When you decide to move, you go through a roller coaster of different emotions.
You may be excited about the opportunities you are being presented, nervous
about making new friends, sad about leaving your old friends and anxious about
the move. Regardless of where your emotions lie, you will need to take a deep
breath and get past these emotions so that you can start planning your move.
Planning and preparation is key when you want to coordinate a stress-free move to
a new city or even cross-country to the opposite coast. By knowing the do's of
moving and avoiding the don'ts of moving, you can save time, money and your
sanity.
Do
Hire a Reputable Moving Company
Most moving companies claim to be the best in the business, but you do need to do your homework before you hire a mover. There are several different factors you will need to consider, from the type of contract to the type of services offered. If you are moving within the state, look for a local company that offers a fair contract where you will pay a flat rate or by the hour. Here are some factors to consider when looking for a mover:
- What do consumers have to say about the mover?
- Is the company a broker or the mover that will actually be moving your belongings?
- Will you pay by weight, hourly, or a flat rate? Which fee is best for your move?
- Does the mover offer packing services or supplies at an extra cost?
Do
Sift Through Belongings In Advance
It is very important to start packing your belongings well in advance. The key to planning a successful move is to target a single room at a time. When you are in the room, create a pile of donate, store, or recycle. The items that are thrown out will be damaged or aged, the items to donate will be in good condition but unwanted, and the items that go in the store pile are those you will take with you. When you rent a self-storage unit, you can put the boxes you have packed and labeled away if they contain things you will not need until your move – some facilities like Storage Post can even provide moving trucks on request. By preparing and planning ahead, as well as staying organized in a gradual manner can make you feel more at ease.
Do Carry Your Paperwork With You
You never know when you will need your rental contract or your other paperwork.
Create a folder that includes all of the paperwork that is relevant to your
move. Receipts, invoices, to-do lists, company information, utility activation
information, insurance documents, and even shot records and social security
cards should be carried with you during your ride.
Don't
Rush
Now that you know what you should do, it is time to cover what you shouldn't.
One obvious don't would be not to wait until the last minute to get everything
done. Rushing is a leading cause of stress during a local or long distance
move. Give yourself at least four to six weeks for planning.
Don't
Worry About Over Packing
Many people worry about over packing and start to get rid of items that they
could really use. By leaving enough time to go through every item in your home,
you can pack all of the belongings you really want. You also have a proper
place for your belongings, in storage or suitcase, and you’ll know what to do
if you no longer care for them.
Don't
Forget to Call the Service Providers
It is common to get so overwhelmed with clearing out your home that you forget
to call your child's school, doctor, or your insurance agent. Go through your
bills, contact the post office, change your address, change your doctor, enroll
your child in school, request medical records, request transcripts, and get
everything in order before you move in.
Settling will take time. Do not expect to settle into your new home the first
day that you arrive. By gradually clearing your space, hiring professionals,
and getting things done in advance, you will be able to call your new house a
home in a matter of no time.
Guest post by Caroline Casetti of The Humble Haven
