The Stress of Moving House: 8 Effective Ways To Handle It

The stress of moving house can be a nightmare, especially when you are moving delicate things like packing wall art, plants when moving house and owning fairly big possessions such as a boat or a caravan. And it is no wonder why such an extensive process stresses Australians. However, the reality is that there are many steps one can undertake to ensure their relocation goes smoothly, from packing, organising, and hiring removalists that also offer boat storage and caravan storage in Perth to setting up new utilities and settle into the new home.

However, the stress of moving house can easily take over and make a move more complicated than it needs to be. So we’ve put together a list of our best essential tips on how to cope with the stress of moving house.

Is Moving Stressful?

Moving to a new place down the block or across the country is one of life’s most stressful events. To make matters worse, there’s usually no single major cause for this stress. Instead, many smaller factors add up and contribute to making moving such an arduous undertaking.

Some common causes include sorting through years worth of clutter and belongings (an actual test of detachment), disassembling furniture for moving, saying goodbye to friends/neighbours at your old home, and facing complex logistics-related packing & unpacking boxes in limited time frames… the list goes on!

Here is a list of reasons moving can be one of the most stressful times.

Changes

Every move brings with it significant life changes. Long-distance relocations, for example, moving from Perth to Melbourne, can disrupt anyone’s life significantly. Whether you’re changing your address, adjusting to a new home environment, or your job is shifting – these can add extra stress and anxiety, even if the change is for the better.

Finances

Moving can be costly and an intimidating financial burden for many people. Whether you’re downsizing or needing to purchase all new furniture, the costs associated with relocating usually mean added stress on your wallet, often leading to feeling overwhelmed during the process.

Time

Relocating – no matter the distance – is an immense undertaking and shouldn’t be taken lightly. From unpacking boxes to organising your new space, there’s much work you’ll have to do before settling in just right. So, sometimes it can feel like getting settled in takes forever.

Moving is anything but a relaxing time – you’ll likely be driving, carrying heavy loads and spending hours unpacking. Even though the changes seem overwhelming, taking the proper steps will help ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible.

How To Handle The Stress of Moving House?

Stress can drag on our well-being, so let’s look at some practical ways to navigate it while you’re moving. But with some thoughtful planning ahead of time on how to move – like starting early. You can dramatically reduce move-related anxiety while turning over that exciting “next page”.

Here are a few ways how to minimise stress and handle the stress of moving:

Embrace a Positive Outlook

Stress can quickly turn into negativity, but having a positive outlook during challenging moments will help you keep your focus and ultimately reduce the stress that’s weighing on you. Make it easier to move through challenging transitions by cultivating an optimistic attitude.

Broaden your horizons and take a positive spin on new beginnings. Connect with the people around you, explore unfamiliar surroundings, or seek fun activities. Even little things like dining out in a restaurant can make all the difference.

Moving may seem daunting, but remember that this is only temporary. Embrace the challenge and settle in quickly. You’ll be comfortable sooner than you think. After all, once upon a time, your current home was new to you too. Keep that experience of success in mind as motivation for getting through it again now.

Do Your Research

Moving is a stressful experience, especially when it’s to a place where you lack knowledge of the area. To help make the transition more accessible and less intimidating, doing some research before your move is essential—that way, instead of leaping into unknown territory upon arrival at your new destination you will be somewhat familiar with your new surroundings.

Get a jump start on feeling comfortable in your new home before arriving! Research the best routes and top local spots like grocery stores and restaurants. This step will give you the advantage of having all the knowledge necessary to feel at ease when starting, helping keep your positive vibes strong during relocation.

Another good tip, is to research what your move is going to cost you. Check out our guide on moving interstate costs to get a better understanding of what to expect. Can’t move all the things with you? Then also look at our comprehensive storage price guide.

➜ Download our Moving Checklist

Get Yourself a Moving Checklist

Moving can be a challenging and overwhelming experience, but you don’t have to feel powerless against the chaos.

