Between creating a packing list, hiring movers, sorting everything out and packing for the move the moving experience can get overwhelming.
Waiting until the last minute to develop your moving plan can cause even more chaos. Here are some essential steps to include in your planning process.
1. Create a Moving Timeline
One of the keys to staying organized is to put all of the elements down in writing. Develop a list and assign completion dates for each task.
The moving process should start as early as possible and having a moving timeline to follow will help keep you on track. You can download one online then personalize it for your needs.
2. Inquire About Local Moving Companies
Securing a moving company is one of the first and most important steps in moving. It’s ideal to start searching approximately two months before your move.
Do some online research on local movers. Look for a moving company in good standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Look for a moving company that is well established and has been in business for a number of years, and confirm that online reviews are positive.
Make sure the company is licensed and that the workers are bonded and insured. Check out the website of each moving company to learn more about their services.
Once you have focused your list, contact the company for an estimate.
3. Purge Unnecessary Items
Before packing up all your belongings, take the time to sort through everything and purge items you no longer use or need.
Depending on how much stuff you have to get rid of and how much time you have, consider having a garage sale. Another way to make a little money from the sale of items it to place them on online websites or apps like eBay or Poshmark.
Or you can always donate old clothes and toys to charities like Goodwill and Salvation Army.
Finally, start finishing up any perishable foods because you won’t be able to move those items.
4. Begin Packing
If you prefer not to do the packing yourself, contact your moving company to inquire about their packing services.
If you opt to pack your own belongings rather than hire professional packers, you should start the process at least a month before the big day. Commit to packing a few boxes every day.
Holiday decorations, seasonal clothing, dress attire can be packed days or weeks in advance. Items you need daily should be packed as close to your moving date as possible.
Keep items from one room packed together in the same boxes. Label each box appropriately and label each side of the box. Make sure items are secure in the box by filling up any empty space with packing paper.
5. Pack an Essentials Box
Pack a box that will stay with you that includes important items for your first night and day in your new home.
Ideally, this essentials box will include necessities like medication, toiletries, bedding, snacks, paper towels, soap, cleaning supplies, garbage bags and a toolkit. Think about would items you will want to have on hand with easy accessibility. Pack them in this essentials box so that you can have peace of mind.
6. Get the Word Out About Your Move
A month before moving, begin notifying others of your move. Fill out an online change-of-address form with the US Post Office.
Contact utility companies at your current address as well as new location. Arrange for utility services to be set up at your new address, and schedule the cancellation at your old address.
Inform all your family and friends about your new address as well. Provide them with your new contact information via email or text.
Final Thoughts
Remember to begin your moving process early and implement a timeline plan. With these moving steps, your move is sure to be a success!
Do you need help with your move, contact us for a free quote today!