As exciting as it is to move into a new apartment, the process also involves leaving your old apartment behind. And that means packing boxes. Usually, a lot of boxes. Not to mention coordinating with movers, changing your address, and unpacking at your new place.

With a realistic checklist and timeline, you can make things way easier on yourself.

Here are some apartment moving tips to help you with the packing process, so that you can focus on what’s ahead.

Declutter in advance

Moving is the perfect opportunity to decide if you need all your belongings. There’s nothing like a good “spark joy” session, after all.

That ten-year-old sweater you hardly wear anymore? Maybe you should donate it. Your old desk in your home office? Sell it if your new place already has a home office setup — the extra cash will definitely help in your transition. And if your new apartment is furnished? Carrying old furniture is most likely not necessary.

By decluttering, you’ll facilitate the packing process as you’ll have an idea of roughly how many boxes you will need. This way, you can start contacting movers and packing more intentionally. 

Get prices from movers

Based on the number of boxes you have, search for professional moving companies to help with your move. Consider reaching out to several movers via their website or phone to get price estimates.

Read the reviews, book a reputable company, and keep your specific needs in mind. For example, if you’re moving out of your state or to a long distance, you might want to opt for a service with extra storage and packing help. After you’ve decided on a company, read its terms and conditions before you sign a contract. 

Prepare checklists 

Make comprehensive checklists for the legal documents, packing essentials, and to-do lists. On the legal side, make notes on deadlines for changing your address, transferring your utilities and services to your new place, and anything else you need to do before moving out.

Make packing checklists for each room so you won’t forget anything. For example, for the kitchen, write down any appliances you absolutely need. For the bedroom, make sure you take all your clothes, even the ones that may be stuck in – or in between – a drawer. If there’s anyone you need to keep updated about your move, such as friends, employers, and colleagues, note their names and when to call them. 

Pack your essentials separately

Prioritize your essential items so you won’t spend ages looking for them in one of the boxes. Instead of packing them into boxes, put them in a backpack or handbag.

Here are some items to consider:

• Passport or ID card
• Driver’s license
• Moving documents, including rental agreements, movers’ contracts, and keys
• Medication
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and soap
• Clothes for a couple of days (in case the movers experience a delay)
• Laptop
• Chargers
• Snacks and water
• Cash

If you work remotely, ensure you already have good internet connectivity at your new place, pack essential office supplies separately, and notify your remote colleagues. If you’ll be going to work straight after your move, you should have work outfits in a backpack or a suitcase rather than in one of the boxes at the back of the moving truck.

Don’t forget about packing hacks

Use both boxes and suitcases and label them with what’s inside. You can also color-code or number your boxes so the movers will know where to take your items once they arrive at your new apartment.

Packing techniques, including rolling your clothes, using packing cubes, and putting clothes in vacuum storage bags can be lifesavers if you have a lot to carry.

For breakables, consider wrapping them in clothes or linens to protect them. You’ll also get to save some space this way.

Plan for inconveniences

With a little luck, everything will go well on your moving day. But it doesn’t hurt to plan for the worst circumstances or at least, subpar ones. What if the movers are late? What if you need to spend more money than you expected on repairs, last-minute supplies, or additional moving services? In these cases, consider planning an emergency fund. It’s also wise to keep the movers’ and your landlords’ phone numbers handy to give them a call. 

Assess your new apartment

What will you need in your new place when you move in? Any workplace equipment, kitchen appliances, or bedding? For furnished homes, the hard part will be done when you move out of your apartment. If you move into an unfurnished apartment, you’ll have much more to do, including buying new furniture, setting up WiFi or electricity, and unpacking all your boxes. Moving out is no easy task as the work continues once you arrive at your new apartment.

Is there a more hassle-free alternative to moving?

To make the process more hassle-free, consider moving to a furnished apartment. This way, you’ll have everything ready once you get to your new place. And if you don’t want to sign a year-long lease, be aware that you might be able to rent a flexible-term apartment in your desired neighborhood. This allows you to test out the area while continuing to look for a longer-term new apartment.

At Anyplace, we’ve designed spaces specifically for remote workers, relocators, digital nomads, and those on lengthy business trips. Every apartment is move-in ready with everything you need for a productive stay, including an equipped home office with an electric standing desk, ergonomic chair, widescreen monitor, and other gear, along with gigabit-speed internet. Pack light and just bring your laptop.

Make it easy on yourself – book today to move in tomorrow, and stay as long as you’d like.

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Where to next? Find monthly rentals designed for remote workers on Anyplace.