Relocating can be an exciting time. 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. Another tip is to keep all your receipts and records from the move in a file folder or Google document to keep them all in one place. This will facilitate easy retrieval of important contact information, confirmation, and other important data.
Hire Wisely
If you are only relocating locally, you might be able to manage the move by yourself. However, it is a good idea to hire a professional moving company if you are moving across town or the country. Make sure you choose among reputable businesses as you plan your move. Secure multiple quotes from different moving companies, and compare them well. Some companies offer an hourly rate or leave some things off their quote to make it look more competitive, so make sure to ask a lot of questions and ask them to include all charges. This is especially important if you will be relocating far from your current location. The company you pick must be one that will treat you honestly.
Purge & Document All Items
One of the major concerns that come up when people plan to relocate is packing. For a smoother move, take time to identify which of your possessions you can get rid of. These are usually the things that are easy to replace or too difficult or expensive to move. When you have fewer things to pack and move, your move will be faster and more efficient. Once you’re done, you should document your belongings as you go.
As you pack, keep track of what is in each box and write it down on the box itself. This will help you keep track of all your stuff and know which box has which item. It may take a bit longer, but packing this way makes unpacking in your new home a lot easier.
Pack an Essentials Box
While you pack, set aside an “essentials” box. As you start packing things you don’t use daily, as your moving date approaches, you also need to make plans 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. 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. Make arrangements with a friend or family member to watch the kids and pets during the actual move to keep anxiety levels down and keep them out of the way.
Your child will likely appreciate it if you help them pack their things the day before the move, and have them fill a suitcase or box with their favorite toys. This will help alleviate their fear of leaving something behind. Don’t forget to pack your pets’ food bowls and pet food in your essentials box, too. They also need time to get used to their new home.
Is relocating to a new rental home in your future? Trust our professional Belmont property managers to steer you in the right direction. Real Property Management Experts staff are the local experts, offering quality rental homes that fit your needs. Check out our listings online.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
