Oh moving, a fresh start, but not without packing woes! I’m very familiar with this process, I’ve moved to three states within the last four years. I’ve picked up helpful moving tips over the years and I’m going to share them with you. Continue reading to learn how easy and fun this process can be.
Planning
The most important part of moving involves planning. Begin by creating a checklist, and write out every single task, or download a comprehensive checklist online. Consider what you’ll need before you begin packing, while you’re packing and after you’ve moved into you new place. If you have help, make sure every person is aware of their duties.
Shopping
Visit your local home improvement store and do a complete walk through of the store, with your checklist in hand. Your essentials will be boxes, bubble wrap, markers, newspaper and tape. Your items will be packed, labeled and secure with these supplies.
Packing
While packing your items, it’s a great idea to focus on one room at a time. You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment every time a room is crossed off your checklist. This is also a great time to donate and/or toss unwanted and unused items. Once you’ve filled a box with items, label your box with contents and final room destination, this will make unpacking so much easier. You of course will not have to box larger furniture. Bubble wrap and/or pad these larger items to protect them from damage. During this time, it’s a great idea to measure your doorways to ensure you have enough room to move large furniture pieces.
R&R
Before the big day, get a good night’s sleep. Your energy levels must be high as you will be lifting, moving, directing others, and tending to last minute changing and/or surprises.
Move Day
You’ve packed and you, plus movers or friends/family, are ready to load your possessions. Make sure the route to your moving truck is free of obstacles. Have one person remain on the truck to stack the items you and others will be carrying. It’s best to place heavier items on the bottom and lighter ones above. Also, you may want to load larger furniture and/or pieces first and place them against the walls to distribute weight evenly. Remember to take breaks, there is no need to overexert yourselves.
Once everything is out, do a walk through to be sure you haven’t forgotten anything. Check easily missed spaces such as the closets, pantries, basements, and attics.
Unpacking
There are a few ways you could go here: unpack a room at a time and review your checklist to make sure everything is accounted for, start with major appliances and furniture or begin with your essentials and unpack the remainder of the items when you have time. I’ve found unpacking essentials, meaning items I’ll need for the next week or two, is easiest. It also helps to plan each room prior to unpacking.
Celebration
Last but not least, host a housewarming party. Welcome your friends and loved ones to your new space. After all of the hard work, you deserve to show off your décor. Happy Moving!
