Moving can be stressful for anyone, but when you have a large family, the process can feel overwhelming. With multiple schedules to coordinate, a large number of belongings to pack, and different needs to consider, staying organized is essential. With this in mind, we at Prodigy Moving & Storage would like to share how to keep your move efficient, stress-free, and well-structured when you have a big household.
How to Move a Large Family
1) Create a Moving Plan and Timeline. Start planning your move at least two months in advance. With a large family, there are many moving parts, so having a detailed timeline will help keep everything on track. Outline key dates for packing, decluttering, notifying important parties, and moving day logistics. Assign responsibilities to different family members to make the workload more manageable.
2) Declutter and Downsize. The more people in your family, the more stuff you have. Before you start packing, go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. Have each family member sort through their own belongings and set limits on what they can bring. Consider holding a yard sale to lighten the load and make some extra cash before the move.
3) Create a Color-Coded Packing System. A large family means lots of boxes, so labeling them clearly is crucial. Use different-colored stickers or markers for each family member’s belongings and for different rooms. This system makes it easier to identify boxes when unpacking and helps movers place them in the correct locations. Keep a master list of what’s in each box for easy reference.
4) Pack One Room at a Time. Packing can quickly become chaotic when you have a big family, so focus on one room at a time. Start with non-essential areas like guest rooms, seasonal storage, or basements before moving to everyday spaces like the kitchen and bedrooms. Encourage older kids to pack their own belongings while supervising younger children’s packing.
5) Keep Essential Items Accessible. With a large family, there are daily necessities that you’ll need easy access to during the move. Pack an “essentials box” for each family member with toiletries, medications, important documents, chargers, and a few days’ worth of clothes. Also, prepare a family essentials kit with snacks, cleaning supplies, paper towels, toilet paper, and basic kitchen items.
6) Assign Age-Appropriate Moving Tasks. Involve your kids in the moving process by giving them tasks that match their abilities. Older children can help pack, label boxes, and carry small items, while younger ones can be responsible for packing their toys. Giving everyone a role makes the process faster and keeps kids engaged.
7) Plan for Moving Day Logistics. A large family means extra coordination on moving day. Consider hiring a babysitter or asking a family member to watch younger children so they stay safe and out of the way. If you have pets, arrange for a pet sitter or secure a safe area for them. Make sure everyone has assigned travel arrangements and knows their responsibilities.
8) Set Up Your New Home Efficiently. Once you arrive at your new home, prioritize setting up common areas like the kitchen and bathrooms first. Use your color-coded system to place boxes in the right rooms. Have a designated “unpacking day” where the whole family helps organize the new space.
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Moving with a large family takes extra planning, but with the right strategies, it can be an organized and smooth experience. By decluttering, packing systematically, and involving everyone in the process, you’ll make the transition easier for the whole family. Call Prodigy Moving & Storage to help you with a smooth move.