Tips for moving house more easily and efficiently

Ideal timeline for preparing to move house

Preparing for a move gradually can make the process feel more manageable and organized. You can divide your preparations based on a timeline to ensure that everything is completed before moving day. Here is an ideal moving preparation timeline:

• 2 months before moving: Set the moving date, make sure your new home is ready, estimate the amount of belongings you have, and start researching moving services or moving vehicles. Prepare an initial budget estimate as well.

• 1 month before moving: Create a more detailed checklist and start sorting out items you no longer use. Contact utility providers to arrange service transfers and confirm the moving service or truck you will use.

• 2 weeks before moving: Start packing items that are rarely used and prepare supplies such as cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape. Finalize your moving vehicle and make a list of essential items that need to be brought on moving day.

• 3 days to 1 day before moving: Finish packing, label every box, and prepare everything you will need before moving day. Make sure parking and elevator access are available at both locations, then take photos of valuable items and check your inventory again one day before the move.

Tips for moving house to save time and energy

Moving house can be more manageable when each stage is completed in a clear order. The following tips can help reduce unnecessary work and make the moving process more efficient.

1. Set a realistic budget

A realistic budget helps you understand your expenses from the beginning. Include costs for packing supplies, moving services or vehicle rental, transportation, cleaning, utilities, and unexpected expenses.

Set aside an emergency fund of around 15–20% of your total budget for additional expenses. Reducing the number of belongings before moving and comparing several moving service options can also help keep costs down.

2. Sort your belongings before moving

Sorting your belongings before moving can reduce the number of items you need to transport. Fewer belongings mean fewer boxes, less truck space, and less packing work.

This process is also an opportunity to determine which items you still need. As a result, your new home can feel more organized from the moment you move in.

3. Set criteria for your belongings

Before you start sorting, determine categories for your belongings to make the process easier. This approach helps you make quick decisions without spending too much time considering each item. You can divide your belongings into the following categories:

• Keep: Choose items that are frequently used, useful in your new home, or have sentimental value. Consider when you last used each item.

• Sell: Set aside items that are still in good condition but are no longer needed or are not worth the cost of transporting.

• Donate: Give away items that are still usable and could benefit others, such as clothing, books, or small pieces of furniture.

• Discard or recycle: Get rid of items that are damaged, expired, or no longer useful.

4. Pack your belongings properly

Each type of item requires a different packing method to keep it safe during transportation. You can pack your belongings as follows:

• Fragile items: Wrap plates, glasses, and vases individually with bubble wrap or paper. Fill empty spaces, place heavier items at the bottom, and label the box “Fragile” and “This Side Up.”

• Electronics: Unplug cables and take photos of the connections if they are complicated. Wrap devices with bubble wrap or blankets, use the original boxes if available, and keep cables and remotes in labeled bags.

• Clothing: Use suitcases or vacuum bags to save space. Separate clothes by season and store shoes in separate bags.

5. Use a labeling system for your boxes

Clear labels make it easier to find and place your belongings in your new home. Include the room name, box contents, and priority labels such as “Open First,” “Fragile,” or “Heavy.”

You can also use different colors for each room to make boxes easier to identify. Add numbers to the boxes and keep an inventory list on your phone to make checking your belongings easier.

6. Choose the right moving truck for your needs

The size of the moving vehicle should match the amount and volume of belongings you need to transport. Choosing the right vehicle can reduce the risk of running out of space or spending more than necessary. You can choose from the following vehicle options:

• Pick-up truck: Capacity of approximately 1–2 tons or 1–4 CBM, suitable for small moves, boarding rooms, or a limited number of belongings.

• Engkel Truck (CDE): Capacity of approximately 2–5 tons, suitable for moving a home with a moderate amount of belongings.

• CDD (Colt Diesel Double): Capacity of approximately 4–6 tons or 8–12 CBM, suitable for homes with more complete furniture and household items.

• Fuso or larger trucks: Suitable for moves involving a very large volume of belongings or intercity transportation.

7. Take care of your health during the move

Moving house can be physically demanding, especially when many tasks need to be completed within a short period. Make sure to eat regularly, stay hydrated, get enough rest, and divide tasks so that the workload does not fall on one person.

Take breaks whenever you start feeling tired. Not every task has to be completed at once as long as the essential needs are properly taken care of.

8. Clean and check your new home

Clean your new home before arranging your belongings so that the space feels comfortable from the beginning. Focus on cleaning the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, cabinets, and hard-to-reach areas.

Also check the electricity, power outlets, water supply, air conditioning, doors, and walls. Document any damage you find with photos so it can be followed up easily.

9. Start organizing your new home

Prioritize essential needs before focusing on decorating the entire house. Set up the bed, bathroom essentials, kitchen supplies, and main furniture so the home can be used immediately.

You can organize the rest gradually based on your daily needs. Add photos, blankets, or your favorite items to make the space feel more comfortable.

Read also: Tips for organizing multifunctional furniture for small homes

Common moving mistakes to avoid

Small mistakes can make the moving process take longer and cost more. Be aware of the following mistakes to make your moving preparations run more smoothly.

• Packing at the last minute without sorting your belongings.

• Failing to label boxes.

• Not creating an inventory list.

• Neglecting to protect fragile items.

• Forgetting to arrange utility transfers.

• Bringing too many items that are no longer used.

Home decoration recommendations for your new home

Once the move is complete, you can make your new home more comfortable with decorations that suit your needs. IKEA offers a variety of home decoration options that can be used to enhance every room.

1. SMYCKA artificial flower

The SMYCKA artificial flower can be a great choice for adding a fresh look without requiring regular maintenance. Its stem contains wire, allowing you to bend it into the shape you want.

This flower can be used to create decorations that look fresh all year round. It is made of plastic containing at least 50% recycled material.

2. FISKBO frame

The FISKBO frame can be used to display your favorite photos or artwork in your new home. The frame can be hung or placed horizontally or vertically depending on the available space.

Using an ALFTA adhesive hook allows the frame to be installed without nails or screws. The plastic front also makes it safer for everyday use.

3. BONDIS wall clock

The BONDIS wall clock is suitable for completing a room without producing an annoying ticking sound. Its quartz movement keeps the hands moving quietly, so it does not disturb your sleep while remaining accurate.

Its simple design can complement various areas of the home. The clock is suitable for the living room, bedroom, or workspace.

4. IKEA PS 2026 wall decoration

The IKEA PS 2026 wall decoration features a three-dimensional mask design that can make a wall look more interesting. Designed by Lex Pott, the pieces can be displayed together or separately.

Installation is easy because hanging hardware is included on the back. Its unique shape can serve as a decorative accent in various rooms.

5. HÖKGÖK scented candle

The HÖKGÖK scented candle in glass features a sweet red berry fragrance that can create a warmer atmosphere at home. Its glass container also makes it suitable for placing in various corners of the room.

This scented candle can be a great choice for creating a more relaxing atmosphere after a tiring moving day. Place it in a suitable area to add a simple decorative touch to your new home.

Read also: Move to a new house? These furniture need to be prepared

Tips for moving house more easily and efficiently

Moving house can feel much easier when you prepare gradually, from setting a budget and sorting your belongings to choosing the right moving vehicle.

You can also organize your new home step by step by prioritizing essential needs so that your new living space quickly feels comfortable.

IKEA offers a variety of home decorations that can help enhance your living space according to your style and needs. Visit IKEA.co.id to explore a wide range of home decoration products and household essentials.

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