Moving to a new home, even within the same city, can be a daunting task. Proper planning and organization are key to ensuring a smooth transition. In this guide, we will outline when you should start packing, what tasks need to be completed in the week leading up to your move, and how early you should book your movers. Whether you’re moving across the street or to a neighboring town, these tips will help you manage the process efficiently.
When to Start Packing
Packing is one of the most time-consuming aspects of moving. Starting early can alleviate a lot of stress and allow you to handle unexpected issues that may arise.
- Two Months Before Moving:
- Declutter: Begin by sorting through your belongings and deciding what to keep, donate, or discard. This is the perfect time to get rid of items you no longer need or use.
- Organize: Create a moving checklist to keep track of tasks and set up a timeline.
- Collect Supplies: Gather moving boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, markers, and other packing materials.
- Six Weeks Before Moving:
- Start Packing Non-Essentials: Begin with items you don’t use daily, such as seasonal clothing, holiday decorations, books, and collectibles. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to.
- Notify Important Parties: Inform your utility companies, banks, and insurance providers of your upcoming move and provide them with your new address.
- One Month Before Moving:
- Pack Less-Used Items: Continue packing items you use less frequently, such as kitchen gadgets, extra bedding, and off-season sports equipment.
- Plan for Pets and Plants: Make arrangements for the transportation of pets and plants, as they require special care during a move.
- Two Weeks Before Moving:
- Confirm Details: Confirm your moving date, time, and other details with your movers. If you haven’t booked yet, now is the time to secure your spot with a reliable company like Coquitlam movers.
- Pack Essentials: Start packing items you use more frequently but can live without for a short period.
What to Do a Week Before Moving
The final week before your move is crucial. By now, most of your packing should be done, and it’s time to focus on the remaining tasks to ensure everything goes smoothly.
- Deep Clean:
- Clean your current home thoroughly. This includes scrubbing floors, cleaning windows, and wiping down surfaces. If you are renting, this can help ensure you get your security deposit back.
- Pack a Moving Day Kit:
- Prepare a box or bag with essential items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. This should include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, medications, and basic kitchen supplies.
- Disassemble Furniture:
- Start disassembling large furniture pieces that need to be taken apart for transport. Keep screws and small parts in labeled bags to avoid losing them.
- Confirm Arrangements:
- Double-check all arrangements with your moving company, utility companies, and any other services involved in your move. Make sure everyone is on the same page regarding the schedule and any special instructions.
- Final Packing:
- Finish packing the last of your belongings, including daily essentials you’ve been using up to this point. Ensure all boxes are clearly labeled with their contents and destination rooms.
- Prepare for Moving Day:
- Plan the logistics of moving day itself. Arrange for childcare or pet care if needed, and make sure you have easy access to important phone numbers and addresses.
How Early to Book the Movers
Booking your movers well in advance is critical to securing your preferred moving date and avoiding any last-minute hassles. Here’s a timeline for booking movers:
- Two Months in Advance:
- Ideally, you should book your moving company at least two months before your move. This gives you enough time to research and compare different moving companies, read reviews, and get quotes. Early booking also ensures availability, especially during peak moving seasons like summer.
- One Month in Advance:
- If you miss the two-month mark, aim to book your movers at least one month before your move. While you may have fewer options, you can still find a reputable company with available dates.
- Two Weeks in Advance:
- Booking movers within two weeks of your move is possible but can be challenging. Availability may be limited, and prices could be higher due to the short notice. If you find yourself in this situation, be flexible with your moving dates and times to increase your chances of securing a moving service.
Conclusion
Moving locally requires careful planning and organization, but by starting early and following a structured timeline, you can reduce stress and ensure a smooth transition to your new home. Begin packing two months in advance, tackle essential tasks in the final week, and book your movers early to secure your desired moving date. By taking these steps, you’ll be well-prepared for your local move and ready to enjoy your new home.
