No one looks forward to it, but most of us will move home at some point in our life. Starting over is exciting, but packing all your belongings into boxes, bags and crates isn't fun. Whether you're moving down the road or around the world, the tips below can help to make the process much simpler.
- Put together a plan. Sit down with everyone in your home and assemble a to-do list. This should include packing strategies, contact information for moving service professionals and a schedule to ensure that you are not left running around at the last minute trying to get everything done.
2. Don't put it off. Moving is a very involved process, and it's essential that you allow yourself enough time to prepare. If you're hiring a moving service, you'll need to book them in advance. Moving during the week is best, but if you want to move over the course of a weekend, you'll need even more lead time. For a Saturday/Sunday move, you should book these services at least five days in advance.
3. Decide how you're going to move. You can do all the 'heavy lifting' yourself, or hire a moving service to pack up, ship and unpack it all. Most people choose an in-between method, hiring movers for the big stuff and doing the smaller jobs themselves.
4. Hire the right mover. If you decide to hire a professional relocation service at any time during the moving process, it pays to choose the right one. Check each moving company's online reviews and the ratings from the appropriate organizations in your area, and verify that they're properly licensed and insured. Get competing bids to make sure that you're getting the best deal, but don't base your decision just upon price - choose a reliable and trustworthy mover. After all, they'll be in your house and handling your belongings.
5. Keep your most important items with you. Even if you're paying for a full-service move, there are some things you should keep close. Items like medications, passports, birth certificates and jewelry should be closely guarded. Pack valuables in an air and water-tight container for extra security.
6. Pack with a purpose. Try to group items from the same room in the same crates and cardboard boxes. Put the heaviest items on the bottom, and check that each box may be closed and taped shut. Don't overload your boxes; it makes them harder to stack. It's a good idea to disassemble large items like bunk beds and computer desks before moving--it makes them easier to pack and unload. Heavy and delicate items such as pool tables and pianos are best moved by a professional moving service.
If you've decided to move, packing is one of the most important steps you'll take. Boxing up all your belongings is the most time-consuming part of a move; if it's done right it can save you money, time and frustration. Packing your own items is more budget-friendly, but larger, longer-distance and more complex moves may require that you invest in some professional assistance. By following the moving tips above, you can start a move of any distance with a structured, easy to follow plan and peace of mind.
UK Packaging are suppliers of all types of packaging including everything you need when moving home.
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