Are you Overwhelmed with an Upcoming Move?
Research has shown that moving (even when staying in the same city) is one of the most stressful situations people cope with. Even when your move is a happy occasion, it’s likely you’ll still feel the pressure of move-in dates, packing, and a change in routine. Make your next move go smoothly by using the ultimate moving guide below:
Get Organized with the Ultimate Moving Guide
To have an organized move, you need to get your current living space in order. A few ways to do this include:
Donating (or throw away) items you no longer need.
Researching Moving Companies. They may be pricey, but having a moving company help with heavy furniture and general household items can be an enormous weight off your shoulders. To avoid overpaying, get estimates from at least three companies.
Get Paperwork in Order: During your move, it’s likely there will be some paperwork that you need to keep on hand. Creating a binder of important paperwork (like medical records, school reports, and pay stubs) will preserve your peace of mind in the long run.
Start Preparing
Now that your current living space is organized, it’s time to start preparing for your move date.
Get ready for the day of your move by:
Gathering packing materials – Having your moving supplies on-hand before the day of your move will help you stay organized and avoid a last-minute rush. A few weeks before your move date, purchase boxes, tape, markers, and bubble wrap.
Sorting Perishable Food: A few days before your move, sort through your pantry and cabinets. Take an inventory of the food you already have on hand; then use, toss or donate the items that don’t want to take during your move.
Taking Measurements: If possible, find the measurements and dimensions for your new home to determine whether your existing furniture will fit into your new living space.
Picking a Moving Company: Using the quotes you collected during phase one, pick the best moving company for your budget. Confirm your move date with their office, then place a copy of the paperwork in your moving binder.
Packing in Advance: The longer you wait to pack, the more stressful your move will become. General household items like decorations, holiday supplies, and books are a good place to start.
Packing & Transferring Information
Now that you’re organized and have all your moving supplies on-hand, it’s time to pack!
Separate valuables such as jewelry, important documents, and family heirlooms that you’d prefer to transport personally.
Set up your change of address, you can do this online or at your local post office.
Notify businesses and public offices about your move, including banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and utility providers.
Arrange for help, if needed. If you’re not using a moving company, it may be best to arrange for child and/or pet care on moving day so you can focus.
Refill any prescriptions. Moving is stressful enough without having to refill a prescription while packing and unpacking – get your prescriptions taken care of a few days before your move.
Request time off from work for moving day, if needed.
Moving can be hectic, but you can make it easier by having a well-defined plan and preparing in advance. Use the ultimate moving guide above to stay organized during your transition, and don’t be shy to ask for help from family and friends during your move. If you’re moving to an apartment home, sign the lease a few days before you move to avoid a lengthy office visit during your transition.
If you have questions about moving into one of our Waldorf apartments, call our leasing office at (240) 585-7100.
