Stress is one of those things people have come to accept as part of moving. And it’s backed by research, too. In fact, some people think it’s more stressful than a divorce or starting a new job.

The good news is, there are ways to cut the stress of moving. Here are 5 moving tips and tricks to make your big move so much easier.

1. Be a Strategic Packer

It’s great if you can pack everything fast. But it’s better if you can find where everything is when it’s time to unpack.

One way to do this is to color code your boxes. What you’ll do is pick one color for each room in your new place.

Now, you don’t have to buy colored boxes for this. You can use different colors of tape. Then when it’s time to put your stuff in boxes, it’s easier to keep track of everything if you write them down in a notebook.

You can also take photos if that’s what you prefer. What’s important is you have a system for packing and unpacking so you can settle in asap.

2. Pick a Good Date for Moving

When you’re getting ready to move, try not to pick a weekend or the end of the month for the big day. You can get better rates on a rental truck or a mover like Freedom Moving if you move on a weekday or mid-month.

There are fewer jobs during these times, so you’re likely to get a good deal. You should also schedule your move the earliest time you can get. The movers will be on their first job so they’re still full of energy and will get the job done faster.

3. Plan Your Travel Route

Done with your moving packing checklist? If yes, then take some time to plan your travel route.

Even if you’re only moving to a neighboring town, find the most efficient route to avoid wasting time. The last thing you want on your big move is to sit in traffic or stop several times to input an address into your GPS.

4. Ask for Help

But do it early. If you’re not using a mover and plan to get friends and family to help, ask in advance. Make it a month’s notice to be sure.

If you have kids, you should do the same with their babysitter. Make sure everyone’s on the same page by emailing all the details. That includes where to meet, what time, what to bring, etc.

5. Don’t Forget Your Important Documents

Your important papers should be in a separate box or briefcase. You should also have copies of all your documents before the big move.

Yes, it’s tedious. But what if something bad happens to your precious docs while in transit? Don’t take that risk when you can take some time to scan or copy birth certificates, passports, tax claims, and so on.

Need More Moving Tips and Tricks?

Don’t forget to check our blog for more useful tips. We also do features on interesting people like Leonie Muller. If you don’t know who she is, she’s the girl who got sick of rent and decided to live on trains.

If you have moving tips and tricks we forgot to mention here, don’t forget to share them in the comments below.