As the semester comes to a close, and summer is fast approaching, many of us will be moving away. Some of us may be moving away from Columbia for good, and everyone is dreading moving all of their stuff. Here are five tips on how to make your move a little breezier.

1. Move Early

   If you will be traveling early before a final move, make sure you take advantage of this opportunity. Pack up your car with all of the things that you don’t use (and we all have things around the house that have only occupied space over the years). Pack things like winter clothes, furniture, kitchen utensils, etc. There are very few things you will need in the last couple of weeks before your big move. You will be surprised how much space you will save by moving early. Your room may feel emptier, but your final move will be extremely more comfortable.

2. Boxes, boxes, and more boxes

   If there is one thing I have learned from all of my move ins and outs it’s never underestimate how many boxes you will need. Go to stores early and start collecting boxes like it’s your job because, trust me, you will need them. There is nothing worse than having to take 300 trips carrying tiny gift bags of knick knacks in from your car all day.
   

3. Get a helper

   Chances are you have a boyfriend/girlfriend, parent, friend or roommate that is willing to help you move. When it comes to moving down or up stairs and heavy lifting, you are going to need a helping hand. Recruit people to help you early, and the more the merrier. Guys tackle heavy furniture and girls tackle organizing everything out of the way.
   

4. Triple check your work

   More than likely, you have stored some things in places that are even hard for you to find. Do whatever you can to make sure not to leave anything behind. If this means making lists of areas to check than so be it. What you don’t want is to have finally gotten where you’re going, and forgotten a family heirloom or something valuable. Make sure you look in every storage area of your previous residence. If you forget something, you’re choices are make another trip to get it, or leave it behind. Make sure you don’t have to make a decision like that.
   

5. Make it fun!

   For some of you, you have been living in your Columbia house, apartment, condominium, duplex, etc. for years now. Although I’m sure you are moving on to bigger and better things, your are leaving a home behind. Make sure you document your last days in this home and your move. Take pictures, order pizza, blast some music. Do whatever it takes to make sure you and your helpers enjoy moving. It doesn’t have to be a miserable day! Take your time saying goodbye to this place. I’m sure you had made some memories.

Good luck moving everyone!!