12 tips for moving during pregnancy
Moving house while pregnant is possible if you prioritize your health and organize the process calmly. This guide offers 12 tips for moving during pregnancy that will help you reduce physical exertion, delegate tasks you shouldn't do, and arrive peacefully at your new home.
1. Arm yourself with patience and plan in phases.
Moving is a demanding process; take it calmly. Divide tasks into phases ( choosing the moving package , clearing, sorting, packing by room, labeling, moving, unpacking) and proceed at a sustainable pace. It's better to take it "step by step" than to make an intense effort that leaves you exhausted.
- Schedule short sessions (45–60 min) in your calendar with breaks in between.
- Start with what you use the least and save the essentials for last.
- Label boxes with room number and priority (high/medium/low).
2. Dress comfortably: wear clothes and shoes that allow you to move easily.
Wear loose, breathable clothing that allows you freedom of movement. Wear closed, stable footwear to avoid slipping and tie up your hair if it bothers you. Moving during pregnancy is better managed if you feel comfortable and safe.
- Avoid slippery soles and clothing that makes you feel hot or restricts you.
- Keep a light jacket handy in case the temperature or currents change.
3. Prioritize your health and the baby's health (don't lift heavy weights)
Although you can help with many tasks, do not carry boxes or move furniture . Direct, organize, and delegate anything that requires physical effort. Remember: the boxes can wait; your well-being and the baby's come first.
- Reserve safe tasks: classify, label, coordinate, open/organize light boxes.
- If you don't have help, consider hiring a moving company for the heavy lifting.
- If you experience dizziness, fatigue, or pain: stop, rest, and hydrate.
Note: Always consult your healthcare professional if you have any doubts about exertion or symptoms.
4. Rely on family or professional help.
You are pregnant, not sick, but there are tasks you shouldn't do. Ask for help with loading and moving. If you don't have support nearby, consider hiring a moving company for heavy items and logistics.
- Delegate tasks such as lifting boxes, moving furniture, and going up/down stairs.
- Save the light tasks for yourself: classifying, labeling, coordinating.
5. Rest regularly and listen to your body.
Schedule frequent breaks both during the preparation and on the day of the move. If you notice fatigue, dizziness, or discomfort, stop immediately and resume when you feel able.
- Use reminders every 45–60 minutes to take breaks.
- Have a quiet place available to sit or lie down.
6. Stay hydrated and eat light meals to maintain energy.
Take advantage of breaks to drink water and eat healthy snacks. Staying hydrated will make moving during pregnancy more manageable.
- Water, fruit, nuts, or yogurt as quick snacks.
- Avoid going many hours without eating.
7. Move around and change your posture to activate circulation.
If you spend a lot of time in the same position, change your posture and walk for a few minutes. In advanced stages of pregnancy, legs and feet may swell: gentle movement helps.
- Alternate between sitting and walking briefly around the house.
- Raise your legs during breaks if you need to.
8. Keep your mobile phone handy for emergencies and notes.
Keep your phone in your pocket or hanging around your neck to ask for help if you feel dizzy or need to stop. Also use it to write down pending tasks (donations, canceling services, defrosting the refrigerator).
9. Check the hospital bag and pregnancy papers.
Don't lose sight of them or put them in stacked boxes. Leave your suitcase and documentation in a visible and accessible place in case of any unforeseen event.
- Label the suitcase as " Immediate Access ".
- Includes health card, documents, and essentials for 24–48 hours.
10. Lead and organize: you decide, others carry out.
Coordinate with family, friends, or professionals, indicating where each box should go. Label each box with the room and whether it's fragile, and prioritize what requires more care.
- Use colored markers for "fragile," "high priority," "low priority."
- Take photos of installations (cables/plugs) before disassembling.
11. Avoid ladders and unstable heights, especially if you are alone.
Even if it seems like a short height, the risk increases during pregnancy. If you need to reach something high, ask for help or use safe tools (never improvised chairs).
12. Take the "nest syndrome" philosophically.
It's normal to want to get everything perfect, but don't put too much pressure on yourself. You'll get there, and things will fall into place later. The important thing is your well-being and the baby's.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving During Pregnancy
Is it safe to move while pregnant?
Yes, with planning, rest, and avoiding strenuous activities like weightlifting. If you experience any symptoms or have any doubts, consult your healthcare professional.
What should a pregnant woman not do during a move?
Avoid carrying boxes or moving furniture, climbing to unstable heights, and spending many hours without resting, eating, or hydrating.
When is the best time to move during pregnancy?
It depends on each case. Many families prefer the second trimester due to higher energy levels. If it's in the third trimester, plan extra breaks and delegate more tasks.
How to organize the boxes to make it easier when they arrive?
Label by room and priority, use color codes, and prepare a "first night box" with essentials so you don't have to search.
Quick Checklist for Moving While Pregnant
- Plan with phases and scheduled breaks.
- Comfortable and safe clothing and footwear
- Delegate load and height; you coordinate.
- Hydration and snacks on hand
- Move around and change your posture.
- Mobile device accessible for emergencies and notes
- Hospital bag and papers located.
- Boxes labeled by room and priority.
- Avoid unstable ladders/heights
