Prep Your Way to a Stress-Free Move: Must-Do Tasks Before Movers Show Up

by Paul Lenkiewicz

Moving can be a stressful process, especially if you’re unprepared. To make sure your move is as smooth and stress-free as possible, it’s important to take the right steps before the movers show up. From throwing out unnecessary items to making arrangements for pets and children, there are plenty of tasks to check off your list. Additionally, you’ll need to get packing materials and pack your boxes or make arrangements to get packers, and make sure you’ve scheduled the move with your landlords. Follow this guide to make sure you’re prepared for a successful move.

Decluttering Your Home Before the Move

Moving can be an overwhelming process, especially when you have accumulated years of belongings. Before your move, it’s essential to declutter your home to make the transition smoother and more efficient. Not only will decluttering save you time and money, but it will also give you a fresh start in your new space.

Start by going through each room and sorting your belongings into categories: keep, donate, sell, and toss. Be ruthless in your decision-making process. Ask yourself if you have used or worn the item in the past year, if it holds sentimental value, or if it still fits your lifestyle. Remember, the less you have to pack, the easier the moving process will be.

Consider donating items to local charities or selling them online. This not only helps those in need but also puts some extra cash in your pocket. Additionally, be mindful of any items that may require special disposal, such as hazardous materials or electronics. Contact your local waste management company for guidance.

Decluttering before your move not only streamlines the packing process but also allows you to start fresh in your new home. By removing unnecessary items, you create a more organized and clutter-free space, reducing stress and promoting a positive environment. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to declutter – you’ll be thankful you did on moving day.

Making Arrangements for Children and Pets

Moving can be a chaotic time, and it’s important not to forget about your little ones – both the furry and human kind. Making arrangements for children and pets is crucial to ensure their safety and well-being during the relocation process.

When it comes to children, it’s essential to prepare them for the upcoming change. Talk to them about the move and answer any questions they may have. Show them pictures of the new home and highlight the exciting aspects of the new neighborhood. If possible, take them to visit the new location so they can familiarize themselves with their new surroundings. Packing a special box of their favorite toys and belongings can also help them feel more comfortable during the transition.

For pets, consider their needs and plan accordingly. If you’re moving locally in the NYC area, you may choose to hire a pet sitter or board your pets temporarily while the move is taking place. If you’re relocating long-distance, look into reputable pet transportation services or speak with your veterinarian for recommendations. Ensure that your pets have identification tags with updated contact information in case they get separated during the move.

By taking the time to make arrangements for children and pets, you’ll help ease their stress and make the transition smoother for everyone involved. Remember, a little extra planning goes a long way in ensuring a successful and stress-free move.

Getting Packing Materials

Now that you’ve decluttered your home and made arrangements for your children and pets, it’s time to focus on getting the packing materials you’ll need for your move. Gathering the necessary supplies in advance will save you time and stress when it comes to packing up your belongings.

Start by making a list of all the packing materials you’ll need, such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and markers. You can purchase these supplies from your local moving supply store or order them online. Don’t forget to consider any specialized packing materials you might need for fragile or valuable items.

Another option is to look for free packing materials. Many grocery stores and liquor stores have empty boxes they’re willing to give away. You can also ask friends or neighbors if they have any extra supplies from their recent moves.

If you’re not sure how many boxes you’ll need, there are online tools available that can help you estimate based on the size of your home and the number of rooms. This will ensure you have enough boxes on hand to pack everything efficiently.

Lastly, consider getting moving quotes from professional moving companies. They often provide packing materials as part of their services, so you might be able to save time and money by hiring professionals to both pack and transport your belongings.

By taking the time to gather the necessary packing materials, you’ll be well-prepared for the next step of the moving process. So, stock up on supplies and get ready to pack up your belongings for a smooth and successful move.

Pack Smart to Save Time and Money

Packing up your belongings can be one of the most time-consuming tasks during a move. However, with a smart approach, you can save both time and money in the process. Here are some tips to help you pack smart and make your move more efficient.

First, start by organizing your belongings by category. Group similar items together so that they can be packed together and easily unpacked in your new home. This will not only save you time when unpacking but also ensure that fragile items are packed properly and protected during the move.

Next, use the right packing materials for each item. Invest in quality moving boxes that are sturdy and durable. Consider using specialized packing materials such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts for fragile items. Utilize items you already have, like towels or clothing, to cushion delicate items and save on packing materials.

Label each box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make it easier for movers to know where to place each box in your new home, saving you time and effort when unpacking.

If you have larger furniture pieces, consider disassembling them before the move. This will not only save space in the moving truck but also make it easier to navigate narrow hallways or doorways.

Lastly, pack a essentials box with items you will need immediately upon arriving at your new home. Include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and any necessary tools or cleaning supplies. This will save you from rummaging through multiple boxes to find essential items on your first night in your new home.

By following these packing tips, you can save both time and money during your move. With a well-organized and efficiently packed truck, your move will be smoother and less stressful. So, get packing and enjoy your city move.

Scheduling the Move with Your Landlord or Property Manager

Now that you’ve taken care of decluttering your home, making arrangements for your children and pets, and getting all the necessary packing materials, it’s time to schedule the move with your landlord or property manager. This step is crucial to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any last-minute complications.

Start by checking your lease agreement to determine the notice period required for moving out. Typically, you’ll need to provide your landlord with a written notice 30 to 60 days in advance. Make sure to follow the specified guidelines for notifying your landlord, whether it’s through email, a formal letter, or an online portal.

Once you’ve notified your landlord, it’s a good idea to communicate your move-out date and any specific instructions regarding access to the property. If you’re renting an apartment, find out if there are any specific move-in or move-out procedures, such as reserving the elevator or parking spaces for the moving truck.

In addition, don’t forget to address any outstanding repairs or maintenance issues that need to be resolved before you move. Take photos of the property’s condition to document any pre-existing damages and discuss these with your landlord or property manager.

Lastly, make sure to update your forwarding address with your landlord or property manager. This will ensure that any future correspondence or important documents are sent to the correct address.

By scheduling the move with your landlord or property manager in advance, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that all the necessary arrangements have been made. This will help make your move more organized and less stressful. So don’t forget this crucial step and get ready for a successful move to your new home.