How to Make Moving House Less Stressful

by Kiran Shukle

12th May 2023

How to Make Moving House Less Stressful

 
It's no secret that moving house is one of the most stressful events in life, and it's no surprise that this can have a huge impact your on sleep. 
 
According to research conducted by the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS), the average person in the UK moves home 5 times in their lifetime. However, this can vary widely depending on a number of factors such as age, income, family status, and personal preferences. 
 
For example, young people may move more frequently as they start their careers or education, while families with children may be more likely to stay in one place for longer periods. Additionally, people with higher incomes may move more often due to job or lifestyle changes, while those with lower incomes may be more likely to stay in one place due to financial constraints. 

Why is moving house so stressful?

Moving house can be stressful for several reasons. Here are some common reasons: 

Disruption of routine: Moving to a new home can disrupt your daily routine. You may need to adjust to a new environment, new neighbours, and new surroundings. This can be overwhelming and cause anxiety. 

Financial concerns: Moving can be expensive. You may need to pay for movers, storage, and other expenses. This can create financial stress and worry. 

Emotional attachment: You may have emotional attachments to your current home and community. Moving can be difficult if you are leaving behind memories, friends, and family. 

Packing and organisation: Packing and organising all of your belongings can be time-consuming and overwhelming. This can create stress and anxiety, especially if you are on a tight timeline. 

Fear of the unknown: Moving to a new home can be scary. You may not know anyone in your new community, and you may not know what to expect. This can create feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. 

Moving house is a significant life change that requires a lot of time, effort, and energy. It's normal to feel stressed and anxious during this process, but there are steps you can take to make the transition smoother and less stressful. 

What do people dread most about moving house?

According to a survey conducted in the UK, some of the items that people dread moving the most include:
 
  • Wardrobes (15%)
  • Sofas (14%)
  • Delicate items like vases and mirrors (14%)
  • Kitchen appliances (11%)
  • Beds (11%)
These items can be particularly challenging to move due to their size, weight, or fragility.
 

In addition to the difficulty of moving certain items, people also dread potential mishaps on moving day, such as damaged furniture (33%), scratched walls (33%), items that won't fit through the door (31%), and difficulties moving furniture up and down stairs or around corners (29%). These mishaps can add stress and anxiety to an already challenging process.

How can I prepare for moving house?

Preparing for a move can be overwhelming, but there are several steps you can take to make the process smoother and less stressful. Here are some tips for preparing for a move: 

Create a timeline: Make a list of all the tasks you need to complete before your move, and create a timeline for when you will complete each task. This will help you stay organised and avoid last-minute stress. 

Declutter: Take the time to go through your belongings and get rid of anything you no longer need or use. This will make packing and unpacking easier and save you time and money on moving expenses. 

Start packing early and get help: Begin packing as early as possible, starting with items you use infrequently. Label boxes clearly and pack items carefully to avoid damage during transit. Don't be afraid to ask for help from family and friends. They can help you with packing, cleaning, and other tasks, which can reduce your stress levels and make the move easier. 
Take breaks: Moving can be physically and emotionally exhausting, so make sure to take breaks throughout the process. Take a walk, meditate, or do something else that helps you relax and recharge. 
Hire professional movers in advance: If you plan to use a professional moving company, book them in advance to ensure availability on your moving day. 

Update your address: Make a list of all the organisations and services that need to be notified of your new address, such as your bank, utilities, and post office. 

Arrange for utilities and services at your new home: Make sure to arrange for utilities and services, such as electricity, gas, and internet, to be set up before you move in. 

Pack a moving day kit: Pack a bag with essentials such as toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents that you will need on moving day and during the first few days in your new home. 

Is moving house affecting your sleep?

If you're still having trouble sleeping even after a few weeks in your new home, it's possible that your sleep environment might be the issue, rather than the change in surroundings.  
 
It's important to invest in a high-quality mattress and a sturdy bed frame to ensure proper support and comfort. Additional items like blackout curtains, earplugs, and sleep masks can also help create a peaceful sleep space tailored to your specific needs. You can also try calming activities like drinking chamomile tea or meditating before bedtime. Experimenting with different evening routines can help you find the perfect solution for achieving restful sleep. 
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