Whether it’s across town or cross country, moving is
stressful. Following these tips can reduce stress and help
the process go smoother.
Designate a color for each room in the new home,
such as yellow for the kitchen, orange for the dining room,
etc. Apply colored stickers on the box near the box number.
In your new home, put a matching sticker on the door to
each room. The movers will know where to put everything
when they arrive at the destination.
Use your luggage. Fill luggage and duffle
bags with clothing, sheets, towels and paper goods. Even
with a local move, your favorite sweaters may remain elusive
for days in “Box #189” – but be easy to
spot in your navy suitcase.
Pack ahead as much as you can. If it’s
summer, get your winter clothes out of the way. You don’t
really need 5 radios or TV’s around your house for
your last few days there. Box up your shampoo and extra
toothpaste and live out of a travel cosmetic case for the
last week or two. Pare down cooking utensils and food supplies
to bare essentials. Wastebaskets can also be packed (put
things in them!) while you switch to using plastic grocery
bags.
Safeguard valued items. It’s a good
idea to keep valuable possessions, such as silverware, collections
or antiques with you. If you have a long move and no room
in your car, bury the items in a box titled “Misc.
from kitchen pantry.” Either way, check your homeowner’s
insurance to see how you are covered during the move and
whether you need additional insurance from the mover.
Keep important papers with you. Your list
of “important” papers might include: birth certificates,
school records, mover estimates, new job contacts, utility
company numbers, recent bank records, current bills, phone
lists, closing papers, realtor information, maps and more.
Don’t leave these with the mover. Keep them with you!
Pack all boxes TO capacity. Boxes that
are under filled are more likely to be crushed and boxes
that are overfilled can tear or fall apart.
Take the telephone directory with you.
It will be useful in case you need to contact former doctors
or business contacts.
Unplug all TV sets 24 hours in advance
so they will be at room temperature the day of the move.
Moving a set in which heat is retained could cause internal
damage.
Let your children have some input in planning
on the new house, especially in choosing things to buy for
their rooms. Even if you don’t follow through on their
ideas, it’s important to listen to what they think.
Be tactful if you choose another option, and let some decisions
be entirely up to them – for example, the placement
of their bed or the color of the rug or paint in their bedroom.
Don’t spend too much time unpacking
– at least not right away! Sure, the essentials are
important to unload and you want the house to feel settled.
But wait on the less important stuff. In the first few days,
take time to enjoy your new home with your family. Take
walks. Check out local restaurants and take-out spots. Introduce
yourselves to your new neighbors. Spend time at the park.
