Moving is a huge hassle, and there are few people that enjoy the process, but there are things you can do to make the process easier. We’ve compiled a list of ten easy tips for moving in Texas, including tips for moving out of state.

1. Start Packing Early

We know that packing is a headache and no one wants to do it, but when you get to the day of the move and have everything ready to go, all wrapped up in neat boxes, you’ll be thanking yourself for thinking ahead. This gives you a chance to be more organized in your move, rather than just throwing things in a box. It will also give you time for the next step, which is:

2. Take This Chance to Downsize

We’re not saying that you have to Marie Kondo your life, but a move is a good opportunity to go through all of your belongings and see what you really need and what you don’t. Here’s a quick tip: if there’s a box in your house that you haven’t even opened since the last move? You probably don’t need that. Clean out drawers, clean out cabinets, clean off bookshelves. We accumulate so much stuff and the more that you can throw out (or sell or send to Goodwill) will make the move that much easier.

3. Find Your Important Documents

Of course all of your stuff is important, and you may think that you’re being as organized as possible, but there are some things that you’re going to want to pack separately–maybe bring them in the car with you when you move, instead of storing them in a box. This can include everything from tax documents to social security cards to birth certificates to wills. Make sure you know where these things are, because you don’t want them to get lost.

4. Label Everything

A label for every box is the only way to pack. Not only will it help you when you’re unpacking, but it will help guide your loaders and unloaders as they move stuff into your new place: if a box is marked “Kid’s Bedroom” or “Garage”, then you won’t have to be rearranging all of the boxes long after the movers have left. Everything will at least be in the right room, and, if you label more accurately, you’ll be able to tell the difference between a box of toys and a box of clothes–which may be important for your little one when they’re getting used to their new house.

5. Make Changes to Your New House Before You Move In

While this may not work for long, interstate moves, if you’re within driving distance of your new place you’ll be much better off repainting the walls or retiling the floors before you move in. Get all of that done with first, and then go about the work of moving in boxes and putting things where they go. 

6. Change Your Address

An easy thing to forget, but something that you’ll be kicking yourself about if you do. It’s simple to change your address with the post office–that can be done online now, and takes less than five minutes. Changing your address with everyone else can come before or after the move; your mail will be forwarded to you and you can take each letter as it comes.

7. Get Your Movers Involved Early

We already talked about packing early, but there are more things that you don’t want to rush. You want to contact your mover early in the process and get them on board with the move. They can provide valuable advice for everything from packing to labeling to logistics. Remember: your moving company does this for a living, day in and day out, and they have seen it all–the good, the bad, and the ugly. They can be invaluable.

8. Plan for Your Valuables

There are some things that you really need to take extra special care for. Your mover will be an excellent resource for this, as they know exactly how to package and transport artwork, antiques, and heirlooms. But, if you’re still skittish, you may feel more comfortable keeping grandma’s old vase in bubble wrap in the back of your car, just for your peace of mind. Make a plan for each of these valuables and talk to your movers to figure out exactly what you want to do.

9. Make a “Moving Day Essentials” Box

As you plan your move and begin to pack, be aware that on the day of the move you may be too exhausted to unload all the boxes when you finally arrive at your new home. Pack a box, or a gym bag, or a backpack, full of all the things that you’re going to need for that first day and night in your new place: your toiletries, a change of clothes, towels, even food for that first night. 

10. Make an Inventory

You’ve already labeled everything, so you may not think that this step is necessary, but if you do it you’ll thank yourself later. Make a list of every box that goes onto the truck, and mark them off as they come out (this can be a good job for someone who wants to help but isn’t mobile enough to carry boxes). 

Bonus: Tips For Moving Out of State:

1. Do a Google Maps search of your new neighborhood and familiarize yourself with where the nearest supermarkets, gas stations, coffee shops, and restaurants are. Try to memorize the layout of the streets around your house.

2. Have emergencency funds set aside in case of any emergencies. You never know what will happen on a long road trip, be it a car repair, or an emergency room visit, or any other malfunction or breakdown. 

3. Find a good auto shipper, if necessary. If you’re moving from one state to the next, you’ll probably drive, but if you’re moving from Texas to New York City you might think about flying and having your car delivered. It’s not a must-do, but it can make your life easier.

4. Give your mover multiple contact numbers. Your cell phone can get lost or lose a charge, or you can be out in the desert with no coverage. Make sure that they have a way to get a hold of someone who can speak in your behalf in case there’s any schedule change.

5. Enjoy the process! Moving to a new state can be like moving to a whole new world. New foods, new scenery, new people. Face it as an adventure, not as a scary experience, or even a troublesome burden. Dive into your new place head first and have some fun!