How to Prepare for a Big Move
Moving is both exciting and challenging. There’s a lot to do and often little time to get it done. When you’re preparing to move, there are a lot of moving parts. We’ve set out to provide a guide to help you get ready so that when moving day comes, you’re less stressed and ready to get the job done!
Where to Start
As with all big projects, it’s important to begin with budgeting. You’ll need packing supplies. Do you need to purchase them or can you get some of the boxes free? Will you be hiring movers or renting a truck? Do you want to get moving insurance? Think through the process and estimate the costs associated with moving. Considering these factors ahead of time will help you with your decision making as you progress with the move. Set a timeline for decluttering, packing, and cleaning. Give yourself more than enough time to pack — it may take longer than you expect. Include time for cleaning the new place before you bring everything in. This will save you time later.
Planning Ahead
Hiring a Moving Company
Before you Google movers in your area, ask friends for recommendations. This will give you somewhere to begin your research. Read reviews from Google, Angie’s List, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Find out how long the movers have been in business — experience is important. Get estimates from three companies. Be wary of any unusually low estimates. This is a red flag and may indicate either low-quality services or a push for additional charges after the move. Reputable movers do not ask for payment or deposits in advance of services rendered. Protect yourself from fraudulent activity by paying with a credit card upon delivery of services.
Moving Yourself
If your budget can’t withstand a moving company, find friends who are willing to help you move. Make sure they are committed to your day and time and can spend adequate time getting you into your new place. And make sure you have friends who are ready to wrestle furniture up and down stairs! There are several moving truck rental companies available. Some offer free days, unlimited miles, and other perks. Research the companies the same way you researched movers, by asking for recommendations, checking reviews, and getting estimates.
Packing Supplies
The basic packing supplies you’ll need are boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape. You can purchase these, or if you want to save money, check Craigslist or Freecycle. People often list their packing supplies for free or sale after a move. Just be careful to check the structural integrity of any boxes that have already been used. You’ll also need a marker and colored stickers (optional). The marker is to label the boxes as you pack them, so you know what’s inside. The colored stickers color-code the boxes to the rooms they belong in.
Decluttering
Why move things you don’t need or want? Start decluttering now so you are only moving the items you want in your new home. Try going room-by-room to organize the process. It will be less overwhelming and more structured. Rent a dumpster to efficiently dispose of all the furniture and junk you don’t want to move to the new house. This will keep things clean and help you focus on your tasks. Anything you don’t discard may be able to go into a pile for donation. Donate items as soon as you are done decluttering so that you don’t keep and pack them! Leave sentimental items for last. Those pictures, family heirlooms, and keepsakes may take more time and attention. Wait to do those until you’ve gotten into the groove of decluttering and are ready to take on the challenge. If you’re moving into a smaller place, measure furniture and other large items to be certain they will fit well. Anything that’s too big or worn out can go right in the dumpster.
Packing Process
Start packing a month before you are going to move. Store boxes in a spare room or garage. If you can’t start packing this early, do as much as you can ahead of time to eliminate stress on the day of the move. Pack the items you will absolutely need for the first few days in your new home in a box and keep it accessible. Include paper towels, toilet paper, phone chargers, trash bags, sheets, pillows, and anything else you need to use on a daily basis. This will make your first few days a little less hectic. Make packing clothing easy with trash bags. Leave the clothes right on the hangers and slide them into a large garbage bag. Tie the bag around the tops of the hangars. Clothes that are in drawers can stay right there for the move. Pack heavy items in smaller boxes or suitcases. They’ll be easier to carry and you won’t risk a box breaking from the weight. Label your boxes with details. Don’t just put the name of the room on the box — you’ll be in for frustration later on. Write a short list of items that are in the box, along with any special notes (fragile, needs to go in first, etc). Pack your tools last. You may need them for taking apart furniture or taking care of last-minute repairs. Make sure the tools come off the truck first, in case you need them when you get to your new home. We hope these tips help you have a less stressful move!