Moving across the country can be both exciting and challenging. With so many changes, you can stay focused by following a plan. Here are five tips to simplify your move.
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1. Set a Budget
Perhaps you are moving because your employer transferred you to a new location. Don’t hesitate to ask if they will cover your expenses. If you need to stay within a tight budget, you can find free boxes and do most of the packing and moving by yourself to save money.
2. Make a Checklist
Start by writing down the obvious items and then organize them with a timeline. Keep the checklist near your bed — you will have some thoughts pop into your head in the middle of the night. Writing them down immediately may help you get back to sleep. Include tasks such as notifying your utility companies, filing a change of address with the post office and a countdown to specific days you will pack.
3. Ask for Help
If it fits in your budget, get two or three bids from moving companies. Realize that the lowest estimate isn’t necessarily the company you should choose. Read the reviews and get a firm bid — in writing. If you decide not to use professional movers, ask your friends and family to help you pack and load the rental truck. There are also options to rent shipping containers that you load and unload, but the company ships them for you. If your vehicles are coming with you, look into auto shipping nationwide to transport your cars.
4. Declutter
There is no reason to move a ten-year-old television across the country. Donate it and buy a new TV after you arrive that will fit your new space. Take time to sell, donate or throw away clothing and household items that you no longer use. Your junk might be someone else’s treasure. It will save you space on your truck, and therefore save you money.
5. Pack Wisely
Remove the drawers so your dresser isn’t too heavy, and then use some plastic wrap to secure the drawer’s contents. Unpacking will be a snap with your clothes already accessible. Put small, breakable objects inside your suitcases — it will be easy to identify them as fragile items. Use towels and sheets to wrap your dishes. Place heavy objects, like books, in small boxes. Label the outside of each box with your name, the room it belongs in and a description of its contents.
Moving is a huge project and relocating across the country requires even more effort. Take one step at a time and enjoy the process.
