Your Essential Checklist for Moving in 2022
There’s no denying that the experience of moving, especially moving day, can be overwhelming, triggering emotions like stress and anxiety in even the calmest and most organized person. Whether this is your first time or 10th, moving is just one of those life experiences you have to go through to get to the happy result—living in your beautiful new home with your cherished possessions surrounding you! No matter if you’re moving five miles away or 3,000 miles away—the moving process is one you can’t skip. You’ll need to be present to pack up your stuff into boxes, load it onto a vehicle and have it transported from your old residence to your new home. But the moving process doesn’t have to be difficult. You can create a seamless transition from point A to point B by following a few simple tips. Whether you’re moving on your own or hiring a mover, here’s how to make your moving journey as hassle-free and easy as possible.
1. Prepare. You’ll need to put your moving plan into action.
- Call a mover. If you’ve decided to use a mover, it’s best to call around and get a few quotes. Although affordability is a factor, the lowest-priced mover may not necessarily be the best. There are other factors to consider: Are they licensed? Do they have five-star Google reviews? Do they use newer trucks? Do they include packing materials and insurance in the quote? One of the best ways to hire a mover is to ask your neighbors in the community and friends for recommendations.
- Rent a POD. A POD, or portable storage container, is a perfect option if you are not in a rush and want to move your belongings at a leisurely pace. It is also more affordable than a traditional moving company. You can pack and load your stuff yourself, and then the POD company will move it for you locally or long distance. You can also store it at one of their facilities until you are ready to move into your new home.
- Check into moving insurance. Most movers will offer some insurance in the quote they give you. You might opt for extra moving insurance if you have costly items that would be irreplaceable if they get damaged, like a piano, paintings, or other heirlooms.
- Call the utility company. Cancel your present utilities at least 48 hours in advance and let them know your move date. Call for an appointment to install your utilities in the new home at least one month in advance. The services you’ll need to set up may include water, electricity, Internet, cable and a security system.
- Change your address/forward your mail. You can fill out a change of address form at the post office and submit it up to three months before your move at www.usps.com. The mail can be unpredictable, so it’s best to notify your homeowner’s insurance company, car insurance, life insurance, medical insurance, and credit cards online or by calling, as these are services you can’t afford to lapse. If you’re moving on your own or your mover does not provide packing supplies, you can start accumulating boxes from your office or ask neighbors if they have any to spare. You’ll need to visit your office supply shop to get packing tape, markers, bubble wrap, and other essential packing materials.
- Donate to Goodwill. Now is a great time to start looking through your closets for the stuff you no longer need or wear to donate to Goodwill. You can donate clothes, kids’ toys, dishes, sheets, towels, electronics, and anything you don’t use anymore. The best part is that you’ll have a lot less packing to do and get a charitable donation tax break.
2. Pack. Packing is the most time-consuming part of the moving process, but with a little careful planning, you’ll sail through this step like a champ!
- Bubble wrap your fragile and breakable items. If you’re not adept at wrapping and would prefer a professional to help, most movers offer this service, or you can find a service online that will help you wrap and box up most items in your home.
- Leave clothes in drawers. Don’t waste time or energy packing clothes that you are just going to put back into the drawers anyway. If they are too heavy, take the drawers out, and bubble wrap them separately.
- Color-code boxes. Designating colors for each room with a sticker or marker makes it easier to remember where everything goes when you get to your new home.
- Photograph the backs of TVs and computers. This helpful hack ensures you’ll know exactly where your wires go instead of facing a confusing tangle of wires when the time comes to reinstall your electronics.
3. Move. Moving day is finally here! Even with the best-laid plans, things may not always go as expected. But you’ll be more than prepared with a few simple tips.
- Pack a moving kit for the car. This kit should include essential items for the day like water, snacks, plates, cups and plastic utensils for later when you’re hungry and can’t find your box of utensils or plates. It happens!
- Have a plan for your kids. If you have small children to care for, it’s best to leave them with a relative or family friend for the day so you can focus on the move. Allow tweens and teens to help by packing their own items and setting them up in their new rooms later.
- Have a plan for pets. Your fur babies are precious members of your family; take steps to ensure they don’t get lost in the chaos of moving day. Open doors provide the perfect escape for your pet to go exploring around the neighborhood unaccompanied. Avoid losing your pet by arranging for a trusted person to care for them on moving day.
- Take treasured smaller items with you. Even with the most experienced movers, accidents happen, and they can break things you can’t replace. If there is room, taking them with you can minimize any losses.
- Finish all your packing the day before the move. Having last-minute things to pack and sort while movers are putting stuff into the truck can lead to confusion, and ultimately more stress. You’ll find things go smoother when everything is boxed up and ready to go on moving day. Now you can breathe easier!
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