A move to a new home can be a thrilling adventure, but it usually involves a good deal of stress and chaos. But with some planning and organization, you can make the process a little smoother and more enjoyable. Below are some important tips to help you with your move.
Start Planning Early
There is no need to stress yourself out over a move due to procrastination. Once you know the date you’re moving, start creating a detailed timeline of all the tasks that need to be done before the big day. You should be booking a moving company, gathering your packing supplies, and advising utility companies of your new address. You can break tasks into manageable chunks by starting early, and you’re less likely to have last minute surprises.
Declutter Before Packing
When you’re moving, it’s the perfect time to declutter. Take each room and determine what things you actually need or want to keep. If you have something you no longer use, consider donating or selling it. This will lighten your load, and make packing and unpacking so much easier. Having a streamlined collection of belongings will save you time when you have to sort through boxes later on.
Gather Quality Packing Supplies
The right packing materials are essential for a good move. Purchase multiple sizes boxes of sturdy making material, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and markers for labelling. Using high quality supplies will help protect your belongings during the transit and will keep your belongings from being damaged. When you’re packing up make sure you’re ready and have everything you need.
Pack Room by Room
Tackle packing in one room at a time to stay organized. Begin with less used spaces like guest rooms and storage areas and go on to more used areas like kitchen and living room. It is this methodical approach to packing that prevents chaos and confusion. While packing each room, clearly label boxes with their contents and room they go to, this will make unpacking at your new home much easier.
Use Smart Packing Techniques
An efficient use of packing provides for important saving in space and better protection of fragile items. Use clothing and linens instead, for example, to wrap delicate items, instead of just wrapping them in bubble wrap. This cushions fragile objects and helps maximize box real estate. Also, you can try employing the “Russian doll” technique — smaller boxes inside bigger ones — to save space when carrying the boxes to the destination where they will be assembled.
Create a “First Night” Box
After a long day of moving, the last thing you need is to dig through boxes for the things you need. Pack a designated “First Night” box containing everything you’ll need upon arrival at your new home: It means packs of basic toiletries, a change of clothes, snacks, water bottles, phone chargers, and important documents. Having these essentials will help your first night be comfortable and stress free.
Take Inventory
During a move, you should keep track of your belongings. Make an inventory list, writing down things being transferred and their state. This will prevent anything from being lost during the move, and a reference will be available if anything is damaged upon arrival. An app can also be used to digitize your inventory if you prefer.
Delegate Tasks
You don’t have to go it alone when moving; ask your friends or family for assistance. Task specific responsibilities like packing specific rooms or handling moving day logistics. Extra hands can help lessen the amount of work and make the process much more fun.
Conclusion
If planning and organizing are done correctly, moving can be a smooth thing to go through instead of a major stress. When you start early, declutter first, have good quality supplies, pack smart, create an essentials box, inventory your things, and delegate tasks, you are able to move forward with your move. But, instead of getting anxious about your future home, embrace this new chapter in your life and get excited for your new chapter!