There’s no denying that moving home is stressful. Boxes disappear inside the removal truck at one end and reappear at the other in random locations around your new house.
The anxiety of not finding anything can be amplified by screaming children wanting toys or something to eat. So, if you’re juggling kids, pets – or worse, both – here’s a handful of strategies to help make a move easier for everyone – especially you.
In addition, always make sure your wallet, car keys, and relevant documentation do not get caught up in the packing!
- Use packing specialists who know precisely how and what to pack in each box. They’ll be at the other end to unpack and put everything where you want it. They’ll help coordinate the removalists, too.
- Don’t pack items yourself. This way, you’ll keep your time free for the kids. Also, if you employ a single removalist for the entire operation, their insurance will not cover breakages of items you’ve packed.
- Make sure the boxes are clearly labelled. The kids’ boxes should have their favourite toys at the top. That way, you can keep them amused on arrival with minimal distraction.
- Consider using an app called Moving Day, which prints barcodes for each box. Scan them with your mobile phone, and it’ll tell you what’s in the box. Neat!
- Find time to take the kids to a new café or playground, so they get used to the idea of their new home in a relaxing, fun atmosphere.
- Keep pet bowls handy for food and water when you arrive and make sure you can find their lead to take them for a walk.
- Reconnoitre the local area for easy dog walks in advance of moving day. A walk will ease their anxiety and confusion when you arrive.
- If you have anxious pets, seek out pheromone scent diffusers from your vet. These give off pheromones designed to calm animals.
- This article is provided for general information only and does not take into account the specific needs, objectives or circumstances of the reader. Before acting on any information, you should consider whether it is appropriate for your personal circumstances, carry out your own research and seek professional advice.