Regardless of how much help you have, moving is stressful. Almost all of your possessions have to be transported from one place to another, in addition to changing your address for all relevant accounts and services you utilize. It’s a lot, but whoever said moving was a breeze? We’re here to tell you, and remind you, of some things you might forget to do when uprooting your life.

1.) Collect Important Records and Documents

When you live somewhere for a while, it’s easy to have documents strewn about in random places. Who knew that important medical document could find its way to the bottom drawer of the forgotten desk in the living room? Remember to gather all necessary records pertaining to employment, housing, legal matters, finances, car repairs, schooling, and medical matters. There’s nothing worse than trying to find an important document a month after moving in, only to realize you left it behind or tossed it out.

2.) Pack an “Essentials” Box

So, you’re all moved in and your living space is flooded with boxes of various sizes. Only at this moment do you realize that your moisturizer and toothbrush are…somewhere. Try your best to keep this from happening. Having the essentials packed in their own box or bag is key when moving to a new residence. When the items you use on a daily basis, sometimes multiple times a day, are difficult to locate after a move, you end up disrupting your daily routine more than moving already has. Be sure to pack an “essentials” kit with any products, gadgets, medications, and other valuables you deem important to have when moving.

3.) Label All Packed Boxes

As you’re getting everything packed away for your move, it’s easy to throw items in a box and think you’ll recall which box holds what. Unless you’re moving with only three boxes, that recall simply will not happen. Keep track of what you’re packing with what, and be sure to label said boxes with appropriate identifiers. It won’t make unpacking any less of a drag, but it will help keep you organized when it seems like you’re swimming in a sea of cardboard containers.

4.) Redirect Your Mail

It can be quite easy to forget about changing your mailing address when there are several other moving tasks to be accomplished, but this is one of those steps you’ll regret not completing when you realize you aren’t receiving mail at your new place. Before everything is said and done with your move, contact the U.S. Postal Service and inform them of your address change. Both you and your mailbox will be happier for it.

From the time you begin packing your first box to the time you unload the last one, there are likely going to be a few things that slip your mind. Moving is a big process, but it doesn’t have to be a messy one. Label your boxes, keep your daily essentials handy, corral your important documents, inform the postal service of your move, and you should be good to go! As long as you don’t forget your keys. Happy moving!