- Ruthlessly Cut The Clutter
The reason moving costs become exorbitant and boxes take up so much space is simply because you have too much stuff! Try cutting the clutter out of your life before you move and ruthlessly purge what you're not using. This will make your move less overwhelming and stressful while also giving you the ability to start fresh in your new home. If you have older things that need repair or replacement, this is a good time to let them go!
- Organize Paperwork
In regards to your move, you will generate quite a bit of paperwork in the form of receipts, rental or purchase agreements, and moving contracts. Instead of keeping digital files of everything, keep the original hard copies on hand. Get a folder where you can organize everything in case you need to refer back to them at a later time. Plus, it's a good idea to have backup papers in case your phone dies or crashes.
- Pack In Advance
When you decide to move, chances are you'll have a good idea of your moving date. This is true even if your final address or destination is unclear. Start packing well ahead of schedule by putting away items you won't miss and boxing them up. If you're moving during the summer, winter clothes and books you don't read can all get packed right away. As you get closer to moving day, you'll have that much less to worry about!
- Book Appointments Early
Whether you need to hire painting contractors or a moving company, it is important to reserve your appointment well ahead of schedule. The longer you wait and the closer you get to moving day, the more costs you can incur. Booking early takes a load off of you knowing that everything is on schedule, and you'll feel better knowing you won't pay higher costs.
- Get Utilities Running At Your New Place
Once your paperwork and moving date are finalized, contact local utility companies to schedule your utility services. You wouldn't want to add to the stress of moving or simply forget that you will need running water, electricity, Internet or a number of other things. Once you get these scheduled, keep a hard copy as proof in your moving folder.
*Likewise, don't forget to contact your local utility companies to schedule turning off utilities when you leave.
- Pack A Bag Of Essentials
Before the final moving day, pack a duffel bag or suitcase of essentials you may need for your trip. This can include medications, toys for kids, a change of clothes, travel toiletries, and whatever else you can think of. This ensures in case there's a delay in your arrival, you will still have the necessities to start your day.
- Get The Right Tools
Make your move easier by investing some of your budget into extra moving supplies. This should happen a few days before moving day to ensure you don't run out of packing tape, gaylord boxes, Sharpies, box cutters, paper towels or trash bags. Even if these items aren't used for the actual move, they can still prove useful later on!
If you hire a moving company, you won't need any additional moving equipment or aids. However, if you have bulky furnishings or equipment that you'll need to move, it's worth investing in a dolly, furniture pads and covers, and rope or tie-down straps. It is also possible to rent these items if necessary.
- Rent A Truck With A Ramp
If you're cutting out using a moving company, spend a bit of extra and rent a moving truck with a ramp. It is cheaper to rent one without, but this small investment can save you major pain! It is much easier to lift boxes and heavy furnishings when you have a ramp to take the edge off.