Summer is in full swing, and the heat is on. You’d probably rather be cooling off in a clear, blue Michigan lake or grilling up some tasty burgers. But if you’re like many people, you might be packing boxes and planning a move instead. Historically, late spring and early summer are peak homebuying season, which means this is also prime moving season!

While buying a new house or condo is exciting, moving ranks among life’s most stressful events, both mentally and physically. In fact, a 2024 study found that one in four Americans considered moving to be more stressful than landing a plane in an emergency, and more overwhelming than losing a job! Not only are you leaving behind familiar surroundings and adapting to a new home, but you’re also dealing with the logistics of organizing, packing, and moving, as well as facing uncertainty about your new environment. Consider some of these stats:

• The average person gets rid of 36% of their possessions prior to their move.
• People in the midst of a move work an average of 16 hours a day during the moving process with few breaks.
• The emotional rollercoaster of moving includes dread (21%) and anxiety (53%), but also hope (32%), joy (25%), and excitement (52%).

(Source: collegehunkshaulingjunk.com/blog/2024/may/navigating-the-emotional-rollercoaster-moving-insights-backed-data/)

7 Tips for Alleviating the Stress of Moving

Have no fear: there are ways to reduce the stress of moving! While these tips won’t make moving a breeze, they will make life easier during the transition.

1. Start earlier than you think you need. If you’re fortunate enough to know about a move well in advance, start planning and double the time you think you’ll need to get everything done! As early as possible, begin the process of decluttering and getting rid of things you won’t be taking and organizing your belongings. You can even begin packing items that you don’t need before the move.
2. Create a “game plan.” People who create a detailed moving plan that includes timelines, tasks, and deadlines report much less stress during the process. You can also break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps and tackle them one at a time.
3. Have a moving checklist. This is similar to tip number two, but a moving checklist is more specific and includes all the things that need to get done prior to the move such as notifying utility providers, changing your address, hiring movers, etc. And let’s face it, checking things off a “to do” list feels really good! Consider using this handy “ultimate moving checklist.”
4. Create a “sanctuary” area that doesn’t get packed until the last minute. When everything else in chaos, this small space can be your “go to” haven for some peace. It might include a comfy chair and your favorite books, along with a few necessities. This is also a great place to keep all the important documents you need so they don’t get lost in the shuffle!
5. Research moving companies. Not all movers are created equal. It’s smart to get quotes from at least three different companies and read the reviews before committing. Asking for recommendations from friends and family can also be helpful. The last thing you need on moving day are unreliable movers who don’t treat your belongings with care.
6. Organize and label boxes carefully. When you’re busy and tired, it’s easy to start packing things in a haphazard way. Hey, you can sort things out later, right? Not so fast – being able to place your belongings in the right rooms during the move and locating items you need will greatly reduce the stress of moving!
7. Ask for help. For some people, asking for help can be difficult, but a move is a big task, and if there was ever a time to enlist the help of family and friends, this is it! You don’t need to ask your friends to haul heavy boxes or move furniture. There are plenty of non-back-breaking tasks to delegate, such as delivering donated items, picking up moving supplies, taping boxes, sweeping and cleaning up after the move, providing meals during busy days, or even just offering some moral support.

Maintain a Positive Attitude

No matter how well things are planned, you can expect a few little “snafus” during a move. So, it’s important to approach this process with a positive attitude and be flexible. Remind yourself of the exciting aspects of the move, play your favorite music while packing, ask friends to join in the “fun,” and give yourself time to take breaks and rest.

Once you’ve made the move, experts suggest taking a systematic approach to unpacking. Start by unpacking the essentials, such as bedding, toiletries and kitchenware. The rest can get done as time allows. Putting out favorite photos and hanging artwork can help make your new home feel more comfortable and make you feel connected to your new space. Finally, keeping things as tidy and uncluttered as possible (we know it’s not easy!) will also reduce your stress levels.

Yes, moving can be a rollercoaster ride, but following these tips can help you have more highs than lows. And ultimately, make your new abode a wonderful home.

An experienced real estate agent can offer plenty of helpful advice before, during and after a move. Don’t be afraid to ask for their advice and assistance.