Tips for moving a studio apartment

No move is without challenges, even in a smaller, more economical space like a studio apartment. With fewer rooms to pack up, it’s easy to think that relocating from a studio will be a breeze. However, thinking ahead on how to tackle the move will allow for an efficient process with much less stress. Take time to consider what needs to be done before, during, and just before you leave your apartment.

If you’re not sure how to get started, keep reading for key tips for every step of the relocation process.

Before you start packing your first box:

• Work backwards from your move date to plan and organize in advance. Having a reasonable timeline will allow you to meet your move deadline and realistically complete all necessary relocation tasks. Make sure to give yourself enough time (maybe even a little bit more than that) to sort, pack, and organize your move.
• Sort out what you want to take and what you don’t. Even with a limited amount of space, moving affords you a great transition time to declutter and downsize your belongings. Doing this will make packing and unpacking much easier.
• Gather your supplies. Pick up the basics: tape, packing paper, and markers. You’ll also want to make a decision about using cardboard boxes or eco-friendly plastic rental bins. Having these items at the read will allow you to get right to it once you’re ready to pack.
• Measure your entryways and hallways. Making sure that your items make it through the spaces they must travel to get to the moving truck will make planning for the moving day much easier. That way, you can make a plan for anything that will be a challenge (e.g., too big for the doorways).

During the packing process:

• Think strategically. It’s wise to start packing items you don’t use regularly or that aren’t essential. This means you aren’t as likely to unpack items before your move. Once you’ve labeled your non-essentials, work towards the more frequently used items. Label each one clearly about which room the items belong to and indicate if there are any fragile items.
• Take care to pack fragile items. This is where the packing paper comes into play. Make sure to stuff any empty spaces and wrap breakable stuff with the paper. You could also use blankets or towels, which can serve a dual purpose of packing your stuff by using other items you need to pack! Again, don’t forget to label the boxes as “fragile” so you can be careful with them when loading and unloading.
• Take apart any larger furniture or fitness equipment (as necessary). Some of your bulkier pieces, like sofas, treadmills, and the like are best if they are disassembled before the move. Make sure to keep all the pieces together and labeled in bags attached to the larger parts to make sure every component makes it to the new location.

Final checklist before relocating:

• Find out about any local parking regulations. No matter where you live, there may be some rules or regulations with regard to parking any moving vehicles. Doing a little research beforehand will allow you to plan to load and unload in the most convenient spot possible.
• Clean your space. In order to increase the likelihood that you’ll get your security deposit back, make sure you take steps to scrub and wipe-down your space before you vacate. It’s wise to give yourself enough time to do a thorough job.
• Transfer your mailing address, utilities, and subscriptions. Submit a change of address request with the post office to ensure that you stop receiving mail at your current location and start getting it at your next one once you move. You’ll also want to cut off or transfer your utilities and subscription services before you move. This will help you get up and going with ease once you’ve completed your move.
• Get clear on the details of your move-out. Take a look at the lease or reach out to your landlord to arrange for any move-out procedures. You can also make sure to gather documents or fill out any necessary paperwork before giving back your keys.

There’s no move too small not to take pre-emptive steps to make sure your move is a success. You know what else a small move isn’t too small for? Hiring professional movers, like Piece of Cake Moving and Storage. Our moving experts are adept at navigating small spaces, narrow hallways, and even parking regulations — all in an effort to make your move a smooth one. We’re available to take your call and help you with your relocation 24/7/365. Plus, we have a flat fee guarantee so you won’t have to worry about unanticipated costs. Make a move with us and you’ll understand what our thousands of happy customers have been talking about!