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Ready for part 4 of our Moving - Doing it the Right Way guide? We know you are! So, now that you've sorted and purged your items, it is time to complete any remaining tasks as moving day quickly approaches. Now is the time to hold yourself accountable, making important decisions as you finalize the prep for your move. I guarantee that it will create more organization and ease for your upcoming move, this goes whether you are hiring professional movers or carrying out a DIY move.
Is There Really a "Right Way" to Move?
The short answer is, yes. Millions of people in the United States move each year, yet studies show that moving is ranked among the top three stressors. There is a plethora of helpful information out there about moving techniques but it's best to adopt practices and systems that will make YOUR move as easy and smooth as possible. If you're able to avoid the big setbacks and ease your stress, then you're moving the right way. I'm sure that you'll agree that when you are intentional in your decision making, it will contribute to the success of your move and the functionality of your new home.
Ready to move like a Pro? Let's do it!
Preparing For Moving Day
I have great news! You're halfway there! You've purged and now you have the greenlight to start packing, it's time to create your packing inventory. Why? Taking inventory of your current belongings makes it easier to account for everything you own, and you will have an up-to-date wish list. In addition, you'll have an idea of the overall value of your items. This will be helpful if you are thinking about purchasing moving insurance since you'll have a better idea of the type of plan that would best protect your belongings.
Do Consider
Do you need to replace furniture items after the purging process, is it best for you to schedule delivery to your current address or to your new home?
If you've decided to buy new furniture, we all know that today's delivery times are not yesterday's delivery times. Ideally, you would like these items to be delivered after you officially take possession of your new home. For some, furniture is a non-negotiable, in that case timing is key. You have the option of ordering as early as possible and absorbing the cost of storage if it arrives prior to your move or having it delivered directly to your current address and including it in the cost of your relocation.
Do you have a plan to transport high value items, even if your move is DIY, is it best for professionals to move those items?
If your high value items are heavy or difficult to transport, to avoid damaging them, it may be best to consider a hybrid move. You can hire professionals to move your bulkier items while your friends or family help with boxes and small furniture. Either way, make sure to purchase moving insurance just in case.
Do you have the option to start moving items over to your new home now?
If you're moving to a new home that is nearby or in the same state, it could make moving day smoother if you gradually start moving items over as you pack them. However, if you're relocating to another state or country, it may not be cost-effective to use this method.
These are just a few examples to help you make intentional decisions prior to moving day. And remember, the goal is less stress so give yourself a healthy deadline to make these decisions.
Let's be real, in the back of our mind, one of the most stressful things associated with moving is the cost. Keeping track of your budget, including your moving costs and post-move expenses, will give you peace of mind.
Pro Tip: Is your move date fast approaching? We have curated a FREE Modern Move 8-Week Checklist that you can download right now! Whether you are 8-weeks out from your move, or not, this checklist will help you to have a less stressful, more organized move.
Best Packing Practices
Speaking of blowing the budget, moving supplies are at the top of the list. Don't waste money on unnecessary supplies. A huge part of knowing how to prepare for a move is knowing how to pack.
Do Consider
Do you need to pack yourself a week or day of bag?
If you haven't, be sure to pack yourself and each family member a suitcase with necessities including clothing, medications, and don't forget your electronic accessories. If you have children, pack their favorite plushie and consider your furry friends too. Place these bags in your car or a designated area before the movers arrive.
Do you have a system set up to ensure that the packing process takes place in an organized manner?
If you've opted for a DIY move, pack up your items gradually. Start with anything that you aren't currently using, for instance your off-season wardrobe or cooking appliances that you only use on special occasions. Wait until the week of your move to pack up any day-to-day essentials. If you've hired professional movers, it is still important to group like with like to make sure that items can be unpacked in an organized manner.
Do you have moving day plan?
If you will be coordinating the move, be sure to label each room, color coding, including the boxes, this can help movers pack and load effortlessly. If you're relocating long distance, most van line services will defer to the numbering system of the boxes. This will help to keep track of all your items.
Pro Tip: Make a shopping list before you purchase moving supplies. This way, you'll know what you actually need, and you won't get overwhelmed by the various products available to you.
If You've Hired a Moving Company
Do Consider
There is a slight difference in how you will prepare for moving day. The most significant difference is that you do not want to pack anything, as most moving companies will only insure the items that they've packed. I have actually seen them unpack boxes and repack them.
Did you know that most van lines put their employees through a packing class? Unfortunately, that does not consist of organizing your items, but they will consider the weight of each box and how to maximize space on the truck.
However, just because you hired professionals doesn't mean that you won't have any work to do come moving day. Here are a couple of actions that you can take to add ease to the moving process:
Do acquire the appropriate parking permits
Do reserve the freight elevator in your building (if applicable)
Do create a clear and safe path for the movers
Do designate a clean and well-stocked bathroom for the crew
Do create a moving day itinerary. Including, childcare, pet care, and meals
Do plan to care for gratuity for any vendors
Pro Tip: Don't settle for a mediocre moving insurance policy. You have options! Read my Instagram post where I dive into moving insurance and which plans are available to you - whether you're hiring a moving company or doing it yourself.
This is part four of a guide that I'm confident will ease the stress of your relocation experience. If have any questions or if you're ready to hire a professional organizer to help you during your upcoming move, feel free to contact me and stay tuned for the next part.
Kimberly