Life is full of tedious and stressful chores and tasks, some of which frequently occur while others are only done every few years. Moving is one of those things that only takes place every once in a while, but when it does, it’s something to dread. For the last several years, the word "hack" or "life hack" has been used describe ways and means of making unpleasant tasks, such as moving, simpler. Here we discuss five of the top hacks to make your next moving experience a breeze.

1. Clean up and clear out:

Every home has a box under a bed or in a closet that is full of stuff. You don’t know what that stuff is because you haven’t opened the box since the last time you moved. Before moving, take the weeks and months before to get rid of things you don’t need and haven’t used by holding a yard sale, donating them to charity, or taking them to the dump.

2. Label boxes and rooms:

When packing boxes, label them with the contents and the room in which they’re going in your new home. An easy way to label boxes is to place colored stickers or tape on each one. In your new home, place corresponding colored stickers outside the rooms in which boxes will be going.

3. Create your own packing material:

Picture frames, dishes, and home décor are often fragile and need extra protection when being packed for a move. Rather than spend money on packing peanuts and paper, use things you already have such as clothes, blankets, and towels.

4. Pack an essentials box:

It can take weeks to pack your belongings and months to unpack them. Don’t be left without your essential living supplies when you move into your new home. Pack everything you need such as toothbrushes, toilet paper, soap, and a few outfits into a few easily identifiable boxes.

5. Hire a professional:

Moving on your own is a lot of work, and while you appreciate the help of friends and family, they usually want to get the job done quickly. Hiring a professional moving team ensures that your belongings are safely, carefully, and efficiently packed and moved from your old house to your new one. Professionals bring with them the experience and equipment needed to transport fragile items, bulky furniture, and appliances, plus everything else you own.