Are you moving soon? A move can be a source of stress, as it requires a lot of organization and planning. Luckily, we’ve compiled our top 23 tips to help you move with peace of mind!

1- start collecting empty boxes at least one month in advance

You will need lots of empty boxes for your move. To avoid having to buy boxes, start your collection of boxes quickly. For example, politely ask warehouse clerks at big-box stores for boxes for your inventory. Don’t wait until the end of June, during the moving season! Instead, start your collection a few months in advance.

2– take inventory of things you no longer want and post them in the classifieds

A move is the perfect opportunity to clean up our old belongings. Plan ahead, so you can sell your items and furniture on classifieds sites, such as Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji or LesPACs. Ideally, post your ads several weeks in advance, at least 6 weeks, to have time to sell your goods and avoid moving them for nothing. And who knows, it might pay for your moving expenses!

If you are wondering what to do with your old furniture and appliances, consult our article on this subject! There are also several tips for recycling your paint when moving . Among other things, you can bring your containers back to one of our drop-off points so that you don’t have to move anything unnecessarily.

3- start packaging sooner rather than later and go gradually

Don’t wait until the last minute to start packing your boxes. Quickly start packing your least useful items several weeks in advance. Go gradually until the move and keep only the essentials in the last days.

4- create handles for your cardboard boxes

Larger cardboard boxes are sometimes difficult to transport when moving. It is not uncommon to see a cardboard box dropped or difficult to transport. Take the time to cut out handles for easy carrying. If it’s a larger box or one containing heavier objects, secure your handles with duct tape or any other strong adhesive tape, which will also make it easier to grip.

5- move your wardrobe efficiently

A few large format bags and you’re done! That’s all you need to save time. Gather clothes hung on racks and insert them into a plastic bag. With this technique, you will save a lot of time and your clothes will not be wrinkled in the end!

6- use your drawers as storage boxes

To save time and boxes, leave the contents of your drawers inside and use plastic wrap to seal them well. Thus, you can move them without risking losing their content. Don’t forget to put your plastic wrap in the recycling when you’re done!

7- use your towels and linens to protect the dishes

Rather than wrapping breakables with bubble wrap, which may end up in the trash after the move, consider using dish towels, towels and clothing to protect them.

8- place your plates vertically in your boxes rather than horizontally

To reduce breakage, store your plates upright in the boxes. However, do not neglect to protect your plates to minimize the risks as much as possible.

9- identify the contents of your boxes and the rooms in which to deposit them

It is a must. You’ll save time and energy by identifying the contents of each box and where you want it placed. To simplify further, use tape of different colors depending on each of the parts.

10- make sure you don’t lose or look for the small parts of your furniture

When moving, time is precious. Avoid having to search for essential items. For example, when dismantling furniture, avoid storing screws and other small items in the first place that comes your way. A simple trick is to place each small piece of furniture (screws, hinges, handles, etc.) in a bag, then attach it to the furniture in question. Thus, these small parts will be at hand when the time comes. A simple trick, the

11- pack the most useful items in an easily recognizable box

Some items may be useful to you upon your arrival at your new home. Provide, for example, a knife to open boxes, a roll of paper towels, utensils, an extension, basic tools, a mobile phone recharge, etc. Collect them in a clearly identifiable box (like a clear plastic box as shown above) so you have quick access to these items

12- take a picture of your electronic connections

Unless you’re a connoisseur of electronics, plugging in your devices might give you a headache. Take pictures of your computer, television and other connections using your cell phone or your camera. So you only have to reproduce these connections in your new home.