Moving is already a stressful process, but when you’re short on time, the pressure can feel overwhelming. Whether your lease is ending, you’ve accepted a last-minute job offer, or life threw you a curveball, a quick relocation doesn’t have to be a chaotic mess. With the right mindset and a clear plan, you can pull off a successful move, even on a tight timeline.

At Austin Moving & Storage, we’ve helped countless clients manage last-minute moves with efficiency and ease. Learn from our top 10 expert-approved tips for navigating your short-notice move with confidence.

1. Plan, Don’t Panic

Time is of the essence when prepping for a last-minute move, but rushing in without a plan leads to forgotten tasks and more stress. First and foremost, take a moment to breathe, grab a notepad, and map out your move. Jot down everything you need to do, like packing, hiring movers, canceling utilities, and changing your address. Once you’ve established the necessary tasks, prioritize your to-do list by what’s most urgent.

Pro Tip: Create a moving timeline with daily goals. Even two or three solid days of planning and packing can make a huge difference.

2. Hire Professional Movers ASAP

In a time crunch, professional movers can be a lifesaver. They save you time, reduce physical labor, and streamline the process. But don’t delay, as moving companies can book up fast, especially during peak seasons. 

What to do:

  • Call reputable movers as soon as possible. You may need to search harder for movers with availability on short notice, but still be sure to vet your options properly to ensure you work with a reputable company.
  • Ask about availability, services, and last-minute options.
  • Be flexible with your exact move date and time if possible to increase your chances of securing help.

3. Pack a Little Every Hour

When you can’t dedicate full days to packing, breaking the process into manageable chunks can make a world of difference. Set a timer for 30 to 60 minutes and tackle one area at a time, whether it’s a closet, a drawer, or a shelf. Even small sprints can help you pack your entire home more efficiently. As you pack, get creative! Use trash bags, baskets, or boxes you already have to make progress if you need more supplies.

Packing in bursts keeps the process moving forward and minimizes fatigue.

4. Separate Your Essentials

Your absolute essentials, which are the ones you use daily or will need immediately after moving, should be kept out of boxes and instead in a bag that will stay with you throughout the move. This includes clothes, toiletries, medications, chargers, and important documents.

An effective way to tackle this step is to create a “go bag” similar to a carry-on for a trip. You’ll thank yourself later when everything else is still boxed up, as you’ll have easy access to the items you really need.

5. Declutter Ruthlessly

With limited time, you don’t want to waste energy moving items you don’t need. Quickly assess what you can toss, donate, or recycle. Although this can be a challenge, be decisive and let go of anything that no longer serves you.

Quick Decluttering Tips:

  • Use the “one-touch rule”: if you pick it up and don’t need it, get rid of it.
  • Don’t make multiple donation piles. Just pack items into bags and take them directly to a donation center.
  • Ask friends or family to help carry off donations or take trash to the curb.

6. Use What You Have

If you don’t have time to buy packing supplies, creativity will make a huge difference. Suitcases, laundry baskets, grocery totes, trash bags, and even dresser drawers can be used to transport your belongings.

As you tackle fast-paced packing, make sure to pack smart:

  • Wrap fragile items in towels or clothing.
  • Use socks to protect glassware.
  • Stack books in rolling suitcases for easier moving.

7. Label as You Go

Even in a rush, don’t skip labeling, as this will only create more stress in the long run. Labeling will ultimately save you countless headaches when unpacking. Take time to clearly mark boxes with what’s inside and where it goes (e.g., “Kitchen – Plates & Mugs”).

Use a bold marker and label on multiple sides for visibility. Color-coding by room is also helpful if you have time. 

8. Ask for Help

When the clock is ticking, don’t try to do everything alone, as this will only result in more stress. Reach out to friends, family, or neighbors to assist with packing, lifting, or errands. Most people are happy to help when asked, especially if you offer snacks or pizza in return.

Divide and conquer:

  • Assign each helper a specific room or task.
  • Have one person pack, another wrap breakables, and someone else carry donations. Once you’re running like a well-oiled machine, the process will be much smoother.

9. Handle Utilities and Address Changes Quickly

It’s easy to forget the logistical elements of a move when you’re rushing, but you’ll need to transfer or cancel utilities like electricity, gas, water, and internet as soon as possible. Additionally, don’t forget to update your address with USPS, banks, and subscription services, either, as this will ensure you don’t miss any important communications.

Checklist:

  • Call current and new utility providers.
  • Change your address online at USPS.com.
  • Notify your employer.

10. Stay Flexible and Positive

A last-minute move rarely goes perfectly, and that’s okay. Be prepared for delays, hiccups, or unexpected changes. The key to success is staying adaptable and moving forward.

Maintain the right mindset:

  • Focus on progress, not perfection. It may not go as smoothly as you want, but with the right approach, you can have a successful move.
  • Celebrate each completed task to boost morale!
  • Keep your end goal in mind: settling into a new space.

Prepare for Your Last-Minute Relocation

Moving on short notice may seem daunting, but it’s entirely doable with the right support and strategy. At Austin Moving & Storage, we specialize in making moves smooth and stress-free, no matter how fast or complicated. As the best movers in Nassau County, we offer a variety of services, including packing and storage, to ensure your relocation is streamlined and successful. Need help with your last-minute move? Request a free quote online or call us today to see what we can do as your Long Island movers!