Everyone loves the idea of moving: it’s a new place to explore, new friends to make, new experiences, new food—the list goes on! What many people tend to overlook or just plain don’t realize until it’s upon them, however, is that before all that good is a lot of stress. Packing and unpacking, especially if it’s a long-haul situation, can be pretty intense.
Thankfully, there are many ways to go about this nowadays that will make moving a whole lot smoother.
Preparation Is Crucial
Before the actual moving process, there are certain things that need to be addressed. Don’t forget to call utility companies, find a reputable mover, set a firm budget (with emergencies being taken into account), and planning out packing supplies.
When it comes to foodstuff, make sure to consume whatever you can before the move. If necessary, get creative with recipes and make interesting mash-ups and whatnot. Any unexpired, unopened food can, in turn, go to a local food bank.
Collate Important Data in One Place
Have a folder or something like it, either physically or virtually. Chances are you’re going to need both. Collect the paperwork for the new place, whether rental or a purchase. Moving contracts, new addresses, etc should also be in a single folder. It’s good for easy access of records of payments and/or agreements as needed.
Declutter
Whether you’re the type of person who seems to always be saving things “for a rainy day” or you’re good at keeping things minimal, decluttering is still necessary. There is absolutely no way you will need to take every single thing in your old place to the new one! Of course, the idea of just tossing things haphazardly into storage and dealing with it “later” is appealing.
Do you really want to pay for another truck if you don’t have to, or spend the first week or so in your new home dealing with junk?
Make three piles: things to keep, things for donation or sale, and the all-important throwaway one. Be very discerning; you don’t really still need that broken desk lamp from two years ago that you might get around to having repaired, do you?
Make Sure the Packing Boxes Are Ready
We all want to cut costs wherever we can. However, when it comes to moving, some things are just worth the spend. It can be tempting to get free cardboard boxes from anywhere, or buy ones that are decidedly cheap. The problem there is that they’re flimsy and won’t do much to protect your things. In the end, they will cost you more than whatever you think you saved.
There is such a thing as residential moving boxes, and you need to take full advantage. Make sure to have bubble wrap and packing paper on hand before putting any breakables away. In some cases, extra thick layers or even a double box situation will go a long way.
Don’t Forget Labels
Get a batch of markers–good ones–and label every box on both sides with the following information:
- Exact contents
- What room it belongs in
- What side needs to be up
- Whether or not it’s fragile
Conclusion
Moving can be pretty stressful and exhausting, so it’s key to do everything possible for things to go smoothly. Needless to say, it all starts with preparation. This includes finding a reputable mover, setting a budget, collating key data in one place, decluttering, and even preparing the boxes. Watch this space for more on the next steps after everything’s well and ready!
In need of moving services in Alexandria, VA to help you get going? Reach out to Division 1 Moving! We are highly experienced and trusted local movers with the best storage in the area.