Time to Hurry – How to Move in One Day

Usually, whether you are relocating inside Chicago or moving long distance, you would be able to plan out your move at least in a month, and it can still feel like not enough time. However, sometimes emergencies occur and you have to relocate unexpectedly. Moving your house in one day might sound like a horror story, but you can still manage a happy ending. Are you moving in one day? Don’t panic – with these tips and tricks, you will be able to relocate quickly and minimize stress.

Get Rid of Non-Essentials

Whatever you can give or must throw away quickly – now is the best time to do so. Decluttering before moving is essential, and do it as organized as possible in this short time. You will do yourself a big favor.

Tips for Decluttering in a Hurry:

• Focus on high-clutter areas like closets, kitchens, and garages.
• Use large trash bags to quickly separate items for donation, disposal, or recycling.
• Skip any sentimental or “maybe I’ll use this later” items—be decisive!

Decluttering before packing will make the process more efficient and leave you with fewer items to transport.

Pack Strategically

In a one-day move, packing strategically is non-negotiable. Simply throwing everything into boxes and bags will create chaos during unpacking and leave you overwhelmed in your new space. Instead, take a few minutes to plan how you’ll organize your packing.

How to Pack Quickly and Efficiently:

• Prioritize essential items that you’ll need immediately in your new home.
• Use labels or color-coded tape to identify which room each box belongs to.
• Consolidate similar items together—kitchen supplies, clothes, electronics, etc.—to simplify unpacking.
• Donate or discard perishable food or pantry items that can’t be easily transported.

Start As Early As Possible

When moving on a tight schedule, every minute counts. Begin as early as possible to maximize your time and avoid last-minute chaos. Early preparation will also allow you to adjust if unexpected challenges arise.

Early Morning Checklist:

• Make a quick plan for the day, breaking tasks into manageable chunks.
• Call for assistance—whether from friends, family, or a professional moving company. Some Chicago movers specialize in last-minute relocations and can be lifesavers.
• Gather all necessary supplies: boxes, tape, trash bags, markers, and any tools for disassembling furniture.

Pack Room by Room

When you tackle one room at a time, especially when you’re in a hurry, you won’t get confused with packing or labeling. When you finish one room, get to the other and repeat until you are done.

Step-by-Step Room Packing:

• Start with rooms that contain non-essentials, like guest bedrooms or storage spaces.
• Save high-traffic areas, like kitchens and bathrooms, for last since you’ll need access to them until the final moments.
• Label boxes or bags as you finish each room to keep track of contents.

Completing one area at a time will give you a sense of accomplishment and help maintain focus during the chaos.

Improvise Packing Materials

When time is tight, you might not have access to standard packing materials like moving boxes. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives you can use to get the job done.

Creative Packing Solutions:

• Use suitcases, duffel bags, and backpacks to pack clothes, books, and smaller items.
• Pack clothes directly in trash bags or leave them on hangers and cover them with a large plastic bag for easy transport.
• Use towels, blankets, and sheets as padding for fragile items like dishes and electronics.
• Sturdy storage bins or laundry baskets can double as makeshift moving containers.

By thinking outside the box (literally), you’ll save time and resources.

Consider Professional Help

Even for a last-minute move, professional movers can be a game-changer. Many moving companies in Chicago offer same-day or expedited services, providing trained labor to assist with packing, loading, and transportation.

Benefits of Hiring Pros:

• They bring the necessary equipment and expertise to handle heavy or delicate items.
• Professionals work quickly and efficiently, saving you time and effort.
• You can focus on other urgent tasks while the movers handle the heavy lifting.

If hiring a moving company isn’t an option, ask friends or family for help to speed up the process.

Conclusion

Relocating in just one day might sound daunting, but with careful planning and the right approach, it’s entirely possible. Declutter ruthlessly, pack strategically, and tackle one room at a time to stay organized. Start early, make use of unconventional packing materials, and don’t hesitate to call for help if needed. With these tips, you’ll turn what seems like an impossible task into a smooth and successful move.

Good luck and happy moving!