Just sealed the deal on a new house? Congratulations! It’s an exciting time as you envision the new memories you’ll create in your dream home. But before you can sit back and relax, you must overcome the daunting task of moving.
Moving can be a rollercoaster of stress and overwhelm, whether you’re embarking on a cross-country adventure or simply relocating to a different part of town. And while it’s no small feat, you can significantly smooth out the bumps with some preparation and a few tips and tricks.
So, how to prepare for moving? Read on for a moving checklist designed to keep you on track at every step of your journey.
Get Organized, Move with Purpose
Create a Moving Folder
First thing first, create a “moving” folder. Think of it as a central location where every essential document relating to your new home—from your moving checklist to receipts and contracts—finds a home.
If you’re creating a moving folder on your computer, you may want to securely store it on the cloud (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox, Apple iCloud, etc.). But if you’re dealing with physical paperwork, keep a neat binder/notebook.
Create a Timeline and Schedule
Crafting a timeline and schedule is the secret recipe to maintaining your sanity amidst the moving chaos. Creating a week-by-week roadmap, then zoom in closer as the big day approaches with a day-by-day game plan.
Leave no stone unturned—from packing specific rooms to booking a moving truck and coordinating repairs. A specific, achievable, and time-bound schedule can help keep you on top of your game.
Budget for Moving Expenses
Take charge of your moving finances by setting a budget well in advance. Make a comprehensive list of anticipated expenses and allocate cash accordingly. By setting aside funds as early as possible, you’ll have one less thing to worry about when the relocation day finally arrives.
Take an Inventory of Your Belongings
Stay ahead of the game by conducting a thorough inventory of all your belongings. Prioritize planning ahead by meticulously examining each room in your house. Create a detailed list of items to be moved, deciding what stays and what bids farewell.
Pre-Move Preparations
Collect Moving Supplies
Gear up for the packing adventure by stocking up on essential moving supplies. From essentials like boxes, tape, markers, and bubble wrap to specialty items like mattress covers, wardrobe boxes, and dish barrel—collecting moving supplies sets you up for a smooth packing process.
Get the Word Out of Your Move
Before your big move, give all the important parties a heads-up—including utility providers, banks, insurers, doctors, and other organizations. Also, keep your loved ones in the loop by sending out a new address announcement.
Find a Moving Company?
So, will you hire a moving company or take the DIY route by packing and moving your precious possessions yourself? If you choose to hire professionals, explore your options wisely. Consider the distance to your new home, the volume of items to be transported, and the nature of your furniture.
Transfer Utilities
Preparing for the move also means considering the essentials you’ll need right from the start. Electricity, gas, water, TV, and internet services should be at the top of your list. Transfer all utilities before your move to make the transition to your new home as seamless as possible.
And while you’re at it, tie up loose ends – e.g., canceling gym memberships, picking up clothes from the dry cleaner, gathering prescription refills, and returning library books.
Saying Goodbye to Your Old Home
Embrace the bittersweet sigh by bidding farewell to your current (soon-to-be old) neighborhood. Whether you treat yourself to a flavorful cup of coffee at your favorite spot or organize a moving-out soirée, find closure by cherishing the moments you’re leaving behind while embracing the excitement of the new chapter ahead.
Prepare Your New Home
Assess Your New Home
Visit your new residence and plan the logistics of the move. Familiarize yourself with any specific moving requirements or guidelines at your new location to ensure a smooth transition.
Spruce Up Your New Home
Take advantage of the empty space and clean your new home thoroughly before moving in. It’s also an opportune time to paint the walls or make any necessary touch-ups.
Pick Up Supplies for Your New Home
Embrace the fresh start by shopping for furniture and essentials that suit your new space. It may be exciting to undertake big tasks like upgrading your furniture—but consider prioritizing essentials like dish soap, paper towels, and other necessities to avoid any inconvenience during the initial days in your new home.
Find Essential Facilities
Moving can be hectic, so it’s important to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances. Identify your new area’s nearest urgent care facility and pharmacy for safety. Also, research local banks and schools—and consider seeking recommendations for reliable contractors, dog walkers, and mechanics in your new community.
Set Up Home Security
Prioritize the security of your new home as you prepare for the move. If you have a security provider, consider sharing your moving schedule with them so they can plan the relocation or installation accordingly.
Packing Tips for a Smooth Transition
- Sort through all your belongings and decide what you want to keep, give away to friends and family, donate to charity, or throw away. Take the time to go through each room and tackle one area at a time—making decisions about each item.
- To make the moving process more organized and efficient, pack in the right order. Start with non-essentials, rarely used, or off-season items. Leave the essentials for last and prepare an “open first” box containing items you’ll need immediately in your new home.
- Pack room by room and label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to in your new home.
- Separate and secure items that the movers won’t handle. This typically includes valuable, sensitive, or fragile belongings like fine art, safes, family heirlooms, jewelry, paperwork, or anything you would feel more comfortable personally transporting.
Bottomline on How to Prepare for Moving – Ready, Set, Move!
By staying organized and following the steps outlined, you’ll be able to streamline the moving process and make your transition to the new home much smoother.
With careful preparation and execution, you’ll soon be on the move and settling into your new home in no time! Good luck with your move!
