TIPS TO MAKE YOUR MOVE EASIER
We know as well, if not better than most, how stressful moving can be.
With over 32 years of experience, we’ve seen it all, and have put together a handy checklist for you below to make your move as stress-free as it can possibly be.
Remember, preparation is key. It’s not difficult, but there is a process you can follow to ensure a smooth move.
Before you move
- Get estimate from moving companies and arrange method of payment.
- Sell, give away, discard unnecessary belongings.
- Notify post office and send out change of address cards to companies to inform of move.
- Get school records for transfer to new school.
- Check and clear tax assessments on your current property.
- Collect and send out all items to be cleaned and repaired.
- Return all items borrowed, collect all items loaned.
- Arrange for connection and shutting off all utilities.
- Dispose of flammable items.
- Defrost and clean refrigerator one day before move; clean stove
- Have meters read.
- Use up perishable food.
- Arrange to transport plants, pets, fish and perishables.
- Clean rugs and drapes.
- Arrange for work that has to be done at new home.
- Cancel cleaning person, pool maintenance, window cleaners, snow removal, etc.
- Assure you have adequate insurance for goods in transit.
Getting ready for the big day
- Get packing paper, pad for inventory, marking pens.
- Boxes or containers for packing, heavy twine or masking tape.
- Empty gasoline from lawnmowers, outboard motors, etc.
- Remove batteries from toys, and appliances.
- Mark cartons or boxes clearly as to contents and room to be put in.
- Set aside things you will carry in car in carton marked “Do Not Load”.
- Mark clearly cartons you want loaded last, unloaded first.
- Take a telephone book with you.
- Tie or tape mops, brooms, curtain rods in bundles.
- Point out and mark especially fragile or delicate items.
- Carry currency, jewelry and valuable papers yourself.
- Pack books, phonograph records on edge in small boxes.
- Large mirrors, glass table tops and valuable pictures should be crated.
- Carton weight should not exceed 60 pounds.
- All boxes should be tied securely.
- Be careful when using newspaper to pack because the ink rubs off.
- Do not pack cleaning products in the same box as food.
- Place heavy china items at bottom of box; all flat pieces should be placed on edge.
- Move clothes and drapes in wardrobe, supplied by movers.
- Do not roll mattresses or rugs; leave for mover using special cartons.
- Take down any fixtures fastened to wall.
On moving day
- Have children and pets elsewhere, if possible.
- Check off numbered boxes.
- Check each carton for damage or loss.
- Pay movers.
- Get appliances hooked up.
- Get utilities turned on, or meters read.
- Get kitchen and bedrooms setup first.
- Finally, pour yourself a glass of wine, or an ice cold beer. Celebrate! You’ve moved!