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The Complete Guide to Moving: Everything You Need to Know

Plus the Best Products to Make It Easier

Note: This is a living guide. As I remember additional tips, discover new products, or gain fresh insights from future moves, I’ll update this post. Bookmark it and check back periodically for new information.

Moving. Just reading that word probably made your stomach tighten a little, didn’t it?

I’ve moved more times than I care to count. Local moves, cross-country moves, international moves—I’ve experienced them all. And here’s what I’ve learned: every single move is demanding, no matter the distance. Each one takes a toll on you physically, emotionally, and energetically in ways you might not expect until you’re in the thick of it.

But here’s the good news: with the right preparation, the right mindset, and yes, the right products, you can make the process significantly less painful. Let me walk you through what I’ve learned from all my moves, and share the Amazon products that have genuinely saved me time, energy, and sanity.

The Energetic Reality of Moving: What Actually Happens to You

Before we dive into packing tape and boxes, let’s talk about something most moving guides skip entirely: what moving does to you energetically and emotionally.

Each place you live exists within its own energetic program—its own vibration, its own frequency. When you move, you’re not just changing your address; you’re shifting into an entirely different energy signature. And your body, mind, and spirit all feel it.

When my family and I moved to Europe last year, we immediately noticed the energy was much lower than what we were accustomed to in the US. Time felt like it was crawling. We found ourselves emanating more energy than the people around us, and oddly enough, we felt hot constantly—something we never experienced back home. The moment we returned to the US just two weeks ago, it was like someone flipped a switch. The energy was higher, faster, more intense. And we felt cold.

This isn’t just jet lag or climate adjustment. It’s the fundamental energetic difference between locations. Each place vibrates at its own frequency, and when you move, your entire system has to recalibrate. Understanding this helps you be more patient with yourself during the transition period.

The emotional component is just as real. You’ll love some things about your new place and hate others. That’s the nature of this world—it’s a realm of opposites. No place in the simulacrum is perfect. The sooner you accept that, the easier each move becomes.

The Three Types of Moves (And How Each One Feels Different)

1. Local Moves: Short Distance, Still Surprisingly Demanding

Let me tell you about the time we moved across the street. Literally. One apartment complex to another, just across a busy road.

I thought it would be a piece of cake. I mean, we could practically wave to our new place from our old balcony. Wrong. So wrong.

It was still incredibly demanding. We moved from the 2nd floor to the 10th, which alone made the entire process exhausting. And despite the short distance, we still had to rent a truck to safely transport our furniture across that busy road. There’s no way around the logistics of a move, even when you’re moving 200 feet.

The emotional impact: Local moves have their own unique frustration. You think it should be easy because you’re staying in the same area, but the physical demands are just as real. The advantage? You know the area, you’re not learning a new city, and you can make multiple trips if needed.

What you’ll need for a local move:

Since you have the flexibility of proximity, you can prioritize efficiency and multiple trips. Here’s what makes local moves manageable:

  • Heavy-Duty Moving Bags with Handles and Zippers – These are absolute game-changers for clothes, bedding, and soft items. Unlike cardboard boxes, you can reuse them for storage afterward. The ones with reinforced handles can hold 50+ pounds and compress down when you’re done. Buy a 6-8 pack depending on your household size.
  • Mattress Bags with Handles (All Sizes) – I didn’t discover these until recently, and now I’ll never move without them. They completely cover your mattress, protect it from dirt and damage, and the handles mean you can drag it without ever touching the actual mattress. Get the size that matches your bed: Twin, Full, Queen, or King.
  • Clear Plastic Storage Bins with Lids – Here’s my secret: these serve double duty. Use them for moving, then keep using them for storage in your new place. I pack bathroom supplies, cleaning products, and small kitchen items in these. The clear sides mean you can see what’s inside without opening them. Start with 10-15 bins for a 2-bedroom place.
  • Moving Blankets – Protect your furniture from scratches and dings. These are especially crucial for wood furniture and anything with a finish you care about.
  • Furniture Sliders – Save your floors and your back. These let you slide heavy furniture across rooms without lifting. Keep them afterward—you’ll use them every time you want to rearrange.

2. Cross-State Moves: The Art of Deciding What Matters

When we made our cross-state move, we faced the big question every long-distance mover confronts: what comes with us, and what stays behind?

We downsized significantly. The decision-making process was methodical: we considered the cost of each item, how useful it was, how much we could sell it for, and how valuable it would be to someone else if we gave it away. Whatever was high value in all those categories, we kept. The rest we sold if we could, and we gave a lot away.

