The Big Move

Whether you are downsizing, upsizing, moving for work or for another reason, making the move go as smoothly as possible is the main goal. Here are some tips to make things easier.

Don’t wait until the last minute to do everything. Things like setting up your utilities, moving your cable, phone, internet access and forwarding your mail need to be done ahead of time. Schedule movers or rent a truck and organize your friends and family to help you move. Create a timeline with each task and when it needs to be completed – and stick to it.

Make lists if you need them and check off tasks as you complete them. Keep your lists and timeline together so you can easily find them.

Get measurements for the new home and make sure your furniture will fit into the space. This is especially important when downsizing. Large pieces of furniture might not make the move. Some clothing might have to be donated so you’ll have room for what you take.

Go through your clothing, makeup, kids’ toys, shoes, pet toys, kitchen items and everything else. Get rid of things you don’t use and clothes that don’t fit. It will save you time and money to get rid of things before you move instead of paying (money and effort) to move them. The less you take, the easier moving will be.

Start by packing seasonal items that you won’t be using before you move. The more you can get accomplished ahead of time, the better. Save the most used things for the end. Start collecting boxes as soon as possible so you don’t need to purchase them.

Gather markers, tape and labels for the boxes. Save newspapers and bubble wrap for more delicate items. Zip lock bags work well for moving groups of small items.

Be specific when you label boxes so you can find and unpack the most important things first. If you are really organized, use different colored markers or stickers for each room so you know exactly where to unload the boxes in your new home.

You can create a #1 box, that will be opened first with your most used items. It might contain your daily cosmetics, toothbrush, toilet paper, coffee maker, shower curtain, linens and anything else you’ll need on day one.

When you unplug and pack your electronics, make sure you know which cords go with each component. By labeling everything, it will be easier to put everything back together when you arrive at your new place. Those little plastic tabs that come with a loaf of bread can be used to clip onto wires and mark them to identify where they go.

As always, if you need help with an upcoming move, please contact me. I want to help make your move as easy and stress free as possible.