Moving out can be a tremendously liberating event. The promise of a new beginning in a better home is definitely something to look forward to. However, there is a lot of work involved in ensuring that your move is successful. There are dozens of details to take care of and missing out on any one of them can have an impact on your move. Here are some tips that will help ensure your readiness come moving day.
Plan ahead
It goes without saying, but you should prepare for your move as well in advance as possible. This goes for packing up your stuff and getting your affairs in order. The sooner you take care of the big tasks, the more time you will have for the details…and there will definitely be details!
Get your packing materials ready
You will need plenty of materials for packing up your stuff, and you definitely want them handy right when you need them. You will need to purchase plenty of boxes (more than you think you will need), packaging tape, some twine, bubble wrap, Styrofoam pellets, markers, box cutters, and more. You might want to spend a day or two just making boxes, or you could have someone make the boxes while you fill them up.
Keep track of your stuff while packing
The best way to go about filling up your boxes is to arrange the items that should go together in groups. You can have a pile of books for instance, or you could stack all your plates on top of each other. This will help you visualize how much box space you will actually need. This will also make it easier for you to keep track of what each box contains.
Make a catalog of your boxes and their contents
Unpacking your stuff at the new home can be a nightmare if you don’t know where anything is. This is why you should take note of the contents of each box as you seal them. Each box should also be numbered and cataloged in a list along with a breakdown of the contents. This will save you the trouble of having to remember whether the coffeemaker is in box number 12 or box number 22.
Arrange for the movers well in advance
Don’t wait until the day before your move to arrange for a moving service. Some firms may be fully booked at certain times of the year, and you may find yourself having to scramble for a last-minute replacement. This can end up costing you a lot more money.
Make sure that someone is at the new home to meet the movers
You will need someone to open the door for the movers and to keep an eye on the unloading. Keep in mind that movers won’t have nearly as much concern as you over your stuff, so a little on-site monitoring might be in order. Being present during the unloading will also allow you to direct the movers to certain rooms as the truck is unloaded.