08/08/2026
🏡 5 Things to Do BEFORE You Move That Will Make Life SO Much Easier
1. Pack a “First 24 Hours” Box 📦
Don’t put the things you’ll need immediately into a moving truck and then wonder where they went! Pack one box (or tote) with toilet paper, paper towels, chargers, medications, scissors, trash bags, cleaning supplies, basic tools, snacks, paper plates, cups, coffee, and anything your family will need that first night.
2. Pack a Suitcase Like You’re Going on Vacation 🧳
Give every family member a suitcase with 2–3 days of clothes, pajamas, toiletries, school/work essentials, and shoes. You don't want to dig through 47 boxes looking for someone's underwear the morning after moving day. 😂
3. Take Pictures BEFORE Everything Comes Out 📸
Before the movers arrive, photograph each room and the important areas of your new home. It helps you remember where things were, document the condition of the house, and—my favorite—gives you a reference when you're trying to figure out where furniture should go.
4. Make a “DO NOT PACK” Zone 🚫📦
Choose one room, closet, bathroom, or even a specific corner that movers know is OFF LIMITS. Put everything your family needs for moving day there: purses, wallets, keys, important documents, medications, chargers, pet supplies, snacks, and anything you absolutely cannot lose.
5. Set Up the NEW House Before You Unpack the OLD Life 🏠❤️
If you can, get the basics done first: beds made, bathrooms stocked, toilet paper out, kitchen essentials accessible, Wi-Fi set up, and a few easy meals ready. Your goal isn't to have a perfect house on Day 1. Your goal is for your family to be able to function.
And one bonus tip from someone who is doing this RIGHT NOW:
👉 Don't try to unpack everything at once. Give yourself permission to live out of boxes for a little while. Get the bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen and kids' essentials functional first. The rest can happen gradually.
Moving is already stressful enough. A little planning before the boxes start moving can save your family SO much stress once they do. 🏡💙
