You have a move on the horizon, so how do you make it as smooth as possible? Write up a plan of action to keep you on track as the big day nears. Here is a general outline for 4-8 to weeks before the big day (part 2 coming soon!). Make sure to tailor it to your own needs.
8 Weeks Out
- Get quotes from moving companies or research DIY trucks.
Ask for recommendations from neighbors or friends. Make sure you understand what is (and isn’t) covered in the costs. Move companies can pack for you as well, so ask about that if you’re interested. If you need to ship a car, those carriers are often separate. - Create an online and/or paper folder to consolidate all your move-related materials.
Keeping them centralized will help you make sure all your bases are covered, and you can easily compare costs. - Photograph your current rooms to create a visual inventory.
It’s always good to have photographic record of what you own and what is being moved.
6 Weeks Out
- Book the moving van and other necessary move vendors.
Slots can fill up fast, so once you decide on the provider(s) book them ASAP. In some towns, Sept 1 is a huge move time for everyone, and movers may charge a premium or DIY trucks may be scarce. - Gather packing supplies (see Pack it Up from) and start packing.
Begin with the least-used spaces, leaving the things that are in use daily for boxing up closer to the big day. Make sure to label well – include the space it is going to as well as a quick rundown of what is inside the box. Add “VIP” or a special sticker to designate the most important boxes to open first (like dishes, sheets, shower curtain…). Create an inventory of furniture and boxes as you pack. - Take or get measurements of the new spaces and make floor plans.
This way you’ll know what furniture fits where, and the movers will know where things go in both rooms and storage areas. - Downsizing, selling or giving things away?
Decide how you will be getting rid of things. Use colored stickers or tape to mark the back of furniture and other items. Will you to give to friends / family, hold a yard sale, post things on Craigslist / Facebook Market Place or post on your local Everything Is Free page. Most importantly, set deadlines for people to come get them and know your backup plan, too.
4 Weeks Out
- Begin a list of small repairs or changes you plan to make in the new home.
- Start eating through your pantry food.
Use what you have so you have less to move. Donate things you know you won’t eat to a local food bank. - Take photos of your tech setups.
A quick snapshot of the back of your TV or the surge protector under your computer are time-savers. That way you can replicate those once you arrive in the new place. - Decide if you need a storage unit and research rental locations and costs.
- Research removal companies.
If you think you’ll have a lot of donations or ‘junk’ to get rid of, schedule a company to take care of that. You’ll also need to get rid of hazardous household items – these cannot be taken by movers – or plan to move them yourself.
Let’s work together to make your move as smooth as it can be. Contact us for a hand if you’d like a partner as you get moved.