Moving Smarter

Many of you know that we recently moved from Utah to Texas...during finals...in the middle of Winter. We were stressed to the max, and we did some things that truly helped, and wish we had done more things to keep us organized and save us some time and money. Hopefully these tips will save you that time and money.

1. Download a checklist

Use the internet to your advantage. Download one of the millions of "Moving To-Do Lists" available to you, and customize it for your needs. Pace yourself and don't take on too much at one time. Moving is stressful and taxing, but moving while under extreme stress is way worse, trust me. Pace yourself and do what you can-when you can, and you'll be fine.

2. Colored Duct Tape

You can find an endless supply of different colored/patterned duct tape just about anywhere now. These would have saved us so much time! create a key with what color goes in each room, and your movers will thank you. Plus, if you need to go searching through a giant pile of boxes, you can narrow your search a little better.

3. Label EVERYTHING!

Label every side of the box - especially the sides. Your boxes will be stacked. Don't just label the tops. (This one is kind of self-explanatory)

4. Before deciding where to move, do your research.

Before you decide on a city or neighborhood where you want to live, go visit the area. Take a night or two in a hotel near where you're thinking about moving; explore the night life, local grocery stores, restaurants, etc. The last thing you want to do is move into a nice apartment and figure out too late that it's in a loud part of town.

5. Forward your mail/change your address immediately when you move.

Trust me, you do not want to get a past-due notice months after a bill was due because you forgot to change your address.

6. Thank your moving buddies.

Plan to have pizza and root beer, or take everyone out to dinner after they've helped you move in/out. This will ensure they will help you again. :) If you hire movers, make sure to tip them. Moving is terrible for everyone, so a little extra thank you is always appreciated.

If you need more tips, let me know, people! I hope these help you with your next move. Meanwhile, stay tuned for more interior design inspiration from my new digs in the Lone Star State!