1. As soon as you know you are
moving, spend some free time each week going through cabinets and drawers.
Don’t forget the closets, garage, and basement too. These places are where most
people store things that they will use, but many of the items in these places
are not looked at too often. Ask
yourself, “Do I really need this or does someone in my home really need this?”
2. If possible, get each person
in the house involved in going through items.
It will be more fun and less of a chore.
3. Eliminate anything that no
one in the house is using. Donate it to a charity and obtain a tax receipt.
4. Only move things that will be
used, and don’t waste time packing and moving unwanted items.
5. What is being kept to store,
such as children’s clothes and holiday decorations, keep in labeled bins. This
way, when it gets moved, it will not have to be unpacked unless there is
something breakable in it. The breakable item(s) should be packed seperately.
6. Pack items ahead that you are
not using on a daily basis. These items could include fine china, holiday
decorations, and out-of-season clothing.
7. Keep paper plates, napkins,
cups, and plastic utensils unpacked and available to use during the last few
days at the current house and to use the first few days at the new house. Be sure to prepare some meals ahead or purchase
some lunch meats and bread for sandwiches. Don’t forget the bottled water too.
8. Make a list of movers, their
availability dates and prices. Keep this
information in a spiral notebook so it stays together. When you have secured a
move time, call the mover and use the research you have already done to secure
the actual date.
9. If possible, allow about a
month lead time to secure the mover. Allow an even longer lead time for a long-distance
move.
10. Keep in mind that it takes
about ten days to transfer mail, so plan accordingly when sending the address
change form to the Post Office.
“Moving is an opportunity to get rid of the things you no longer use or
that you don’t find a useful purpose for in your life”, said Angie Weid,
Professional Organizer with Organized Solutions.
Preparing for a move can be easier than you think. For more organizing tips, visit www.NapoMichigan.com.
