Moving tips
Your Guide to a Smooth Relocation
Effective Packing Strategies
- Declutter Before You Move
If you haven’t used it in a year and it’s not a family heirloom, consider donating, selling, or discarding items you don’t need. Moving unnecessary items can be costly.
- Document Keeping
Keep copies of essential paperwork (estimates, confirmations, etc.) with you during the move for easy reference.
- Box Weight Guidelines
Keep boxes manageable; if you can’t lift a box easily, it’s too heavy. Aim for a weight of less than 50 pounds per box.
- Use Appropriate Cartons
Choose suitable cartons for packing; plastic trash bags are not recommended.
- Proper Padding is Essential
Don’t skimp on packing materials like paper or bubble wrap. Better to over-cushion than under-cushion fragile items.
- Packing Dishes
Pack dishes vertically in dish barrels, avoid stacking, and use adequate padding.
- Label Boxes Clearly
Mark boxes with the intended room at the new location for efficient unloading. Consider making an inventory list for each box.
- "Open First" Boxes
Prepare “open first” boxes for each room, containing essentials for the first day at your new home.
- Arrange Child and Pet Care
If possible, arrange for childcare and pet care on moving day to ensure a smoother process and safety.
- Utilities and Mail
Arrange for utility and mail services to be turned off at the origin and turned on at the destination. Overlapping services for a day or two is advisable.