Relocating can be an exciting adventure. However, it can also be very stressful if things seem rushed or don’t exactly go as planned. The good news is that there are things you can do to make your move go as smoothly as possible. Regardless of where or when you will be relocating, you can make moving day more successful and have a pleasant entry into your community by following these tips.
Get Organized
One of the best ways to help your move go well is to start planning and organizing as early as possible. As early as possible, get started on organizing your furniture and personal belongings and the other tasks that need to be done. It is helpful to create a pre-move checklist of things that have to be done to make your new home ready when you arrive. You may need to transfer or set up utilities, internet, or cable television service.
Bear in mind that these services often require advance notice and that can range from a few days to weeks ahead. A file folder or Google document to keep all your receipts and records from the move will be very helpful. All contact information, confirmation numbers, and other important details should be saved in this file in case you need them in the future.
Hire Wisely
You might be able to manage the move by yourself if you are relocating locally. But if you will be moving across town or the country, it is smart to follow others and hire a professional moving company to help you. Make sure you choose among reputable businesses as you plan your move. Secure multiple quotes from different moving companies, and compare them well. There are companies that will offer an hourly rate or leave things off of their quote to appear more competitive, so make sure you ask a lot of questions and have them include all charges. The farther away you are relocating to, the more important it becomes to pick a company that will treat you honestly.
Purge & Document All Items
Packing is probably the most intimidating thing about planning to relocate. To make your move easier, take time to go through your possessions and segregate things you could easily replace or that would be too difficult or expensive to move. Few things to pack and move usually mean a faster and more efficient move, as well. The next step will be to document your belongings as you go.
As soon as you begin packing, keep track of the contents of each box by writing it down on the box itself. This will help your keep track of which box holds which items. It may seem like extra work, but packing this way makes unpacking in your new home much easier.
Pack an Essentials Box
Another good practice is to pack an “essentials” box. As your moving date approaches and as you pack things you don’t use daily, you also need to plan out your first night in your new home. You can make the first night more pleasant by creating an essential box to take with you.
Important things to put in an essentials box include phone or computer charging cords, toilet paper, paper towels, plates and utensils, garbage bags, and an emergency kit. Other things you can include are some pajamas for each household member, blankets, pillows, candles and matches, and snacks and beverages.
Make a Plan for Kids & Pets
Finally, relocating can be a stressful time. Make sure that you have planned something to keep young children and pets out of the movers’ way. You can ask for help from a friend or family member to watch them during the actual move to lower anxiety levels as well as to keep them out of the way.
Children can pack their things in a suitcase or box together with their favorite toys the day before the move to alleviate fears of something being left behind. If you have pets, do not forget to include food bowls and pet food in your essentials box so they can also settle into their new home.
Is relocating to a new rental home in your future? Trust our professional Pompano property managers to steer you in the right direction. Real Property Management United staff are the local experts, offering quality rental homes that fit your needs. Check out our listings online.
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