You’ve finally found the perfect place to call home, and now it’s time to move in! Before the movers arrive, there are seven things you need to do to make sure your new house (and all of your belongings) are ready for the big day. Make this checklist part of your move plan, and you’ll have the perfect transition from your old home to your new one!
1. Source for Tools & Supplies
For an effective and efficient move, you need tools and other packaging supplies to help pack your belongings. You will need packaging materials such as boxes, tape, markers, and bubble wrap. Some of these items are available at your local grocery store or hardware store, while others are available online. However, it’s crucial to source your packing boxes from reputable sources to last during your move.
Also, check that all items are in good condition before using them for your relocation. If a box has damage or dents, you should discard it instead of using it for moving purposes. That will ensure that all your belongings reach their destination safely without getting damaged in transit. You should also hire any special equipment required for your moves like furniture dollies or hand trucks. You can contact McLaughlin Transportation for any specialized packaging materials and your move needs.
2. Create A Packing Schedule
When executing a move, packaging will take up much of your time. Most people probably have a lot to pack to complete everything in one day. Getting everything in order and ready for moving day can be difficult if you wait until the last minute. Instead of leaving your moving schedule up to chance, create a detailed packing schedule.
That way, you know what you need to do and when. A detailed packing schedule also helps prevent procrastination—you’ll see what you need to do and when you expect to complete packaging. Also, with a scheduled plan, there won’t be any room for excuses or delays.
3. Gather All Necessary Paperwork & Documents
It an be challenging to arrange paperwork and documents you need to secure when planning a move. Hence, gathering your paperwork and documents is essential before calling a moving company. It will allow your movers to come prepared and help make your day go as smoothly as possible. Such documents may include;
- Passports
- Driver’s licenses
- Birth certificates
- Academic papers
- Social security cards
- Work-related and legal documents
- Vehicle registration documents
- Insurance policies- include health, home, auto
Also, it’s crucial to use suitable moving boxes and packing materials to protect paperwork and books, such as plastic containers or file folders. Remember to keep all your records safe during transit!
4. Handle any Arrangements with Utility Companies
Effecting necessary changes and updates with your utility companies before moving is essential. That should include locking down any new service orders and arranging for your old services to be disconnected. The latter is a significant step. If you fail to follow up with your old utility company, they could charge you for a month’s service while you’re already in a new place.
That will likely end up being several hundred dollars of charges—so don’t let it happen to you! It also helps prevent identity theft or fraud when someone uses your name and address without your knowledge after moving.
5. Declutter and Pack Valuable Items
You may not realize how much stuff you have until you pack up your belongings. Go through your house and take note of any items you might want to move with you. Additionally, it’s a good idea to remove any valuable, breakable or hazardous items from your home (including heavy books). You should take pictures of these items and store them in an alternate location for quick shipping later.
Also, it’s time to eliminate things you no longer need! Donate old clothes, toys, and electronics to charity. If you’re moving locally, consider selling your unwanted goods online instead of throwing them away. That way, you’ll make extra cash while simultaneously decluttering your life.
6. Pack a Suitcase of Essentials
If you’re going to be away from home for more than a day, make sure you have some clothes, toiletries, and other items on hand. These items will help your family and pets through the transit period until after you’ve had a chance to unpack at your new place. Such essentials may include – Change of clothing, essential drugs, basic grooming tools., laptop charger and power cord, phone charger, and cable.
Also, dont forget to pack toys for your kids if they are moving with you! They will need their things too! Keep all valuables safe by keeping them locked up in your car while loading and unloading. Valuables could include jewelry, cash, wallets, laptops, or iPads.
7. Clean Out Your Kitchen, Including the Fridge
Toss everything that’s been sitting in your fridge for a few days and may not survive your transit period. Check your pantry for outdated food and toss it too. Then wash out your refrigerator and pantry shelves with warm water to prevent odors that may arise during transit. That way, you won’t have to deal with a dirty fridge and spoiled food later on in your new place!
Conclusion
As you prepare for moving day, it’s crucial to undertake some essential preparations. Your movers will handle all of your heavy lifting and loading, but there are a few things that you need to do yourself before they arrive on site. Once your movers arrive and start packing up your stuff, you may find it harder to get organized and get things in order. You can take advantage of your time alone to ensure you won’t forget anything. However, always hire a reliable and reputable moving company who can help you with everything from packaging supplies and packing to transport services, storage, and unpacking.
