12 Tips to Make Moving Day Easier

After packing some initial boxes and lifting a few heavy items, you may be thinking to yourself, 'This move is a drag.' Well wipe off that sour expression and put some pep in your step. Got kids? Get them involved too to prevent anxiety. Here's some tips for making moving day as easy as possible:

• Hire movers. This might sound obvious, but professional movers can make all the difference in a stress-free move. Getting moving insurance will give you even more peace of mind.
• Make an upbeat playlist. Blast your favorite songs on a portable stereo to keep you in constant motion.
• Eat a big breakfast. You'll be burning a lot of calories today, so here's your excuse to load up on carbs! Pick up pastry and coffee from your local bakery--don't bother cooking.
• If your kids are old enough to pack their own things, let them do it--this will help give them closure and feel involved. One easy activity to make children feel useful is to give them color-coded stickers that they can put on boxes for each room. If they are too young to help, make sure you have someone to look after them while the work gets underway.
• Also, let the kids pack their favorite toys and games in backpacks for the trip to the new house.
• Have lunch and snacks prepared--such as pizza, sandwiches, and munchies for the kids. Don't forget to pack a cooler full of water, juice, and sports drinks--the last thing you need on moving day is an energy meltdown. Save the bulk of the beer for celebrating at the end of the move.
• At your new place, let children decide where they want to put their furniture. Even if you change it later, this will give them some feeling of control on moving day. Depending on their age, let them pick paint colors too.
• Tape floor plans where you want your furniture set up so that your movers can unload quicker.
• Have cash on hand to tip your movers before they leave.
• Have bedding readily accessible so that you are not spending your first night in your new home in a sleeping bag.
• Before you crash into bed in exhaustion, break out the beer, champagne, and other treats--it's time to toast a new beginning!
• Once you are settled, explore your new neighborhood. Start introducing yourself (and your little ones) to your new surroundings. Plan a housewarming party and celebrate all of your hard work.