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Moving tips to make your big day go smoothly

Moving house can be stressful but there are plenty of ways of making your day go as smoothly as possible. Here we share some of the best moving tips from the web.

Moving tips – the best advice from the web

Start planning early

Never underestimate how much planning is involved so as soon as you know your moving day start the planning process which leads us on nicely to the next tip.

Declutter first and sell your junk

It’s a waste of time to think about, plan for, pack, move and then unpack items that you haven’t used in your current home for years. So one of our favorite moving tips is as soon as you know you are definitely moving but before you have a definite moving date go on a ruthless campaign of decluttering where you can get rid of items that you don’t need or no longer want. You might even be able to sell stuff using Ebay, Gumtree or local Things for sales sites on Facebook. Also consider local Car boot sales.

Gather boxes and supplies

Don’t make us say this twice – you’ll need LOTS of boxes–probably more boxes than you think, and having enough boxes will make your life easier! (If you buy your boxes from a moving company, you can always return unused boxes for a refund. If you got them free from the grocery, just toss any leftovers.) Have about 10 boxes set aside to use for last minute items on moving day, such as bedding, clothing, and cleaning supplies.

You’ll need strong plastic packing tape to close up the boxes securely. Use newspaper or packing paper or bubble wrap to wrap and cushion household good. Again, you’ll need lots more supplies than you think, so get extra so the packing can go smoothly. Return any unused supplies after the truck is packed.

Make a list

Write everything down! You’ll thank yourself later. Before you pack even one box, create a simple record keeping system. Create a computer-printed list of numbers with a space to write the contents of each box.

DIY or use a removal company?

Recruiting friends and family and renting a truck are certainly cheaper, but think very hard about whether or not you’re all really up for the task. Assess your situation and budget carefully, and consider hiring out as many tasks as you can afford. You may find it’s not worth the trouble (or your back) to do the heavy lifting yourself, but moving smaller or valuable items by hand is worth your effort. Moving companies use professional, experienced people who are expert at getting the job done quickly with minimal damage. Your friends and family cannot be expected to work as quickly or efficiently as a good removal company.

Use Google, personal recommendation or this website to find your removal company.

Pack ahead

Anything you can pack ahead will save you time on moving day. If it’s summer, get your winter clothes out of the way. You don’t really need 5 radios or TV’s around your house for the last few days there. Box up your shampoo and extra toothpaste and live out of a travel cosmetic case for the last week or two. Pare down cooking utensils and food supplies to bare essentials. Wastebaskets can also be packed (put things in them!) while you switch to using plastic grocery bags.

Pack one room at a time

Pack one room at a time, clearly labelling each box with details of its contents and the room to which it belongs. Clearly label boxes that contain breakables and also those that are load-bearing and can be stacked in the van.

Use luggage and other strong bags for clothing

As well as boxes, use your suitcases and strong bags for clothes.

Pack essential items for the first night

Pack an ‘essentials’ box for the first night in your new home and carry it with you. Instant access to coffee, tea, snacks, cups and a kettle may be welcome soon after you arrive. As will plates, utensils and a kitchen cloth.

Prepare an overnight bag

Prepare an overnight bag for everyone in the family, and make sure that there is enough toilet paper and toiletries for everyone.

Safeguard valued items

It’s a good idea to keep valuable possessions, such as silverware, collections, or antiques, with you. If you have a long move and no room in your car, bury the items in a box titled “Misc. from kitchen pantry”. Either way, check your homeowner’s insurance to see how you are covered during the move, and if you need additional insurance from the mover. Also, find out what paperwork (receipts, appraisals, and photos) you might need to file a claim in case of loss.

Further reading

Packing tips

Moving tips from Good housekeeping

12 Terrific Moving Tips When You’re Moving Your Home

33 Moving Tips That Will Make Your Life So Much Easier

10 Packing Tips You Must Know When Moving House

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