People often say that moving is one of the most stressful experiences. But, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you are moving down the street, a few towns over, or across the country, some simple planning can help make the process a lot easier!
We’ve moved twice, as a family. When kids or a larger household is involved, it’s certainly a lot more work. Not only do you have account for more things, but also account and manage the process for more people.
Kids might find moving exciting or scary, so the way you handle it will make all the difference. (i.e. seeing stressed-out parents does not help moving anxiety in kids!) You want to plan and make sure everything goes right – with all the different things happening when you move, it can be easy to overlook something. With the tips below, always consider your specific scenario and how these tips can fit into your lifestyle – there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to moving.
- Create a checklist. Before you do anything, create a checklist to follow during the process. It will help keep you organized and ensure everything is happening as you check it off the list. While you’re at it, create a folder or binder for all of your moving documents. Having everything in one place will help keep you and your family on the same page, as well as help keep track of important receipts, documents, etc.
- Clean Slate. There’s no time like moving to really assess what you have, what you need, and live a more simple lifestyle. Donate, sell, and get rid of things that you don’t need. Resist the urge to just pack it away and deal with it at the new home. The more work you do on the front end will mean an easier transition into your new space.
- Hire the Right Help. Don’t just go online and pick a service. Do your research. And hire them early. Find out what they recommend and talk to them about different tiers of service. They may be able to offer things that make the move a lot easier.
- Start Packing Early. Do not wait or procrastinate. Break the task into sections – room by room. Start with the things you don’t need right away or seasonal items. Pack daily use items and clothing last. Keep essentials with you – vacation style, in a suitcase, bags, etc. Think medications, paperwork, jewelry, or beloved toys
- Get the Right Supplies – Talk to your moving company about what they recommend. Order boxes, tape, markers, garbage bags, and paper towels/cleaning supplies. In New Jersey, like me? Furniture movers in Bergen County such as All in One Moving & Storage, Inc. should be able to give you some tips and help decide what works best for your particular move.
- Avoid Mixing & Label! Keep things organized when you pack. Do not mix items from different rooms and label everything. Write a list on the box of the general contents or note/star items you could see yourself looking for right away. (i.e. Television remotes, coffee maker, etc.
- Plan for Special Items. Talk to your moving company about TVs, high-value art, or pieces of furniture and plan for how they will be packed and transported.
- Schedule Move-In Make sure you are set for your new place. Schedule utilities, discuss with your movers how the items will be delivered and where to put everything. Ensure someone is on hand to direct and help movers put things where they need to be.
- Keep Inventory The best thing I did was to inventory my boxes the last time we moved. I gave a list to the movers and asked for Boxes 1-5 to be in the basement, 5-10 to go to the kid’s rooms, etc. Plus, I was able to spot when a box was missing.
- Don’t Stress Moving can be difficult and a long process. Keep organized and plan for the move and you’ll help make the experience as easy as possible. Talk to your kids, find out how they are feeling and address any concerns, reassuring them that things will be okay! Before you know it, you’ll be relaxing in your new space!
Do you have experience with moving? What are some of your moving tips?
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