Relocating can be full of excitement. But if things feel rushed or don’t go as planned, it can also be extremely stressful. Still, there is a lot you can do to make sure that your move goes as smoothly as possible. Regardless of when or where you are relocating, your moving day and entry into your new community can be more pleasant 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. A pre-move checklist is also helpful so you can ensure that your new home is ready when you arrive. You may need to transfer or set up utilities, internet, or cable television service.
Keep in mind that these services tend to require advance notice, ranging from a few days to many weeks beforehand. Creating a file folder or Google document to keep all your move-related receipts and records in one place is a great idea. Store all contact information, confirmation numbers, and pertinent data in the file for easy retrieval in the future.
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 the business you choose as you plan your move is reputable. It is also wise to get multiple quotes from different moving companies and do a careful comparison. Check their quotations carefully as some may leave some items off or offer an hourly rate just to make their offer look more competitive. Ask a lot of questions and insist that they include all charges. This is even more important if you are relocating to a very far area. You have to ensure that you can entrust your belongings to a company that will treat you honestly.
Purge & Document All Items
One of the major concerns that come up when people plan to relocate is packing. To make moving easier, set aside time to go through your possessions and identify which ones are easily replaceable or would be too difficult or expensive to move. When you have fewer things to pack and move, your move will be faster and more efficient. After doing so, the next step would 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. You can make this a pleasant experience by creating an essential box to take with you.
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. Other things that can go into the box are pajamas for each person, blankets, pillows, candles and matches, and your favorite snacks and beverages.
Make a Plan for Kids & Pets
Finally, relocating can be a stressful time. Have a plan 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. Your pets also need to settle into the new home so do not forget to pack their food bowls and pet food in your essentials box.
Is relocating to a new rental home in your future? Trust our professional White Bear Lake property managers to steer you in the right direction. Real Property Management Fidelis staff are the local experts, offering quality rental homes that fit your needs. Check out our listings online.
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