Moving can be a very hectic and stressful time. Fortunately, Kirei Cleaning is here with a few tips to help make your move as smooth as possible.
Make A Packing List
The first step for a stress-free move is making a list and checking it twice. Open up a word doc and write out a list of numbers and leave plenty of empty space. A pen and paper will work too, but typing is faster for most. Place a number on every one of your boxes and record the contents on your list.
You Need Boxes, Lots Of Boxes
Packing requires boxes, of course, but it likely requires more boxes than you think. Have at least ten boxes set aside for last minute items on moving day, such as bedding, clothing, and cleaning supplies. Make sure to have plenty of strong plastic packing tape to close up the boxes securely. Use unprinted newsprint (newspaper can stain your items) or packing paper/bubble wrap to wrap and cushion your stuff. Remember, it’s always better to be a little over-prepared than not prepared enough.
Wardrobe Boxes Are The King Of Boxes
Wardrobe boxes are tall specialty boxes movers provide for bulky, lightweight items such as blankets and comforters an as well as clothes that need to be hanged. Call your mover and ask them about the size of the wardrobe boxes they provide. Then measure the clothes in your closets and count how many wardrobe boxes you’ll need.
Strategize Wardrobe Box Use
A day or two before your move, fill some bags with closet items such as shoes, belts, jeans, and sweaters. On moving day, fill the bottom of the wardrobe boxes with some of the bags, then add your hanging clothing. Pack hanging items as tightly as possible so clothes won’t move around and fall off their hangers.
Keep Similar Items Together
When your movers arrive, ask them to keep the boxes you organized together when they pack. Your box of shirts should be beside your box of pants. Small, detachable parts should be affixed to the item they belong to with tape or placed in an envelope. Larger item accessories (such as a TV cord) can be put inside bags and taped to the underside or back of an item.
Protect Your Valuables
It’s smart to keep valuables, such as silverware, stamp collections, or antiques in your car. If you don’t have room in your car, hide the items in a boring box labeled “miscellaneous” or something similar. Be sure to check your homeowner’s insurance to see how much you are covered for during a move, and whether or not you need additional insurance. Also, find out what paperwork (photos, receipts, appraisals) you’ll need to file a claim in the event of a loss.
Keep Your Papers On Hand
Some important papers may include your birth certificate, school records, diplomas, current bills, bank records, realtor info, closing papers, maps, etc. These papers don’t take up much space, so keep them on your person.
Make “Need Now” Boxes
Get an easily identifiable box for each person in your family. Each family member should fill their box with items they’ll need right away in the new home. This may include a set of sheets, a blanket, a towel, toiletries, a phone, a book, a travel cosmetic case, etc.
