Moving can be stressful and expensive and by the time you find a place to live and get halfway through with the packing, you might find yourself simply throwing things into the closest available box. Once you get to the new place you might wish you had organized things a little better when you can’t find your best frying pan. These tips will make your next move easier and less time-consuming.
Use a Realtor
Save yourself the stress of looking for your next place by using a realtor. These professionals can help you find the most affordable home to rent or buy, and often have access to listings that aren’t otherwise made public online. Get the most out of your realtor by asking for recommendations on packing and moving companies, cleaning services, or contractors. Places like Coldwell Banker George Realty often have relationships with these types of professionals and can sometimes get you a better deal.
Pack Smart
Pack the stuff you won’t need for a while first. Label each box with as much detail as possible. Don’t think that just labeling a box “living room” or “clothing” will help you once you get to the new place. Label each box with the room and as much detail as possible about what’s inside. You might want to print out a detailed list of what exactly is inside each box and tape it to the side. While this method takes some time up front, it will save you time and stress later.
Pack Clothes in Clear Bins
You can buy see-through bins in bulk for only a few dollars more than you would spend on cardboard boxes. By packing your clothes in clear bins, you’ll save yourself the trouble of having to go through each box to find a specific outfit. If you typically store winter clothes during the summer season and vice versa, these bins will come in handy and save you some spring cleaning trouble in the future. Keep out-of-season clothing stacked in the bins in the closet until you need them.
Hire a Moving Company
Renting a moving truck can be expensive, and you still have to move everything yourself. While friends and relatives might offer to help you pack and move, you never know if they will come through on moving day or hurt themselves while hauling your furniture to the truck. Moving companies can make your life easier because they also offer other services. Many will pack your things for you or provide free boxes for your televisions, microwaves, or other appliances. Since most companies offer free estimates, there’s no harm in calling one to see how affordable it might be.
Get a Sitter
Hire a sitter for moving day. No matter how well-behaved your kids are, little bodies will be in the way every time someone tries to get through the door carrying a heavy piece of furniture. Get a sitter for the pets, too. You don’t want the cat getting out, and you could probably do without having to listen to the dog bark while you try to move.
As soon as you find out you’re going to move, start planning and organizing your packing. If you get boxes and label things in advance, you’ll save yourself a lot of aggravation later. Arrange for professional help whenever possible to streamline your moving process. By following these tips, your next move will be much less chaotic.
