Moving can be a stressful ordeal. From having to pack up all of your things to actually, physically moving them to your new home, it’s a lot of work. Some people choose to hire professionals, others ask for help from friends or family. Whatever your choice is, here are a few things to keep in mind while moving, from a business owner who has been running an NYC movers company for the past 10 years.
1. Make a Checklist
If you want to remember everything you want to take to your new home, you should definitely make a checklist. It’s always a good idea to have everything neatly organized on paper or digitally, on your phone or laptop, before actually starting to pack. Start by organizing by room or by importance, and remember to keep important documents such, as birth certificates, banking statements or job contracts, at the top of the list.
2. Get as Many Boxes as You Can
Boxes are very important, and without them you won’t really be able to move. Make sure they’re sturdy and that they don’t break easily, especially if you’re planning on moving heavy stuff. For some things, such as TVs, boxes won’t cut it, but for everything else, from notebooks to tools, boxes are your best friend.
3. Call Friends and Family to Help
If you’re planning on moving and don’t want to call on the help of professional movers, your best bet is asking for help from friends and family. They’ll help you not only by carrying stuff for you, but maybe also by providing a bit of moral support for the move ahead.
4. Request Time Off from Work
Moving won’t be easy, and it will probably take you all day to move all of those boxes, even with the help of family and friends. If you’re keen on working the day of the move, you should probably try to move some other time, like the weekend or whenever you’re free.
5. Get Rid of Stuff That You Don’t Need Anymore
Maybe you’ve got loads of clothes you don’t wear anymore, or you’ve got a table that’s been chewed on by the dog. Whatever the case, things that aren’t useful to you anymore should probably go in the bin since they’ll just make your move harder. Another thing you can do, especially with clothes, is to donate them to shelters for the needy.
6. Hire Professionals
If your friends don’t want to help, or if you find yourself in the situation of having to move all by yourself, then hiring professionals is the way to go. They’ll handle everything related to the move, from packing to unpacking to carrying your boxes for you.
7. Get a Moving Truck
Cars just won’t cut it for a large move, so it’s best to rent a moving truck or van. Keep in mind that these vehicles are large and clunky to drive, so you might need to be careful when doing so.
8. If You’re Moving Art, Be Careful
If you fancy yourself a bit of an art collector, keep in mind that paintings are notoriously easy to break, even when handled by professionals. Let’s not forget the fact that you’re definitely going to need a moving truck or van for such an ordeal.
