These are the mistakes you don't want to make when moving

It's here, it happened: I. Moved. Holy guacamole, how relaxing, but at the same time I realized again that I really hate it. It's just not fun. Luckily, I had a strong brigade arranged who helped me with love (well, sort of) which made it go pretty smoothly. Yes, then you suddenly know who your friends are, huh: when they come to help you move and assemble furniture without complaining. Love for my friends.

But also with moving, a good start is half the work, so preparation is key. Also to reward those lovely helpers a bit. Therefore, here’s a nice checklist; the must-dos when you’re moving. This way you sleep extra well in your new casa.

1. Label. EVERYTHING. I always get so stressed with unpacking and I can't find things. Even something as silly as hair ties (unpacking with loose hair is very unrelaxed): write on every box, every bag what’s inside. It seems like an annoying task to do, and it is, but you won’t regret it.

2. Know the dimensions of your new house and where you want things to go. I used the site FloorPlanner for this, which is super handy and also quite addictive. I felt like a real architect. But hey, this way you’re sure that the couch really fits best against that one wall.

3. Make sure your internet is transferred and know what connection you have. My internet was transferred on time (and luckily that could still be done quite last-minute), but the connection was different... So I needed another cable again. Check whether your internet comes from an IS/RA point, coax, or directly from the meter cupboard.

4. Pack one box or bag with essential things. After the first day of assembling everything (but I also had almost all new furniture, so everything was a construction kit), I was really exhausted, and the wardrobe would come the next day. So it’s handy to have your stuff at hand, all together, what you need to get through that first night comfortably. Also, keep in mind all the waste you’ll have. I have so much cardboard left over, it’s unbelievable. I also have a couch and a table with dining chairs left over, which I can only put out for bulk waste on Sunday. So it’s handy to coordinate that a bit.

5. Last but certainly not least: take care of your ‘staff’, or those lovely friends who come to help you for free. Provide sandwiches, snacks, and something to drink. Of course, a drink when everything is done. In other words: that fridge must be completely filled.