Moving out: how to get organised?

Moving out is a stressful time, it’s inevitable. However, you can make this transition easier by getting organized. For a smooth and pleasant move, follow the tips we present here.

Make a to-do list and stick to it

Moving to a new place is always an exciting time. It’s also a stressful and busy time, especially when you’re trying to plan your move, pack your belongings and take care of other important tasks. You may be tempted to put off organizing, but waiting until the last minute can add stress and chaos to the process.

Having a to-do list will help you stay on track and make sure you don’t forget anything. Prioritize each task on the list, so you know where to start and what can wait until later. Be sure to organize your tasks by date, so you know what needs to be done when. Create a separate list for each room in your home – this will make it easier to unpack in your new home.

Start planning and packing early

Take an inventory of all your belongings. As you pack, write down or videotape what goes in each box. This will make it easier to find items when you arrive at your new home. Be sure to label the boxes with the name of the contents and the room where they are to be stored in your new home.

Consider donating, selling or throwing away items you don’t want to take with you. This can reduce your moving costs and save you time on packing and unpacking at both ends of your move.

If you are using professional movers, check their references and get quotes from several companies before making a decision. Ask them if they are willing to do an in-home estimate rather than a phone or online bid. This will give them a better idea of the amount of work involved, as well as potential problems such as stairs, elevators or long walking distances.

Declutter your home before to pack

Moving out is a great opportunity to get rid of old or unwanted items before you start packing. Take the time to declutter your home before you start packing, so you don’t have to carry items you don’t need or want.

This is one of the best things you can do to make moving day as smooth as possible. If you don’t need an item, get rid of it! You’ll save time and money on packing materials, while reducing the weight of your load.

Make an inventory of your belongings

You will need to make an inventory of everything you own. This includes things like clothes, appliances, and other items you want to take with you. You can search for a free, printable inventory sheet online or use the one provided below. Be sure to include all of your items in this list so you don’t leave anything behind.

As you go through each room, make sure you only keep the useful or sentimental items. It’s a good idea to sell items that are valuable but no longer needed. This can help you recoup some of the costs associated with moving out and reduce the number of boxes you need to fill.

Pack valuable items

Jewelry and other valuable items should be transported separately from your other belongings, in a locked box or briefcase (do not put these items in checked luggage if you are flying). Place important documents such as birth certificates, social security cards and passports in a separate folder or envelope so that they are not lost or misplaced during the move.

Use the right boxes for the items to be moved

It is essential to use proper packing materials to best protect your belongings during shipping and storage. There are many different options, including bubble wrap and plastic covers for furniture, as well as cardboard boxes and crates for other items. Don’t forget the tape to seal everything up!

Packing by room makes it easier to keep track of items and find what you need when you unpack in your new home. If you pack things in an organized manner, it will also be much easier to unpack at the other end!

Pack a bag for your first night in a hotel or new place

Pack a bag with toiletries and everything you’ll need for your first night in a hotel or new place. It is also a good idea to pack a travel bag for each child.

Include:

• a change of clothes
• sleepwear
• toiletries
• a bottle of water/snacks

Prepare a toolbox for the first small jobs

Prepare a toolbox with common tools, cleaning supplies and other items you will likely need when you move into your new home.

Prepare snacks for moving day

Moving day is busy enough that you don’t need to worry about cooking, so plan to make sandwiches or order pizzas ahead of time so everyone has something quick and easy to eat when they need it.

As you can see, moving out is not something you can improvise and you must be prepared for any eventuality. If you want more advice, here is a list of 12 tips for a successful move available on our blog!