Most of us know from experience, for one reason or another, the stress that comes with an unexpectedly sudden move. It can feel difficult to figure out where to start with preparation, and it often leaves even the staunchest of heart uncertain or anxious.

That’s why having a handy list of directions to get started can help things go smoothly and quickly. Below are some suggestions for starting points that will help you get ahead of your move.

Start Thinking Like You’re Packing

As soon as you know that you need to move, begin thinking about the items around the house as either “something to pack” or “something to get rid of.” The goal is to move as little as possible, but you do also need to keep anything important safe. To do this, you can plan space for them from the beginning.

Prioritize:

• Sentimental items
• Important documents
• Medications
• Hygiene Items
• Pantry goods and kitchen utensils

These are items that either cannot be replaced or will be needed frequently.

Organize Your Most Important Documents Into One File

Speaking of “important documents,” these require their heading since they are particularly important to keep close by.

Prioritize:

• Medical history
• Any school history
• Social security card and birth certificate
• Referral letters from employers
• Income and tax documentation
• Photo IDs
• Veterinary records
• Car titles
• Sheet of important phone numbers

Just keeping these together, where you know you can easily find them, can alleviate a lot of stress during the move itself.

Contact Friends and Family to Help

Start letting all your loved ones know that you’re moving. Ask them for help, both with actually moving boxes and furniture and with preparing for the day. Making moving homes into a clan gathering where everyone pitches in and celebrates together can greatly lighten the strain.

Collect Any Loose Ends

From borrowed books to getting vital contact information before you leave, it’s time to start wrapping up anything local you’ve been needing to do. This is a good time to end any memberships, check how to close your utility accounts and return any borrowed or rented items.

Consider Sending Someone Ahead

If there’s enough time or the distance is great enough to make it worth it, one or two family members or other helpers could be sent ahead to start getting the new place ready.

By doing this, light bulbs will already be changed, utilities turned on, beds arranged, or even simply food can be prepared for hungry movers. This can provide a huge boost in the final push to unpack everything.

Set Aside Specific Days for the Big Tasks

If there’s a lot to do in a certain category (such as packing, cleaning, or calling your previous medical providers), it can help to divide up tasks.

Select the larger category that’s causing trouble and figure out who can set aside a day to work on just that thing. Putting your household ahead of the curve on these kinds of obstacles can ensure success.