Cups (make sure you get hot drink ones too).
Reusable water bottles and water filter, or jugs of water.
A few snacks (small bags of chips, nutrition bars, etc).
Disposable/Compostable plates and utensils.
One comfort item, book, handheld game system, etc — something to help you unwind at the end of the night if you don’t have internet set up just yet.
Coffee maker or instant coffee.
Pet supplies.
Shower supplies (shampoo, conditioner, etc) and a curtain if your home requires it.
Medicine and first aid kit.
Everything mentioned above is just a starting point and will need to be customized for you and/or your family. I definitely recommend packing this near the end of your move and bringing it with you in the car.
Three: Labels for your box
I bought a megapack of labels that color codes, has space for notes, and gives a room name. This is connected to my Notion as well. So I know all boxes with the red sticker go to the master bedroom. Because I have a chronic illness and physical disability, we’re hiring moves so having labels also makes it easier on them and helps them know exactly where to put each box.
If you don’t want to purchase pre-made labels, you can use another color or symbol-coded system. My mom has previously used square colored labels or post-its with tape over them. Visually, it can be hard to see from a distance especially if you’re trying to finish unpacking one room or if you feel as though you missed packing something.
