Moving out can be both exciting and frustrating all at the same time, especially if this is your first experience with moving. Sorting through belongings, packing boxes and making sure everything fits is enough to be exhausting, but with an efficient plan in place you can turn what seems chaotic into a well-organized move. This is a contributed post.
Photo by Zachary Kadolph on Unsplash
A Month Before: Planning Like a Pro
- Create a Moving Timeline: Channel your inner project manager to plan out when each task related to your move needs to be accomplished in order to avoid last minute chaos. This will put yourself ahead of the game and keep stress at bay.
- Gather Supplies: Before diving in to packing frenzy mode, gather all necessary supplies like boxes, tape, bubble wrap and markers as well as coffee (because everyone needs some caffeine during a move). Make a list and don’t forget about local recycling centers when looking for unwanted boxes.
- Sort and Declutter: Now is an excellent opportunity to unleash your inner Marie Kondo and take control of your belongings by sorting through them to decide what should remain, be donated or thrown away. A helpful tip would be if an item hasn’t been used within 12 months then it may be time for it to go.
Two Weeks Out: The Countdown Begins
- Update Your Address: Don’t forget to update your address with important institutions, from banks and credit cards to subscription services and your doctor and dentist (they still need to find you). Even your insurance carrier needs your address.
- Confirm Utility Transfers: Get in touch with both current and prospective utility providers to arrange disconnections and connections. This step can make life much simpler when moving, before your left in a home without water or electricity.
One Week Out: The Final Stretch
- Pack Your Belongings: It’s finally time! Start packing non-essential items carefully labelling each box clearly. Color-coding may help ease unpacking as well as make you look like a packing genius.
- Arrange Helping Hands: Moving is no solo sport. Reach out to friends and family members who may be willing to lend a helping hand. Offer something in exchange such as pizza or drinks as an incentive.
- Hire a Move-Out Cleaning Service: Before giving over the keys to anyone else, it’s wise to ensure your old home is in tip-top shape for its new inhabitants. Hiring a professional move-out cleaning service will save you both time and effort while making sure every corner is thoroughly cleaned, from deep-cleaning carpets to sanitizing bathrooms.
Moving Day: Time to Shine
- Take a Final Walk-Through: Before you depart, conduct one last walk-through of your old space to make sure nothing has been overlooked or left behind. Take photos as reminders or to document your moving journey.
- Keep Important Documents Safe: Ensure all essential documents, such as lease agreements, contracts and moving receipts, are easily accessible during your move by keeping them in a folder or envelope that can easily fit in your carry-on bag.
- Unpack Efficiently: When it comes time to unpacking your new place, do it strategically and start with essentials first, before gradually unloading all boxes at the same time. Remember to enjoy this new chapter; unpacking is an adventure in itself.
Conclusion
Moving is unquestionably an adventure, one filled with both challenges and promise. By following this checklist, not only can you reduce stress but also open yourself up to new experiences in your new home.