How to Quickly Unpack Your Stuff After Moving
Moving is a lot of work, and when you get to your new place, you might be tired enough that unpacking doesn’t sound like fun. But since you must, you might as well do it as quickly and efficiently as
Full List of Supplies You Need to Pack for Moving
A big move is an exciting time in life. However, there can often be many challenges within the packing and moving process. Fortunately, being prepared with the right supplies and tools can make the process go much more smoothly and ensure that all of your belongings arrive safely to your final destination.
Before you even start to think about how you are going to tackle the packing, be sure to have these essential items on hand:
BOXES
Boxes are the holy grail of moving supplies. Be sure to get more than you need because you will be surprised at how quickly you go through them. Collecting boxes in a variety of sizes will help to ensure that you have the right box for every need. For example, books and other heavy items should go in smaller boxes so that they can be safely lifted. Wine boxes are ideal for packing fragile items because of the built-in padding. Specially designed wardrobe boxes will even allow you to move your clothing while still on the hangars.
TAPE
You will need lots of packing tape so do not be tempted to go cheap on this. A shipping tape roll with a sharp edge will prove invaluable as you work to secure boxes quickly and efficiently.
For even more capability, consider upgrading to a tape gun.
LABELING SYSTEM SUPPLIES
How you decide to label your boxes is a personal decision. If you are extra organized, you can prepare in advance by printing labels. It is a good idea to box things by room so that the unpacking process is easier and faster.
Color coding your boxes or labels is also an innovative way to keep everything organized. If you do not want to make labels, a simple permanent marker will suffice in labeling the boxes and providing directions on where they need to land.
PADDING
Any moving supply store will sell a variety of padding essentials for every need. From bubble wrap to packing peanuts to foam sheets, there is an abundance of choices when deciding how to protect your most fragile items best.
You can also choose to use your own towels and clothing to wrap valuables.
BLANKETS
Blankets can work to protect furniture edges from the rigors of moving, and pro movers say they’re essential for transporting appliances. Do not waste money on renting specialty moving blankets. Simple blankets from your home will work just fine and you will need to take them with you anyway.
MATTRESS COVER
A mattress cover will help to protect your mattress from dust, dirt, bugs, and other pollutants and irritants while moving.
TOTE BAGS
Once all of the boxes have been packed up, you will likely have a few extra essentials that need to make it to the new place. Having a few tote bags on hand will make it easy to pack up the last remaining items as you are on your way out of the door.
Armed with the right supplies and tools, packing, moving, and unpacking can be made as painless as possible.
Tips for Moving Furniture Without Damaging It
Moving can be a very stressful time. From trying to pack everything in a moving truck to figuring out where it will be placed in your new home can be nerve-wracking. On top of all this, you want all your
What to Know Before Embarking on an Out-of-State Move
Moving out of state can be an unnerving experience, especially if it’s something you haven’t previously done. If you are new to the experience, you’ll find that this is different from relocating to a new neighborhood within the same city.
By taking the time to learn about those differences, you’ll be better prepared to have a successful and less stressful move.
1. Research Your Location
It can be helpful to know certain things about your new city ahead of time, such as where the restaurants are mostly located, where the public parks are, and what bus routes are available.
Familiarizing yourself with your new city ahead of time will make it easier for you to get around once you get there.
2. Contact a Real Estate Agent
Unless you’re already familiar with the city through first-hand experiences, consulting a real estate agent can help you find the right home for your family. Real estate agents are familiar with the various neighborhoods and will know which neighborhoods are the best for your situation.
Whether you want to rent or buy, a professional can help you find your new home more efficiently.
3. Take a Bus for Lighter Moves
If you don’t have much, it may not be reasonable to rent a moving van or hire a moving company. In fact, if you can reduce your belongings to under 250 pounds, taking a bus to your new destination may be the best possible alternative.
By relying on Greyhound or another national bus company, you can reduce the burden of having to drive yourself, so you can just sit back and enjoy the ride.
4. Choose Your Moving Company Wisely
If you do have furniture and more belongings, you’ll probably opt for hiring a professional moving company (we recommend looking for them here). While this can definitely make your move easier, it’s important to make sure you hire a reputable and reliable moving company.
You should begin by asking to see their licenses, insurance, and other necessary paperwork. In particular, make sure they’re legally authorized to conduct interstate moves and that they’re insured. It’s also a wise precaution to check online for previous customer reviews. This can give you a more practical impression of the company’s quality of service.
5. Ask About the Delivery Spread
The delivery spread is a date range during which your belongings will arrive at your new home. Interstate moves are kept reasonable because moving companies will load the belongings for multiple customers onto one trailer and deliver items along the same route.
Typically, you should expect a spread of up to 14 days, but ask the moving company in advance to be sure. This will help you better plan out your move to coincide with the arrival of your belongings.
6. Keep Papers and Documents Handy
You’re going to need a number of documents just for your move, such as receipts for insurance, movers, travel arrangements, and more. You’ll also need identification for each family member. You’ll also want to keep other information handy, such as the confirmation numbers for starting utility services in your new home.
Keeping all of this information together in one envelope or folder can help you access what you need without delay.
7. Forward Your Mail
Once you’ve settled your living arrangements, it’s time to file a change of address with the post office. This can take up to two weeks to process, so keep that in mind as you plan your move. Even if you forget, contacting the post office can help ensure your mail is forwarded as soon as possible. This can save you from missing important documents.
Just as is the case with any move, planning ahead is essential to a successful relocation. Getting your belongings and your family to your new home in a different state will be challenging enough, but taking the time to plan everything out will make it a less frustrating event.
Once the plans have been arranged, you may only have to travel to your new home, which can be an exciting adventure in itself.