Whether you are moving into new construction, or just moving into a home that is new for you, relocating can be burdensome - unless you know the tricks. Here are 5 things to consider before you start moving:
1. Preparation
Make the moving process significantly simpler by starting a to-do list. It may seem like a no-brainer to relocate - until you arrive and your new place has no power, or you can't find your birth certificates. Then you will see how important a list can be to the process.
2. Utilities
Nothing is worse than moving to a new home and being in the dark. The power company, cable or internet services, or even gas and water, could take several days to get your utility ready. In the meantime, you would have to live without it - unless you remembered to schedule ahead. Not only does this prevent you from forgetting, but it also allows you to have what you need in your new home while you are still moving in.
While you are at it, change your address so that your mail will follow you in a timely manner. You will need your new address for the utilities, so it only makes sense to update your address at the post office while you are getting your utilities in order.
3. Organizing the Move
Besides the moving into a house checklist, you will also want your other important documents bundled together for safe-keeping during the move. Consider a fire-proof safe for things like birth certificates, social security cards, insurance documents, and other important information. Mark the outside of your box with the words 'personal' 'sensitive' or some other keyword that lets you know what's inside the box. Don't forget photos of your valuables, jewelry, and expensive computers for insurance purposes. These photos need to be placed with the other important documents.
4. Color Codes
Using color-coded boxes (yellow for the kitchen, black for the bathroom, etc.) will save you time when you start sorting through boxes for things you need for a new house. Put all of the same color boxes in the same room. That way you can unpack bedroom items in the bedroom, kitchen items in the kitchen, and so forth.
5. Shipping
Depending on how far you go, or what you are transferring, you may decide that shipping is your best option. Make sure you purchase insurance so that if your items get damaged, they can be replaced. It is also important to note that some shipments may not arrive at the same time. Fragile glassware, art objects, and delicate vases may be shipped separately to avoid being damaged.
6. Foods
If you are shipping perishable items to your new home, the packaging is key to how your foods arrive. To avoid spoilage, leakage, and damage, make sure your air-tight cold boxes or thermal boxes are scheduled to be delivered and picked up in a reasonable amount of time. What good does it do to wrap and ship perishables perfectly if they are not picked up in a timely manner?
When you decide to purchase or move to a new home, making a list and doing some simple organizing will make the transition go smoothly.
