Organizing for a move

It seems like an unbelievable fact, but according to the U.S. Census, about 14% of the population moves each year. If you happen to be in that 14%, how can you get organized for your move?

As with most organizing, you will need to start a list. In fact, a binder is another must have. Put all of the receipts, phone numbers, kids’ school calendars and your own in the binder. Think about all of the things you need to do, and start figuring out when they need to be done. Mark the calendar accordingly. That task in itself can seem overwhelming, so do a little at a time.

Begin to do research about prices for moving vans or rental trucks, whatever you need to use. Write down all of the price quotes so you have them in one location. Be sure to transfer electric, gas, phone, internet, cable or other services to ensure everything will be working in your new home when you get there. Make sure services are also turned off when you leave your old home. Confirm the moving company or truck rental at least a week ahead of time to make sure everything happens when it should.

Get supplies together, starting a few weeks before the move. You will need to accumulate boxes, plastic containers, newspaper, bubble wrap, markers, scissors and packing tape. Liquor stores are a good spot to get free boxes. Ask what day your local liquor store gets their delivery, that will be the ideal time to get boxes from them. Raid your friends’ recycle boxes for newspaper.

Start packing a couple weeks before the move. Begin with off-season belongings you know will not be needed any time soon. Pack in small increments and it will not seem as daunting. Empty your freezer and clean it out ahead of time.

You may get sidetracked looking through your belongings. This is the perfect time to declutter. You should never move things you are not planning to keep. Donate, sell or give away items that you will not need or do not have room for – before you move. You have enough work to do – do not make extra work for yourself.

Pack the most important items last because they are the things you use daily. Always label every box or container. Separate your most valuable items, like jewelry, to be transported in your car.

Make sure any pets are kept safe during the loading and unloading of boxes. You might want to board them or take them to a friend’s home during the move. This is a stressful time for you, but your pets may be frightened as well as stressed, because they do not understand what is happening.

Count the boxes before you start loading the moving vehicle. Know how many you should have at the new home. Keep items from each room together as much as possible. When you get to your new place unload boxes from the truck and take them directly to the room where they belong. This will eliminate sorting the boxes later.

Put a time limit on how long things can stay in boxes before they must be unpacked. That is also true for the kids. You want to put everything in its place in the new home so you can find items when you need them.

Hopefully, with organization, you can make a smooth transition from your current home to your new one. Start off life in your new home uncluttered, and you will feel a wonderful sense of accomplishment.

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