Simply put: Moving is stressful. And if you’re experiencing stress and anxiety related to your move, you’re not alone. In fact, according to a 2024 research survey about moving stress, 27% of respondents said that moving was even more overwhelming than losing a job. To help with the adjustment, here are our tips on how to cope with moving stress before, during, and after a move.
What Is Moving Stress?
Moving stress refers to the emotions and symptoms associated with the process of moving to a new home. Moving can be so stressful that it’s even included on the Social Readjustment Rating Scale (SRRS), which assesses life events that can significantly impact your well-being. Whether you’re moving for a new job, moving out of state, moving after a breakup or divorce, or relocating for the military, moving is undeniably stressful—and it’s important to take steps in advance to calm your nerves and make the transition as hassle-free as possible.
Causes of Moving Stress
Though everyone’s situation is unique, there are some general similarities in the anxieties brought about by moving. Here are some of the main causes of moving stress:
- Budgeting for moving expenses
- Coordinating logistics for moving to a new house or apartment
- Packing & unpacking
- Helping children, pets, or the elderly adjust
- Adapting to a new neighborhood
- Feeling displaced or uprooted
- Changes in routine
Symptoms of Moving Stress
Small amounts of stress can actually be helpful for meeting deadlines or accomplishing complex tasks—but an overwhelming amount can lead to harmful emotional, physical, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms of stress before, during, and after the move. Recognizing the symptoms can help you know when it’s time to step back and take a breath so you don’t lose steam or suffer burnout. The main symptoms of moving stress include:
- Inability to focus
- Forgetfulness
- Anxiety or depression
- Irritability
- Body aches & pains
- Changes in eating habits
- Fatigue or insomnia
How to Reduce Stress Before Moving Day
If you want to reduce relocation stress, start the process as early as possible so you can avoid the scramble of a last-minute move. The more you prepare, the better you’ll be able to manage your stress levels. Here’s what you can do before a move to lighten your load and make the process smooth and efficient:
- Come up with a moving timeline and moving budget—both for the overall moving process and for moving day itself.
- If possible, try to overlap the transition from your old home to your new home so you can move without feeling as rushed.
- Create a room-by-room moving checklist so you can rest easy knowing everything to be packed is accounted for.
- Keep important documents—like IDs, insurance papers, and financial records—in a safe place for peace of mind.
- Take care of critical moving updates—like forwarding your address and transferring utilities—as early as possible.
- Research your new location so you can prepare for travel logistics well in advance.
- Declutter your home and donate unwanted items before packing to reduce the amount you’ll have to move—or rent a storage unit to house items you won’t need right away.
- Acquire moving boxes and supplies early—and pack intentionally to make the unpacking process simpler.
- Ask your friends or family to help on moving day, or hire professional movers in advance for hassle-free loading and unloading.
- Take steps to prepare for moving with children and involve them in the process to help them feel less sad about moving.
- If moving with pets, locate a veterinarian near your new home to transfer your pet’s medical files, and prepare an overnight bag with their essentials for easy access.
- Step away for self-care when needed, and take plenty of breaks to reduce stress and avoid burnout.
How to Reduce Stress on Moving Day
As with many major life changes, moving doesn’t always go according to plan—there might be delays or setbacks, and that’s okay! With a few smart strategies, flexibility, and a positive mindset, you can take some chaos out of moving day and make it as stress-free as possible. Tackle moving day with confidence with these tips:
- Have backup plans for the move—including identifying alternative routes and locating nearby hardware stores for last-minute moving supplies.
- Pack an essentials bag with toiletries, chargers, snacks, and anything else you’ll want easy access to so you don’t have to rummage through boxes.
- Clear a path from each room to the moving truck to ensure safe and smooth maneuvering—and have special plans in place for moving large items, like refrigerators.
- Take breaks—sit down for a few minutes, practice deep breathing, stay hydrated, and prioritize your mental health.
- Play your favorite music during the moving process to keep your energy high and the mood light!
How to Reduce Stress After Moving Day
Unfortunately, the stress of moving doesn’t end immediately after move-in day—so you’ll need time to get settled into your new home. Here are some ways to reduce stress and feel more at home once you’ve moved:
- Create a fresh, familiar atmosphere using pleasant scents from candles, baked goods, and your favorite cleaning products.
- Ask for help with unpacking and organizing to make the process quicker and more enjoyable.
- Make the space feel homey before you’re fully unpacked by adding personal touches like photos, keepsakes, and cozy blankets and pillows.
- Maintain your old routines as much as possible in your new home to ease your transition.
- Invite friends and family over to make good memories in your new environment.
- Explore the area with your children and pets to discover fun local things to do and help familiarize them (and yourself) with the change.
- Get to know your neighbors and community members in your new city to feel more comfortable.
- Don’t hesitate to contact a mental health professional if you or someone in your family is having trouble adjusting to the move—it’s okay to ask for help!
***
Stressed about moving to a new home? Extra Space Storage has convenient self storage facilities across the nation to help make your moving process smooth and efficient. Find self storage near you!
