How to Move By Yourself
Moving by yourself can feel like an overwhelming situation. If you’ve previously relied on the help of family and friends, you may feel uncertain about handling things alone this time around. However, with careful planning and preparation, a solo move can be a successful and even rewarding experience.
As the leading move and storage resource, U-Haul® has helped millions with moves across town or to a new state for a fresh start or exciting work opportunity. Regardless of your reason for moving solo, U-Haul has the services and helpful tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free move.
7 Steps for Moving by Yourself:
1. Create a Moving Checklist
Before you begin packing or making any other arrangements, create a dedicated moving checklist to help you stay organized and on track. Since you’re moving alone, there won’t be anyone present to remind you of aspects of the move you may forget during the process. Your moving checklist should include every step needed for your solo move to be as seamless as possible.
2. Sort and Declutter your Belongings
Moving can be a great opportunity to declutter and move on from the many items in your home that are no longer needed or wanted. Take some time to carefully sort through your belongings and decide what you would like to keep, sell, donate, or simply discard. Since you’re embarking on a solo move, the less items that need to be moved from your current to new home – the better! This will not only make packing and moving easier but will also save you time and money in the long run.
3. Purchase Moving Supplies
To best protect your belongings during the move, you’ll need to purchase moving supplies. Essentials such as moving boxes and mattress bags are must-haves for any move. You can get boxes and other items in many places – but to find supplies of the highest quality and made with the customer in mind, U-Haul is the place to go.
Here are some recommended moving supplies:
- Medium Moving Box – The most popular U-Haul moving box. With its 18 1/8” x 18” x 16” dimensions, it’s the perfect size to fit many of your household items.
- TV Moving Box – Your TV is almost certainly one of your most used household items. So why not ensure it reaches your destination in the right condition? This TV moving box fits screens as large as 70” and is double-walled for all the protection you need.
- Dish Saver Packing Kit – The ideal solution for packing and moving kitchen dishes and glassware.
- Mattress Bag – Protect your mattress against dirt, dust, and moisture during your move. Available in twin through king sizes.
4. Pack Your Belongings
When packing your belongings, start with items you use less frequently and work your way up to items you use daily. Getting a head start on packing your things is crucial to avoid a rush job at the last minute. Consider investing in quality packing materials such as packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts to provide your belongings with the best protection.
While packing, it’s also wise to label each box with its contents and which room it belongs in to make unpacking at your new home easier. Using the U-Haul App, you can access the Smart Labeling System for the best experience when organizing your boxes.
For More Information on Labeling Boxes with the U-Haul App
Organizing Boxes for Moving & Storage with the U-Haul Smart Labeling System
Labeling boxes for moving and storage has never been easier. See how the U-Haul Smart Labeling System makes organizing boxes effortless.
5. Rent a Moving Truck or Portable Moving Container
When it’s time to move into your new home, renting a U-Haul moving truck or U-Box® portable moving containers can be a convenient and cost-effective solution. U-Haul offers a wide variety of truck rentals in various sizes to best fit your moving needs. U-Box moving and storage containers are a great option if you need more flexibility in your moving process.
6. Consider Getting Professional Moving Help
While you’re moving without the help of family and friends, that doesn't mean you can’t enlist the help of professionals to simplify your moving process. If you have a significant number of belongings and it fits within your budget, it may make sense to consider professional help to allow yourself the peace of mind that your belongings will reach their destination safely. A service like Moving Help® can connect you with affordable and reliable movers who can assist you with loading and unloading your belongings.
7. Unpack and Settle In
Once you arrive at your new home, it’s time to unpack and settle in. Start unpacking the essentials such as your bedding, toiletries, and kitchen items – working your way up to the less essential items. Take your time and enjoy the process of making your new place feel like a home.
U-Box + Moving Help: The Best Combo for your Solo Move!
As the leading moving and storage resource in America for more than 75 years, U-Haul has the services and expertise to assist in any type of move – including those moving by themselves. Among U-Haul’s vast line of services, U-Box and Moving Help can be the perfect combination to provide a seamless solo move.
Using U-Box and Moving Help to move by yourself can be a convenient and stress-free option for those who would prefer not to drive a moving truck long distances or need assistance loading and unloading their belongings. With U-Box, you can have a portable storage container delivered to your home, which you can then pack at your own pace. Once you’re finished packing, U-Box will pick up the container and transport it to your new home, where you can unpack on your own schedule.
Additionally, U-Haul offers Moving Help, which provides professional moving labor to help you with delivery and loading or unloading your U-Box container. This means you don’t have to worry about lifting heavy furniture or navigating staircases, as the Moving Helpers will handle it for you. This can save you time, energy, and most importantly peace of mind.
Overall, using U-Box and Moving Help can be a smooth and efficient option for those needing to move by themselves.
How Do I Plan for a Move by Myself?
The key to planning for a move by yourself is to start early and stay organized. Create a checklist for packing, moving, and make sure you have all the necessary supplies and equipment on hand.
How Do I Move Heavy Items by Myself?
Moving heavy items by yourself can be challenging, but a dolly or hand truck can certainly make the process easier. You also may want to consider disassembling larger items like furniture to make them easier to move.
What Should I Do If I Need Help During the Move?
If you need help during the move, and family or friends are unavailable – don’t be afraid to consider hiring professional movers. When you hire professional moving help, they can assist with the more challenging aspects of the move, such as moving heavy furniture or safely transporting items through stairways.