Moving from house to house is one of life’s most exhausting tasks. You’re juggling boxes, paperwork, utility calls, and probably haven’t had a full night’s sleep in days. And while plenty of articles give you packing tips or generic moving advice, this guide cuts through the noise. These hacks are designed to make your move smoother, faster, and a little less painful.
Whether you’re a seller preparing to move out or just swapping homes nearby, here’s how to get it done without the usual stress.
1. Take Photos Before You Unplug Anything
Before you disconnect your TV, internet router, or smart home system, grab your phone and take pictures.
These will help you remember what plugs into what when you get to the new place. It’s also helpful if something gets damaged in the move and you need to file a claim.
2. Keep Utilities Active at Both Homes
Try to leave the power, water, and internet running at your old home for at least two days after your move date. Overlapping utilities can help you avoid last-minute issues. According to the Better Business Bureau, utility issues are one of the top moving complaints.
Pro tip: Schedule service transfers at least two weeks before your move.
3. Use QR Code Labels on Boxes
Instead of just writing “Kitchen” on a box, use free inventory apps like Sortly or Google Sheets with QR codes. When scanned, you’ll instantly see what’s inside without opening anything.
It’s faster, more organized, and especially helpful if you’re hiring movers or storing items.
4. Label Boxes by Room and Priority
“Desk – Open First” is a lot more useful than just “Office.”
Use stickers or colored tape to signal what should be unpacked first. This helps you stay focused and makes things easier on anyone helping you move.
5. Move on a Weekday
Weekday moves are typically less expensive and less chaotic than weekends. Movers are more available, and it’s easier to get in touch with service providers.
On average, weekday moves can save you anywhere from $200 to $500 depending on your location and distance.
6. Pack a First-Night Survival Box
You don’t want to be digging through 12 boxes looking for toilet paper or a phone charger. Pack one clearly labeled box or bag with essentials like:
- Medications
- Chargers
- Toiletries
- Pet food
- Snacks or a meal
- Bedding or towels
Keep this box in your car or somewhere easy to grab.
7. Schedule a Pre-Move Inspection
Most people think home inspections are just for buyers, but sellers can benefit too. A pre-move or pre-listing inspection helps you catch small issues that might delay a closing or upset a buyer.
Think of it as tying up loose ends before handing over the keys. P.I. Home Inspection Services offers detailed, fast-turnaround reports that can help you avoid last-minute surprises.
8. Use Painter’s Tape to Mark Damage
If you spot dents, scuffs, or damage while packing, mark them with painter’s tape. This makes it easier to remember what to clean or patch. It’s also helpful for your inspector or cleaning crew to quickly identify areas that need attention.
9. Stop Buying Groceries the Week Before
Try to eat through your freezer and fridge before the move. It cuts down on waste and gives you less to pack. Less food also means less chance of spills or leaks in your car or moving truck.
10. Take a Video Walkthrough Before You Leave
Once everything is packed, record a video of each room. This helps protect you from claims about damage later. It’s especially useful if you’re renting or selling and want documentation that the home was left in good shape.
Save the video to your cloud or send it to your email as backup.
11. Donate or Sell What You Don’t Need
Moving is the perfect time to purge. Use local Buy Nothing groups, Facebook Marketplace, or donation pickup services to get rid of furniture, clothes, or kitchen gear you won’t need.
Lighter loads mean cheaper moves and faster unpacking.
12. Wait to Deep Clean Until the End
Don’t clean everything before you start moving out. Wait until the house is empty, then do a final deep clean. Focus on vents, baseboards, and appliances.
If you’re short on time, consider hiring a cleaner or using a move-out checklist to stay organized.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Before you hand over the keys, take care of small but important maintenance tasks as you’re moving from house to house.
- Replace air filters
- Clean dryer vents
- Clear out gutters
- Patch wall holes or touch-up paint
- Test smoke alarms and light fixtures
When to Call a Professional
If you’re moving from house and want to avoid post-move headaches, a professional inspection can be a smart step. Home inspectors can catch things you may not notice, like hidden plumbing leaks, loose wiring, or signs of pest activity.
This is especially helpful if you’re listing your home soon or preparing for a final buyer walk-through. It’s peace of mind for both you and the next homeowner.
Conclusion
Moving from house to house doesn’t have to be chaos. With the right hacks, tools, and prep, you can get through it with fewer surprises and more confidence.
If you’re planning a move in Batavia, IL, Chicago, or its surrounding suburbs, contact P.I. Home Inspection Services for a pre-move evaluation that helps you leave your home in top shape.
