Smooth Moves : Tips & Tricks for a Stress-Free Move

Moving is always a big life change, no matter what stage you’re at. Whether you’re leaving your parents' house for the first time, getting your first apartment, first house, or even a cottage, the big day - (and the lead-up to it) - can be a huge transition. Here, Montreal-based blogger Cam DS shares a few tips, products and essential items to help you get organized for moving day.

1. Start Early

Even if you’re super organized, the process of moving always takes longer than we think, so it’s important to start early. Save time and stay on top of all the little details with a printable moving list that will help you keep track of everything you need to do before the big day.

2. Make S-P-A-C-E

Think ahead and sort out what to keep, what to give away and what to donate – whether to friends or family, charities or recycling services.

Did you know that you can bring your old electronics (like broken computers or outdated printers) to Staples? They have an in-store recycling program, so all you have to do is bring your items into the store and they take care of the rest. Last year, Staples recycled over two million kilograms of electronic waste through their eCycle Solutions program. They also offer a program to recycle household batteries and even old pencils or highlighters that no longer work. So, what's still lying around in your desk drawers?

Some charities offer a pick-up service for used furniture, so you can ask them to remove it before you start preparing your move.

3. Cleaning With a Capital "C"

Moving also calls for a whole lot of cleaning – think clearing out the fridge, emptying the garage, rethinking your wardrobe and washing all the little corners of your home that have been untouched for ages. And while we're on the subject of cleaning, why not do a good deed by using eco-friendly household products?

I love the Sustainable Earth line, an exclusive Staples brand made with renewable resources and recycled materials and is third-party certified green.

4. Pack Your Boxes Strategically

When it comes to packing, keep in mind there are many different sizes of boxes available, which is miraculous thing. Instead of mixing your jewelry with your pillows and sheets to make a giant "mishmash" box (which I've done all too often), use different sizes to stay organized. Also, I highly recommend these "built-in wardrobe" style cardboard boxes to transport your most beautiful dresses without worry. And don’t forget the bubble wrap, which can be really handy to protect everything from vases to dishes. Use colourful Sharpie markers to identify what’s in your boxes. Fun tip: I love writing little words of encouragement and thanks on my boxes; it makes me laugh and brings a smile to those helping me out on moving day.

To avoid tearing your mattress during the move (and having it end up in the bottom of the moving truck), I recommend wrapping it in a protective bag. Also, unless you’re planning to spend the entire month of July at the osteopath, invest in a small dolly to avoid straining and injuring yourself.

Finally, when you're in the process of sorting everything, use a clear plastic box to add the essentials you'll need to assess quickly when you get to your new home. Stash things like : toilet paper (there’s really no need to open all your boxes to find it, especially when you're in a hurry!), garbage bags, hand soap or disinfectant, phone chargers, coffee (yes, you’re awake since 6am!), compostable cups and plates for meals, toothbrushes and other personal care items. Also consider snacks and water bottles (reusable, always!).

5. Organize Your Home Office

Unless you’ve planned an extended vacation, you’ll likely be back at work shortly after your move. I’ve come up with some great ways to create a warm atmosphere and set up a comfortable workspace so you’re ready get back to your desk in no time.

It's so important that my house smell like "me," so I use essential oils to create a comforting ambiance. I recommend using an essential oil diffuser to give your new home a scent you like – it helps make your new space feel like your own.

If you're like me, you love taking notes by hand, using colourful Post-It notes and personalizing your workspace with decorative items and photos (of Bruce!). I love this bulletin board that will add a pop of colour to your new decor and keep you organized – whether it’s to remind you of your upcoming Zoom meetings or your new trash and recycling schedule.

Finally, a must for all of us, but especially for those of us working remotely, grab a nice notepad (or several) to map out your schedule and to-dos, or to write down the best memories of your 2021 moving day.

Hopefully this will help you get a little more organized and make this stressful day a little sweeter.