Moving to a new home is one of the most exciting events in your life, but it can also be overwhelming. It can feel like there are a million things to do, and everything needs to be done by a specific time to make sure that your life (and that of your family) is not disturbed by the change of address. There is packing and moving as well as new routines to find. You may start a different job, or your kids may go to a new school. Make moving to a new home easy by following these tips:
1. Bring an Overnight Bag
First, make sure to pack an overnight bag that contains a few changes of clothes as well as anything else you will need right away. Your laptop, charging cables, and any medications you take are a good start. Also, think about including some snacks, your toiletries, and some work clothes. By bringing an overnight bag, you won’t have to worry about unpacking right away or panic if the moving truck is delayed.
2. Separate Cleaning Supplies and VIP Items
Be sure to pack some cleaning supplies in a separate box too. Before you move into your new home, you will probably want to clean everything, so make sure your favorite scrubbing and bubbling products are easy to find. Also, throw in toilet paper, a shower curtain liner and hooks, bath towels, and a bathmat. This way, you can take a shower after all the moving.
3. Pack Effectively
As you pack your boxes, consider the way you pack. A few best practices can go a long way in making sure that your fragile items stay protected and you don’t go broke on bubble wrap. For instance, try wrapping your breakables in your clothing. This way, your sweaters, slacks, and tee shirts can help cushion your kitchenware, and you don’t have to pack your clothing separately. Socks work well too.
4. Label Box Contents
Next, be sure to label box contents, in detail. This extra step will help eliminate confusion and frustration later. Even the most industrious movers may not get everything unpacked on moving day — and that’s okay. However, when you have a dozen boxes that all say “Kitchen,” it can be difficult to know where the toaster is. Take the stress out of moving by listing the room in which the items belong as well as some of the contents. If you are worried about the movers, simply number the boxes and keep a detailed inventory list.
5. Take Photos
One of your greatest moving tools could be in your pocket right now — your smartphone. Use that clever device to take photos of everything. The pictures you take of your furniture can confirm the condition if anything is damaged or missing. You can also snap a few photos of the way electronics are connected, or furniture is assembled. You can reference these photos later as you put it all together.
6. Set Up Utilities in Advance
Of course, packing is only one part of the challenge when it comes to moving — you also have to consider your utilities. Before you move, spend some time familiarizing yourself with the utility companies in your new area, then start dialing. Some services will be automatic when you purchase your home or sign your rental agreement, but not everything transfers automatically. You may have to call and arrange service for your new home. Also, you will need to notify your existing utility companies that you are moving.
7. Customize your WiFi
One of the services you will have to set up on your own is your internet service. In some cases, your current provider can transfer your service to your new address. You may also be able to take advantage of service bundles or new mover deals — but don’t stop there. Remember that your new home will be different from your old house or apartment. You may need to check the placement of your router, use WiFi signal extenders, or otherwise extend your WiFi range.
Make Your Move as Easy as Possible
Make your move as easy as possible by planning ahead. Take the time to pack strategically and spend time making the proper arrangements so that your new life can begin as soon as you arrive at your new home. With extra organization, changing homes can be easy and enjoyable.