One good thing about moving is that you get rid of all of the things that you don’t need or want in the process. Before you pack anything, go through each and every room or space in your home and start purging. Get rid of the things that no longer serve you because they aren’t being used, don’t fit, are broken, don’t work or because you simply don’t want them.
You might find it difficult to get rid of things that you aren’t using that you paid a lot of money for or that have sentimental value. If you just can’t part with something that you spent a good deal of money on, then sell it online or have a garage sale. For the things that have sentimental value, ask yourself why you really want to hold onto it. As you’re getting rid of things, determine which things won’t be a fit for your new space and give them away or sell them.
Once your purging is complete, you can begin packing, but before you do, create a master list that will show you what is in each box that you pack. This way you’ll have an inventory of everything and you’ll know what’s in each box. Have a separate section for each area that you pack (living room, dining room, kitchen, office, etc.) Each line entry will have a box or bin number and a column for a description of what’s in each. This list can be used for quick easy reference as you continue to pack and will be a great resource for you once you get to your new home.
Next you’ll want to create a list of things to do that includes dates that you’ll carry out the particular tasks. This list is crucial. It will help you stay on track and if it’s thorough, will keep you from missing a beat. Remember, this is something that you’re going to be doing in addition to all of the other things that you normally do, so it’s more added to your plate. You’re going to need all the support that you can get.
So now, let’s talk about packing. If you prepare for your move by purging, you’ve set the stage for packing only those things that you really want to take with you. Start by creating a list of things that you’ll need access to as soon as you get to your new home. For example, your toiletries, items that you might need for the movers, utility company information, etc. These are things that you want to pack in a “right now” box so that you know where they are at all times and can get to them quickly. Anything that can go into that box when you start packing should, then continue to add items as they become available and as your move date gets closer. This is a box that you don’t want to let go onto the moving truck, but instead into your car and then to a designated place in your new home as things are being moved in. My designated spot was a particular closet.
Next, start packing things that you aren’t using such as out of season clothing, decor, etc. As you pack, add the boxes to the list that you created. Give each box a number and remember to number each box with the same number you give it on the list. For instance, when packing your kitchen you might end up with 8 boxes, so you would number them “kitchen box 1″, etc. and have the number reflected on your list along with a description of items that are in each box. This allows you to refer back to the list at any time during packing or after your move and easily locate where something is without having to open several boxes to get to what you’re looking for.
As you continue to pack, keep coming back to the inventory list to update it with the new boxes that have been packed. Allow yourself at least one week to pack. The bigger your space and the more things you have, the more time you’re going to need. There will, of course be last-minute things to pack, so keep boxes and other packing materials handy throughout moving day.
Once you’re packed and ready to go, you’ve got those last minute things to do like checking all the closets and cabinets and other spots to be sure you’ve packed everything. The day before your move, check all those spots and pack up the things that you’ve been using up to that day. Make sure that your big items like appliances and furniture are ready to go. If you’re moving yourself or if your moving company’s not going to wrap or cover your furniture, then that’s one thing to add to your list the day prior to moving.
If you have a moving company, be sure to check and complete any paperwork necessary. Be sure to supervise while your items are being loaded until the last box is on the truck. Double check to be sure you aren’t leaving anything and that windows are closed and doors are locked before you leave. As things are unloaded at your new house, you’ll want to be sure to check your belongings as things are being unloaded. Check your boxes and other items to be sure that they’re in good condition and bring anything that’s damaged to the attention of the movers right away.
Be sure to unpack as soon as possible so that you can identify anything that might have been damaged during the course of your move and report it to the moving company. Based upon your contract with them there may be a limited amount of time that you have to report any losses or damages, so make sure you are aware of the time frame. Start unpacking the things that you need most and get those things put away. You may also want to unpack the kitchen items first to make life easy. If your household is anything like mine, food is at the top of the list as far as necessity. Not to mention that you don’t want to spend a large amount of money on eating in restaurants or carry out.
As you unpack everything, keep the boxes and other materials that can be used again, give them to someone to use or recycle them. For space sake, break the boxes down so that they’re flat and store easily and don’t take up so much room. Be sure to keep your paper work and all of your receipts from your move in one spot. Add all of those items to your moving file and keep it handy for filing your tax return for that year. Don’t forget your final items like checking to be sure the utilities are turned off at your old home. Be sure that your forwarding order has been received to be sure that you get your mail and change your address with the department of motor vehicles and any other institutions that you didn’t notify prior to your move.
Finally, and most importantly, enjoy your new home!
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