Here’s something important I’ve learned about giving: you receive in the same way you give. That’s the universal law. When we gave away quality items to people who genuinely needed them, that generosity came back to us in unexpected ways.

The emotional impact: This type of move is harder emotionally because distance means finality. You’re not just changing addresses; you’re leaving behind a whole chapter of your life. The farther the distance, the more emotionally demanding it becomes—not necessarily physically, but emotionally. You’re severing connections, changing communities, starting over.

What you’ll need for a cross-state move:

Long-distance moves require more strategic packing because everything needs to survive a lengthy journey:

  • Bubble Wrap – 175-350 Feet – Don’t underestimate how much you’ll need. I bought two rolls thinking it would be plenty, and I ran out before I finished my dishes. Get at least 350 feet for a typical household.
  • Packing Paper – 10lb Bundle – This is different from newspaper and won’t leave ink stains on your belongings. Wrap every fragile item, every glass, every plate. A 10-pound bundle contains about 320 sheets.
  • TV Box for Flat Screens – If you didn’t keep your original TV box (and who does?), get one of these. They’re specifically designed for modern flat screens and will save you from a cracked screen disaster. They come in various sizes—measure your TV before ordering.
  • Picture and Mirror Boxes – These telescoping boxes protect your framed art, mirrors, and photos. Don’t just wrap these items in blankets—they need rigid protection.
  • Vacuum Storage Bags – Compress clothing, bedding, and linens to save massive amounts of space. Get a variety pack with different sizes. These can reduce the volume of soft goods by 75%.
  • Stretch Wrap – 1000 Feet – This stuff is magic. Wrap furniture with drawers to keep the drawers from sliding out during transport. I even leave items inside drawers and wrap the whole piece. It’s also perfect for bundling related items together.
  • Permanent Markers – Bold Tip, Multi-Pack – Label EVERYTHING. And I mean everything. Write the room name and a detailed list of contents on each box. Don’t just write “kitchen”—write “kitchen – everyday dishes, coffee mugs, utensils.” You’ll thank yourself later.
  • Dolly and Hand Truck – Rent or buy. Seriously. Moving heavy items without a dolly is unnecessary punishment. If you have appliances, get an appliance dolly with a strap system.

3. International Moves: A Complete Energy Shift

Moving abroad is unlike anything else. Last year, we moved to Europe for a year, and we just got back two weeks ago. For an international move, we had to completely reimagine what we needed.

We gave away all our furniture to people who needed it. In Europe, particularly, you don’t rent from companies—you rent from people. And those apartments come fully furnished, often with everything you need to live there, from dishes to linens to appliances.

The emotional challenge: As funny as it sounds, we missed Amazon. We’re so accustomed to ordering what we need and getting it quickly. Not all European countries have Amazon, and the ones that do don’t have the same efficiency we’re used to in the US. That’s a small thing, but it’s those small conveniences you don’t realize you depend on until they’re gone.

Emotionally, moving to a vastly different culture is always challenging. You’ll love certain aspects and struggle with others. When we returned to the US, we faced a different challenge entirely: buying everything again. Starting from scratch. Again.

What you’ll need for an international move:

International moves are about smart packing and practical essentials for your transition:

  • EU Plug Adapters with USB Ports – This is NON-NEGOTIABLE if you’re moving to Europe. Get adapters that turn one European Type C outlet into multiple US outlets plus USB ports. Look for ones with 3-4 outlets and 2-3 USB ports (including USB-C). Buy at least 2-3 adapters. These work in most European countries including Spain, Italy, France, Germany, Portugal, Iceland, Netherlands, Greece, and more. NOTE: They don’t work in UK, Ireland, or Scotland—those require Type G adapters.
  • Compression Packing Cubes – For international moves, you’re likely living out of suitcases. Packing cubes keep everything organized and maximize luggage space. Get a set with different sizes.
  • Digital Luggage Scale – Avoid overweight baggage fees. These portable scales let you weigh your luggage before heading to the airport.
  • Universal Travel Adapter (Worldwide) – If you’re moving somewhere other than Europe, get a universal adapter that covers US, UK, EU, and AU plugs. Look for ones with multiple USB ports.
  • International Voltage Converter (If Needed) – Important: plug adapters don’t convert voltage. If you’re bringing high-wattage devices like hair dryers or straighteners, check if they support 110-240V dual voltage. If not, you need a voltage converter. Most modern electronics (phones, laptops) are dual voltage, but check before you plug them in.
  • TSA-Approved Luggage Locks – Protect your belongings during international transit. Get several—you’ll use them on multiple bags.
  • Document Organizer with RFID Protection – Keep your passport, visa documents, travel insurance, and other critical papers safe and organized. RFID protection prevents electronic theft of your information.

