How to Prepare Your Home for a Move: A Step-by-Step Guide

 

Step 1:Declutter and Donate

Decluttering your home is one of the best things you can do before a move. This not only makes packing easier, but it also helps you dispose of things you no longer use or like. Start by going through each room and categorizing items into piles: keep it, give away, or sell it. Donating items in excellent shape to a Bay City charity will not only reduce the amount of clutter in your home, but it will also be a deductible charitable donation. Moreover, your local moving company will have fewer things to move, saving you money!

Step 2: Gather Supplies

You will need a range of packing materials for your move, including moving boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers. Commence gathering these supplies in advance so that you have plenty of time to obtain everything you need. You may also want to think about purchasing custom packing materials for fragile belongings, such as dishware, glasses, and paintings. Your local mover in Bay City likely sells these items, or can advise the best place to purchase supplies.

Step 3: Start Packing Non-Essentials

Start by packing items that you do not use on a day-to-day basis, such as summer dresses, paperbacks, and decorative items. This will help you get a head start on the packing process and cut down on the amount of work you have to do at the end. Mark boxes obviously and create a list of contents to keep track of what you have packed. Remember to add your family name, room and contents on the side of the box. When the boxes are stacked, you won't be able to read what’s written on the top of the carton!

Step 4: Notify Service Providers and Utilities

Tell your Bay City service providers and utility companies of your move minimum of 4-6 weeks in advance. This is your telephone and internet provider, utility companies, financial institutions, and other providers. Don't forget to also schedule for your mail to be redirected to your new address.

Step 5: Pack a Moving Day Kit

Pack a box with essential items you will need on moving day, such as toiletries, hand towels, bedding, a new outfit, and household cleaners. You may also want to include a kit you will need immediately upon arriving at your destination, such as drinks, snacks, and a toolkit. These items is best moved with you personally, instead of letting your local moving company transport it with the rest of your belongings.

Step 6: Label Boxes and Rooms

Clearly label boxes and make a list of contents to keep track of what you have packed. Also, tag each area in your home with a related number and note down the possessions in that area. This will make it easier for your local moving company to know where to place boxes and furniture in your new home.

Step 7: Plan for your Pets and Plants

For pet owners, plan ahead for them on moving day. Consider hiring a pet sitter or taking them to a kennel for the day. Your local moving company will likely have doors ajar for most of the day, so having pets safely secured is extremely important. If you have potted plants, make arrangements to transport them to your new home, or consider donating them to friends or family members.

Step 8: Check with your Local Moving Company

A few days before the move, check in with your local movers to confirm the details of your move and make sure they have all the information they need. Ask about any limitations they may have, such as unmovable items, and make arrangements for items you will need to transport yourself.

Step 9: Pack up the Kitchen

The kitchen is often the last rooms to be packed, as it requires the most preparation. Pack pots and pans, utensils, and other cooking tools in labeled boxes and wrap delicate items in foam wrap for protection. Make sure to pack a box of essentials for your first night in your new home, such as coffee grounds and tea leaves, single-use dinnerware, hand soap and toiletries.

Step 10: Call Corrigan

When in doubt, rely on Corrigan Moving Systems! As a leader in long distance moving and a recognized Bay City local moving company, we are ready to assist. Whether you need a local moving company to move big pieces of furniture, or you want your whole items packed, moved and set up for you, we has the expertise to handle it all. Give us a call today to book your free, no-pressure at-home or remote moving assessment!