A definitive guide on how to move interstate in Australia is an invaluable tool that helps make your move more organised and realistic – plus, it’s incredibly satisfying as you check off each item! While every list will vary depending on individual needs, some essential steps should always include:

• Ensure your items stay safe and secure throughout the big move with enough moving boxes or other storage solutions. Avoid packing nightmares by ensuring you have enough containers to fit it all.
• Secure your lease with any required payments for your new home. By making the initial down payment and security deposits, you are taking essential steps in putting a roof over your head.
• Start planning your move. To make the most of it, map out the best routes for multiple trips and note exciting places along the way. Then, outline all you need from points A to B so that nothing passes you by.
• Planning ensures an efficient and stress-free move. Start packing for your relocation a few days or weeks before moving day to avoid the last-minute rush.
• Whether you need more or less space, a storage unit is a perfect way to transition your belongings. Make room for change by storing what’s necessary and removing anything that no longer serves its purpose.

Declutter

Moving day can often surprise many of us; you wouldn’t believe how much stuff accumulates when it’s time to pack up. Unfortunately, you’re not alone if your boxes seem bigger than they did on move-in day. It is an unfortunately common occurrence. Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed by all these belongings, though — take comfort in knowing that others are dealing with similar issues.

Decluttering your home before a big move saves time and stress. Start the process at least two to three months ahead of schedule, so you have enough time to be thorough without feeling rushed. Doing this will ensure that moving day goes as smoothly as possible.

Prepare in Advance

Leaping into a move unprepared can be the ultimate source of moving stress. Doing something as significant and intense as relocating across the country in only 24 hours? That would leave you feeling overwhelmed before you’ve even begun! So instead, plan to ease your transition. It’s worth the short-term investment for long-term peace of mind.

By decluttering and packing your items ahead of time, you’ll be better prepared to tackle the stress-inducing tasks associated with moving. Take it one step at a time – start by getting rid of what isn’t necessary weeks or even months before you move, then slowly start packing dishes for storage or any additional belongings over a few days or weeks until just essentials remain for last-minute transport. Planning ensures that everything will go as smoothly as possible regarding heavy lifting and communicating with movers!

Seek Help

Moving doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Invite friends and family members to help you pack up, move heavier items or bring some snacks — then show gratitude by buying them dinner or drinks. It’s one small way to thank the people helping make this significant change more accessible.

If moving furniture interstate and other bulky items seems overwhelming, it might be time to hire a professional mover. With experience in dealing with large items like couches and refrigerators, as well as having access to helpful tools such as packing tape or blankets that you may have yet to consider — hiring professionals is often the most efficient option for your move!

Say Goodbye

Saying farewell to particular people, beloved spots, and a cherished home can be challenging. But it’s also an essential part of starting anew. If your move takes you away from friends and places that may not come around again, make sure those last memories are fond by giving them the kind of goodbye they deserve.

Take a Deep Breath

Moving house stress is an overwhelming experience, with seemingly endless tasks to complete. To ensure your mental health during this process, it’s essential to make time for self-care activities to help you take much-needed breaks away from the stressful reality of moving.

Beat the pre-move blues with active and social stress relief. Get your heart rate moving by working out, taking a stroll outdoors or playing catch up with friends. Then cosy up to some quality time spent catching a movie night at home. It’s just what you need before tackling that big move.

Leave Your Stress to Professional Movers

Moving to a new area can bring about many emotions for both exciting and challenging reasons.

However, it’s important to remember that whatever your motivation is behind the move, hiring interstate removalists in Perth is ultimately beneficial in some fashion! We hope these tips assist you as you adjust — stay positive and calm during this transition process.

Moving house in Australia is stressful, and it’s natural to feel overwhelmed by adjusting to new surroundings, cultures or even languages. However, you don’t have to face this challenge alone; seeking professional help from experienced removalists in Perth is an excellent way to cope with moving stress effectively.

No matter the size and scope of your move, our experienced professionals at Relocations WA can help make it as stress-free an experience as possible. Our friendly team is ready to assist with any questions or concerns — get in touch! Remember our free quotes for added peace of mind; investing in a worry-free transition has never been easier.