Use your move as an opportunity to shed possessions you don’t really need. Sorting before your move will allow for a fresh start.
A month before your move, take photos of your room layout and furniture.
Ask yourself if there are any pieces that don’t fit your mental picture of your new home.
Sell or donate whatever won’t really “go” with the new setting.
Do the same with clothing: whatever you haven’t worn in a year, sort into “Donate” or “Throw”.
As you sort, put off-season clothes into a moving box and label it.
Sort books, videos, magazines, sports equipment… you get the idea! Pack these items into moving boxes and label them.
How do I get all of this stuff moved?
You have three basic choices: move it yourself with friends, hire a few guys and a truck, or hire a professional mover. Note: you may have once been able to bribe your friends with pizza & beer. This will only work once!!
The trade-offs to consider are: total cost, risk of damage, your ability to lift heavy objects and drive a rented truck, and the distance you have to move. A do-it-yourself move may work for a short distance, but a moving company may be best for a long haul.
You should make your choice a month before your move so you have time to get estimates and reserve a truck. Rental trucks and professional movers are busiest at the end of each month.
If you want to hire a professional mover, get two or three estimates. Make sure they do a realistic estimate based on what you own and the number of stairs. Also, check the movers’ on-time record and complaints with your local Better Business Bureau.
Get a binding estimate from the moving company and make sure the amount is written in the contract. Have the contract include a guarantee of how many hours the job will take, allowing an overrun of no more than 10%. Be wary of contracts that add a certain number of cents per pound shipped.
Be sure all charges are written into the contract, including packing fragile items, gratuities for the crew, and highway tolls.
Movers are limited by law regarding what they can give you for lost or damaged goods. To cover potential damage, check your existing homeowner’s or renter’s policy.
Verify how you will make final payment when you take receipt of your belongings at your new home. If cash is required, withdraw the amount from your local bank BEFORE you leave, so you will have the cash to pay if you arrive at midnight or on a weekend.
Make a detailed list of your valuables before you pack. Number the boxes and document what went into each box. Make a check-off list of numbered boxes that contain valuables so you can use it on moving day.