Relocating your life can be full of excitement but can also be an anxiety ridden experience. Being very methodical with your process can help alleviate some of this pressure and anxiety. First, it is best that you determine what kind of move will best suit you. After this has been determined, there are many things to decide and get in order, from packing and transport to utilities and paperwork.
This blog will take you through the moving process from start to finish. We’ll answer the questions of what to do when moving and how to choose a moving company.
Step by Step Guide to Moving Process
Remember, if you’re doing it right it’s not always about moving the fastest, but rather, how seamless your move is from start to finish. Here is our step-by-step guide on the moving process:
1. Planning your Move – Choose your Move Type – Hire a Moving Company
Before you begin the moving process, there are a few things to consider. The first thing is to choose your move type. Do you want to do it yourself or hire a moving company? Or maybe you will use both options for different aspects of the move.
Most people like to hire professionals because they don’t have the time or the energy to pack up boxes and load them into trucks or storage units. The DIY route is viable if you have the time, workforce/supplies, and energy to complete the task.
2. Decluttering – Storage Solutions
We recommend setting aside a few days -or even weeks!- to declutter. The goal is to get rid of things you don’t need. You should start by looking at every item in your home and asking yourself, “Do I love this? Do I use this?” If the answer is no, then it can go. This is an effective method for items that are easy to part with, such as clothes and kitchenware.
Of course, some items may be harder to give away or throw away because of sentimental value or other factors. We recommend carrying these items with you – this way you have control over their transport.
3. Start Packing – Label Items
When we talk about what to do when moving, labeling the boxes is essential for a smooth move. Labels help you find specific items later and ensure delicate items are packed in the correct boxes. Use a marker to label boxes (don’t write over the packing tape because the ink may come off during the moving process). You should always label your boxes on their sides, not on the top. This way, when they are stacked, you can always see what their contents are. You should also keep an inventory of these boxes and their contents, but if you hire a moving company the crew lead will inventory your boxes and household goods and mark them with special numbered inventory stickers.
4. Set up your Home Services
If you’re moving into a new residence, contact your service providers and check if they’re available in your new area. If you need to change providers, do it well before the move so you aren’t relying on candles for light or taking cold showers. This can also be the time where you identify your neighborhood establishments, such as urgent care, dog groomers, grocery stores, etc.
5. Moving day
This day is the culmination of all your hard work. That’s why it’s essential to make sure you’re prepared. Start the moving process right after following these tips:
- Pack up items like important documents, valuables, books, personal letters, and pictures—if they’re not being moved with you or in the truck—and dispose of them properly.
- Make sure your home is empty and clean, particularly if you don’t have a professional cleaning service. Try to get all loose ends tied up regarding utilities; this includes turning off water and electricity and canceling your cable/satellite service for the last month of your lease. Don’t forget to submit a change of address notice to the Post Office so that your mail is forwarded to your new home.
These tasks will take more effort than most people realize, but they’ll save time later when everything goes according to plan!
6. Unpacking and Recycling Boxes
It’s time to unpack and recycle boxes. Unpack in a logical order, starting with the room you spend the most time in. Keep all packages until they are no longer needed—you never know when they’ll come in handy! If you do not have enough space for all of your boxes, consider storing them at a storage facility.
Wrap Up
When you can, you should always choose a reliable moving service provider to do the job. OneRelo Worldwide has a variety of storage and moving services for you to choose from. We will ease your journey by professionally managing all the aforementioned stages of the moving process. Just contact us and our experts will take care of all your moving needs!
