Moving can be stressful, especially if you don’t plan ahead. Whether you’re moving across town or just down the street, having a smooth and efficient local move requires preparation. Here are five tips to make your next local move a breeze:

1. Start Early

The earlier you start, the more time you have to get organized. Begin by creating a checklist and a moving timeline. Start packing at least a few weeks before moving day to avoid feeling rushed. This will also give you time to sort through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or sell. Starting early will help reduce the stress on moving day.

2. Get Organized with Packing

Packing can be one of the most time-consuming parts of moving, so organization is key. Begin by gathering supplies such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts. Label each box clearly with the room it belongs in, and consider numbering the boxes for easy tracking. Start with non-essential items like books, decor, and seasonal clothing. As you get closer to moving day, pack more frequently used items.

3. Enlist Help

Don’t try to move everything on your own. Enlist the help of friends, family, or hire a local moving company to assist with the heavy lifting. Having a team to help can make the move go much quicker and more smoothly. If you hire professional movers, make sure to communicate any special requests or fragile items in advance. The more prepared your movers are, the easier your move will be.

4. Use Proper Packing Techniques

To prevent damage to your belongings, pack each item with care. Use bubble wrap for fragile items and pack boxes tightly to avoid shifting during transport. For large furniture, use blankets or pads to protect the surfaces from scratches. Disassemble large furniture items before the move to save space and make loading easier. Use sturdy boxes for heavy items and keep your boxes under 50 pounds to avoid injury.

5. Prepare Your New Home

Before moving in, take some time to prepare your new home. Clean the space, check the layout, and make sure utilities like electricity and water are set up. If possible, have a plan for where you want everything to go. Having a clear plan will make it easier to unpack and settle in quickly.

Moving locally doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By staying organized, getting the right help, and preparing both your current and new home, you can ensure a smooth and efficient move.