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 get rid of things you no longer use or like. Start by going room by room and sorting items into piles: keep, give away, or sell. Donating items in excellent shape to a Auburn Hills charity will not only decrease the amount of clutter in your home, but it will also be a deductible charitable donation. Moreover, your local moving company will have less to move, saving you money!

Step 2: Gather Supplies

You will need a selection of packing materials for your move, including moving boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers. Commence gathering these supplies ahead of time so that you have enough time to obtain everything you need. You may also want to think about purchasing specific packing materials for breakable objects, such as plates and bowls, glasses, and sculptures. Your local mover in Auburn Hills likely sells these items, or can advise the best place to purchase supplies.

Step 3: Start Packing Non-Essentials

Begin by packing items that you do not use on a regular basis, such as winter jackets, hardcovers, and souvenirs. This will help you proactively tackle the packing process and cut down on the amount of work you have to do at the end. Mark boxes obviously and make a list of contents to monitor what you have packed. Remember to include your family name, destination 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 Auburn Hills service providers and utility companies of your move no less than four to six weeks in advance. This is your telephone and internet provider, utility companies, banking institutions, and other service providers. Don't forget to also set up for your mail to be sent to your new address.

Step 5: Pack a Moving Day Kit

Pack a box with must-haves you will need on the day of your move, such as hygiene products, hand towels, pillows, a change of clothes, and sanitizers. You may also want to include a kit you will need immediately upon arriving at your new place, such as coffee and tea, food, and a set of tools. This kit 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

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

Step 7: Plan for your Pets and Plants

If you have pets, plan ahead for them on moving day. Consider having a pet sitter come to your home or boarding them at a kennel for the day. Your local moving company will likely have exterior doors ajar for most of the day, so having pets secure is extremely important. If you have houseplants, make arrangements to bring 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 moving company to double-check your moving arrangements and make sure they have all the details they need. Ask about any special instructions they may have, such as restricted belongings, and make arrangements for items you will need to transport yourself.

Step 9: Pack up the Kitchen

The kitchen is often one of the last rooms to be packed, as it requires extra preparation. Pack pots and pans, silverware, 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 initial evening in your new home, such as coffee and tea, single-use dinnerware, liquid soap and hygiene products.

Step 10: Call Corrigan

When in doubt, rely on Corrigan! As a leader in long distance moving and a acclaimed Auburn Hills local moving company, we are set to assist. Whether you need a local moving company to move big pieces of furniture, or you want your whole items packed, moved and unpacked for you, we has the knowledge to handle it all. Give us a call today to book your no-cost, no-pressure home or virtual moving estimate!