Moving is one of the most stressful life events that anyone can go through. It is not just about packing up all your possessions into boxes and transporting them in a truck across state lines. There’s more to it than you might think. This article will give you some practical advice on what to remember before starting a move. The items mentioned here are essentials that you will need to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
1. Have a plan
The first step is to have a plan. This means knowing what you need to do and when you need to do it. It also means having an idea of where you want to live and what your budget is. If you are moving across the country, start mapping out your route. Make sure to consider things like rest stops, gas stations, and food options. You’ll also want to factor in how much time it will take you to get from point A to point B.
2. Hire a moving company
If you can afford it, hiring a professional moving company is the way to go. They will take care of all the logistics for you and make sure your move goes as smoothly as possible. If you are planning on moving just a few towns over, you might be able to get away with hiring a moving company. However, if you plan to pack up your life and start fresh in another city or state, it’s best to hire professionals who have experience in long-distance moves.
3. Get boxes for your stuff
One of the essential items you need to prepare before moving is sturdy moving boxes. These can usually be purchased at your local grocery store or hardware store. It is best if they can fit all of your belongings so that they don’t get smashed by other boxes along the way. If possible, purchase these ahead of time and start putting some of your possessions into them so that you won’t have as much to do when it comes time to move.
4. Label your boxes
This is another task that can be done ahead of time. Make sure to label each box with its contents. This will make it much easier for you when it comes time to unpack in your new home. It might also be a good idea to take pictures of the contents of each box so that you have a visual reference if something gets lost or damaged during the move.
5. Gather packing materials
To pack your belongings properly, you’ll need some packing materials like bubble wrap and tissue paper. You can usually purchase these at your local moving company or hardware store. Again, it’s best to gather these ahead of time so that when it comes time to move, you won’t have as much work to do.
6. Think about the essentials
After gathering all of your moving supplies, you might want to think about what other things you’ll need for your new home to feel like a comfortable fit. This is especially true if you plan to buy some major furniture items once you get there. Even if this doesn’t apply to you, these items can still come in handy:
- First aid kit: You never know what kind of adventures may await you! It’s best to be prepared, and having a first aid kit on hand will help out in this situation.
- Flashlight: The lights might go out during a storm, or you might want to check out that creepy attic in the dark. Either way, a flashlight is always a good thing to have on hand.
- Tool kit: Again, you never know what might happen. A tool kit can come in handy for everything from tightening a loose screw to fixing a leaky pipe.
7. Make a list of important phone numbers
This is something else that you can do ahead of time. Make sure to have a list of important phone numbers like your doctor, dentist, veterinarian, and insurance company. It’s also helpful to have the contact information for your old and new home. This way, if something happens during the move, you’ll know who to call for help.
8. Buy and install a durable hitch (if you’re doing this on your own)
If you’re planning on moving long-distance by car, you’ll need to be sure your vehicle can handle the journey. Make sure to check with your local mechanic. Purchase and install a good-quality trailer hitch if necessary. This will help to ensure a safe and smooth move.
Moving can be a daunting task that sometimes gets pushed to the back of your mind. However, if you start preparing early enough, it can be a much easier transition for everyone. If you follow these simple steps, your move will be a breeze.
