Advertisement
Despite how many times you have gone through the process of moving apartments, it can seem like a huge endeavor. Are you often in a rush to complete it all? Have you wished for an easy-to-follow itinerary that guides you through everything you need to do? That’s why we crafted this eight-week checklist featuring all the necessary information to keep things in order.
Organizing is a key
Organizing is indispensable when creating a moving checklist. The simpler the transition, the smoother it will be. To begin, consider what items you should consolidate, sell, donate, or return and reduce the number of belongings. Clean before you start packing and determine what to carry with you. Even if storing items elsewhere is a choice, it likely won’t be as straightforward as getting rid of unnecessary goods. A few tips to streamline before moving are:
1. Get rid of old clothes by donating them
If you’re moving to a place with a warmer climate, you don’t need so many winter coats. For a milder temperature location, it’s a good idea to let go of extra pairs of shorts.
2. Think about selling off extra books, records, or other media items you don’t use
Try to go for an e-reader or switch to digital media. With electronic versions of movies, music, and stories, you can cut down on your storage space without losing access to your favorite content.
3. Examine the contents of your drawers and cupboards
Arrange all papers and essential documents in a meaningful way. Gather all lost tools, batteries, cords, and other assorted items and give them space. Before relocating, re-look at everything piled up to decide whether it is worth bringing along.
4. Keep track
Create a short overview of vital and valuable items so you won’t end up misplacing or purchasing any extra.
Once you have removed the excess items, you may find it easier to pack. It is also great to start fresh when relocating. You don’t need to feel like your belongings are slowing you down.
Plan your budget
Creating a budget is of the utmost importance for a move. You could lose your savings if you don’t plan ahead, so utilize all the free resources available. Don’t forget to ask the people who care about you for some assistance with the lighter tasks. It’s a great idea to hire a moving service but remember to think over your finances first to determine the most suitable option.
How to reduce moving expenses? Here are some tips:
Choose a winter for moving
Moving during the summer and early fall is more expensive, as these months typically have more demand for moving services. It can be challenging to move in snow and ice, but there may be cost savings in doing so.
Inform your landlord
If you want to save money, check to see if you can switch to a month-to-month lease rather than a yearly rental agreement. Don’t forget to give your landlord enough notice, usually 30 days or as stated in the lease, before you move out to avoid extra fees. Hence, it’s a good idea to review your contract and give your landlord the required amount of notice to guarantee an optimal result.
Opt for pre-used boxes
Rather than paying for boxes, look around town for pre-used boxes and use all your tote bags, which will help you avoid the cost of brand-new packages and packing supplies. Local stores, groceries, and small businesses often have large stores of leftover boxes that they would be willing to let go of. Have a look at social media groups offering free stuff and see if they are willing to give away boxes. Websites like Facebook, OfferUp, and Nextdoor are good options for this quest.
Pack your stuff
You should begin packing for your move up to a month in advance, ensuring you are organized about it. This will make unpacking into your new place easier.
These tips will help you with that:
- Make sure to label your moving boxes and list any nuances about how you store your items in your inventory list. Taking good notes will pay off greatly in helping with the moving process.
- Clear your walls and shelves. Take away any paintings, photographs, and other decorations from the walls and securely place them in packing materials. It might be wise to use bubble wrap to keep frames and pieces of art protected during transport. Additionally, put together any ornamental pieces or other decorative items on display.
- The bathroom may have to be the last space you pack up. On the day of the move, you’ll probably require to have close at hand certain items such as soap, shampoo, items for your skin, and other miscellaneous toiletries. Thankfully, these items are usually not big and can be quickly moved. Have a couple of cardboard boxes or bags set up in your bathroom and fill them with your toiletries the morning of your move.
Make your move and get settled
Allot a reasonable amount of time to prevent high-stress levels while you are relocating. Pay attention to how your new place is arranged when loading your truck—you should place the last items on the truck first. With everything stuffed, categorized, and cleaned in advance, the transition should go off without a hitch.
If you’ve paid for the services of a professional moving company, allow them to take care of the task – even though it could be hard to hold back. Please bear in mind that their insurance won’t cover any of the roads caused by you or any injuries incurred. Don’t hesitate to communicate with them and oversee their job.
By the way, if you need high-quality moving services in the Chicago area, we recommend you Move4U company. Their apartment moving services will make your move flawless.
Now it is time to finish the rest of the relocation tasks. Whether popping open a bottle of champagne or taking a much-needed rest, there are nevertheless a few more things to keep in mind before you can say the transition is completed:
- Double-check that everything is in its proper place before the movers leave. Inspect any delicate possessions and furniture for any harm. Although it might be difficult to check inside all the boxes, ensure your precious items are present.
- Fill out your inlay inventory from the rental property if one is provided; if not, make sure to get one. Also, take pictures, noting when they were taken and dated.
- Get in touch with maintenance if you detect any leaks, running toilets, or visible damages. Request for any upkeeps that need to be done on time and find out when it can all be completed. Always be polite and courteous while talking to the maintenance staff to ensure a pleasant interaction.
- Have a plan for unpacking on your first day in the new abode. Don’t push yourself too hard, and try to declutter as much as possible before going to sleep so you don’t wake up in a messy house.
Congratulations! You have successfully moved into your home.