Moving is a process. There will be boxes, packing tape, and moving blankets. You can do this yourself, but it’s also worth hiring a professional to make the transition as smooth as possible. Here are some guidelines on packing up a house for a move in a short timeframe.
Pack Them Tight
If you’re packing boxes at home, try to fill each box as tightly as possible with items without overstuffing it. Packing too tightly can shift items, creating stress on the box and making it harder to move.
Don’t Pack Wet Things
Stay away from liquids and relatively liquid things like condiments in the refrigerator and water-damaged items from your kitchen. Use boxes that have been professionally washed before packing to decrease your chances of having them ruined by moisture during a move.
Hire Professionals
You can hire movers to do the packing for you. If you’re moving very far away, plan for that and think about hiring a professional driver to transport your goods on a truck if possible. If you’re moving more than 5-6 hours from the nearest home daycare, consider using an in-home nanny while your family is busy with the move. iMOVE agents can come to your home and complete a robust assessment of your belongings. They will help you determine the most efficient way to pack and protect your belongings in the least amount of time.
Don’t Pack Your Valuables
Leave your most valuable items at home or put them in a safe deposit box. You can easily lose your cell phone, laptop, or tablet during a move if you’re not careful. This includes expensive jewelry, electronics, and other valuables. Consider hiring a moving company that provides storage options for these items to protect them during the move.
Make a List
Make a list of everything you’re going to pack and double-check it before putting it into boxes, so you don’t forget something important like your passport or birth certificate. You’ll also want to take photos of your belongings before the move so you have documentation if there are disputes with damage claims on your insurance.
Hire an Estate Sale Service
If you’re moving to a smaller home and need to sell some of your items to move, hire an estate sale service if possible. Estate sale services are typically hired by people who want to simplify their lives, declutter their homes, and sell off large items they don’t want to transport. Estate sales can be a great way to make money from the items you’re no longer using or have too many of.
Be Strategic with Self-Storage
If you’re moving across town, consider renting a moving truck, depending on the size of your items. However, if you’re moving across the country, consider using a self-storage facility to store your items before moving them across the country.
If you follow these steps carefully and are strategic with your decision-making, you should be able to move in a short time frame. It’s important to remember that the moment will come when you will have to leave your home. It can be stressful if you don’t have the right amount of time to prepare for it.
