So, you’ve found a new home. Congratulations! We know how difficult it is to make a big decision like that. But we also know what happens next: the big move, that stressful day you have marked on your calendar when you need to get all of your personal belongings packed up and brought to your new home.
We’re guessing that moving usually isn’t your favourite day of the year. But, here’s the thing: it really doesn’t have to be stressful. It doesn’t, we promise!
Here are five tips to make your life easier the next time you move.
1. Write everything down
We can’t stress this enough. When preparing for your move, the first thing you should do is make a list of everything you’re bringing and how it will be organized. Use a notebook, or a good note-taking app on your smartphone like Evernote. It will help you stay on track and keep your move organized from start to finish. Highly recommended!
2. Save money and stress by packing, loading and unloading yourself
Sure, you could pay someone to pack, load and unload your things, but you can save a lot of money and stress by doing this yourself. If you’re considering renting a truck, you’ll have to consider the following:
Reserving a truck well in advance
Budgeting the km charges, additional insurance and fuel
Your experience and ability to drive a large commercial truck
Your familiarity with rental contracts and their clauses
Your knowledge of ‘commercial truck circle check’ record keeping
Fill the truck with fuel before returning it
Arranging a ride home
There’s a lot to keep in mind, not to mention that your moving company may not pack and organize your personal belongings the way you’d like them to. We’d suggest that you pack, load and unload your things, and leave the road safety and driving portion to professional drivers.
3. Have lots of supplies – especially boxes!
You’ll need a lot of boxes, so make sure you have more than enough! Make sure you mark each box with a specific description of what’s inside, so you can manage them as you move and unpack in your new home. For example, “plates and cutlery” is better than “kitchen miscellaneous”. Be specific and make sure you mark everything appropriately on your list – it will make things a lot easier when it comes time to unload!
4. Make use of your luggage!
If you have any suitcases, luggage, bags, or spare boxes, be sure to use them! It will save you money on boxes, they’re often more durable and reliable, and you don’t have to assemble them or dispose of them after your move. It’s a simple but underused trick – don’t forget to take advantage of it during your next move.
These tips should help you have an easy, stress-free move – if you have any questions or would like to suggest a moving tip to us, feel free to leave a comment!