Making Your Move Less Worrisome
Moving to a new home is a big decision, especially if it’s the first time you’ve done it. There are many things you need to do, things to prepare, and even more to prepare yourself for this big move. Everyone goes through such a process in their life, and if you don’t exactly know what to do, it can be challenging at times. But don’t fret. Clever preparation and intensive research can make the whole ordeal more manageable. That said, here are six simple steps to help you ease the process:
1. Divide Things by Use or Purpose
You’ll need a lot of boxes for the move, and you might feel the need to make the most of it by jamming as many items as you can- regardless of their purpose. However, it’s best to divide the boxes according to use. Put all the kitchen tools and utensils in one box, all the bedroom things in another, and the living room stuff in one. Doing this will make packing easier because each room and thing is segmented, but not just that. When you’ve finally moved into your new home, you can put the boxes in their respective locations and unload them per room. This makes the process more accessible, and you won’t have to keep going over the whole house dragging things back and forth, saving you time and energy.
2. Don’t Overload Boxes
You already know you shouldn’t overload your boxes. But here’s another reason you shouldn’t: they’ll be too heavy to lift. Consider yourself and the movers before you think that’s a small problem to fret about. Boxes are commonly made of cardboard, and there’s a danger of them breaking when they’re too heavy. It’s easy to make the mistake of believing that boxes can hold everything you put inside them. The last thing you want is lifting a heavy box a flight of stairs and the bottom suddenly giving out, scattering your precious items all over.
3. Inspect the House Before You Sign the Dotted Line
You don’t want to move to a substandard house where you waste your money and time. When visiting your new home, check for things that might need repair. Check the flush, faucets, and pipes to see whether you need plumbing repair. It’s also wise to look at the electrical sockets to ensure they work and output power. Make sure they’re all working correctly, even in matters like the windows and doors. Repairs will most likely be involved if the house is cheaper than the average going rate. While it might be okay, you still have to ensure you get your money’s worth because the repair cost might be cutting too much from your payment. Fortunately, most home sellers are smart enough to sell a properly functioning house, but you always want to be sure.
4. Canvas for Trucking Options
If you hire the first trucking or moving services you come across, you risk getting inadequate services. Always canvas for options to find the cheapest ones out there and get the best quality services for the price point you’re looking for. Make sure to check out the reviews and customer testimonials. You’ll be surprised by how good some inexpensive services are and vice versa.
5. Ask Friends to Help You Out
You can rely on friends to help you save on your move. However, be a good friend and compensate them for their efforts (even if some refuse financial compensation). It’s good to ask them because they’ll likely be more understanding. They can also offer emotional support when you feel overwhelmed or overstimulated by everything happening. Most of your friends are willing to help you out! Don’t be afraid to ask them.
6. Transfer Services and Utilities
Note all the utilities and services you’re using at your current address. This might include your internet service providers, cable TV or satellite, water, energy, garbage disposal, etc. Make a call to deactivate your accounts and have them transferred to your new residence. This process usually takes around a week or two. That’s why it’s best to prepare it long before your move. You never want to arrive in your new residence only to be met with no power, internet, or other utilities you need daily.
Moving residences is always a considerable experience. That’s why preparing for it is crucial to ensure you encounter as few problems as possible.
