Moving to a new home can be overwhelming and mentally draining. Whether you’ve moved recently or not, it doesn’t matter, the process is always frustrating and time-consuming. However, that should no longer be the case when you hire a moving company. To ensure that your moving process is seamless, here are five ways to prepare for your next move:

1. Get Rid of All Unwanted Items

A good amount of people claim that moving is one of the most stressful events in their lives. That’s why you want to remove as many tasks as possible from your moving process. It’s advisable to get rid of things that you won’t need once you move to your new house or offices. This makes it easier to move as you will only carry items that are useful to you.

2. Organize All Boxes with Specific Labels

If you’re hiring movers, then chances are they will just go for whatever box has the most stuff in it. If that’s not the way you want it handled, then do the job yourself and label every box that has something in it. That way, you won’t lose an important piece of your antique collection or even have something go missing from your home.

3. Pack Your Storage Items Weeks Ahead of Time

This includes everything from furniture to clothes; if they’re in your home, don’t wait until the week before you move to start packing them up. By doing this, you’ve saved yourself time, stress, and the risk of forgetting something.

4. Find Out If There Are Additional Costs

Hiring a professional moving company should alleviate some stresses during the load and unload process. But it doesn’t always mean that your total bill will be lower than doing it yourself. Read over your estimate closely and make sure you understand each line item on the contract, so there aren’t any surprises when they show up at your door. Some companies offer guarantees which guarantee a certain amount of money in case the bill ends up being higher than the estimate.

5. Know the Dates of Your Move

Moving is an exciting process, but preparation can help things go a little smoother when it’s time to pack and load things onto a truck for transport. You don’t want to find yourself without boxes or supplies. So make sure you have everything you’ll need before it’s time to load up. From rolls of packing tape, paper towels, and markers for labeling boxes, to wardrobe cartons, bubble wrap, and furniture covers.

6. Make Sure You Have All the Proper Documentation for Moving

Schedule a time to meet with your movers so they can go over any special requirements for items being moved. Large pieces or heavy equipment may require straps or blankets along with manpower to properly secure and lift them onto the moving van. If there is paperwork that needs to be filled out by yourself such as de-leading certificates, make sure you bring those with you as well. The movers will need to have all the proper documentation in order to process your items.