Relocating can be full of excitement. But it can also cause a lot of stress, especially if you feel rushed or things don’t go as you have planned. Still, there are many things you can do to make your move go as smoothly as possible. No matter when or where you are relocating, your moving day and entry into a new community can be successful if you follow these tips.
Get Organized
One of the best ways to help your move go well is to start planning and organizing as early as possible. Organize your furniture, personal belongings, and take note of the many other tasks that need to be accomplished. It is helpful to create a pre-move checklist of things that have to be done to make your new home ready when you arrive. You may need to transfer or set up utilities, internet, or cable television service.
These services often require advance notice of as long as weeks ahead of time to only a few days. A file folder or Google document to keep all your receipts and records from the move will be very helpful. This will facilitate easy retrieval of important contact information, confirmation, and other important data.
Hire Wisely
If you are relocating locally, it may not be a problem handling the majority of your move by yourself. However, if you are moving across town or the country, it is a good idea to hire a professional moving company to help you. Make sure you choose among reputable businesses as you plan your move. Secure multiple quotes from different moving companies, and compare them well. There are companies that will offer an hourly rate or leave things off of their quote to appear more competitive, so make sure you ask a lot of questions and have them include all charges. The farther away you are relocating to, the more important it becomes to pick a company that will treat you honestly.
Purge & Document All Items
Packing is probably the most intimidating thing about planning to relocate. It will make your move easier if you go through your possessions and get rid of the ones you can easily replace or are too difficult or expensive to move. Few things to pack and move usually mean a faster and more efficient move, as well. The next step will be to document your belongings as you go.
Keep track of what you pack in each box and write it down on the box itself. This system helps you keep track of which items are in which box. Packing this way makes unpacking in your new home way easier.
Pack an Essentials Box
It is also a smart practice to pack an “essentials” box. As you start packing the things you don’t use daily in preparation for your move, you also need to make a plan for your first night in your new home. An essentials box will help make this more pleasant.
Important things to put in an essentials box include phone or computer charging cords, toilet paper, paper towels, plates and utensils, garbage bags, and an emergency kit. You can also put in a pair of pajamas for each person, blankets, some pillows, candles and matches, and snacks and beverages.
Make a Plan for Kids & Pets
Finally, relocating can be a stressful time. Make sure that you have planned something to keep young children and pets out of the movers’ way. A friend or family member can watch them during the actual move to help keep their anxiety under control and keep them away from the busy activity.
You can let each child pack their things the day before the move, then have them take a suitcase or box with their favorite toys in it to alleviate fears of leaving something behind. If you have pets, do not forget to include food bowls and pet food in your essentials box so they can also settle into their new home.
Is relocating to a new rental home in your future? Trust our professional Milton property managers to steer you in the right direction. Real Property Management North Point staff are the local experts, offering quality rental homes that fit your needs. Check out our listings online.
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