Moving can be a difficult and stressful process, but the actual day can be downright overwhelming. It is possible that the stress level can be reduced with the proper planning and preparation. Knowing what you need to get done and in what order will put your mind at ease. Below are some pointers and reminders to help you throughout your moving process.
Remember, planning ahead is the key to maintaining your sanity and having a stress-free move!
Make A List
Write everything down! Before you pack anything, create a system. Number EVERY box you pack and write the contents on your list.
Supplies
You’ll need a lot of boxes and packing materials – more than you think. Set aside about 10 boxes for last minute moving day items. Tall wardrobe boxes are perfect for bulky, lightweight items like comforters, pillows, and clothes that need to remain hanging.
Mark & Set Aside Items You Don’t Want Loaded
This will remind you to tell the driver what not to pack as you conduct your preload walk-through. Make sure the important paperwork pertaining to your move doesn’t get packed and shipped with your household goods.
Keep Things Together
Keep light bulbs with lamps, picture hooks with pictures, etc.
Pack Early
If it’s not essential to daily living, pack it. Save time by packing everything you can ahead of time.
Cleaning Kit
Put together a kit of basic cleaning supplies for moving day clean up jobs.
Keep Valuables Safe
Keep valuable possessions like jewelry and family heirlooms with you. Check your homeowner’s insurance to see how they’re covered during the move. Keep important papers and phone numbers with you.
Prepare With Children
Have the kids pack a box of their “special” items, things that they’ll want to have nearby as soon as you arrive at your new home.
Point Out Essential Items
Set these items aside the day before the move. Then, once the mover arrives, point out items that are most special to you during the walk-through. Also, point out the boxes you would like to have unloaded first, if they are not going into storage. These boxes may include kitchen and bathroom items or your children’s toys.
Take Care Of Your Driver And Crew Members
Consider the needs of your driver and crew members! It is not necessary to prepare an elaborate meal, as this is the last thing you will have time for. Still, run out and get some breakfast rolls or cookies and order pizza for lunch. It’s a nice gesture and will be warmly received.
Give ‘Em A Heads Up
Advise schools, doctors offices, utility companies, and the post office of your move to avoid confusion and hassle after you’re settled in.