Smart Moving Tips to Streamline Your Big Move
While moving isn’t necessarily fun, it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Take the anxiety out of your big move with these helpful moving tips.
Color code your boxes
While most people are content to label their boxes with black sharpies, this isn’t the best way to streamline a move. To make your boxes easier to identify, consider designating a color for every room in your new residence and then put colored stickers on each box. This is especially helpful if you are getting assistance from family or friends. By placing a corresponding colored sticker on every door of your new home, you can make it easy for your helpers to slot the right boxes into the appropriate rooms.
Plan ahead
Most people underestimate the time they will need to relocate all their possessions to a new home. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time so you won’t feel anxious or rushed. This may mean taking off a day or two of work, or asking for help to speed up the process. Whatever the case, be sure to give yourself extra time to deal with unexpected weather or other obstacles. You should also reserve a moving van, hand truck and any other essential moving items well in advance.
Start big
When most people start packing for a move, they begin with the smallest areas, such as closets and junk drawers. This usually leads to tedious hours of work that can make a move seem like an endless endeavor. If you start in the living room, dining room or bedroom, you will be able to make a more noticeable impact in a shorter amount of time. This can motivate you and make you feel less overwhelmed. Although you will ultimately have to address your closets and drawers, it will be a lot easier when you are closer to the finish line.
Stock up on boxes
It’s generally best to have a surplus of boxes for a move. Unfortunately, many people have trouble locating clean, sturdy boxes in a variety of sizes. If you aren’t sure where to start, ask local bookstores, grocery stores, office supply stores, bars, restaurants, pharmacies and liquor stores if they can provide you with boxes. You can also do a quick Craigslist or Freecycle search to see if anyone is giving away boxes in your community. You can also use the U-Haul Box Exchange to find boxes for free.
Purge needless items
Your move will be a lot less stressful if you declutter as you pack. In addition to giving you fewer items to move, decluttering will provide an early sense of accomplishment and make you feel less overwhelmed. While it’s not always easy to let go of things, it can help to view your move as a fresh start. Ask yourself if you really need each item. If the answer is no, throw it out or donate it. You can also reduce clutter by holding a garage sale a couple of weeks before your move.
Get a warranty on your new home
Protect your financial future with a home warranty from 2-10 HBW. Many people are shocked to learn that homeowners have a 68% chance of a breakdown every year. The cost to replace an air-conditioner alone can be upwards of $5,000, which can send a homeowner spiraling into crippling long-term debt. For homeowners who are protected by a home warranty, however, there’s no need to worry. Since a home is usually the largest investment people make, it’s a good idea to protect it against unexpected, expensive breakdowns.
2-10 HBW offers the most comprehensive Home Warranty coverage for homeowners. Let us help you protect your home.
