If you're like most people, the thought of moving can be equally exciting and daunting at the same time. There's so much to prepare for, not to mention the process of physically packing up all your belongings and making the actual move. But whether you're moving across town or to the opposite coast, there are things you can do to make the process easier for yourself. Here are six steps to take now if you're moving in the near future.

1. Start Decluttering Your Home

The first step is to start decluttering your home. If you're like most people, you probably have a lot of material possessions and clothes you don't really need. By decluttering your home now, you'll make packing and moving a lot easier and save yourself money in the long run. You'll support secondhand shopping whether you choose to sell or donate. Remember, the styles may be different in the city you're moving to, so traveling lightly is not necessarily a bad thing. There's always the opportunity to buy new clothing locally once you arrive and start a new chapter of your life.

2. Make a List of Everything You Need to Do Before Leaving

Once you've started decluttering, the next step is to list everything you need to do to prepare for the move. This may include listing things to pack, arranging transportation, and changing your address. If you're utilizing a moving service, be sure to make distinct lists for each vehicle that is traveling to the new home. This can help you stay organized and help you focus on other duties.

3. Start Researching Moving Companies

If you're not planning on completing the move all by yourself, you'll need to research moving services. Ask for quotes from a few companies and compare their services to find the best deal. Remember, not all moving services are created equal, so be sure to read reviews before making your final decision. There is no better way to gauge a service's satisfaction rate than by reading the words of their previous customers.

4. Begin Packing Your Belongings

Once you've sorted through your belongings and chosen what to keep and what to get rid of, it's time to consolidate them for the road. If you're hiring moving services, ask about their truck and van sizes and rates. This can help you decide how much you can afford to pack yourself and how much to leave for the professionals to handle.

5. Consolidate Your Files and Personal Documents

One of the most important things to do when preparing for a move is to consolidate your personal documents. These include your birth certificate, passport, social security card, insurance policy, and bank statements. Be sure you have all these items in one place so you can easily find them when you need them. You can also scan and save them electronically for easy access, but having hard copies is often a safer measure.

6. Update Your Address and Contact Information

The last step is to update your address and contact information. This includes changing your address with the post office, updating your driver's license, and letting friends, family, and businesses know of your new address. You can probably get by without updating your phone number, though. By taking these simple steps in advance, you can make the process of moving a lot less stressful. Instead, relocating can be a joy.

In 2021, over 20% more people relocated than those who did in 2020, according to the Census Bureau. So, if you're one of the many people who will be moving this year, be sure to follow these six steps to make the process a bit easier on yourself. If you need help with the move, don't hesitate to contact A-1 Movers. Our moving services are designed to make your life easier and take the stress out of relocating. Call us today for a quote!