Moving out of a home can be a daunting task. Whether you are upsizing, downsizing or cleaning out the estate of a loved one, this can be one of the more stressful events in your life. My biggest piece of advice is that your move will go much easier if you organize things BEFORE you move. Toss, recycle, or donate things you don’t need or want in your new space.
With that said, here are 9 hacks to make moving faster, easier and less stressful:
1. Download a checklist.One like this will help you remember all the people and organizations you have to notify - like the dept of motor vehicles, utility company, and home security alarm service.
2. Drain gasoline and oil from outdoor equipment. This can include lawn mowers, generators and snow blowers. Also disconnect propane tanks from gas grills.
3. Find free packing supplies. I always hit up my local liquor store for wine boxes which make great packing boxes for books. You can also score free boxes from grocery stores, friends and family, Nextdoor, and Craigslist.
4. Don’t empty out dresser drawers. Instead it is way better to leave the items in there and then secure them by wrapping the dresser in plastic wrap. Of course if they are too heavy, take the drawers out and wrap them separately.
5. Keep clothes on their hangers. You can either slide them directly into garbage bags or hang them in a wardrobe box.
6. Clearly label boxes. Label with name, contents, and destination for the box (“LR” = living room, “PBR” = Primary Bedroom). Another option is to color code boxes, where you pick a different color sticker and assign it to each room. You will be able to identify what needs to go where quickly, and you won’t have to hunt for a Sharpie every single time you seal up a box.
7. Cover bottles of liquids. Cover shampoo and cleaning supply bottles with plastic wrap before putting the tops on.
8. Use suitcases for your heaviest items. Having wheels and handles will make for easy transportation of books and other weighty items.
9. Put together a moving essentials bag. Chances are you won't unpack everything in one day, so make sure you have everything you need for one night easily accessible. This may include important docs, meds, chargers, a change of clothing, cleaning supplies, pet food, and a tool kit.
And remember, if you are are planning to put your home on the market or have already moved and need some unpacking assistance, I am here to help. Just give me a call!