Moving can be one of the most stressful events in your life. To reduce stress, try to plan as much ahead of time as possible.
Start by packing items you don’t use daily, like home decor pieces and extensive collections of books. Also, take photos of the back configuration of furniture and electronics that you disassemble so you can put them back together later.
1. Get Organized
Getting organized can be one of the most important things you do when moving. It can help reduce stress, make the process more manageable and ensure that nothing important gets forgotten or lost.
A good place to start is by creating a folder or binder for all documents related to your move. This can include your move checklist, contact information for movers and your new home, as well as receipts and estimates.
It’s also a good idea to get rid of items you no longer use before the move. You can donate them or sell them at a garage sale or pawn shop.
2. Pack Early
Experts recommend starting to pack early when moving. This will help you avoid a last-minute scramble and ensure that you transport only what you need to your new home. Start with items that are already in storage, like books, off-season clothes, decor artwork, and picture frames. These are easier to pack because they usually have a uniform shape.
Next, go through your closet and pack away any clothes you won’t wear leading up to your move. Similarly, pack away any shoes you don’t wear often or that won’t be needed after your move. This includes extra pairs of shoes you’ve worn on vacation or in the summer for walking around town.
3. Hire a Moving Company
Most people move a handful of times in their lives,1 so it’s understandable that they don’t always know the ins and outs of moving costs. This can lead to hidden fees buried in the contract, misrepresented by customer service reps or not disclosed before moving day.
Ensure that the company you hire is licensed and insured. Most trustworthy companies pros and cons of living in huntsville alabama will prominently display their credentials on their website or provide them upon request. Also, ask whether they offer any discounts or bundles that may make the process more cost effective. For example, moving on a weekday can often reduce prices, as well as moving during off-peak seasons.
4. Get Moving Quotes
When it comes to moving costs, many different factors can influence the final bill. Getting multiple moving quotes from reputable companies is one of the best ways to ensure that you’re getting the most competitive prices for the services you need.
Cost estimates are typically based on how large your household is, the date of the move and how far you’re moving. You can also get a more in-depth moving quote that requires a visit from a moving agent at your home.
Some moving companies also offer not-to-exceed pricing, which means that if the shipment ends up weighing more than estimated, you won’t be charged more than the original estimate.
5. Hire a Truck
If you are moving yourself rather than using a moving company, you’ll need to rent a truck. You may also need to purchase boxes, packing tape and other supplies. You should also consider the cost of fuel and mileage if you’re driving long distance.
Consider getting a truck with a ramp. This will save you time and back pain from lifting heavy items into the truck.
You can also rent specialty equipment like furniture dollies and carts to make the move easier. Check online for rental locations near you and ask friends and family if they have any you can borrow or buy used.
6. Packing
It’s a good idea to create a packing station with all your supplies: boxes, tape, scissors, markers, paper, bubble wrap, old towels and blankets for padding and more. Keep this station in a room where you can use it throughout your move and where you can set aside any supplies you might need on moving day.
Start by packing up your non-perishable food items and essentials. This will give you a sense of accomplishment and help you get unpacked sooner. When you are packing fragile items, like mugs and plates, use newspaper or bubble wrap to protect them. If you’re packing a table or chair with legs, crisscross a piece of wood beam over each one to keep them stable during transit.