Moving into a new home is exciting, but it can also be an exhausting experience that drains you for weeks on end.
However, if you do things strategically, you can minimize the work, stress, and time it takes to get everything done significantly. One of the parts of your moving process that this can be applied to is the unpacking process, which many people fail to think about until they get to that point.
Here are five practical tips to help you unpack like a pro after your big move.
Plan Ahead
We all think about planning for the move itself – but what about planning ahead for your unpacking? There are a few things you can do to lighten the load for your future self, such as booking a reliable and highly-rated moving company like Easy Company Moving to help make the unpacking process more manageable.
You should make sure that boxes are labeled clearly and correctly, and consider making a master list of what items are in each box. You can also pack an “open first” box that contains all the essential items you’ll need when you just start unpacking such as tools, a change of clothes, and your toiletries.
Visualize the Layout
When you first step into your new place, take some time to pre-plan where and how you want to set everything up. Decide where your furniture will fit best, how you’ll space everything out, and what your storage space will look like.
You might want to change a few things here and there, and if you’re leasing your new home, you can click here to learn everything you need to know about what you can and cannot do in a rental home.
Start With Essentials
Once your furniture is placed in your ideal layout, you can start unpacking boxes. If you’ve labeled your boxes properly, you’ll be able to find everything you’re looking for with ease, and you can start by unpacking the essentials you’ll need to start living comfortably in your new home, since unpacking completely might take you a little while.
Grab items like linen and pillows, fresh towels and clean clothes, cleaning equipment and agents, and all the essentials you’ll need to cook a few basic meals in your kitchen. Once these items are out, you’ll be able to move forward comfortably.
Room By Room Approach
When you’re unpacking, it’s a good idea to focus on one area at a time and get through all the clutter in stages, rather than having a huge mess scattered across the house.
It’s a good idea to start with the bedroom so that you have a comfortable space to unwind in the chaos of unpacking, and then work your way from there through the other rooms in order of how urgently you’ll need to use them.
Pace Yourself and Take Breaks
Finally, remember that moving and unpacking can be laborious and tiring, so don’t expect yourself to get it all in a few hours.
Especially if you don’t have help from friends or family, remember to pace yourself, take regular breaks to rest, and fuel yourself well with some comforting meals and lots of water.