Whether by circumstance or by design, some new homebuyers find themselves needing to pack up and move in a week — or less! While a short timeline can seem overwhelming, experts say it can be done.

To gather these hurried moving tips, we consulted Ann Hoke, a leading real estate agent in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, specializing in single-family homes with a remarkable 74% more listings than her peers. We also sought advice from Andrea VanHorn, a seasoned military wife with extensive experience in quick moves. Both experts emphasize the importance of strategic planning to alleviate stress during rapid relocations.

18 Essential Tips for a Quick and Smooth Move

1. Plan ahead (as much as you can!): Organize your thoughts and supplies before diving into tasks. Sort supplies, gather food, and get packing materials ready.

2. Keep a running checklist: Write down to-dos on paper or your phone to stay focused and efficient during a rush. Include tasks like calling utilities, updating addresses, and more.

3. Ask for help: Assemble your moving squad early, whether it's friends or movers. Assign clear tasks to each helper to save time and avoid confusion.

4. Take photos: Capture configurations and setups in your current home before packing, ensuring everything is remembered when setting up your new place.

5. Sort the big items first: Identify which furniture and appliances will move with you and start rehoming or donating what you don't need.

6. Pack your 'overnight' bag: Prepare essentials like clothing, medications, ID, gadgets, toiletries, and important documents to have during the move.

7. Set aside your cleaning supplies: Keep your cleaning supplies accessible for the final cleaning of your current residence.

8. Tackle the delicate stuff: Handle fragile items and artwork first and move them out of the way. Use soft packing material for extra protection.

9. Pull out your luggage: Utilize suitcases and duffle bags to pack items, especially breakable or electronic ones, and use original packaging for odd-shaped items.

10. Pack (most of) the kitchen last: Save the bulk of your kitchen packing for last, but don't hesitate to pack little-used, specialty items in a lull.

11. Donate and toss as you pack: Quickly make decisions about keeping or tossing items. Move trash out immediately and ask a friend to drop off donations.

12. Clear one room at a time: Go room by room to maintain clarity and focus. Alternatively, divide tasks among helpers for efficient progress.

13. Load boxes wisely: Avoid making boxes too heavy and leave them open until they're full. Utilize color-coded tags for special handling instructions.

14. Keep items inside furniture if you can: Leave clothes in drawers, and secure tops and doors. Use hardside luggage for breakables and electronics.

15. Label everything clearly: Clearly mark destination rooms and major contents on boxes to simplify unpacking.

16. Establish a dedicated 'done' area: Create a space for packed boxes to keep track of progress and make the move-out process smoother.

17. Take one final look: Walk through each room to ensure nothing is left behind. Turn off lights and fans before leaving.

18. Don't be afraid of a quick move: Stay organized and reach out to your real estate agent for help if needed. You've got this!

Moving to a new home is undoubtedly an exciting chapter in life, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when time is of the essence. However, by implementing these 18 essential tips for a quick and smooth move, you can alleviate much of the stress and ensure a successful transition to your new abode. Starting with careful planning and organization, you'll be able to save valuable time later by sorting supplies, gathering food, and having packing materials at the ready. Keeping a running checklist will help you stay on top of tasks, and asking for help early on will ensure a reliable moving team. By taking photos before packing, you'll preserve important configurations and setups, while sorting big items first and donating or tossing unnecessary belongings will streamline the process. Additionally, packing strategically, labeling boxes clearly, and establishing a dedicated "done" area will help maintain order and focus during the move. Remember, with a positive mindset and some practical know-how, you can make your quick move a memorable and successful adventure. Happy moving!