1. Get rid of everything you don’t need

It can be overwhelming packing all your possessions into boxes and bags. Make it a little bit easier on yourself by cutting back on things you don’t need. Before you pack any boxes, do a big sweep of unused or unnecessary items. You’ll have less to pack, less to move, and less to unpack, which allows you to start life in your new place with a clean slate.

2. Make a moving folder (hard copies preferred)

Start collecting all the information for your new address, rental or purchase papers, moving contracts, insurance, and all other relevant documents in one folder. It’s good to have hard copies vs. digital ones, just in case your devices die. These documents are good for you to refer back to if you have any questions before, during, and after the moving process.

3. Pack as far in advance as possible

Even if you’re not sure about where you’re moving, ideally you’ll have an idea about when you’re moving weeks or even months in advance. It’s good to start packing items that are out-of-season and things you won’t need before you move early on. When it’s time to pack everything up, many items will already be ready to go. The last few weeks and days before you move, since you packed some things ahead of time, you won’t be worried about not getting everything packed in time.

4. Book services early

If you plan on hiring moving services, renting supplies, or using services such as painters or cleaners work on the house, book those services early. Waiting could possibly mean paying a higher price or not being able to get a truck or movers at all, especially if you’re moving during peak moving season.

5. Schedule utilities for your new place

Once you’ve finalized your move-in date, contact your utility providers to schedule service at your new home. The last thing you want after moving into your new place is to find that the electricity, water, or heat is off. Schedule it ahead of time, and keep records of your requests in your moving folder. Also, be sure to request service stops for your move-out date at your current home.

6. Keep the essentials with you

On the night before the move, get your everyday essentials prepared (a change of clothes, a toothbrush, must-have stuffed animals or toys for the kids, medications, paperwork, etc.) in a suitcase or bag you’ll keep with you in the car or on the plane. This helps because if anything goes wrong with your items, at least you’ll have your primary items to get through the rest of the day or night until you have all your things.

7. Invest in Equipment

Stock up on supplies, a few days before your move. Order or purchase box cutters, adhesive bandages, permanent markers, packing tape, paper towels, and garbage bags. If they aren’t all used during the move, they’ll still be useful after the move is completed, especially during unpacking. The last thing you want is to have to make a run to the store while loading boxes or making sure everything is out of the house.