10 Summer Moving Hacks

Published: June 15, 2024

Summer is the prime season for moving. The weather is warm, the days are longer, and the kids are out of school. However, moving can still be a daunting task, even in the most ideal conditions. From packing up your belongings to hauling furniture, there’s a lot to coordinate and manage. But fear not! With a few clever hacks, you can streamline the process and make your move a breeze. Here are ten summer moving hacks everyone should know:

1. Plan Ahead

The key to a successful move is planning. Start by creating a moving timeline and checklist to keep track of important tasks and deadlines. Determine your moving date, schedule your moving services with UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northeast Kansas in advance, and notify utilities and other service providers of your change of address. By planning ahead, you can avoid last-minute stress and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

2. Beat the Summer Heat

Moving in the summer means dealing with hot temperatures, so be prepared. Schedule your move for the early morning or evening when it’s cooler, and stay hydrated throughout the day. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen to protect your skin. Consider setting up fans in your new home before you start unpacking to create a comfortable environment to work in.

3. Stay Organized With Color Coding

Use colored labels or markers to categorize boxes by room. Assign each room a different color, such as blue for the bedroom, green for the kitchen, and so on. This will make it easier for movers to know where to place boxes in your new home and help you stay organized during unpacking. You can also create a master inventory list to keep track of all your belongings and ensure nothing gets lost in the shuffle.

4. Pack Smart, Not Hard

When packing fragile items like dishes and glassware, use clothing, towels, and linens as padding to protect them from breaking. This not only saves space but also reduces the need for packing materials. Additionally, pack heavy items like books in small boxes to make them easier to lift and carry. Be sure to label boxes with fragile items clearly and stack them on top of heavier, sturdier boxes to prevent damage.

5. Declutter Before You Pack 

Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter and pare down your belongings. Before you start packing, go through your closets, cabinets, and storage spaces and donate or discard items you no longer need or use. Not only will this lighten your load, but it will also save you time and effort during the packing process. Consider hosting a garage sale or selling unwanted items online to make some extra cash.

6. Freeze Your Linens

A neat trick to keep your linens fresh during the move is to freeze them overnight before packing. Simply place bedding, towels, and other linens in sealed plastic bags and pop them in the freezer. The cold temperature will kill any dust mites or bacteria, leaving your linens clean and fresh when you unpack them in your new home. This hack is especially useful for long-distance moves where your linens may be packed away for an extended period.

7. Protect Your Furniture

To prevent damage to your furniture during transit, use plastic wrap to secure drawers, doors, and loose parts in place. You can also use moving blankets or old sheets to wrap and cushion larger items like sofas, tables, and chairs. This will not only protect your furniture from scratches and dents but also make it easier to move. Consider investing in furniture sliders or moving straps to help you maneuver heavy pieces more easily and avoid strain or injury.

8. Use What You Have 

Instead of buying expensive packing materials like bubble wrap and packing peanuts, use items you already have on hand to protect your belongings. Wrap breakable items in towels, blankets, or newspaper, and use socks to cushion small fragile items like glassware and ornaments. Not only will this save you money, but it’s also more environmentally friendly. You can also ask friends and family for old newspapers or packing materials they no longer need to further reduce waste.

9. Pack a First-Night Box 

Prepare a “first-night” box with essentials you’ll need right away in your new home, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, bedding, and kitchen supplies. Keep this box separate from the rest of your belongings and label it clearly so you can easily find it when you arrive at your new place. Having these essentials on hand will make your first night in your new home much more comfortable and stress-free. Don’t forget to include snacks, water, and any medications you may need as well.

10. Stay Positive and Flexible

Finally, remember to stay positive and flexible throughout the moving process. Unexpected delays and challenges may arise, but with a positive attitude and a willingness to adapt, you can overcome them and make your move a success. And don’t forget to take breaks and celebrate your progress along the way! Moving can be physically and emotionally exhausting, so be sure to take care of yourself and prioritize self-care during this transitional period.

Moving can be stressful, but with these summer moving hacks, you can simplify the process and make it as smooth and efficient as possible. By planning ahead, staying organized, and using clever packing techniques, you’ll be settling into your new home in no time. So grab a cold drink, put on your favorite playlist, and get ready to make your summer move a breeze!

For help moving, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northeast Kansas or call us at (785) 465-4727.