Moving Checklists

Your Complete Moving Timeline: Before, During & After

Moving is overwhelming when you try to hold everything in your head at once. Break it down into these three phases, and suddenly it becomes manageable.

Before the Move: Preparation Checklist

6-8 Weeks Before:

  • Research and book your moving company or rent a moving truck
  • Start decluttering—go room by room and decide what’s coming with you
  • Create a moving binder or digital folder for all important documents (contracts, receipts, inventory lists)
  • Order packing supplies (boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, etc.)
  • Notify your landlord if you’re renting (check your lease for required notice period)
  • Start using up pantry items and freezer food—less to move or waste
  • Research your new area (grocery stores, doctors, veterinarians, etc.)

4 Weeks Before:

  • Confirm moving dates with your moving company or truck rental
  • Start packing items you don’t use daily (off-season clothes, books, decorations)
  • Label every box with room name and detailed contents
  • Take photos of valuable items and electronics setups (especially cable configurations)
  • Schedule utility disconnections at your old place
  • Schedule utility connections at your new place
  • Update your address with USPS (submit change of address form)
  • If moving internationally, confirm visa requirements, passport validity, and travel documents

2 Weeks Before:

  • Notify important parties of your address change (bank, credit cards, insurance, subscriptions, employer, IRS)
  • Confirm moving day details with your moving company
  • Pack most of your belongings, leaving only daily essentials
  • Defrost freezer if moving appliances (do this at least 24 hours before)
  • Arrange for childcare and pet care on moving day
  • Get copies of medical and dental records, prescriptions
  • Back up computer files and important digital data
  • If moving internationally, notify your phone carrier and arrange international plans

1 Week Before:

  • Pack your “First Day/Night Essentials Box” (keep this with you, not on the truck)
  • Clean out your refrigerator and pantry
  • Confirm moving day arrangements one final time
  • Fill any necessary prescriptions
  • Withdraw some cash for tips and unexpected expenses
  • Charge all devices fully
  • Take final meter readings for utilities

Moving Day Eve:

  • Pack remaining items except absolute essentials for the morning
  • Prepare your bed for one last sleep (or sleep on an air mattress)
  • Set aside clothes for moving day
  • Double-check that your essentials box is ready
  • Get a good night’s sleep (seriously—you’ll need the energy)

During the Move: Day-Of Checklist

Morning:

  • Eat a good breakfast (you won’t have time later)
  • Do a final walkthrough of every room, closet, cabinet, and drawer
  • Check behind doors, under beds, in the garage, storage areas
  • Take final photos of the empty space (especially if renting—proof of condition)
  • Meet the movers or pick up your rental truck
  • Keep important documents, valuables, and essentials box with you at all times

Throughout Moving Day:

  • Stay hydrated—keep water bottles accessible
  • Direct movers or helpers clearly about what goes where
  • Keep your phone charged and accessible
  • Take periodic breaks—moving is physically demanding
  • Do a final check of all rooms before leaving
  • Lock all windows and doors
  • Turn off lights, thermostat, water
  • Take final meter readings
  • Drop off keys as required

At Your New Place:

  • Verify all your items arrived (check against your inventory)
  • Direct placement of furniture before boxes pile up
  • Check for any damage immediately and document it
  • Test all utilities (water, electricity, gas, internet)
  • Locate your essentials box immediately
  • Make beds first—you’ll want them ready when exhaustion hits
  • Know where your toilet paper is

After the Move: Settling In Checklist

First 24-48 Hours:

  • Unpack essentials box completely
  • Set up beds and bathroom necessities
  • Unpack kitchen basics so you can eat
  • Test all appliances
  • Locate fuse box, water main shutoff, and emergency exits
  • Walk around the neighborhood to orient yourself
  • Find the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, gas station
  • Set up wifi and essential technology
  • Take care of yourself—order food if you’re too exhausted to cook

First Week:

  • Unpack room by room—don’t try to do everything at once
  • Register your vehicle if you moved to a new state
  • Update your driver’s license if required
  • Register to vote in your new location
  • Find your new doctors, dentist, veterinarian
  • Introduce yourself to neighbors
  • Locate important services (hospital, police, fire department)
  • Set up trash and recycling service if needed
  • Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Change locks if desired (or confirm landlord changed them)

First Month:

  • Finish unpacking all remaining boxes
  • Update your address with any remaining institutions
  • Get familiar with local public transportation (if applicable)
  • Explore your new area—find your favorite spots
  • Join local community groups or online neighborhood forums
  • Update your emergency contacts with your new address
  • Schedule any required vehicle inspections for your new state
  • If international, register with local authorities if required, open a local bank account, get a local phone number
  • Properly dispose of packing materials (recycle boxes or offer them to others who are moving)
  • Do something to celebrate—you survived the move!

