One of the tasks that stresses us out the most is facing a move.
To get through it successfully and ease the natural anxiety of the process, you need to get organized and keep in mind a few key recommendations that will help you speed up moving all your belongings from one home to another.
Things to consider beforehand
Hire a removals company
This is the first thing to keep in mind, and it’s something you should arrange well in advance to avoid problems, such as making sure the company is available on the day you’ve set for the move.
Hiring a specialized company will save you a lot of work, and comparing several options ahead of time lets you weigh up quotes and conditions.
If your move calls for any special requirements, such as transporting fragile items, dishware or paintings, now’s the time to request that service from the company you hire.
Keep a photo record of your electronics
It’s very useful to take photos of all the connections on your electronic devices, as it saves you trouble when it’s time to set them up again.
Declutter before the move to lighten the load
Before packing everything into boxes and bags, it’s worth doing a thorough clear-out and getting rid of items you no longer need or that are broken and unusable.
Try to give your empty furniture a good clean before the move to remove dust, dirt, mildew or any bacteria that may have built up over time.
Anything still in good condition that you no longer need can be donated or sold in second-hand shops.
Paint the property before the move
If the new place needs a fresh coat of paint, the ideal moment is before the move. It’s always more comfortable to paint an empty space.
Label the boxes and bags
Settling into your new home more smoothly takes planning, and one key point is making sure every box and bag is labeled with its contents.
For extra peace of mind, each box can also note the room where its contents should go.
Set up your new services
Look into the terms for signing up for internet or phone service in advance, especially if several providers offer it in your area.
It’s also important to check that all the lights work and that the hot water connection is properly hooked up.
Make sure you have enough packing materials
You should have the necessary packing materials ready in advance, and in sufficient quantity, so your furniture doesn’t suffer any damage during the move.
Here are the essential materials you should have on hand when getting all your belongings ready for a move.
Bubble wrap and stretch film. Ideal for the most fragile items, to prevent scratches, breakage or dirt.
Cardboard boxes. Make sure they’re good quality, reinforced and in various sizes. These days many come with self-sealing flaps that stay shut without the need for tape.
Packing tape. To reinforce and seal boxes properly, keep drawers and furniture or wardrobe doors shut, and make sure nothing gets lost during the move.
Planning for the day after the move
If you’ve taken all these recommendations into account, the moving process will go smoothly. Even so, there’s one essential thing left to plan.
Pack a small bag with what you need for the first three days. It should include pajamas and two changes of clothes for each family member, plus personal hygiene items.
Also pack the coffee maker, a small frying pan and a few plates, cutlery and glasses. In short, the essentials to enjoy your first breakfast in your new home with total peace of mind.
As you can see, these are simple recommendations to follow for a successful quick move.
