Planning a move requires a lot of attention to detail, organization, and prior preparations to ensure everything goes off without a hitch! For a smooth, successful relocation, check out our helpful moving tips. More Help? Determine Your NeedsWhat kind of move are you planning? There is no one-size-fits-all moving plan—your needs and budget will determine the type of relocation you require. Are you moving locally? Do you have the time to pull off a DIY move—rent a truck and ship your own goods? Or are you too busy and moving long distance? In that case, you may want to hire professional movers. Think about your options, limits (budget and time), and needs to plan the most efficient move for your situation.Create a moving budgetMoving is expensive—keeping track of potential costs will help you determine what you can afford to spend. Consider common expenses such as moving services, packing materials, travel costs, etc. This will help you calculate how much to allot for each aspect of your move before you book a mover, reserve a hotel room, or rent a truck.Compare Moving QuotesBefore choosing a mover, it's important to compare quotes from several companies to make sure you get the best price for your move. Be sure to always get an in-house estimate before choosing a company for hire—this way, a representative from the moving company can accurately assess your home and goods to give you a more exact quote. You should begin your search for a mover at least two to three months before your desired move date—especially during peak moving season, which lasts from May until September. Start today with All Over the State Moving and Storage!Have a Packing PlanBefore you begin throwing your belongings into boxes, it's a good idea to create a packing plan. Make a list of rooms in your home and their contents that need to be packed, and stay organized by keeping track of what you have packed. Always pack least important to most important—items you don't use often should be packed first, and everyday essentials should obviously be packed last.Label Fragile ItemsMake sure to clearly label all of your cartons containing delicate items “Fragile” and “This Side Up” so the movers know how to carry them and to use extra care. You should also mark them with their contents and the room in which they belong to stay organized and make unpacking easier later.Make a ChecklistDon't forget any important moving-related task by keeping a checklist and crossing off items as you complete them. Keep tasks that need to completed first near the top of your list—such as booking the mover or securing the rental truck—and last minute tasks at the bottom of your list—such as packing your first night bag and shutting off your utilities.Pack a First-Night BagYour first night in your new home will be an exhausting one. The last thing you'll want to do after a long moving day is start unpacking and looking for pajamas, your toothbrush, or a shower curtain. For your convenience, pack one box or bag filled with all your essential items you will need right away when you arrive at your new home.Arrange for Child Care on Moving DayIf you have kids, it might make moving day easier to arrange for someone to look after them. Kids can get in the way of the movers, get hurt, or become easily bored and act out. Ask a close relative or friend to get your kids out of the house for the day so you can focus on moving related tasks and keep them out of harm's way. Stick to an Unpacking ScheduleAfter your move is complete, you deserve to relax—but the longer you put off unpacking, the harder it will be to comfortably adjust to your new home. Set unpacking goals and stick to them to get all of your belongings in their rightful places as quickly and efficiently as possible!
