Moving to another state feels like juggling flaming bowling pins while riding a unicycle. Moms know this better than anyone! Adding a move can feel overwhelming between snack negotiations and keeping everyone alive. But don’t panic. You’ve got this! These moving tips for busy moms will help you take charge of your move with humor and ease. That isn’t just advice for moving; it’s also a little advice on parenting because who says you can’t parent like a pro while packing boxes?
What Are The Best Moving Tips For Busy Moms?
It sometimes feels like no tip in the world can help when you are a mom. Kids are unpredictable, but it is best to know that you need to:
- Start planning early
- Declutter and organize
- Involve the whole family
- Hire a reliable moving company
- Create a moving day essentials kit
- Use technology to stay organized
- Pack strategically
- Plan for your kids and pets
- Take care of yourself
- Settle in gradually
Start Planning Early
Life rewards planners. Get a calendar and mark deadlines. Packing by the day beats stuffing your house into boxes the night before—set time for decluttering and tying up loose ends, such as canceling utilities. Early planning gives you control. You’ll thank yourself later when the chaos feels manageable. And yes, chaos will come. A plan isn’t magic, but it’s close.
Declutter and Organize
Imagine opening boxes in your new home only to find broken toys and clothes from the 2000s. Before you pack, declutter. Divide items into four piles:
- Keep: Essential items you can’t live without.
- Donate: Things in good condition someone else can use.
- Sell: Anything with value you don’t need anymore.
- Trash: Let go of the junk!
This step clears physical clutter and mental chaos. You’ll unpack less, saving time and energy. A tidy home makes for a tidy mind. Now’s your chance to toss things that don’t spark joy and be that mom everyone talks about for staying so organized!
Involve the Whole Family
Nobody said you have to do this alone. Your family is a team, and everyone can pitch in. Kids love feeling important, so assign age-appropriate tasks. Let toddlers pack their toys, and older kids can label boxes with crayons or markers. The best part? Involvement keeps them busy. When kids help, they’re less likely to unravel your plans later. Parenting win!
Hire a Reliable Moving Company
You might feel like Supermom, but even superheroes need a backup—research reputable movers for long-distance moves. Read reviews, compare prices, and book early. A good moving company makes all the difference when crossing state lines. Let them handle the heavy lifting while you focus on keeping your sanity intact. Look for companies that offer full-service packing or storage. Trust us—your future self will thank you.
Create a Moving Day Essentials Kit
Picture this: Your first night in the new house. Everyone is hungry and tired, and the toothbrushes are who-knows-where. Avoid disaster by packing a moving day essentials kit. Include things you’ll need immediately, such as:
- Toiletries
- Basic kitchen supplies (snacks are life)
- Pajamas and a change of clothes
- Favorite toys for the kids
- Medications
A kit like this keeps things running smoothly. Nobody wants to rummage through mystery boxes after a long day. Whether it’s diapers or dog food, pack smart so you’re ready for the unexpected. You deserve a break, too.
Use Technology to Stay Organized
Technology keeps your move on track. Download apps that help with packing lists, inventory tracking, and schedules. Tools like MoveAdvisor or Sortly let you organize everything without relying on scattered notes. Set reminders for important deadlines, such as utility disconnections. If you’re moving to Orange County, use maps to plan routes and avoid traffic. Apps cut stress and save time. Whether you’re boxing up toys or booking movers, technology can keep your sanity intact while handling the chaos.
Pack Strategically
You don’t need to pack every item in sight. Especially if you are moving interstate, think ahead and pack wisely to avoid chaos on arrival. Use color-coded labels for each room. Write specific descriptions on boxes like “kids’ books” instead of “miscellaneous.” This method saves time during unpacking. Wrap fragile items carefully with clothes or towels to avoid waste. You’ll thank yourself when you’re not digging through every box for a coffee mug. Smart packing leads to less stress and smoother days ahead.
Plan for Your Kids and Pets
Kids and pets thrive on routine, even when life turns upside down. Prepare snacks, entertainment, and rest stops for the road. A portable DVD player can keep kids happy during long trips. Pets should pack their favorite toys and bedding to make them feel secure. If you’re driving through Orange County, consider stopping at family-friendly spots like Irvine Regional Park. Little breaks can help everyone regulate their emotions. Keep their comfort in mind to avoid meltdowns on moving days.
Take Care of Yourself
Moms often forget to care for themselves during a move – so even though this is not directly one of the moving tips for busy moms, it will make moving so much easier!
Don’t fall into the trap of powering through everything without rest. Rest when possible and drink water. Stress affects everyone, and moms set the tone. When you’re calm, your family feels calm, too. Ask for help if needed. Whether you call a friend or hire professionals, support lightens your load. Remember, you’re not just moving your home. You’re building a new chapter for your family, so don’t neglect your needs in the process.
Settle in Gradually
Unpacking everything at once overwhelms anyone. Start with essentials first. Set up your kids’ rooms to create comfort. Tackle one room at a time instead of scattering efforts across the house. If you’ve moved to Orange County, explore local stores for quick purchases. Familiarize yourself with your neighborhood while taking breaks. Gradual unpacking keeps the process manageable and ensures your family adjusts smoothly. Small steps lead to big progress when settling in.
You Can Do This Mom!
Moving doesn’t have to drain your energy. With these moving tips for busy moms, you’ll navigate the chaos like a pro. Whether using apps or caring for your family, these steps make your move achievable. Don’t forget to laugh when things go sideways because, let’s face it, something always does. Embrace the mess and focus on the excitement of your new Orange County home. Moms, you’ve got this!
*This is a collaborative post. All views and texts are my own.
A former school teacher, Jocelyn Brown created Hip Mama’s Place in 2007. Her motto for this blog is: get inspired, create and share! Jocelyn loves sharing about food and recipes, crafts, DIY projects and her random travels with her family. She also loves all things social media, but her latest obsession is Instagram.
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