Ready for the Big Move
by Hometeam
Odds are that even the most organized may not remember every detail when packing for the move into your first home. Whether you are heading across country or across town, here are some important tips to keep in mind:
Get Organized!
Getting organized will take less time than you think and will make things go smoother on move day. Start with the following:
Purchase a special notebook to record information about your move.
Purchase moving supplies: tape, markers, scissors, pocketknife, newspaper, blankets, moving pads, plastic storage bins, rope and a hand truck. Free boxes can usually be obtained at a local supermarket, but consider purchasing wardrobe boxes for moving clothes.
Have a garage sale to clear out unwanted items and plan accordingly. Consider donating unwanted items.
Keep a detailed record of all moving expenses. Your costs may be tax deductible depending on the reasons for your move.
Packing tips
There are many ways to organize yourself when you pack. The best method really depends on how far you are moving and how many belongings you have. Here are a few tips and ways to organize yourself when you pack.
Strategize wardrobe box use
Moving companies will be happy to deliver boxes ahead of your moving day. Or if you're doing the move yourself, get things organized as early as possible. Use the remaining space in the box to fill it up with drawer items.
Color coordinate
Designate a color for each room in the new home, such as yellow for kitchen, orange for dining room, etc. Apply colored stickers on the box near the box number. In your new home, put a matching sticker on the door to each room.
Keep things together
Insist on keeping things together when you or the movers are packing boxes. Keep bookends with books, light bulbs with lamps, and extension cords with appliances.
Pack ahead
Anything you can pack ahead will save you time on moving day.
Use your luggage
Fill luggage and duffle bags with clothing, sheets, towels, and paper goods. They will be easy to spot and find your essentials
Safeguard valued items
It's a good idea to keep valuable possessions, such as silverware, collections, or antiques, with you.
Keep important papers with you
Your list of "important" papers might include: birth certificates, school records, mover estimates, new job contacts, utility company numbers, recent bank records, current bills, phone lists, closing papers, realtor info, maps, and more. Don't leave these with the mover. Keep them with you!
Using a mover
If you are using a mover, these tips might safeguard your possessions as well as your wallet by following these tips:
Get a binding estimate from the moving company. Make sure the amount is written in the contract.
- Inquire about their on-time record and other complaints with the local Better Business Bureau or consumer complaints department.
- Movers are limited by law regarding what they can give you for lost or damaged goods. To cover potential damage, check existing homeowner's or renter's policy.
- Ask about expected gratuities and write into contract.
- Have the contract include a guarantee of how many hours the job will take, allowing an overrun of no more than 10 percent.
- Be sure all charges are listed on contract.
- Inform the moving company of how many stairs are at your new home.
- Watch loading and unloading and examine all items carefully before signing a receipt.
- Document an inventory of your belongings before you pack.
Moving in
After your boxes have arrived, take a deep breath and make sure you have the following:
- Contact utility companies and verify start dates.
- Check the condition of items on the movers' inventory list, as they are unloaded.
- Resume delivery of newspapers and other publications.
- Let the local post office know that you have arrived.
- Consider changing the house locks.
- Have tools handy for setting up beds and appliances.
