Even when planned well ahead, moving can be a really challenging process. Additionally, when you need to pack your entire household and move on short notice, it doubles your stress level. Deadline is never a good partner in any job, but neither is panic. So, before we begin, take a deep breath. You will make it, many people have done it before you, so it is possible.

Organization is key

When it comes to all the things that have to be done, the first step should be to get organized, so you can move forward with a clear head. A good to-do list and timeline table will be two of your most valuable tools during a move. So, make a list of all the things that must get done for the move. This includes searching for movers, booking them, packing, paperwork, setting up childcare and healthcare, transferring your kids’ schools and many other things. Plus, don’t forget to eat well, sleep and relax during the process, because your health comes first.

Furthermore, you will want to make a good timeline. While planning to move on short notice, this is especially important because you have limited time to get everything done for the move. This can make you feel like you must do everything at once. But remember, if you make a good plan and stick to it, you will make it. And in order to make things simpler, prioritize your tasks into a sensible schedule. Consequently, you will be able to focus on one thing at a time without stressing out.

Moving is faster without clutter

The positive thing about moving on short notice is that people tend to be ruthless in how they sort and pack. And that is sometimes really necessary. Because, the more stuff you get rid of, the less you have to pack and move. Consequently, it will take less time and energy. Some people think that a time-saving method is to just pack everything they own and sort later. They couldn’t be more wrong. This way you would pay for moving the things you will later toss or donate. And that is a big waste. Hence, get rid of as much stuff as you can and save your time, money and energy.

The most effective way to declutter is to go through each room and separate items into three boxes. In the first one, put things to keep, in the second – things to toss, and in the third – things you will donate. If you haven’t used an item for a year, toss it or give it away. Include the whole family by having them follow this rule and sorting through their stuff. You won’t have time for hesitating, so you will make decisions quickly, which is ideal for getting rid of clutter.

You manage your time, not the other way around

It is true that you won’t have a lot of choice when picking a moving date, but you have a choice as to how you manage your time. And it will be ticking away faster than ever in the few days before your move. Therefore, you need to find a way to organize every hour for maximum efficiency and minimum waste. Use the customized moving timeline you have made, prioritize your moving tasks, clear deadlines and stick to them. Be very concrete when setting your goals and see to it that they get achieved on schedule. If you follow your timeline, you will be able to check on your progress and react accordingly.

Ask for help right away

You can always ask your family and friends to help you out. Ask them as soon as possible, so they can plan their time, too. And before you use their support, make sure to have a clear idea of what you need them to do. Keep in mind that it is extremely hard to perform an emergency relocation all by yourself. If you have some previous relocation experience and you are moving locally, you can probably venture a DIY move. But, make sure you have reliable friends to help you out.

Hiring professional moving services is always a great idea when you need to move on short notice. Experienced emergency movers are able to handle your relocation with great speed and efficiency. Just make sure you find movers who will be available at the time of your move and able to complete all the tasks within the time frame you provide.

Give away and you will get something in return

Charities are happy to pick up your unwanted stuff. If you have things that are usable and you don’t need them anymore, it is kind to bless someone else with them. The charity organization will pick up the items for you, saving you the energy and time needed to drop them off. You just make sure you have completed your sorting, so that you only go through this process once. Call them and set a pick-up date and time. This is a win-win situation for all of you.

Don’t forget the packing supplies

When moving on a very short notice, it is best to purchase your boxes and packing supplies directly from a moving store. This way, you will save yourself from hunting for suitable used boxes. An eco-friendlier option, if you’re moving locally, is to search for a green moving supplier who will provide you with plastic bins for your packing needs. And don’t forget the packing paper, bubble wrap, tape and markers for labeling.

Paperwork

Luckily, you can update your driver’s license, change your address and your car registration after the move, too. But some issues you need to take care of prior to your move.

• Transfer all utilities.
• Remember to notify your employer and landlord and take care of the related paperwork.
• Get in touch with your kids’ school and your family doctor and retrieve all the necessary school and medical records.
• Organize the shipment of your pets and your vehicles.
• Handle your financial documents, such as transferring your bank accounts, notifying your insurer and your credit card company of your relocation.

How to move on short notice?

Moving on short notice is stressful, but remember, you are in control. With the proper plan, timeline and help, your last-minute relocation can go smoothly. Believe in yourself, visualize yourself all settled at your new home and, in the blink of an eye, you will be there!