Approximately 35 million people move around the country each year, with the distance traveled varying per person. If you happen to be included in this group this year, it’s important to know how to prepare. After all, moving into a new home can be stressful if you’re not ready for all of the changes ahead. To help ease the stress and make the transition of moving into a new home easier, the tips below are perfect for getting started.
Keep Small Items Contained
Whether preparing to move long distance or across town, avoid losing small items by placing them into plastic zipper bags. From nuts and bolts in the garage to earrings and toiletries in the bathroom, there are endless uses for these bags while moving. They are even great for storing socks, headbands, small toys, art supplies, and other small items that easily get lost during the moving process.
Donate, Toss, and Sell
As you pack, go through your belongings and make piles of things you’ll donate, throw away, and sell. Try to get rid of anything you haven’t used in 1+ years to minimize the number of things that you’ll take with you. This can save you money while also making packing much easier.
Store What You Don’t Need
Minimize clutter in your new home by using a storage unit to keep furniture, extra boxes, and odd-shaped items that would otherwise be crowding your home and garage. Even if this is just temporary until you install shelves or clean out the attic, it can help reduce stress and keep your space much tidier. Finding affordable storage units in San Diego and other cities is easy and less stressful than most people anticipate. This is especially true if you’re willing to compare packages from different companies.
Clean Before Moving
If possible, have your new home cleaned before your boxes and furniture are delivered. This will give you one less thing to worry about when you move in, whether you do it yourself or hire a professional. However, if you’re not able to do this, then try to clean up before you unpack everything so you can start fresh.
Keep Essentials With You
Anything that you use daily should be kept with you as you move. This should include clothes, shoes, toiletries, hair products, electronics, chargers, and anything else that’s essential for daily life. By keeping these with you, it won’t be necessary to rip open boxes upon arrival to find things you’ve been without.
Don’t Unpack Everything at Once
Although you may be eager to get everything unpacked after moving, don’t try to rush. It’s best to unpack one box in each room and put it away to avoid creating a house full of clutter. If you happen to open a box that you’re not ready to unpack, then tape it back up and set aside rather than leaving the contents scattered on the floor.
Change Your Locks
Even if you’re certain the past owner doesn’t have keys, it’s recommended to change your locks upon moving in. This will improve security and your peace of mind regarding safety.
A Better Moving Experience
Moving is something that takes time, so don’t try to rush through each step. From boxing everything up to unpacking in your new home, it’s important to take your time to lower your stress. By doing this and using the tips above, the entire experience can be much better from start to finish.