Relocating can be an exciting adventure. But if things feel rushed or don’t go as planned, it can also be extremely stressful. Still, there are many things you can do to make your move go as smoothly as possible. No matter when or where you are relocating, your moving day and entry into a new community can be successful if you follow these tips.
Get Organized
One of the best ways to help your move go well is to start planning and organizing as early as possible. Start off by organizing your furniture and personal belongings as well as the many other things that need to be accomplished. A pre-move checklist will make sure you don’t overlook anything and that your new home is ready when you arrive. You may need to transfer or set up utilities, internet, or cable television service.
Transferring these services usually requires advance notice up to a few weeks ahead of time. Creating a file folder or Google document to keep all your move-related receipts and records in one place is a great idea. Store all contact information, confirmation numbers, and pertinent data in the file for easy retrieval in the future.
Hire Wisely
If you are only relocating locally, you might be able to manage the move by yourself. However, if you are moving across town or the country, it is a good idea to hire a professional moving company to help you. Make sure you choose among reputable businesses as you plan your move. Secure multiple quotes from different moving companies, and compare them well. Check their quotations carefully as some may leave some items off or offer an hourly rate just to make their offer look more competitive. Ask a lot of questions and insist that they include all charges. This is even more important if you are relocating to a very far area. You have to ensure that you can entrust your belongings to a company that will treat you honestly.
Purge & Document All Items
For most people, the main concern about planning to relocate is packing. For a smoother move, take time to identify which of your possessions you can get rid of. These are usually the things that are easy to replace or too difficult or expensive to move. When you have fewer things to pack and move, your move will be faster and more efficient. After doing that, you can proceed to document your belongings as you go.
As you pack, keep track of what is in each box and write it down on the box itself. This will help your keep track of which box holds which items. It may seem like extra work, but packing this way makes unpacking in your new home much easier.
Pack an Essentials Box
While you pack, set aside an “essentials” box. As you start packing the things you don’t use daily in preparation for your move, you also need to make a plan for your first night in your new home. This experience can be made more pleasant by creating an essential box you can take with you.
Important things to put in an essentials box include phone or computer charging cords, toilet paper, paper towels, plates and utensils, garbage bags, and an emergency kit. Other things that can go into the box are pajamas for each person, blankets, pillows, candles and matches, and your favorite snacks and beverages.
Make a Plan for Kids & Pets
Finally, relocating can be a stressful time. If you have young children and pets around, make sure you plan on how they won’t interfere with the movers’ jobs. Make arrangements with a friend or family member to watch the kids and pets during the actual move to keep anxiety levels down and keep them out of the way.
It is a good idea to have a child pack their things the day before moving, then have them fill a suitcase or box with their favorite toys to alleviate fears of leaving something behind. If you are moving with pets, remember to add food bowls and pet food to your essentials box and give them a lot of time to get used to their new home.
Is relocating to a new rental home in your future? Trust our professional Venice property managers to steer you in the right direction. Real Property Management Sarasota & Manatee staff are the local experts, offering quality rental homes that fit your needs. Check out our listings online.
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