Preparing for a Move on Short Notice: Tips and Checklist

While we all wish that every single moving process came with ample notice and time to prepare, reality isn’t always so accommodating.

There are cases where the need for a move comes up relatively quickly, and you only have a short time in which to prepare and get everything organized.

In these or any other moving situation you’re faced with, the team at CMS Companies is here to help. We offer a wide range of both residential and commercial moving services for both local moves and long-distance needs, and have assisted many clients with moves that need to be carried out in a hurry.

Both on your own and with the assistance of our movers, here are some tips we offer on quicker moving needs and how to prepare properly.

Logistics First

A shrunken moving timeline might mean certain elements are cast aside or delayed, but the logistics of the move itself should always remain your top priority.

This means taking care of the details that need to be finalized in order for the move to happen, such as packing and transportation arrangements. The earlier you can take care of these items, the smoother your actual moving process will go.

If you’re planning on doing so, this is also the time to arrange professional moving services. A local moving service can make your transition to a new home or office much smoother, and our team at CMS Companies is happy to send you quotes for competitive rates that are tailored to your needs. We’ll help ensure you have all the important logistical details squared away so that you can focus on the other tasks at hand.

Getting Rid of Unneeded Items

One great way to speed up the moving process in a hurried situation: Discarding any items you don’t need. This can be anything from furniture and appliances you no longer use to clothes, books, or other belongings that simply take up space.

If there are any items you’ve been wanting to get rid of for a while, this is the perfect time to do so. You can have a yard sale, donate any items that are still in good condition, or recycle any materials that can be reused. Not only will this help you declutter your home or office in preparation for the move, but it will also lighten the load and make the moving process itself go more quickly.

Packing Strategically

When packing for a quick move, it’s important to be strategic in your packing approach.

This means packing the most essential items first and ensuring that they’re well-secured so they don’t get damaged in transit. It’s also helpful to pack similar items together so they’re easier to unpack when you reach your destination.

Labeling boxes is another important step, as it will make it easier for you to unpack quickly and get situated in your new space. You can label them based on the room they’ll be placed in, or what you plan to put inside of them (e.g., “kitchen,” “bedroom”). Either way will help you pack more efficiently so that you can move onto the next task at hand.

Pack Now, Sort Later

In many cases, quick moves are necessitated by leases running out or other hard dates where you simply must be out of your previous property. In these situations, while we know you’d love to have enough time to sort everything in advance and pack in a well-thought-out way, this isn’t always an option.

Rather, the top priority should simply be getting packed and out the door. This means packing whatever you can, as quickly as possible, and dealing with sorting and organizing later on. This isn’t an ideal solution, but it’s better than leaving everything until the last minute and risking not being able to move at all.

Distinguish Mover and Personal Tasks

If you’ve decided to hire professional movers for part or all of your moving needs, it’s also important to lay out which tasks belong to the movers and which tasks you’ll need to take care of yourself. This might include gathering boxes, sorting items into “keep” and “donate,” or anything else that will speed up the overall moving process.

By dividing responsibilities in this way, you can ensure a more efficient move without getting overwhelmed by all there is to do.

And, if you’re looking for a way to make the whole process go even more quickly, consider hiring professionals to manage your move while you take care of other pressing responsibilities in your personal and work lives — our team will manage your entire move from start to finish if you’d rather spend your time in other areas.

Moving Essentials Duffel Bag

One tip that’s often very useful for those in a hurried moving situation: Packing a basic duffel or similar bag that has some of your most essential items in it. This can include clothes, toiletries, a laptop, and anything else you might need in the first few days or weeks after your move.

This way, you’ll have everything you need readily available without having to search through boxes or luggage that’s been packed away. It also helps to have a bag like this for any extra items that you might need to pick up on the day of your move.

By packing a few essentials and organizing them in such a way, it’s possible to be ready for almost anything with just a few simple steps – no matter how little notice you have before starting your move.

For more on how to prepare for a quick move where you have little notice, or to learn about any of our professional moving services, speak to the staff at CMS Companies today.

FAQs

What Are The First Steps I Should Take When Preparing For A Move On Short Notice?

Start by creating a moving checklist to keep track of tasks. Prioritize tasks such as finding a moving company, notifying important contacts (e.g., utility companies, postal service), and gathering packing supplies. Declutter your home by sorting items into categories: keep, donate, and discard, to streamline the packing process.

How Can I Efficiently Pack My Belongings When Time Is Limited?

Focus on one room at a time to stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Use color-coded labels or markers to identify boxes for each room, making unpacking easier. Pack essential items separately in an “essentials” box for easy access. Consider using professional packing services to save time and ensure items are packed securely.

What Should I Do If I Can’t Find A Moving Company Available On Short Notice?

If professional movers are unavailable, consider renting a moving truck and enlisting the help of friends and family. Alternatively, look for moving companies that specialize in last-minute moves or use online platforms to find independent movers. Be flexible with your moving date and time to increase the chances of finding available movers.

How Can I Ensure All Necessary Tasks Are Completed Before Moving Day?

Use a moving checklist to track important tasks and deadlines. Delegate tasks to family members or friends to share the workload. Set daily goals and reminders to stay on track. Utilize moving apps to keep organized and manage tasks efficiently.

What Are Some Tips For Minimizing Stress During A Short-Notice Move?

Stay organized by creating a detailed moving plan and checklist. Take breaks to avoid burnout and maintain your energy levels. Keep a positive attitude and focus on the end goal. Reach out for support from friends, family, or professional services to help ease the burden. Finally, ensure you have a box of essentials packed for the first few days in your new home to make the transition smoother.