Moving into a new home is exciting, but let’s face it—no one likes the process of moving. From sorting through items you haven’t seen in years and packing boxes to finding movers who won’t break the bank, it may seem like your to-do list is never-ending. Thankfully, the experts at TopMove.ca shared their top 10 essential moving tips to make your process easier and stress-free.

Start planning early.

Kick off your moving process months in advance. Early preparation allows enough time to sort belongings, pack, and arrange logistics with the movers. Planning ahead will reduce stress and lower moving costs.

“Moving ranks among the top three most stressful life events, but thorough preparation and seeking expert advice can transform it from a daunting challenge into the joyful new beginning it’s meant to be,” says TopMove.ca experts.

Sort your belongings.

Moving is the perfect chance to declutter. Assess each item and decide on what you’re going to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. Sorting your belongings eases the moving load and simplifies setting up your new home.

Pack room-by-room.

Focus on one room at a time for better organization and efficiency. This ensures you don’t overlook anything and makes unpacking at your new home more manageable.

Pack an essentials box.

Put together a box of necessities for the first day in your new home. Include items like toiletries, clothes, and important documents. Having these at hand will be a lifesaver when you arrive.

Label everything.

Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in. This simple act saves time and avoids confusion during unpacking.

Take photos of electronic setups.

Snap pictures of how your electronics are connected before you unplug. These photos will be invaluable for quick and correct re-setup in your new home.

Assign tasks to family members.

Involve everyone by assigning age-appropriate moving tasks. Simultaneously, ensure children and pets are looked after, away from the chaos.

Plan for snacks and meals.

Stock up on easy-to-eat snacks and meals for moving day. Moving is tiring, and you may not be in the mood to cook. Having food that is ready to eat is essential.

Check the weather.

Check on the weather for your moving day. Knowing if you’ll face sun, rain, or snow allows you to prepare accordingly and prevent last-minute hurdles.

Plan for seasonal items.

Pack and label seasonal items like holiday decorations or specific clothing together. This makes them easy to find and ready to use when their season arrives.