Before You Move
A smooth move is going to take preparation. Planning ahead will make your move so much easier, especially if you don't have lots of free help.
It would be nice to get through this with your sanity intact, wouldn't it?
Be sure to have enough boxes. Chances are you have more stuff than you think!
This is a great opportunity to declutter.
Turn that excess junk into cash.
(You'll pay to have it moved, unless you sell it first.)
There's lots of details to contend with: Changing bank accounts, dealing with utility companies & DMV, forwarding mail, interviewing movers and so on.
Allow extra time because, of course, there'll always be something unexpected, usually at the last minute ...
The Joy of Packing
Heavier items belong in smaller boxes.
For instance, books should be packed in "book" (small) boxes. A larger box of regular strength just isn't designed to take on loads of weight. Overloading is a common mistake.
It can seem like a daunting task.
Concentrating on one room at a time makes it more manageable.
Pack early and often and you'll only need to fill a few boxes a day.
Shake it -does it pass the "rattle test"? If you firmly packed all cartons with lots of cushioning materials (bubble wrap, packing paper), everything should be fine.
Oh, and remember that heavier items go on the bottom and lighter ones on top.
Pack dishes on end, not flat. Load it like you would a dishwasher to distribute the weight more evenly. Wrap individually, then use bubble wrap or styrofoam plates for in between dishes.
Save Money, Save Grief ...
Use the double-box method.
Don't have the original box for that electronics or other fragile item? No problem! Put one inside the other. Pad well with bubble wrap and paper.
Take along a survival box: Pre-pack things like medications, toiletries, sweatshirt, snack foods, first aid kit, toolkit, and a bottle of vodka. Whatever you may need immediately upon arrival.
Color code boxes and doorways with labels. This saves time, and movers charge by the hour.
Do NOT pack flammable items. Movers are not insured for handling hazardous materials. So drain the lawnmower, and dispose of all aerosol cans, paints, ammo or gasoline beforehand.
Bundle cables and wires. Label with tape or color code them for easier reinstallation.
Use clothes as packing material. Works great for fragile items or to fill spaces in other boxes that contain items from bedrooms. Roll up breakable knick-knacks in spare socks.
Stuff extra linens, pillows and soft toys in large garbage bags. Plan to use these closed bags as cushions or fillers in your moving truck.
Yes, You're Actually Moving
Safety first. Remember to “squat” when handling heavier items and lift using your legs, not your back. Most spinal disc injuries occur when bending and twisting at the same time.
On moving the big stuff: it's usually easier to walk further with something heavy than to have to maneuver it around objects and through small doorways.
This one's pretty self-explanatory. Keep money, jewelry, and top-secret documents with you.
Get the kids involved. Having a special job can give them a sense of control over the move. You can use the extra hands too!
Who knows, it may even end up being an exciting and fun experience for them.
Stow Fido. Secure the little critters in a room that's been packed and emptied. You don't want to chance having to chase down your pet when you are ready to leave. Update I.D. tags.
If you are hiring movers, stay out of their way. Keep lots of refreshments on hand.
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