Forget picture-perfect Pinterest moves. Here’s how to move like a real human—with a plan that works even if your boxes aren’t color-coded.
Let’s Get One Thing Straight: Moving Is Messy
Moving is one of life’s biggest logistical challenges. Whether you’re relocating down the street or across the country, it has a way of stirring up chaos, stress, and a whole lot of cardboard. And if you’ve ever fallen down the rabbit hole of “org porn” (those dreamy images of color-coded moving bins and neatly labeled cords), you know the pressure to do it perfectly is real.
But perfection is not the goal. Peace is.
At Buttoned Up, we believe in imperfect organization: doing what matters most, letting go of the rest, and creating systems that work for real life. Moving is the perfect time to practice that philosophy.
Step 1: Embrace the Power of the 80/20 Rule
In a move, not all tasks are created equal. According to the Pareto Principle, 20% of your efforts will drive 80% of your results. So let’s start there.
Your 20% “must-do” list might look like this:
- Lock in movers or a moving truck.
- Transfer utilities (electricity, internet, water).
- Pack essentials: clothes, kitchen basics, medications, important documents.
- Declutter 1-2 rooms before you pack—don’t move what you don’t need.
Ignore the Pinterest-perfect moving binder if that’s not your jam. Instead, jot this down on a sticky note. That’s enough.
Step 2: Let Go of the Labeling Obsession
Yes, labeling boxes is helpful. No, you don’t need matching washi tape and a spreadsheet.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Label by room and priority: “Kitchen – Open First” or “Bedroom – Winter Clothes.”
- Use bold black Sharpie on all sides.
- Take pictures of valuables in boxes if you’re anxious about damage.
That’s it. Simple. Clear. Done.
Step 3: Make Room for the Messy Middle
There will be a moment in the move—probably in week two—where everything feels like it’s everywhere, and you can’t find your toothbrush. Expect this moment. Budget time for it. And please: don’t judge yourself for it.
Instead of aiming for pristine, aim for functional chaos:
- Create one “calm zone” (even if it’s just a clean corner with your coffee supplies).
- Keep one “catch-all” bin for the random stuff you find on moving day.
- Give yourself permission to shove stuff in a box and label it “figure out later.”
Step 4: Delegate Without the Guilt
You do not have to do this alone. In fact, trying to do it all yourself is a recipe for burnout and resentment.
If you’re moving with a partner, roommate, or family:
- Pick zones or responsibilities ahead of time.
- Agree that perfection isn’t the goal—completion is.
- Give each other grace. Moving brings out the messy side of all of us.
If you’re solo:
- Consider hiring help for a few hours—even if it’s just someone to clean after you leave.
- Ask a friend to bring over takeout and keep you company while you pack.
- Trade favors: “I’ll help you with your yard sale if you help me with kitchen boxes.”
Step 5: Pack a “Landing Box” You’ll Thank Yourself For
You’ll want one clearly labeled box that travels with you—not on the truck—that includes:
- Chargers
- A couple of utensils and paper plates
- One set of sheets and a towel
- Toilet paper
- Snacks
- Coffee and a mug (trust us)
- Cleaning wipes
- A small tool kit or box cutter
This is your “first 24 hours” kit. It will make your first night feel like less of a disaster.
Step 6: Re-Entry is Part of the Move
Once you’ve landed, expect the first few weeks to be wobbly. Resist the urge to unpack everything all at once. Focus on getting just three zones functional:
- Kitchen (coffee + utensils = sanity)
- Bathroom (shower + toothbrush = feeling human)
- Bedroom (sleep = everything)
Give yourself 30 days to feel settled—not 3.
TL;DR: Your Realistic Moving Checklist
✅ Prioritize the essentials (move the movers, not the monogrammed bins)
✅ Label for function, not perfection
✅ Expect the messy middle
✅ Delegate early and often
✅ Create one go-to “landing box”
✅ Unpack to functional, not finished
Final Thought: You’re Doing Better Than You Think
No matter how scattered it feels, if you’re showing up and doing one thing at a time, you’re winning. Moving isn’t about doing it perfectly. It’s about getting from here to there—with your sanity intact.
