To move locally without a hitch, start with a plan. In this post, you’ll find tips to prepare for your local move, like decluttering, hiring movers, and packing. Everything you need for a smooth, stress-free move is here.
Key Takeaways
Start preparing at least 2 months in advance to reduce stress and stay on track.
Declutter before you pack to save time and energy. Sort into keep, donate, and discard piles.
Make a moving checklist to track tasks, budgets, and important dates for moving day.
Start Planning Early
A move is all about planning and preparation and starting early. Starting the process a couple of months before the move date will reduce stress, increase organization, and reduce the chaos as the day approaches.
If you’re going to use movers, booking your desired move-out date with the movers by getting them on board early is key, along with mapping out your route beforehand. If you’re going to use your friends to help move, set that up about a month in advance to make sure they are free and available on your moving day.
Having a plan sets out each step of the moving process into smaller tasks that can be tackled one by one. This structured approach will make sure nothing gets missed, and you’ll feel in control of everything.
Declutter and Organize
Start the moving process by going through your belongings to declutter and organize. You’ll pack less and save money as you won’t be moving as much, and you’ll feel a lot better about yourself too. Start with clutter hotspots like basements or attics so you can move more efficiently and start fresh in your new home.
Divide household items into categories like keep, donate, and toss to make packing easier and ensure only what you need is moving with you. Start this process with items you don’t use often to make it more efficient.
Get the whole family involved in this task—including the kids—to make it fun and teach tidiness skills. Set aside regular weekly time to sort through stuff so it doesn’t feel overwhelming. Use a portable storage container during this time. It’s a great place to store items temporarily as you declutter and then move into your new home.
Moving Checklist
A moving checklist is key to staying organized and making sure everything gets done. Create a checklist that outlines tasks to do at different times leading up to moving day so you can manage everything with ease and stress.
Set aside time to make a budget that includes all costs associated with packing, moving goods, and buying moving supplies. By listing out the costs of moving services and packing materials itemized, you’ll stay within your budget.
To prepare fully before you start packing, make sure to create multiple checklists so nothing gets missed. A packing timeline will help keep everything on track as you count down to moving day.
Hire a Local Moving Company
Hiring a local moving company gives you insurance and fast service for a local move. Professional movers save time and effort, especially with specialty items or large furniture. To make sure for a smooth move, make sure to check reviews from multiple sources to see how reliable a local mover is. And follow local moving tips to make the process easier.
Book a top-rated local moving company as soon as possible to get your move-out date. Watch out for red flags like movers who don’t care to see your stuff or require large deposits. Make sure the moving company is licensed and insured to protect your belongings and follow the law. Another thing to remember with moving companies is that they like to upcharge things. So if you think you’re getting a great deal, then they charge you a ton for mileage and charge you for each stair step in your old home and in your new home. Just make sure you know exactly what you are getting into before hand; again, plan ahead, plan ahead, plan ahead. It will save you so much stress in many different ways.
Call the moving company a few days before the move to confirm everything and make sure everything is in order. A reputable moving company will do an in-home survey for an accurate estimate. Get estimates from multiple moving companies to compare services and prices.
You can also look for someone like myself. I bridge the gap between a friendly neighbor and a full-fledged moving company. Me and other people like myself handle smaller moves, light hauling, deliveries, etc. for people who don’t have a truck or the ability to move their items themselves. Check out some of my moves recently.
Packing Supplies
Having the right packing supplies is key to a smooth move. Find moving boxes at local retailers, online, or from friends and family. Use strong boxes to prevent damage in transit. Quality packing supplies equals safety and organization during the move.
Buy packing supplies weeks before moving day if you’re packing yourself. Essential supplies are sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper. These will protect fragile items and keep your belongings safe during the move.
If you have extra time, you can get free boxes from big ticket stores and even find people on the internet giving away their used boxes for free.
Pack Smart
Packing smart makes your move more efficient. Start packing non-essentials two weeks before moving day; start with less-used rooms. Label each box with its contents and the room it goes in so you can keep inventory and unpacking easy.
Use different packing strategies to maximize space and protect items. Uniform boxes will maximize space in the moving truck, and individually wrapping fragile items will add extra protection. Packing smart will make your move smoother and more organized.
Fragile Items
Fragile items need special care when moving. Here’s how.
Soft packing paper and bubble wrap.
Label as fragile.
Label with contents and room of origin.
Take extra special care when packing valuables; you’ll thank. me later.
Notify Important People
To avoid mail interruptions, make sure to notify the post office of your address change. You can do this by filling out a change of address form online or at your local post office. I’ve done this many times online, and it’s super simple; they keep your mail forwarding for a year, and it’s free.
Before you move, make sure to set up utility services to be transferred to your new home so they’re on when you get there. Contact utility companies 2-4 weeks in advance to schedule the cutoff at your old address and start up at the new one. Notify family, insurance companies, and doctors offices of your new address so their records stay current.
Essentials Box
You’ll need an essentials box for moving day and the first night in your new home. This box should have everything you’ll need as soon as you get there to reduce stress on the first night. Everyone in the family should have a change of clothes, toiletries, medications, and key documents in their personal essentials box.
When you’re preparing to move, make sure to pack these essentials ahead of time so they’re ready when you need them. These boxes should be among the last to go on the moving truck, so they’re easy to get to at your destination. Using brightly colored boxes or labeling them clearly will help you find them quickly when you get to your new home.
Moving Day
A moving day plan will make your transition to your new home smooth. Confirm with the local moving company everything is on track. Clear the obstacles and create a pathway for the movers to move so they don’t get delayed.
Prioritize safety, especially for kids and pets. Keep kids and pets occupied so they don’t get hurt. Secure pets before the movers get there so they’re safe. Be available to answer questions and provide directions so everyone is on the same page.
Get to your new home before the moving truck. This way you can direct the movers where to put the furniture and boxes. Good planning equals a good move and a smooth transition to your new home.
Final Walkthrough
Do a final walkthrough before you leave your old home to make sure nothing is left behind. Check drawers, storage closets, and other hidden spaces to make sure everything is packed. Lock and secure all windows and doors, and turn off power, water, and gas if needed.
This covers everything and helps you leave your old home in order, plus it will give you piece of mind knowing you double checked everything, making sure you are good to go!
Conclusion
In summary, a local move requires planning, early action, and smart packing. Follow these, and you’ll reduce stress and have a smooth transition to your home. Remember, being organized and proactive is key to your move. Also, be sure to check out The Ultimate Guide to Local Moving for a comprehensive view of local moving. Happy settling in!
FAQs
How far in advance should I start preparing for my move?
You should start getting ready for your move at least 2 months in advance to keep things smooth and stress-free.
Trust me, it makes a big difference!
What should be on my moving checklist?
Make sure your moving checklist includes budgeting, packing timelines, and notifying important people.
It’ll keep you on track!
Why should I use a local moving company?
Using a local moving company is a smart choice because they save you time and hassle and offer insurance and quick service.
And they know the area, so it’ll be a smoother move!
What packing supplies do I need?
You’ll need sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper to keep your stuff safe while moving.
Don’t forget these!
What is an essentials box and what should I put in it?
An essentials box is a box for your first few days in your new home, so pack toiletries, medications, important documents, and clothes you can grab quickly.
It’ll save you from rummaging through boxes when you arrive!
