5 Tips to Help Make Moving Seamless and Stress-Free
Moving can be a stressful time, however, there are several things that you can do to make your move a smooth one. When you make the decision to put your home on the market or the decision to purchase a new home, I always tell clients "now is as good of a time as any to start packing and start purging." Remember, Rome was not built in a day and, unless you have to be out in a hurry, it's better to take your time and remember every little detail now, rather than coping with the moving blues later.
A Little Goes A Long Way
If at all possible, pace yourself when packing. It's better to pack a little at a time and make sure that nothing is forgotten than to hurry and try to get everything done in a day or two. I find that when you start with the least used items you do not even realize that they are packed, and then you can move on to the more common items you use repeatedly. In addition I love to tell clients my favorite motto, "pair like with like." This will help for labeling boxes and organization during the unpacking as well. Do not forget the details either, making sure to have your changed address, turn off or transfer your phone, internet, water, and cable services.
Have A Moving Sale
Get rid of everything that you do not need by having a moving sale. If you have not used it within a year, sell it. Otherwise, you will just end up with the same clutter in your new house. In addition, the more you sell, the less you will have to pack and move. Not to mention, moving can be expensive; so there's nothing wrong with learning a few extra bucks whenever possible. If it does not sell schedule your preferred donation company to come and pick up the left over items. This will prevent you from being tempted to just pack them up and bring them along.
Lists Are Your Friend!
Create a packing list. Lists help to remember things much easier by writing them down on paper as they come to mind. I am a huge fan of lists and with a little planning; they can organize the entire move. I suggest a shopping list, which will remind you of the running list of things you need to get, a to do list to remind of you of what you have yet to do and the best part is watching each step be marked off showing your progress .
Pack Lightly
Moving day is hard enough, so do not make it any worse by loading your arms with too much weight. If you pack light, it may cost you a little more footwork, but your body will thank you at the end of the day.
Pack Smart
Because of their design, boxes are easier to carry and provide an effective way to keep everything stored safely in its place. Rather than just piling everything into the car or U-Haul and hoping for the best, take the time to pack everything carefully (especially breakables) inside of a box. What will not fit, such as furniture and other household essentials, should be tied down and placed in a moving truck. Furniture pads are also a good idea to prevent damage during the move. Make sure you label each box with the contents of each box along with the room it will go in at the new home. This will make unpacking more efficient and save you time.