Moving into a new home can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be a stressful one if you’re not properly prepared. Taking the right steps before your move will make the process easier and help ensure nothing gets overlooked.
Tips for a Smooth Move
Whether you are moving across town, across country or transitioning into senior living, here are a few tips to help you get your current home prepped and ready for the big day.
Declutter & Organize
Even if you are moving into a bigger home, there’s no sense in packing and hauling things you no longer want or need. Start by going through each room and sorting your belongings. Decide what to keep, donate, sell and throw away. Decluttering might seem like a lot of work, but it will minimize the number of items you have to move and give you a fresh start in your new home.
Pack Strategically
When packing, label each box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs in. Pack essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, basic tools, bedding, snacks and a few kitchen supplies in a “first night” box so you aren’t scrambling when you arrive at your new home.
Decide if You Want to Hire Movers
Weigh the pros and cons of hiring movers vs doing it yourself to determine which route is best for you and your situation. Maybe you find you don’t need a full-service moving company, but that a little help with the heavy lifting would be good. If that’s the case, you may want to consider a labor-only add on moving crew.
Notify Utilities & Services
Contact your electricity, water, gas, internet and cable providers and schedule them to be disconnected or transferred to the new owners. Make sure you’ve activated them at your new home before you arrive. You’ll also want to update your address with your banks, mail subscriptions and set up your forwarding address with the post office.
Prepare Furniture & Appliances
Disassemble large items to make them easier to move. Defrost and clean refrigerators and freezers at least 24 hours in advance. Pack and secure shelves, hoses and power cords of any appliances you are taking with you.
Secure Valuables & Paperwork
Keep jewelry, important documents, high-value items and anything else you would be devastated if it got lost or broken in a secure, designated room or with you to make sure they are not loaded onto the moving truck and take them personally in your vehicle.
Protect the House & Your Belongings
Whether you hired a moving company or are loading the truck yourself, make sure you take steps to protect your walls and floors during the move. Make sure there’s a clear and wide enough exit from each room. Wrap heavy blankets around big bulky items to protect them as well as the walls, corners and doorways. Lay down cardboard or plywood to protect the floors.
Clean & Repair
Once you’ve cleared out your items, give the house a thorough cleaning and make any negotiated repairs.
Secure The Home
Do a final walkthrough to make sure no items have been left behind. Make arrangements to turn over or return keys, garage remotes, and security codes. Double-check windows and doors to ensure everything is locked and the home is secure before you leave.
Make Moving Day Feel Lighter with a Couple More Guys™
Moving is a lot of work, but with a little planning, prep and a few extra hands it can be a lot less. Let a Couple More Guys™ be the muscle behind your Lake Country, Wisconsin move. While we are not a traditional full-service long-distance moving company, we can handle the heavy lifting, complex stacking and careful maneuvering to get your belongings on a POD or moving truck you’ve rented. It’s a flexible, cost-effective option that saves time and money while still ensuring your items are handled with care from insured and experienced movers. Learn more or schedule a crew today.