Let’s face the facts: any and all moves can be a big challenge. When you have a household move in the works, you want every second available to plan. Yet there are times in life when you have to move in a hurry.

How to move in a short time frame 

Immagine 2022 05 09 165246 Moving at the Last Minute

When your move is happening over a short time frame, the first question is, “Do I hire a mover or DIY my move?” If you choose to DIY, you will have to coordinate packing supplies, people to help you, and vehicles to haul your belongings … and fit all the moving activities into your already-tight schedule; if that’s doable, great. Then you can move on to planning and packing. 

Let’s say, however, you are working a hectic, full-time job with no available time off to move right now. If you feel extra stress and anxiety about completing your move…hiring a moving company is your best bet. Call the moving company as soon as you know the date you need to be out. FlatRate Movers can coordinate and complete a local move overnight. Our express trips and direct delivery to frequent locations will have your belongings delivered in 3-9 days for a quick long-distance move, depending on location. So the first step – even if you don’t have a specific plan for the next home you’re moving to, is to set your move date. 

Priorities to consider when moving at the last minute

Quick cleanout

With the mover scheduled, you can focus on packing. If you plan to have your mover pack for you, your job is to declutter and clean out as much as possible. The first rule of thumb is to get rid of anything you no longer need or haven’t used in the past 12 months. You won’t have time to go through all of your stored items on such a tight schedule. If you can’t decide whether to get rid of it or give it away, don’t waffle. Just pack it and sort it later, when you’ve arrived at your new destination. 

Your “go-bag”

Start by packing a bag of essentials to keep with you as a “go-bag” for moving day. Pack a couple of changes of clothes and toiletries that you’d need for a few days, plus any medications or other daily essentials. With this bag ready, you’ll be able to jump in the car and haul yourself across town or to another state at any point. Leave everything else for the movers to pack and haul. 

Pack by room

With last-minute moving, the best pro tip is to pack by room. Keep the same room items together. It’s best to pack non-breakable items underneath breakable items; you can use towels, socks, or t-shirts to wrap any breakables. Use larger boxes for lightweight items, like clothes, shoes, linens, and pillows. Then use smaller boxes for books and heavier items. In this way, you won’t end up with overweight, over-packed boxes that are difficult to lift and move. 

Ask for help

Even with a short, local move, it’s a welcome bonus to have friends or family on deck to help you pack. Any extra hands during your move can reduce stress and make the job a lot easier. 

Whether you’re faced with a sudden move or have more time to plan, being organized is your superpower. So if there’s a move in your future, call FlatRate Movers today to set your date, order moving supplies, and put your plan in motion.