Eight Things To Add To Your Moving List

Create a Folder or Notebook

Organization is essential to having as stress-free a move as possible. Whether you prefer online documents and lists or physical notebooks and folders, create a singular space where all move-related items will go for easy reference. Here you should have your moving to-do list, all pertinent forms and documents related to the move, as well as any essential travel or identification documents that you do not want to risk losing in the packing and moving process.

Consolidate

The less items there are to move, the better. A couple of months before the move, be sure to consolidate everything in the home, from clothes to dishes. Whatever you and your family have no use for anymore can be donated or sold to help compensate for expenses. A couple of weeks before the move, begin to use up all perishable food items so there is less waste when the fridge, freezer, and pantry are cleaned out.

Get Packing Materials

The earlier you can get your packing materials the better. In addition to helping decrease costs right at the time of the move, grabbing your packing supplies early means you can get an early start on packing items that will not be needed immediately. Important items to remember to add to your moving list are:

• Boxes
• Tape
• Bubble Wrap
• Packing Popcorn or Filler
• Labels or Markers (for labeling boxes)

Research Moving Companies

Experts recommend getting at least three or four quotes before selecting a company. Adding these separate quotes to your moving list ensures you get a well-rounded view of your options. In addition to referrals from friends and family, be sure to check companies that are rated highly online. Also, remember that the longer a company has been in business, the better. It’s also helpful to hire movers who are familiar with the area in which you are moving from or to. Familiarity with the area helps the crew more safely navigate city roads and observe any special considerations.

Find a Form of Storage

Inevitably there will be items that you can’t take with you immediately or items that will not fit in the new location. It is always smart to consider renting a storage unit prior to the move. In addition, you could also contact friends and family to see if they are willing to help you store items pre or post move. Reusable storage bins are great to have as well, as they can double as packing boxes and then can be used as storage when you arrive at the new home.

Change of Address/Transfer Records

Another important item to add to a moving list is to change your address and transfer all important records. You can change your address online via the postal service, but remember to change the address directly with billers, banks, and employers. You will need to transfer your medical records as well if you are moving out of state.

Pack

This is the big one! Though packing may be the most overwhelming part of the process, with proper planning and organization it can be a breeze! Within your moving list, create a section where you have a checklist of areas around the home that need to be packed. These areas can be as big as an entire room or as small as a single chest of drawers. Make a family goal to pack at least one or two areas a day and you’ll be packed in no time! Also, add essential items you’ll need on the day of the move to one box and set it aside for later.

Clean Home

Whether you were renting or you sold your home, cleaning is something the new residents will greatly appreciate. In addition, a clean home may be part of the rental or purchase agreement. Some choose to hire a service to do this after the move has been completed and others prefer to do this on their own. In addition, be sure to clean and dust items as you pack them. This way, when you arrive at the new home everything will be clean and ready to put away.