Moving to a new home can create a feeling of excitement. However, unnecessary anxiety can result when you think about packing up all your stuff and moving it to your new place. The moving process can be quite stressful, but there are many tricks of the packing trade that can minimize moving complications. Here are seven genius strategies for tackling the packing process.
1. PURGE YOUR BELONGINGS
Donate or sell all unnecessary or unwanted items. Remember that accordion you wanted to learn to play? It has been collecting dust for the past 15 years in the basement and probably does not need to make the trip to your new home.
Not only will eliminating items from your packing list allow you to pack less, but you may also earn a little extra moving money by selling items online or at a garage sale. You can even donate items which may allow for a tax write off. Some donation centers will come to your house and pick up your donation items which will save you time. If you do find items that need to be trashed be sure to recycle any that are eligible as clearing out old goods should be an eco-friendly process.
2. USE THE PROPER SUPPLIES
Get yourself plenty of boxes, labels, packing peanuts, bubble wrap and lots of tape. Save yourself a little cash by checking with local stores to see if they have extra boxes to give you. Don’t forget to pick up a dolly, or moving straps to help move the larger, heavier items. The last thing you need on moving day is a torn muscle or other injury.
3. ONE ROOM AT A TIME
Get organized and tackle one room as a time to prevent yourself from becoming overwhelmed. Starting with the basement or attic can be best as the items in those areas are usually not used every day. Kitchens and bathrooms are usually best packed last as you are likely to need the use of those room’s items.
4. LABEL EVERYTHING
Stay organized and label all of your boxes for smooth transition to the new home. You can use colored tape in your labeling system for easier recognition.
5. TAKE A PHOTO OF WIRING
It took you three hours to set up your flat screen and surround sound. Take a picture of the wiring before unplugging and packing it up to save time setting it up at the new place.
6. GET HELP OR HIRE SOMEONE ELSE
Moving is not a one-person job. You will most likely need help to move large items, like couches and refrigerators. Enlisting friends and family to help early will ensure a smoother process on the day of the move. Be packed and ready to go when they arrive.
If you do hire a moving company, be sure to read the contract to know exactly what they are prepared to move and liability for broken items.
7. PACK AN OVERNIGHT BAG
Chances are after a full day of moving you won’t have a lot of time to unpack. Be prepared by having a first night kit. There is no need rummaging through hundreds of boxes looking for your pajama’s and toothbrush. You can guarantee yourself a good first night in your new home with this handy tip.
Following these tips will ensure a successful transition to your new home. Congratulations on your move!