So, here's the deal: I've got OCD, and I've moved enough times to consider bubble wrap a personality trait. I'm pretty sure I've packed boxes in my sleep at this point. But no matter how many times I do it, every move still throws me off completely.
There are random people poking through my stuff, and I'm just standing there wondering if I'll ever feel clean again or if this is just my new normal. It's not just annoying—it feels like someone ripped the rug out from under me and then lit it on fire for good measure.
But, hey, here's what I figured out, the hard way: pretending my OCD doesn't exist during a move never works. I had to build a process that actually fits how my brain is wired, without letting OCD run the whole show.
Honestly, the one thing that saved my sanity? I started thinking of packing like I was setting up a science lab. Everything gets a spot. There's a system. So if your brain works anything like mine, here's what actually helped, without feeding the part of OCD that wants to double-check forever.
Cardboard boxes? Anxiety traps, straight up. You close them and boom, instantly forget about what's inside. Clear plastic bins are my MVPs. You can see everything. No need to open and re-open just to check if your favorite mug is in there or if it's in the void.
Plus, they stack so nicely. It's weirdly satisfying.
And I don't mean just "kitchen" or "bathroom" scribbled in mystery handwriting. I use the same Sharpies, same spot on the box, same everything. I color code by room: blue for the bathroom, green for the bedroom… you get it. The consistency is what chills my brain out.
That said, labeling is a tool, not a trap. If you feel like you're getting stuck relabeling or checking over and over, pause. That might be OCD creeping in, not forgetfulness. I've started giving myself one check and then letting it go. It's helped a lot.
I use my phone's Notes app, but go wild with sticky notes or the back of a receipt if you prefer that. Doesn't have to be fancy, just write down what's inside as you pack. Something like:
Box 2:
• Toothbrush (brand new)
• Phone charger (the good one)
• That random kitchen drawer junk (cleaned and bagged)
Just don't overthink it. A quick list helps, but going overboard with every single item or category can just make things feel heavier. Keep it simple. Done is better than perfect.
Once a bin is packed, labeled, and listed, I literally say, "This box is done." Out loud. It might sound weird, but who cares? It helps me stop opening it up ten more times to double-check. It's like a little ritual for closure, and honestly, I need all the closure I can get.
If you find yourself wanting to reopen it "just one more time," that's probably OCD talking. One check is enough. You've got this.
Every time I try to pack from five places at once, I want to scream. Now I force myself to finish one area before moving on. Bathroom shelf? Done. THEN the bedroom closet. Otherwise, my brain feels like it's running twelve tabs at once and none of them are loading.
This is the bag or bin that never leaves your side. I put everything I know I'll panic if I don't have: meds, charger, snacks, wipes, hoodie, headphones, whatever. It's like my emotional support box. Everything else can go in the truck, but this stays with me.
This one changed everything: I set up one table or counter as my "clean zone". Think of it like how scientists have a clean workspace in a lab where everything has its place and stays super controlled. So I set up my own version at home.
Only clean and finished stuff goes on the table. I keep sticky notes nearby so I can keep track of everything and to give myself a few little rules. Stuff like "no reopening boxes once they're sealed" and "only handle one box at a time." It gives me structure when everything else feels like chaos.
I've started doing this quick grounding thing:
It gives me something real to focus on when I'm starting to spin.
If you need to wipe down every mug before packing, do it. If you want to label stuff six different ways, go for it. If you gotta give the movers a whole PowerPoint about how to handle your stuff, more power to you.
Just check in with yourself. Are your routines helping you feel safer or are they starting to stress you out even more? Rituals aren't bad, but they should be tools, not chains.
I've learned the hard way that even the best packing system can fall apart if the movers aren't on board. For my last move, I used LocalMovers.com to find movers who actually listened to what I needed.
You can find movers who'll actually respect your routines, follow your instructions, and recognize that your system isn't over the top—it's what helps you stay sane. If your brain needs order to stay calm, it's worth finding movers who won't make that harder.
If your OCD is in overdrive during a move, you are not alone. This stuff is hard. And while systems help, they're not everything.
I've learned that talking to a therapist, especially one familiar with ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention), can be a game-changer. It's not about ignoring your OCD. It's about not letting it take over.
No move has ever gone 100% to plan. Some boxes got mixed up. I lost a spatula. It rained on my hoodie. It happens. But I'm learning to focus on progress, not perfection, because sanity > spatulas, every time.
Don't let your OCD turn moving day into a nightmare. Connect with movers who understand that your systems aren't "extra" – they're essential.
Professional service that respects your routines and reduces your stress
Remember: Your brain works the way it works, and that's not something to apologize for. The right moving strategy and the right team can make all the difference between a chaotic disaster and a move that actually goes smoothly.
We’re here to help you find the moving company that’s perfect for your needs, with the right support from the start.
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