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So, you finally have a move-in date for your new place. But before your thoughts turn to interior design, kitchen renovation ideas and what drinks to serve at your housewarming party, there’s the move itself to consider. And, as anyone who has moved house before knows, the process can be, at best, tricky and time consuming. At worst it can be a total nightmare.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. Preparing for a move is key so the process can be organised, easy and fun ... relatively speaking. From planning ahead to packing neatly, here are some tips to get you started.
Planning pays off
Packing up a home is a big task, so get started well before moving day. First, research where to find cheap moving boxes. Use a larger number of smaller boxes and transparent plastic containers where possible. Pack logically by making sure everything in a box is related somehow. Consider using different-coloured tape for different rooms and write detailed labels on each box. Yes, this is extra work, but it makes unpacking way easier, and that’s worth it. We promise. Also, when you’re done, check Planet Ark’s website to find your nearest cardboard box recycling centre.
Organise a garage sale
Moving becomes easier when you leave behind the stuff you don’t actually need. A moving sale is a simple and fun way to make a little extra cash while also helping moving day run a bit more smoothly.
Don’t forget to hold the sale on a weekend and advertise it online at least one week beforehand. Afterwards, arrange a charity collection service for anything that’s left over or look into ways to sell your second-hand furniture online.
Take care of your utilities early
You don’t want the electricity left on at your old place after you’ve moved out or, more importantly, want to be stuck without a functional kitchen because you forget to connect the electricity and gas at your new place before you moved.
This can be easily avoided: just let us know when you’re moving in advance and we’ll get you sorted.
Defrost your freezer in advance
Many people don’t realise how messy defrosting a freezer can be. Be sure to dispose of your frozen goods and defrost your freezer several days before the move, so you have ample time to clean up the wet mess it can make. And since we’re talking about cleaning, if it’s within your budget, look into hiring domestic cleaners to make your job a whole lot easier.
Book in a babysitter
Moving might be stressful for the grownups, but it can also be tough on your kids (or your furry four-legged children). While finding a baby sitter might not seem necessary, everything will run more smoothly if you can keep the little ones entertained in places free from the hustle and bustle of the house movers.
Take care of your plants
Moving can take a toll on even the hardiest plants. Make sure your favourite frilly fern gets plenty of love and attention for a couple of weeks leading up to the move. Then, when moving day arrives, transfer your plants into non-breakable pots and drain any remaining water from the soil. Transport the plants in sturdy plastic moving boxes. And remember to give your plants early priority when unpacking or they might not survive.
Photograph the back of your electronics for easy re-installation
Unless you’re a regular Mark Zuckerberg, it probably takes you a bit of time to figure out which plug goes where when it comes time to setting up your internet and entertainment systems. Before you pack, take a clear photo of the back of all your electronics so you can refer to it when it comes time to start your first new-home Netflix binge.
Stack your plates vertically like vinyl records
This neat trick helps prevent them from breaking while being transported, so long as you take care transporting the box. Just make sure you use dividers of some sort (this can be a handy use for your pillowcases).
Wrap breakable kitchenware and accessories in clean clothes
You’ll save money on both moving boxes and packaging supplies such as bubble wrap by adopting this handy hack. You can even keep your glasses safe by stuffing them with socks.
Cling wrap your hung clothes.
This trick will save you unfolding and rehanging your clothes. It’s as easy as wrap, pack, move, unwrap!
Pack a washbag
Anything that’s been used in your bathroom in the past 24 hours is probably not something you want to have stashed in a box for who knows how long. Before you pack up the bathroom, stash all your toiletries and beauty supplies in a travel bag that you can store somewhere accessible.
Leave carpet care to the pros
Carpet stains are hard to avoid, but sadly landlords will often want them removed regardless. The good news is the stains you uncover while packing can often be removed if treated correctly. Spend some time researching carpet cleaning prices and book a professional carpet cleaner who should have higher quality, and often more sustainable, products.
Two more ways we can help
Does your home need a little more attention before you can begin the packing process? Click through for some helpful advice for the pre-move cleanout (hint: start with a cleaning checklist) and some great energy plans so you’re ready to go, with the lights on, from the day you move in.
