Moving to a distant and unfamiliar place is a common experience, especially in the US. We've all been through this ordeal at some point. While moving to a new environment is refreshing and exciting, it can also be unpleasant and stressful. The success of a move depends greatly on how well you planned and prepared for it. Planning is vital to ensure a smooth process as well as avoid costly mistakes.

Since everyone eventually moves at some point, we all have our own first hand ideas, techniques, and process. There are also numerous proven tips available over the Internet that can simplify the moving experience. There are moving checklists and templates that you can use to make sure everything is fully covered throughout the move.

But since moving entails many aspects and details, a lot can still go awry during a move. Likewise, considering the variable factors, there's no one-size-fits-all guide for all types of relocation. Different people have unique concerns and needs such as how to safely disassemble furniture or pack fragile and precious heirloom but there are some hacks that apply to all.

Here are the top 5 hacks when moving home that you ought to know.

Clean up and de-clutter

Cleaning before a home moving might seem counter-intuitive but it can make a huge difference. Sorting out and organizing your stuff can make packing a lot easier and can free up extra space. Packing all your belongings into boxes, crates, and containers can be overwhelming.

Just merely looking at a heap of items for packing can be disheartening. By de-cluttering your home, you can get rid of all unnecessary stuff. Purge mercilessly all unused and unneeded items. You just have one rule: if it doesn't spark joy, let it go. There are many ways to get rid of your belongings, such as selling, donating, and throwing them away.

You'll be surprised at the amount of junk in your home and with less to pack it's easier to move. That's literally starting life with a clean slate!

Pack early

When is the best time to start packing? Once you've decided to move.

Whether you're hiring professional movers or DIY moving, you might find that there are far more things to do than you can imagine. Not only will this save you from cramming on moving day, but it will also make the move less stressful.

Additionally, make sure to pack your stuff wisely. Cardboard boxes are the ideal containers because they are affordable, lightweight, and available in different sizes and shapes. Plus, they are easy to label, stack, organize, and carry. Read techniques and tips to make packing easier for you.

Lists and labels

Consultants at Torex Moving emphasize the importance of lists and labels. They are most helpful in keeping track of the entire moving process. Some lists to make include: a checklist of tasks or to-dos, items to pack and bring, schedules or important dates, supplies needed, contact details of professional movers, truck rental, storage, babysitter, etc. Make your lists handy or available on your phone so you can quickly check them if needed.

Labels are particularly helpful when it comes to loading and unloading your stuff, especially those on boxes, crates, bags, and other containers. When labeling boxes, try to be more specific; for example, instead of putting 'kitchen' on a box of kitchen tools put 'pots & kitchenware.' This way it will be much easier to organize boxes in the truck as well as unloading and arranging them in your new place.

Enlist help

Moving home is tough and physically demanding work. Don't try to be a hero by doing things alone. You'll only break your back. The best advice is to hire professional movers as they are experienced with everything about moving home handling, packing, loading, and transporting your belongings. They will ensure a stress-free moving experience. Be sure to book them several weeks or even months before the moving day to avoid high rates.

However, if you are short on budget, you can ask the help of friends or family. A few extra hands can make the move easier for you.

Pre-arrange your utilities

One of the most common mistakes of movers is the failure to sort out utilities before moving. Ideally, you should make necessary arrangements for the utilities in the new place. As much as possible, basic utilities such as electricity, water, internet, and gas should be connected before your move.

Arriving in your new home without these essentials is a nightmare. So, make sure to include this in your plans.

Here's the last tip (but probably the most important of all) Always have a positive outlook about the upcoming change even when things seem hard and everything should seem easier.