Set Up a Packing Schedule (and stick to it!)
Moving is a stressful and hectic endeavour, the more you have accomplished before “M-Day” the easier you will make the move on yourself. Everyone knows moving is a great time to “lighten your load” by getting rid of your unneeded belongings. A good place to start your schedule is to make a list of items to donate or sell in a yard sale. This step alone will make the moving process a little less overwhelming and help you get focused on the task at hand. Then you’ll want to start your packing schedule. It’s best to start your list with everyday necessities (toothbrush, some clothing, bedding, etc.) and work your way down to less essential items. Start at the bottom of your list and work your way up, you’ll find that although your are starting to accumulate packed items, these now inaccessible items are not interfering with your day to day routine. When your list is complete you’ll be able to set up a time frame to complete all the items on your list. Write down a realistic number of hours/days next to each item (giving yourself plenty of time to accomplish each), and add these together, subtract them from your move date and then you’ll have a good idea of when you should start getting prepared. Giving yourself ample time to get prepared for your move will not only alleviate some of the stress of moving, but can also make it almost enjoyable.
One Month Before the Move
If you are within a month of your move, here is a quick list of items to tackle before moving day arrives: - Assign each of the rooms in your new home a Moving Targets moving label color and start packing.
- Collect your original documents such as wills, medical records, financials, etc. and put them in a safe container. You will want to move these yourself.
- Contact your US Post Office and complete a change of address form. They will need a few weeks to make sure your mail is forwarded to your new home.
- Contact your utility companies to change your service.
- Watch your mail for clues on companies you will need to contact and change your address. There are always more than you think!
Use Medium Size Boxes
When packing your belongings, consider saving your large boxes for only those bulky lightweight items such as blankets, pillows, curtains, towels, etc. Large boxes, when filled with heavy items will bend, fall apart and crush boxes placed below them. By using medium size boxes, the weight will be more evenly distributed for the movers who have to carry them. The smaller boxes are also more stable in moving trucks and less likely to become compromised.
Packing smartly is one of the best ways you can have a successful move. Remember to put your Moving Targets moving labels on the sides of the boxes so your movers can easily see them when the boxes are stacked.
Pack a Special Box, just for you!
After what has hopefully been a smooth move, it's time to settle into your new home. The only problem is your belongings are packed and in boxes across your home. By packing a separate box with items you will need right away, you will be able to function before the whole house is unpacked. Having these items available to you without digging through multiple boxes will save you time and aggravation.
Items to consider:
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste
- Bath Towel
- Bed sheets
- A change of cloths
- Table setting (plate, cup, folk/knife/spoon)
- Bottle opener!
- Cell Phone charger
Moving Labels
Moving Targets