Moving is a big deal and, as such, can be responsible for causing a lot of stress. However, it doesn’t have to be this way: as with many long processes, you need some pre-planning to facilitate the process.
Plan: Make a Packing List To Facilitate The Move
Packing can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. You will find that a packing list helps you both going and coming – with the latter being when you’re ready to unpack and settle in your new place.
- Start by packing the items you use least often and save the items you use most for last.
- Label each box with a list of its contents and keep a copy of that list for yourself.
- Use bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and other packing materials to protect your belongings.
- If possible, try to pack items in their original boxes.
- Disassemble furniture and wrap it in moving blankets or sheets.
- Make sure you have plenty of tape, labels, and markers on hand before you start packing.
If you do all this, you’ll find the process of moving to be much more engaging – as well as easier. The organization will help you get into high gear.
Let the Professionals Handle The Move
Hire a moving company: This is often the best way to make sure your move goes smoothly. A professional moving company will have the experience and manpower to get your belongings from point A to point B without any hitches. They will also be able to provide you with insurance in case anything gets damaged during the move.
When looking for a moving company, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- The company’s experience and reputation.
- The size of the moving crew.
- The type of moving equipment they use.
- Whether or not they offer insurance.
It’s also a good idea to get quotes from a few different moving companies before making your decision.
Get Your Friends And Family Involved
If you’re moving on a budget, then you may want to consider getting your friends and family involved in the move. They can help with packing, lifting, and loading – as well as providing moral support. Just make sure that everyone knows what they’re doing beforehand so that the move goes smoothly.
Purge Your Belongings
One of the best ways to make moving easier is to get rid of stuff you don’t need or want before you even start packing. Go through your things and decide what you can live without – whether it’s clothes, books, knick-knacks, or furniture. The less stuff you have, the less there is to pack and move. And, who knows, getting rid of some of your things might even make you some money.
Pack An Essentials Box
This is a box (or bag) that you pack last and carry with you on moving day. It should contain everything you need to get by for the first few days in your new place – toiletries, clothes, medications, food, utensils, etc. Having an essentials box will make moving day less stressful and will help you get settled in more quickly.
Change Your Address
Don’t forget to change your address with the post office, your bank, and other institutions. You can do this online or at your local post office. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to do this – you don’t want your mail getting lost in the shuffle.
Update Your Contacts
Make sure your family and friends have your new address and phone number. You can update your contact information online or in your address book. You can use a free feature such as Google Calendar or Microsoft (almost everyone has an account at one or the other – or both). There are also paid apps that may do a superior job of this.
Pack a Moving Day Survival Kit:
This should include snacks, drinks, games, and anything else that will help keep you entertained and comfortable on moving day. Depending on the time of year you’re moving, you might also want to pack some sunscreen, bug spray, or a first-aid kit.
Make sure you have cash on hand: Moving day can be hectic, so it’s always good to have cash on hand in case you need it. You might need to tip the movers or buy something last-minute that you didn’t pack.
Ultimately…
The best way to make moving easier is to plan ahead and be prepared for anything that might come up. Make sure you have a list of all the things you need to do and take care of before the move. This way, you won’t be scrambling at the last minute and you’ll be less likely to forget something important.
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