Have a Big Family? 7 Tips For a Quick and Easy Move

If you have a large family, moving can seem like an impossible order. With an entire house to pack and children to coordinate, it’s easy for even the most veteran parents to feel overwhelmed. But with the right approach and some helpful tips, a quick and easy move is possible even with a big family in tow. In this guide, we’ll explore five practical tips that can make your move stress-free and enjoyable for the whole family. So take a deep breath and let’s dive in!

1. Create a Packing Plan

The key to any successful move is organization, and this is especially true when you have a large family. Be sure to start planning early and create a thorough packing plan. This should include a timeline of when each room will be packed, as well as who will be responsible for each task. Get your children involved by assigning them age-appropriate tasks and making it into a game. Not only will this help you save time, but it will also keep your kids occupied and invested in the move.

Don’t forget to communicate this plan with your spouse as well. Make sure they are aware of the packing schedule and their assigned tasks. Dividing the responsibilities will not only make things easier for you, but it will also ensure that nothing is forgotten or overlooked during the move.

2. Purge Before You Pack

Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter and get rid of items you no longer need or use. With a big family, this step is even more crucial as it will help reduce the amount of items you need to pack and move. Set aside a day or two before your move to go through each room and get rid of anything that is no longer needed.

You can also involve your children in this process by having them choose which toys or clothes they want to donate or give away. One way to make the decluttering process easier for children is by framing it as an opportunity to help others. Explain that the items they no longer use or need can be donated to those who may not have as much. This can make them feel good about their decision and give them a sense of purpose in the move.

3. Label Everything Clearly

Keeping everything organized and easily identifiable during the move will save you a monumental headache. Make sure to clearly label each box with its contents and which room it belongs in. You can also color code boxes for each room or use stickers to make them easier to spot.

Getting your children involved in labeling can be a fun and useful task for them. Have them help you create the labels by drawing pictures or writing descriptions of what’s inside. You can also make a game out of it by having them match the color-coded boxes to their designated rooms. This will not only keep them occupied, but it will also give them a sense of ownership and responsibility in the move.

4. Pack an Essentials Box

Moving into a new home can be chaotic, and it’s easy to misplace important items in the shuffle. To avoid this, create an essentials box with all the necessary items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. This may include toiletries, snacks, needed documents, and even a change of clothes for each family member. Make sure to keep this box with you during the move, rather than putting it on the moving truck.

Having an essentials box packed and set aside for easy access during the move can be a lifesaver. Not only will it save you from rummaging through boxes to find your toothbrush or important documents, but it will also provide a sense of comfort and familiarity amidst the chaos of moving. Make sure to clearly label this box as “essentials” and keep it with you at all times during the move. This way, you can easily access any necessary items without having to unpack everything right away.

5. Enlist Help

Don’t be afraid to ask for help when it comes to moving with a big family. Reach out to friends and family members who may be able to lend a hand with packing or watching the kids on moving day. You can also consider hiring professional movers to handle the heavy lifting and transportation of your belongings. Before hiring professional movers, research the best moving companies in your area and ask for 3 competitive quotes to get the best help with your move.

Additionally, if you have older children, involve them in the process by having them help with small tasks such as carrying light boxes or cleaning out their own rooms. This not only takes some of the workload off of you, but it also teaches responsibility and teamwork to your children.

6. Make Moving Day Fun

Moving day doesn’t have to be stressful and chaotic. With some planning and creativity, you can turn it into a fun family adventure. Plan for special snacks or games during breaks, and involve your children in setting up their new rooms.

Be sure to acknowledge and reward good behavior from your children, especially during a move. Moving can be difficult for them, so praising their helpfulness and positive attitude can go a long way. Consider creating a reward system where they earn points or stickers for completing tasks or following instructions. These points can then be redeemed for small prizes or treats after the move is over. This reward system can also help keep them motivated and on track throughout the moving process.

7. Plan Fun Activities for After the Move

Finally, make sure to plan some fun activities for your family after the move. Moving can be a stressful and exhausting experience, so it’s a good idea to take breaks and unwind together. This could be as simple as ordering pizza and having a movie night in your new home or taking a trip to explore your new neighborhood.

Moving with a big family may be the hardest thing you do together, but with these tips, it can be quicker and easier than you might think. Remember to stay organized, involve your children, and make the most of the experience. With a positive attitude and some teamwork, your family will be settled into your new home in no time! Keep these tips in mind for any future moves and you’ll be able to conquer the process with ease. Good luck out there!

By Dixie Somers / Freelance Writer

Dixie Somers is a freelance writer who loves to write for business, health, and women’s interests. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. You can find her on Twitter and Facebook.