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Moving can be stressful if you are relocating to a new neighborhood
or moving around the corner. Our articles are written to help
you get prepare for your move and to help with unpacking once
you are in your new home. Many of our previous articles are
available in the organizer's archive section. Click
here for more organizing articles or
click here for move and relocation preparation tips.
Mastering Your Move
By Dawn Roth
Moving is not on anyone's list of Top Ten
Fun Things. If relocation is on the horizon for you, it doesn't
have to be the end of your peace of mind and sanity. It is
a big job, but one that can be more manageable if you tackle
it according to these categories.
1. PURGING- This step requires you to clear your home,
storage, cars, and life of those things that will no longer
be needed in your new home. Take this opportunity to get rid
of items you never use (even if you should.) Make a rule to
only welcome into your new abode those possessions that you
truly use, love and value.
2. BOXING- In this area you will start early, repeat
the cycle until your home is empty. Buy or recycle boxes from
a local grocer or retailer. Start with things you can live
without for a while and fill a few each day.
The important thing is to avoid getting overwhelmed by leaving
this for the last minute. Always list the box's contents on
the side to assist location in the new place and mark each
top with the room the movers should deposit it when unloading.
Avoid constant shifting of boxes by being clear about where
you will stack them before and after the move.
3. CHANGING- Within this category you will effectuate
all address changes, shut off and turn off services, cancel
or transfer all subscriptions, and plan for updated documentation.
We offer checklists and assistance with this time consuming
task. Spend a little time each day and it won't seem so overwhelming.
4. ARRANGING- To logistically plan your move, you
must line up the services and accommodations you and your
situation dictate. If a company is in charge, keep all receipts
and detailed notes in a handy place.
When you move yourself it's smart to get comparison quotes
from truck rental or moving companies. You need packing supplies
(blankets and newsprint for packing) and to reserve any overnight
stays if you will travel a great distance or need lodging
when you arrive.
If you need strong friends and family to assist you, ask
in advance and offer food and drink to thank them. Don't forget
to make any necessary arrangements for your pets during the
transition.
5. CLEANING- As you start filling boxes, clean along
the way. Wipe shelves, walls, and baseboards in the areas
you have packed, so you know that entire zone is done. Vacuum
behind large pieces and under furniture as they are shifted.
Don't forget to sweep in high corners and entryways. Now might
be a good time to shampoo high traffic areas of carpet.
6. REPAIRING- All of those little fix-ups you meant
to get to "someday" need attention. If door handles
are loose, drains are slow, or walls need patching, post a
list and tackle these one by one.
7. RESEARCHING- Before you arrive in your new home,
there are some things you can do to make you feel as though
you have your bearings more quickly. Find out where grocers,
shops, hospitals, movies, dry cleaners and libraries (and
more) are in relation to your address by looking on the web
or ordering Squared Away's Mover Orientation Guide, our customized
info pack, in this site's products section.
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