Packing up your life and moving down the street or across the country doesn’t have to be disastrous. Learn how to pack boxes for moving, and you’ll be relaxing in your new space before you know it.
Though it’s considered one of the most stressful events of modern life, remember that the hassle of moving into a new house is balanced by joy and excitement for the adventure of relocation.
TIPS
1.Seize the opportunity to purge
Packing all your possessions into boxes, bags, and more can be overwhelming. Make it a little bit easier on yourself by cutting back on clutter as much as possible.
2.Make a moving folder
Start collecting new addresses, rental, or purchase papers, moving contracts, and more in one folder. (Consider a hard copy, rather than a digital one, in case computer or phone batteries die during the move.) If any questions come up during the planning process or the move itself, you’ll have the answer (and records of agreements, payments, and more) on hand.
3.Pack as far in advance as possible
Start by packing off-season items and the items you won’t miss. If you’re moving in summer, you can pack winter coats in advance. When it’s finally time to move, many items will already be ready to go, giving you less to stress about.
4.Book early
If you’re hiring moving services, renting supplies, or hiring professionals such as painters or cleaners to work on the house, book early. Waiting to do so could mean paying a higher price, or not being able to get a truck or movers at all, particularly if it’s peak moving season.
5.Transfer utilities
Once the dates are finalized, contact your utility providers to schedule service at your new home. Schedule it ahead of time and keep records of your requests in your moving folder. At the same time, request service stops for your move-out date at your current home.
6.Keep the essentials with you
On the night before the move, tuck everyday essentials into a suitcase or bag you’ll keep with you in the car, the truck cab, or on the plane. If catastrophe strikes and the moving truck gets lost, at least you’ll have some essentials with you.
7.Get a truck with a loading ramp
If you’re a DIY mover, you absolutely need a truck with a ramp. It may be cheaper to rent a truck without one, but the hassle (and struggle) of lifting every box and piece of furniture high enough to get it into the truck will add hours—plus sore muscles—to your move.
8.Get prepared for emergencies
Know the way to the closest ER, have local emergency numbers and first aid handy, and put together a plan for what to do in case of fire or natural disaster.
Review procedures and meeting places with all members of the family (don’t forget pets), and practice the drill. In earthquake country, put together an earthquake kit
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