Moving can be stressful, especially if you’re packing everything you own. However, there are a few things you can do to lessen the stress of moving. First, inventory everything you own and determine if you actually need or want to move it. Once you’ve determined this, get the supplies you need to pack everything, and de-clutter or donate items you no longer need or want. By following these tips, your move can be a stress free experience.
1. Find a Moving Company your Like
When comparing rates, one of the first things you should do is to check out customer reviews. Look for reviews on Yelp or the Better Business Bureau, and talk to friends who have recently moved. This will give you an idea of how the company treats its customers. Additionally, you can look up the company’s Department of Transportation number, which is a good indicator of its legitimacy. Check if it is accredited with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
If the company does not offer free quotes online, consider going to their offices and meeting with their employees. Getting a first-hand experience with their crew can give you a better sense of how they treat customers. If possible, you can also ask them questions about their experience, whether they are willing to work with changes or not. Regardless of your personal preferences, a good moving company can make a stressful move a little less painful and expensive.
Regardless of the size of your move, stress is a common occurrence. You may find it helpful to embrace the stress and consider the benefits of change. You will be glad you chose the moving company that meets your expectations. You’ll be happier in the end, and your new place will be easier to settle into. A stress free move begins with accepting the stress that comes with moving. Remember, this is a natural human response to demanding situations.
While researching moving companies, look for real photos. Real pictures are more reliable than stock images. You’ll want to make sure that you’re not hiring a scam. Also, make sure to check the reviews posted online by previous customers. If there are many positive reviews, it’s a good sign. In addition to real reviews, make sure the company has an affordable, upfront rate and a friendly staff.
2. Inventory What You Have to Pack
First, take inventory of what you have to pack. It will save you time in the end. Taking inventory of your possessions doesn’t have to be difficult; after all, it will become second nature and will not slow down the moving process. It will be helpful to have a checklist that outlines what you have to take with you and leave behind. For example, you can make a “First Box” for your basic household goods.
The next step in inventorying your belongings is to write down the number of each box. Label the boxes with room numbers or a written inventory. Color coding is also a good idea. Also, inventory all supplies you will need for the move, from packing tape to markers. If you’re moving across town, you’ll want to buy supplies for both packing and unpacking. Don’t forget to get tape dispensers and markers, moving blankets, and other moving equipment.
3. Get the Moving Supplies You Need
When relocating, it’s important to get the right supplies to make the transition as easy as possible. Basic moving boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap are necessary. Be sure to cover heavy pieces of furniture with sturdy packing blankets. Be sure not to puncture the blankets with sharp edges or creases. In case you can’t find these supplies on the move day, ask a professional moving service to lend you their services.
Besides tape, you should also invest in sturdy scissors. They are indispensable for packing. A sturdy pair of scissors can slice through boxes like butter. These scissors are also useful when making custom boxes and resizing blankets. Then, once you’ve arranged everything, you can begin the process of unpacking. Make sure to buy several pairs for your move. Buying a few extra pairs can save you a lot of time and money.
Other necessary moving supplies include garbage bags, labels, and box cutters. You may be surprised to find that you’re running low on packing supplies on moving day. In addition, these items are often misplaced amongst the boxes. To prevent confusion on unpacking day, you can set up a packing station in your home. Having a centralized area for packing will make the process run more smoothly.
Getting the right moving supplies for your move can save you money and reduce your stress. Packing supplies are not cheap, so you’ll want to err on the side of overestimating the amount you need for your move. If you’re moving locally, you probably don’t need a padlock or overnight storage. You can also skip the purchase of boxes and cargo straps if you already own these items. Most full service moving companies include these items in their service but if you’re planning on doing your own move, you’ll need more supplies.
4. Declutter and Donate the items You Don’t Need
Before moving, declutter your house. Remove items that don’t fit in your new home. Rather than bringing old items with you, donate or sell them instead. By decluttering your home, you will save yourself the stress of packing and unpacking. In addition, donating and selling items will give you more money than buying new ones.
When considering what to take with you, make a list of the things that are no longer essential to you. Consider how often you use the items, where you are moving to, and whether you still love them. If you haven’t used them in over a year, they’re likely not to be needed again. If the items have sentimental value, donate them.
Once you’ve finished making a moving checklist, the next step is to start decluttering your home. Make sure to donate or sell any items you’ve not used in over a year. It’s a great way to reduce the costs associated with a move. Toss out broken items, unused appliances, and used cutting boards.
Another way to declutter your home is to dispose of outdated clothes and items. Consider donating these items to Goodwill or giving them away to friends. The best way to donate old clothes is to take them to Goodwill, but you may also want to pass them on to friends and family. Old clothes are an easy way to get rid of items that you don’t use anymore. Donating the items you don’t need will also save you money on moving expenses.
5. Confirm Your Move Date
Before moving, you should notify your current employer of the change in address and schedule time off. In case of a long distance move, you should plan your trip to your new address, allowing extra time to make necessary adjustments. Moreover, notify any important companies that you will need to change the address of. Most employers require two weeks’ notice before you can request a day off. Once you’ve informed your employer of your move, you can contact the moving company to confirm your move date.
To make your move stress-free, you should confirm your move date with your moving company a month before moving. Confirm the move date with your company, so that they can inform you about parking arrangements and elevator access. Also, confirm if they will provide storage or additional services, such as packaging. If possible, make sure to allow extra time to unpack your clothes and other things. You can even hire a moving company to take care of temporary lodging for you.
Before moving, you should inform your friends and family members of your new location. Notifying your family and friends will help you coordinate with the movers. If you’re selling your home, you need to move out of it before the new owners move in. If you’re moving into a new city or state, you should also plan your move around your new employment. You should try to settle into your new place one week before the start of your new job.