Imagine your moving day without the chaos… No frantic packing, no forgotten essentials, no stress. Just a smooth transition into your new apartment! Sounds impossible? It’s not. When you know what needs to be done, moving can become enjoyable!

Even if things don’t go perfectly, knowing you’ve prepared as much as possible can significantly reduce stress and help you pivot for any hiccups that may come up. So, take a deep breath, grab your checklist, and let’s make this move your easiest one yet.

Photo Courtesy of Camden Clearwater

Plan Ahead!

Let’s face it: moving can feel overwhelming. There’s no doubt about it! But here’s the truth… most of the stress doesn’t come from the move itself but from the absence of planning. That’s why planning ahead isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

Start Early! Give yourself plenty of time to prepare and avoid last-minute panic. The general rule of thumb is to start planning at least 8 to 9 weeks in advance.

• 8-9 Weeks Out: This is when you should start decluttering your home, gathering packing supplies and boxes, and researching moving companies.

• 6-7 Weeks Out: Start scheduling your utilities to be transferred to your new home as soon as you have a move-in date secured. During this time, you should also start grouping up your items in the designated room spaces that they will be in for your new apartment!

• 3-5 Weeks Out: Little by little, start packing and labeling each box to distinguish what is where. Confirm movers are all set if you choose to use a moving service, and ensure you update your address for mail forwarding to your new home. (Camden Resident Tip - Call College Hunks Movers (locations nationwide) and ask about a possible Camden resident discount on your move!)

• 1-2 Weeks Out: It’s almost time! As most of your belongings should be boxed up by now, this is the time to start your final cleaning. This will give you the opportunity to do a deep dive and ensure you do not have any items missing for your move.

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First Night Essentials Kit

This is such an important touchpoint to your move, but why? The last thing you want is to have to dig through your boxes once you finally move in to find your toothbrush, a pair of clean clothes, and anything else you may need. Especially after a long day of moving, lifting boxes, and getting acquainted with your new apartment home!

Your first night in a new apartment should be about unwinding, not unpacking. Here’s how to pack a simple but intentional kit that covers all your basic needs, so you can focus on feeling at home.

• Toothbrush, Skincare, and Bathroom Essentials

• Pajamas and Next-Day Outfit

• Water and First Aid Supplies (Band-Aids, Alcohol Wipes, and Tylenol)

• Electronic Chargers

• Important Documents – Lease Agreement, Renter’s insurance, etc.

The Day Of – Navigating Your Moving Day!

It’s moving day! All your planning and packing has led to this moment. While it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle, remember to breathe, stay present, stay hydrated, and take it one step at a time.

Start Early

Start your day with a positive mindset and take it one step at a time. Moving day begins long before the first box is lifted—it starts with your mindset. Taking a few quiet moments in the morning to breathe, stretch, or sip your coffee can help ground you before the hustle begins!

Maintain Communication with Movers

Clear communication with your movers can make or break your moving day. Touch base with them early in the morning to confirm arrival times, parking instructions, and any last-minute details. Provide updates to your leasing office to know when to expect your movers. Throughout the day, keep your phone handy in case they need directions, access codes, or updates.

Final Walkthrough

Before you lock the door one last time, take a few minutes for a final walkthrough of your old apartment. It’s your chance to catch anything you may have missed—like items in closets, drawers, or behind doors—and to make sure the space is clean and damage-free.

Take Breaks and Stay Hydrated

Moving is a workout—physically and mentally. Between lifting boxes, climbing stairs, and coordinating, it’s easy to forget to stay hydrated! Water might not seem like a top priority when you're juggling boxes and checklists, but staying hydrated is key to keeping your energy up and your mind sharp.

Photo Courtesy of Camden

You are Ready!

Are you thinking about moving into a Camden Community? Camden makes it as easy as possible by providing a move-in checklist to guide you through the process, and our team members will be there for you every step of the way!

Go ahead and schedule a tour today – Your new home awaits!