Tips for a successful move!

Moving out but don’t know where to begin? Here are some tips for a successful move!

1. Have plenty of packing supplies. There is nothing as frustrating as being short a couple boxes or not having enough padding to protect that antique china. By getting more supplies than you need, you will save yourself the headache and stress of “will my stuff make it to my new home in one piece?” Also, most places that sell moving supplies have a return policy, so you can get your money back on leftover boxes.
2. Go room by room in your house and make three piles: Keep, toss, and donate! By getting rid of things you hardly use, you’ll save time and space when you unload into your new home. By donating old clothes or furniture to places like Goodwill or The Salvation Army, you’ll be helping others who might need or want the stuff you are getting rid of (let’s not forget that tax write off too!).
3. Utilize your boxes. Movers are strong, but they don’t all have superhuman strength. Use smaller boxes to pack up books, medium sized boxes for dishes, and large boxes for bedding and clothing. Moving yourself? This will save your back and help keep things organized by size.
4. Label your boxes! Make a list of things that are in each box, that way you know exactly what’s in it. Also try using different color tape or stickers to label the boxes by room, this ensures that everything will get to the right room of your house the first time. You can make a master list of your color code, or label each room in the house to make moving in a breeze for you and the movers.
5. Pack ahead of time. By doing this you reduce the stress of moving, and help make a big project feel smaller. Leaving all of your packing to the last minute will make things unorganized and a bit chaotic. Trying focusing on packing or organizing one room a day after work, before you know it, your house will be all boxed and ready to move!
6. Keep your valuables safe. If you can, put valuables life jewelry, antiques, and family heirlooms in your personal vehicle for your move. It’s a good idea to check your homeowners insurance to see how you are covered during a move and see if you need additional insurance from the movers. Find out what paperwork you might need in case you need to file a claim for loss or damages.
7. Important documents. Anything from birth certificates to bills to realtor info, put it all in a box and keep it with you. You never know when you might need important records, and it is smart to keep it out of the truck so you can get to it when you need it.
8. Make a first night home box! Give everyone in the family their own box for whatever they might need the first night in your new home! This should include items like toiletries, towels, fresh sheets, phone chargers, keys etc. Don’t forget your coffee pot to help kick start your unpacking in the morning!