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.