How to Make Moving Day Easier in a Busy City Like Boston

 

Relocating is consistently voted one of the most stressful things to do. It is easy to see why. An emotional collapse seems to be part of the journey. While the challenges seem to be on par with some of the more common stress-inducing events like changing jobs or purchasing a home, nothing adds to this tension more than relocating in a major metropolitan hub like Boston. More than the inconveniences of relocating Boston, the rewards of city living Boston offers are greater.

The combination of Boston’s 650,000 and the people in the broader metropolitan and suburban areas make it one of the most populous cities nationwide. Year-round relocations to, from, and within Boston happen for many reasons, including work and education, and other personal and lifestyle reasons. Because of the volume of activity, planning and preparation is a priority for a successful and efficient relocation.

Start Earlier Than You Think You Need To

The most common moving preparation mistake is the assumption that moving preparation takes less time than it actually does. For those in smaller two-bedroom apartments, moving requires at least around 50 boxes. Most start looking for a mover Boston MA, a few weeks in advance. The earlier the movers are scheduled, the better the availability and time to pack the apartment in an organized manner, rather than in a rushed manner that leaves things behind and incurs avoidable expenses. This also avoids the stressful time crunch that is all too common.

A simple timeline can make a huge difference:

  • 6 weeks before: create a moving plan.
  • 4 weeks before: begin decluttering.
  • 3 weeks before: gather packing supplies.
  • 2 weeks before: notify utility providers.
  • 1 week before: pack non-essential items.
  • Moving day: focus only on transportation and setup.

The Hidden Cost of Clutter: Understanding

By addressing items room by room, you can determine if that item really is worth the cost to move. You can move more easily, and likely rest more quickly, if you sell, donate, or recycle items room by room.

Some relocation consultants have estimated a 20% cost saving on a move for every 1000 items eliminated from a home.

Understanding Boston’s Moving Challenges

Boston has its own unique issues like narrow, one-way streets, and high density traffic. Old buildings can present challenges with the dimensions of the actual structures and moving trucks.

There are some neighborhoods, such as Back Bay, Beacon Hill, and the North End, that will present even more challenges due to long term residents that don’t want transients on the street and few loading spaces. Many apartment buildings will have scheduled elevators for moving and designated hours when moving is allowed. If you can check these before your moving day, you will help avoid delays.

Small Steps That Save Time: Key Considerations

Box organization is pivotal to a stress-free moving day. Box labels with detailed descriptions eliminate the frustrating guess-work and fuel the move-in efficiency.

Something like this:

  • Kitchen – Tools and Utensils.
  • Office – Electronics and Documents.
  • Bedroom – Clothes.

More often than not, those moves that seem successful and stress-free owe their success to effort, planning and best use of time and resources. No good move comes from poor time and effort management. When moving cross town or arriving from a different town, careful planning and organized time resources is key to a successful and efficient move.