Ideas for a Stress Free Move

Moving would be much easier if we only could beam ourselves to our new home. Just like in Star Trek! Unfortunately, the transporter beam is not working yet. So, we still depend on the devices and tools we have at hand nowadays.

Thus, moving will always require boxes, tape, more boxes, bubble wrap, more boxes, a Sharpie that you’ll miss a dozen times, and more boxes.

Moving is a new beginning. But, with a positive attitude, a planned plan of attack, and a calm attitude about box acquisition, you can move like Captain Picard or Captain Kirk. Here are a few ideas to get you going.

• Start Early
Once you have a relocation date, start packing! You will have more time to think about what to keep, dump, or give. For example, you can pack out-of-season apparel and Christmas decorations six months before tackling the rest of the garage.

• Get Rid of Useful Things
Moving is an excellent opportunity to get rid of those things you have not used for a long time. Make a donation pile for things you seldom use, clothing that doesn’t fit, stuff you have too much of, or things you will not need at your new house. For example, a tundra-rated parka is unlikely a necessity in Phoenix. Likewise, you won’t need a lawnmower in a top-floor apartment.

• Choose The Best Mover
If you’re hiring a moving company, start by reading reviews on Yelp and Google. Also, verify your mover’s insurance and licensing. Interstate movers, as well as in-state movers in 38 states, must have a USDOT number. You can find this number on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA) website. Do not forget to examine the company’s safety and complaint records.

• Be Strategic When Packing Your Rooms
Begin with the least-used rooms. Usually, these rooms are garages, basements, and attics. Then, continue working on other spaces you use more. Packing inside each room should be the same. Likewise, pack early those items you use the least. Among them is that roasting pan you use once a year. Instead, leave your preferred pajamas and everyday silverware to the end.

• Don’t Leave All the Work to Your Memory
When it comes time to unpack, someone will require something they didn’t think to keep nearby. Thus, create a spreadsheet that details the contents of each box as you pack. This will help you plan your unpacking and find missing boxes. Don’t you like spreadsheets? Snap photographs of open boxes before sealing them to know what is in each.

•Weight Training Is for The Gym
It is tempting to cram everything into one box to speed things up. But, remind that you will have to lift that box soon! A cardboard box also won’t hold up to a set of barbells or an extensive collection of bowling balls. Therefore, take care of your back and the cardboard limits. Watch for bulges, leaking seams, and other signs of an overloaded box.

• Make Your Move Picture Perfect
Take photographs or videos as you disassemble goods to help you reassemble them. If you have hired a mover, photograph your furniture and valuables if they are damaged or misplaced.

• Get Ready for the First Night
Plan ahead of time so you don't have to dig through boxes the first night. Pack plenty for a few days in case of relocation delays. Consider these needs:

- Several days' worth of clothes
- Pet food and toys
- Baby things as needed (diapers, wipes, food, etc.)
- Items to facilitate unpacking (box cutter, trash bags, paper towels)
- Easy breakfast options like instant coffee and granola bars
- A towel for each person
- And maybe some bubble bath for a relaxing post-move soak

• Keep Valuable Things Close

Make a place in your bag or automobile for goods you must keep. These are:
- Birth certificates, wills, and medical data
- Jewelry and heirlooms
- Laptops
- Photo albums

• Know the no-nos

Know what your movers CAN NOT or WON'T move. Federal law prohibits hazardous materials. Besides, your mover may have extra limits on perishable foods and home plants. Included in the list of restricted products are:

- Swimming pool chemicals
- Pesticides and insecticides
- Fertilizer and weed killer
- Ammonia, liquid bleach, and
- Other cleaning solvents

• Special Cargo
Things like baby and pet care require special handling. Their first night in their new home will call for food, toys, and a place to sleep. So, prepare appropriately and see your pediatrician or veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Moving is not rocket science. With careful planning and a calm demeanor, you can boldly travel where no one has gone before.

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