Ongoing:

  • Give yourself time to adjust—it takes weeks or even months to feel settled
  • Be patient with the emotional and energetic recalibration process
  • Reach out to people—building a new community takes effort
  • Keep important moving documents for at least a year (receipts, inventory, contracts)
  • If you stored items, schedule retrieval or decide if you actually need them

Pro Tips for Every Phase

  • Take photos of everything: Your old place empty, your new place before you move in, how electronics are connected, damage to items during the move—photos are your best protection and memory aid.
  • The essentials box is non-negotiable: Phone chargers, toilet paper, paper towels, basic toiletries, change of clothes, medications, important documents, snacks, water bottles, basic tools, and anything else you need to function for 24 hours without unpacking.
  • Label obsessively, but smartly: Don’t just write “kitchen.” Write “kitchen – everyday dishes, coffee maker, mugs, silverware.” Your future self will thank you at 9 PM when you desperately need a coffee mug.
  • Protect your energy: Moving is physically, emotionally, and energetically exhausting. Don’t schedule anything important for several days after your move. Give yourself recovery time.
  • Accept help, but be specific: People often offer to help but don’t know what you need. Give specific tasks: “Can you pack my books on Saturday?” or “Can you watch my kids on moving day?”
  • The 80/20 rule applies: You’ll use 20% of your items 80% of the time. Unpack that 20% first (clothes, toiletries, kitchen basics, work essentials). The rest can wait.

Remember: these checklists are guides, not rigid requirements. Every move is different. Adapt them to your specific situation, and don’t beat yourself up if you don’t check every box. The goal is progress, not perfection.

Universal Moving Essentials (No Matter What Type of Move)

Some products are essential regardless of where you’re moving or how far:

  • Ziplock Bags – Variety Pack – From quart to gallon to 2.5-gallon sizes. These are perfect for hardware, small parts, junk drawer contents, cords, and anything small that could get lost. Label them with a marker.
  • Cable Organizers and Ties – Wrap and label all cables before packing electronics. Nothing is more frustrating than a box full of tangled mystery cables.
  • First Day/Night Essentials Box Kit – Pack this box last, load it last (so it comes off first). Include toilet paper, paper towels, basic cleaning supplies, phone chargers, a change of clothes, toiletries, medications, important documents, and snacks. Label it clearly in red: “OPEN FIRST.”
  • Heavy-Duty Trash Bags – Use them for trash as you pack (moving is the perfect time to purge!), for packing soft items like pillows and stuffed animals, and for protecting items from dust and moisture.
  • Tool Kit with Basics – You’ll need screwdrivers, Allen wrenches, and other tools for disassembling and reassembling furniture. Keep this with you during the move, not packed away.
  • Touch-Up Paint Pens – If you’re leaving a rental, these can help cover minor wall damage and increase your chances of getting your deposit back.

The Mental Preparation Matters as Much as the Physical

Here’s what I want you to understand: although moving is stressful and takes enormous amounts of energy, good preparation makes it so much easier.

Research is crucial. Don’t wait until moving day to figure out what you need. Get supplies ahead of time. Read reviews. Order early so you’re not panicking the night before.

But also, be gentle with yourself. Moving is one of life’s most stressful events for a reason. You’re not just transporting objects—you’re transitioning between entire chapters of your life, between different energetic programs, between different versions of yourself.

Take breaks. Stay hydrated. Ask for help. And remember: the chaos is temporary. In a few weeks, you’ll be settled in, and this will all be behind you.

My Final Moving Wisdom

After all these moves, here’s what I know for certain:

  1. You’ll always need more supplies than you think. Whatever you think you need, double it.
  2. Label obsessively. Your future self will be grateful.
  3. Give generously. What you give comes back to you.
  4. Accept the energetic shift. Your body needs time to adjust to a new place. Be patient with yourself.
  5. Do your research. Every move has unique requirements. Don’t assume.
  6. Start early. Packing always takes longer than you expect.
  7. Keep important items with you. Don’t pack your passport, medications, or valuables in the moving truck.

Moving is hard. There’s no way around that truth. But with the right preparation, the right tools, and the right mindset, you can move through it (pun intended) with much less stress and much more grace.

Now go order those supplies, make your plan, and take a deep breath. You’ve got this.

Note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. All products mentioned are ones I’ve personally used or researched extensively for moving purposes.

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