Moving can be a hectic and overwhelming process. There are many things to do and think about, including packing boxes, hiring movers, and finding a new home.
It’s also a good idea to declutter your current home and donate or throw away items you no longer need. This will save you time and money when packing. Keep in mind the things that can help you budget your money before moving. Whether it be to repair or replace refrigerator units is something that you should decide before moving.
- Rent a Storage Unit
It is always a good idea to rent a storage unit before you move. This will help you declutter your home and ensure that you only bring items that you really need. It will also make your moving day much less stressful.
You can rent a storage unit for as long as you want, so it is perfect for people who need to wait for their new home to be finished or for their lease to start. It can also be a great way to store heirlooms until they can be passed down to future generations.
- Get a Moving Quote
Whether you’re moving by yourself or with professional movers, it is important to get an accurate and thorough moving quote as early as possible. That way, you can avoid any unexpected costs down the road.
You can usually find a moving company’s quotes online, but it’s always best to schedule an in-home estimate to get the most accurate price. It’s also a good opportunity to evaluate the company’s reputation, licensing, and certifications. Additionally, you can ask about the payment model (whether it’s binding or nonbinding) and whether they offer any additional services, like packing and storage.
- Start Packing
One of the most important things to do before you move is start packing. Start by cleaning out closets and cabinets and getting rid of items you no longer need.
Next, pack a bag of essentials for the first few days in your new home. Make sure it includes a change of clothes, toiletries and snacks. Also include a toolkit of basic tools, including a hammer, screwdriver, pliers, wrenches and a tape measure.
Finally, take photos of furniture and electronics with their back configurations so you can put them back together when you unpack them in your new home.
- Hire a Moving Company
Whether you’re moving across the country or just down the street, it’s important to hire a professional. Make sure that the company you hire is reputable and has good reviews online.
Also, be sure to take a final look through your house before you move. This includes
opening closets and cabinets to ensure that nothing has been left behind. Don’t forget to check your water and gas meters as well.
On the day of the move, be sure to provide the movers with a map of your home and exact directions to get there. This will help them save time and avoid getting lost.
- Turn On Your Utilities
There are so many details to manage when you’re moving, but one of the most important is making sure your utilities are transferred. This ensures that your new home is able to function right away and prevents you from being overcharged or having to pay deposits.
This process can be time-consuming, so it’s best to start it as soon as you know your move-in date. Be sure to keep the account numbers and contact information for both your old and new utility providers handy. It’s also a good idea to schedule the shut off and activation dates for your water, gas, and electricity well ahead of time.
- Sell Your Current Home
You may have a lot of items you can’t fit into your new house, so now is the time to start the purging process. Don’t be afraid to hit up local thrift stores and consignment shops.
You can also sell your stuff on a website like Craigslist, Facebook, or online auctions. You can even rent a storage unit to hold some of your stuff.
Don’t forget to change your address on your driver’s license and auto insurance, and update any other accounts that use it. This will help prevent any issues when you move and ensure that you get your mail and pay your bills on time.
- Buy a New Car
Unless you are moving with a full crew of help, you’ll need some form of transportation to get around your new home. Research the options available to you and choose one that fits your needs best.
Medications and Other Essentials
Keep some medications (and other essentials) in a small bag that you can use throughout your move and the first few days in your new home. Nothing is worse than having to sift through boxes of your things in search of toilet paper or toothpaste.
Make sure your new neighborhood has the shopping and grocery stores you need to stay well-stocked.