Moving is not something you can be flexible with. There is a common mantra about relocation requiring time and strategic planning. But sometimes, the circumstances prevent us from allocating the needed time to the process.
You may need to relocate at the last minute for numerous reasons. There may be an employment offer, a sudden eviction notice, or the moving company calling you on the designated date, saying they cannot spare a team. In such cases, one needs both physical and emotional help.
The moving tips mentioned below will help you make an effective move without losing yourself in the endless to-do list. So let’s get going because stressing doesn’t help!
-
Make A Checklist
Last-minute moving doesn’t mean you must remove the basics. Even when you are up against a tight deadline, creating a moving checklist solves half of the problems.
There are countless ways to create a moving checklist; nowadays, many moving companies also offer customizable templates. However, for a generic idea, start your list by writing down important tasks like budget allocation, hiring last-minute movers, gathering packing supplies, etc.
You can also create a separate packing list so you don’t leave anything. If you are relocating an apartment or a rented home, take pictures before you go. This way, you can justify the owner in the case of damage.
-
Synchronize Your Budget and Relocation Medium
Even if you are relocating quickly, it is essential to consider the relocation medium. Is hiring a professional moving company necessary? Is a moving rental truck more feasible than a moving company? And other such scrutinizations.
Once you have decided on the medium, you’ll need to find options that fit your budget. Usually, rental trucks are cheaper, and if you brainstorm a little, you can save money by limiting packing supplies.
Syncing move-specific needs with your budget is a critical step. And things like demand, weather uncertainty, and movers’ availability are some significant factors [1]. Hiring local movers is also a good approach. For instance, hiring moving companies from Frederick will save substantial costs if you live in Frederick, MD. Â
-
Set Up a Packing Station-Timeless Moving Tip
Although underrated setting up a packing station is one of the most effective last-minute moving tips. Since you are already running low on time, reserve a corner with packing supplies like tape, boxes, scissors, towels, and clothes.
Wrap fragile items in clothes and other soft materials before putting them in a box. You can bring items from your room, like clothes, pillows, and bedsheets, and pack them on the packing station. Once down, label the box and leap onto the next one.
It is also essential to set up the packing station in an accessible place. Consider setting a different packing station for each floor if you have a double-story house.
-
Pack An Essential Kit
A last-minute move turns your household upside down. So, creating an essential box with things you cannot afford to miss is better. Pack chargers, important documents, toiletries, and other everyday things.
It is better to pick a duffle or easy-to-carry bag for the job. Otherwise, you can also pack these items in a cardboard box and label them so it is easier to track them.
The best way is to pack an essential bag before beginning the major packing project. It is easier to find and throw all the must-have items in the bag before the exhaustion of the process accelerates. If you have children, advise them to pack an essential bag for themselves. This way, you’ll be free from worrying about leaving out anything significant.
-
Theming -Not a Thing for Last Minute Move
Allocating a separate box for each type of item is not ideal when running low on clock ticks. So it is better to focus on packing rather than theming and sorting.
Set up a box and fill it up completely. Tape it and then move on to the next box. It is essential to keep things clear and manageable because the chaotic state of the home can also be overwhelming. You can also save time and effort by not thrusting everything into boxes.
For instance, you can quickly wrap a large plastic cover or a bedsheet around the clothes in your closet rather than folding and sealing them in boxes. Similarly, using plastic wraps around drawers rather than flipping everything in boxes. If a closet or a dresser is light enough to move, you can load it up in the moving truck as it is.
-
Declutter
Decluttering is a tiresome task in itself. But even if the time is slipping, you can find some things to donate or sell. Most movers in Frederick and other bigger states also offer junk removal services. You can hire them to take care of the unwanted items you’ve filtered out.
If you have a family, you can divide the workload by asking everyone to declutter their rooms. It is better to create piles for unwanted items like donate, sell, and throw away [2]. Later, you can take care of each one as the process progresses.
You can drop unwanted towels, bedsheets, cushions, and pillows at a nearby animal shelter. Similarly, you can donate canned food to a local pantry. In some towns, charity committees also offer pick-up services so you can let them know if you have some furniture, books, or other valuable things.
-
Work with Trash Bags (An Underrated Moving Tip)
Cardboard boxes are great. But ninja moving tips become necessary when there is more to do in less time. Trash bags are life savers in last-minute moves. You can easily pack in non-fragile items and label them with a marker. You can string up the mouth or even knot the opening without having to fiddle with packing tape.
Although trash bags work great, they are associated with “trash.” Therefore, it is essential to put something on them to distinguish them from the actual trash bags. Ribbons and bold labels work ideally. Buying clear trash bags also helps differentiate them from garbage bags.
Another benefit of using trash bags is that they guarantee an eco-friendly move. Studies show that about 8.4 million tons of junk disappear during moves [3]. So, you can reduce the contribution from your side.
The Bottom Line
Last minute move is nothing unrealistic. You may want or have to relocate on short notice for numerous reasons. Things may take on an unexpected phase for some time, but keeping calm and working on things will help you make an effective move.
Make a list and focus more on packing rather than preserving themes. Next, be resourceful with packing materials and packing hacks. You can also ask friends and family for a hand.
The above moving tips will help you get the best results. But still, it is essential to acknowledge that they are not the last commandments. You can adjust them according to your needs.
FAQs
1. Can you relocate an office at the last minute?
Last-minute office relocation is common, especially when you have a rented office. But before you leave your old place, ensure your new one is set up so things can begin flowing as soon as possible.
2. Are any moving companies in Frederick, MD, offering instant moving services?
Many local and national moving companies in Frederick, MD, offer last-minute moving services. But it is essential to take time when selecting one as a hasty customer may also fall prey to scams.
3. What are some moving tips to stay calm and focused before movers arrive?
Getting up or back from your office early on a moving day is better. Sit peacefully and thoroughly review your checklist. Scan your place so you can box it up if anything is left.
4. How do you handle a last-minute move?
Creating a checklist is the most critical thing in handling a last-minute move. You can ask for help and be innovative with packing materials. Or, if your budget allows, you can end the hassle by hiring a moving company.
References:
[1] https://moversdev.com/biggest-challenges-for-moving-companies/
[2] https://www.mymovingreviews.com/move/get-rid-of-unwanted-items/