Moving into a new home for the first time can be exciting and a bit chaotic, which is why it is incredibly easy to overlook some important tasks. After all, moving is not just about packing up boxes and labelling them correctly. It involves a lot of planning, so go over this list and see whether you may have forgotten something.
Look for a trustworthy moving company
You want your move to go as smoothly as possible, and choosing the right moving company plays an important role in this. You don’t want your things to get broken, or even worse, vanish without a trace. This is why you should find a company that has great reviews, and is licensed and insured. If you wish to save money, choose a mid-week moving date and avoid peak moving season. Months between October and April are usually the slowest for moving companies, so you will be able to get a better deal.
Find out what the moving company will not move for you
A lot of moving companies have a list of items they do not move. These lists often contain aerosol cans, paints, scuba tanks, and fire extinguishers. When you find the moving company you like, ask them about their non-allowables list so you are fully prepared.
Make sure your new place is spotless
You surely do not want movers to put your nice furniture into a dirty house, so make sure the house is spotless before they arrive. While you can roll up your sleeves and clean the place top-to-bottom yourself, it is much easier to hire move in cleaning services. These professionals will make sure every part of your new home is meticulously sanitised, and ensure a seamless transition into your new house. Additionally, don’t forget to check the box off of cleaning your current place before leaving. Similarly, a move out cleaning service can make completing this task much easier for you.
Take measurements
Before the truck arrives you need to know exactly where your furniture will go. Therefore, a couple of days before the big move, go to your new home, measure all the rooms, and decide where you will place your couch, bed, and all the large furniture pieces. This way you will be able to direct the movers and have a lot less on your plate after they go home.
Forward your mail
If your mail ends up at your old address, you may miss out on important letters or bills. Therefore, forward your mail before the big day. Also, notify the important people about your move, so you don’t end up having to deal with service lapses.
Use the right boxes
Your clothes will survive the trip even in your old suitcases, but fragile items such as your television, computer, mirrors, or paintings require professional packing. Instead of placing them in damaged boxes or unsuitable ones, go to your local box centre and find boxes that will get the job done.
Find a new pharmacy
Before the move, you will need to contact your old pharmacy and let them know that you are moving to another place. Also, research pharmacies in your new neighbourhood and bring your doctor’s written prescriptions with you when you go to pick up your medications.
Get a storage unit
Are you downsizing? If you are moving to a smaller place and you are not ready to part ways with some of your items, find a self-storage unit where you can place them until you are ready to deal with them. Speaking of a self-storage unit, it is important to find one that offers great security features, as well as a climate-controlled environment, otherwise your items may get damaged over time.
Pack a bag of essentials
After the movers are gone and you are about to spend your first night in your new place, you surely do not want to spend hours going through the boxes just to find your toothbrush. Therefore, pack a bag of essentials that you will keep by your side. It should contain a change of clothes, your PJs, toiletries, snacks, a phone charger, and even pet food or baby essentials in case you have a pet or kids.
Moving into a new place for the first time doesn’t have to give you a headache. With careful planning, this can be a smooth transition, so follow these tips and make sure nothing gets out of hand.
