6 TIPS FOR A SMOOTH MOVE

You just got the keys to your next home- yay! It’s an exciting time but let’s face it, moving is extremely overwhelming.  Plan ahead to make your move smooth and stressfree!

Prepare your boxes

Yes, I guess that should be the first step. Think about what you need to pack up. Get lots of them in different sizes – yep not just large ones – because there will be things that will probably be better if you pack them in small and medium boxes (such as kitchen appliances and delicate dishware). Pro tip- visit your local beverage store. They usually have piles of strong cardboard boxes you can take for free.

Prepare your supplies

Supplies you’ll need for packing are zipties, tape, scissors/boxcutters, markers, labels, old newspapers for box stuffing, garbage bags, bubble wrap and cling wrap. Pro tip- use sandwich bags for small things such as screws.

Packing

Think about the layout of each room and determine what must go and what to pack for the new spaces. Get rid of the things that you no longer need in the new home- donate them or hold a garage sale if you have a lot of stuff to get rid of.

Use small boxes for heavy items if they can fit and remember to use packing tape – secure your boxes to avoid breakage during loading and unloading. Protect fragile items with packing paper, bubble wrap, old newspaper or old clothes/blankets. Make sure that you cover and protect everything that may break and/or leak.

Lastly, sort and label boxes by category. I suggest listing items in each box to save yourself a headache when it comes to unpacking. Label each box with the name of the room it belongs in and lists the items inside.

Prepare you logistics plan

Are you planning to use movers or rent a truck and drive it yourself? Either way, you have to be sure to schedule them ahead of time – I suggest at least 2 weeks before your moving date. Get an appointment with the movers or hire the truck on the date of your move. If you’re handling the move on your own, enlist the help of family and friends! Treat them to a lunch as a thank you!

Utilities

Don’t forget to call your cable, internet, electricity, and gas providers at least a week ahead of your move so you can request to shut off or transfer service.

Change your address

Update your new address with your bank and services such as Amazon and magazine subscriptions. Your local post office can make this process easy- just fill out an address change on the USPS website.

For more resources on buying and selling real estate, give us a call! 907-720-HOME(4663) or (907) 570-6757.