Relocating to a new place can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded – exciting yet challenging – but with proper planning and organization, you can feel like a genius when it all comes together. As a trusted moving company, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to help you through a successful relocation. From organizing your belongings to bribing your friends with pizza to help you pack, let us be your guide throughout your relocation.
Start Early
For a successful outcome, begin planning well in advance. Allowing sufficient time to sort through your possessions, eliminate unnecessary items, and determine which items to bring along will be extremely beneficial. If your move comes with short notice, pause before you panic to write out a plan. You’ll feel the stress melt away once you decide what you want to take, donate, and discard.
Moving Checklist
Staying organized is important because life goes on while you’re moving, and having a moving checklist will help you stay on track. It enables you to monitor the important events before, during, and after the move. Finding the right moving company, changing your address, and transferring utilities, donating, discarding, packing, moving and unpacking . . . whew! You are fortunate to have found us. We have created a moving checklist specifically for you. Check it out here!
Research Moving Companies
Choosing the right moving company is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free move. Do thorough research and compare the services, reviews, and prices of several moving companies. Get multiple estimates and find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Remember, the cheapest option may not always be the best one. Also, be careful about picking a mover based on the lowest price. Sometimes going with the cheapest option can become more challenging due to Rogue Mover scams or just poor-quality work. The good news is that social media reviews, and a check with the Better Business Bureau, will help you figure out if the quote and the mover are reliable.
Set Your Budget
Relocating can be an expensive endeavor, so it’s important to plan your expenses and stick to a budget. Consider all the costs involved, such as packing supplies, moving services, transportation, and any additional expenses. Make sure you have a contingency fund for unexpected costs that may arise.
Declutter and Donate
Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter and get rid of unnecessary items. Go through your belongings and decide what you want to keep, donate, or sell. Remember, the more you have, the more it will cost to move.
Have a Packing Strategy
Having the movers pack is wonderful! Your home stays fully functional until just before your move day. The crew brings all new boxes, packing paper and supplies, but more importantly, they bring the expertise of knowing the best way to pack household items for moving. If you need to stretch your budget, doing your own packing is a great way to save money. We recommend you get a quote to have the movers pack your breakables (mirrors, glass tops, large pictures, lamps, TVs). It is crucial to pack efficiently to prevent damage and minimize stress during the transition. To start, gather moving boxes, packing paper, packing tape, and markers. Begin packing non-essential items early and clearly label each box with its contents and designated room. Write the contents on the side of the box. You’ll be able to see what’s in the boxes when they’re all stacked up. You may also want to create an inventory list of the things packed in each box to answer the “Where did I put that” question. Pack a box marked “Open Me First” with essential items that you may need to get to quickly on move in day. Light bulbs, paper towels, toilet paper, band aids and a small set of hand tools are all good things to include in that box.
Change of Address Notification
You should contact your utility companies, such as electricity, water, internet, and gas providers, and let them know your move-out date so that they can arrange for disconnection or transfer of services. Additionally, don’t forget to update your address with the post office, banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and any other institutions or subscriptions that need to reach you at your new address. Research and register with the appropriate local authorities, such as the city or county office, to update your address for voter registration, driver’s license, and vehicle registration. Contact the new school district to initiate enrollment if you have school-age children.
Pack and Transport Valuables
Items of high value or sentimental significance require extra attention during a move. Irreplaceable documents, photos, cash, coins, expensive jewelry, and similar valuables need to be personally transported by you. Movers cannot accept liability for those items. Heirloom furniture, artwork or other high-value items may require special packing or crating so be sure to discuss those things with your moving consultant. On moving day, point out items of personal sentimental value so the movers can take extra care in padding and stacking those things. Moving cross country is not without its risks so explore your options for proper coverage to protect your valuable possessions through the move. Check with your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance carrier to determine if coverage applies during your move. If it doesn’t, ask your mover or truck rental agent about purchasing valuation coverage.
Ensure a Smooth Moving Day
On the day of the move, ensure everything goes well by following a few essential steps. Be present during the packing and loading process to address any concerns or questions that may arise. Keep important documents, keys, and contact information handy. Have a furniture placement plan, because you are going to hear “Where do you want us to put this?” a lot! A layout plan will ensure the movers don’t stack the boxes right where you want them to put the sofa.
Settling into Your New Home
When you get to your new home, use the mover’s inventory to verify all your belongings have been delivered and unloaded correctly. Conduct a thorough inspection to identify any apparent damage. Begin unpacking strategically, starting with essential items, and gradually working your way through each room.
Relocating can be a challenging experience, but with proper planning and the assistance of a reliable moving company like MiniMoves, it can also be an exciting new chapter in your life. By following this ultimate guide to relocation, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the process with ease. Remember, a professional moving company is your partner throughout this journey, offering guidance, expertise, and peace of mind. Good luck with your move, and may your new home be filled with joy and happiness!
