Moving is one of the most stressful life events right up there with a job loss, divorce, illness, etc. However, organizing for your move reduces a lot of stress on everyone.
So here are some tips to help you organize your move. Most people forget where they put something related to their move. Contracts, important paperwork, receipts, etc., can all get lost or misplaced in a hurry when packing for a move.
One of the best things you can do is purchase an accordion-style file folder to collect everything related to your move. You can do this digitally, but it actually takes more time to input the data. Purchase an inexpensive “Composition Notebook” the kind kids use in elementary school for notes and reminders. Just remember to write everything down related to the move in that single source. Phone call notes, utility confirmations, important lists, etc. This way every thought, note, and detail related to your move is located in one place. You won’t have to search a house full of boxes for something you need ASAP.
Use one of the open slots In the accordion folder strictly for receipts. Put all your receipts for meals during the move, fuel, box, tape, and packing purchase receipts, deposits on utilities for the new residence, and documentation for closing out service at your current address.
Important, Private, and Confidential Papers
Before moving day make sure important documents are stored in a briefcase, backpack, or someplace that is secure. Things like utility bills, credit cards and banking statements, wills, health, and vaccination records, birth certificates, car, life, and health insurance papers. Passports, important investment papers, retirement statements, social security cards, etc., should be colocated. This way when you get to your new home there will be no doubt where all of these important papers are when you need them. If you use a safety deposit box at a bank this is a great place to store all of this vital information so it doesn’t get lost in the move.
DO NOT load this container on the moving truck! Transport it in your personal vehicle. This way you know it’s safe and you will protect your private information. While bonded, professional movers would prefer you transport or secure them yourself. Reputable moving companies do not want to know your personal information, their overall goal and mission are to deliver your possessions safely to your new residence.
Along with your notebook, it is a good idea to have a physical calendar. A digital calendar on your smartphone is okay, but if family members know there is a master calendar within the file folder, or wherever you choose to keep everything will be able to access it with ease.
Give your kids a job!
Children want to be part of the moving process. If you have children 5+ years of age involve them in the moving process. Give them manageable assignments like packing their toys, or treasures. Inviting and involving your children in the process create unity, teaches responsibility, and makes them a part of the move. For teenagers give them specific assignments and make it a “family affair” so they have ownership and responsibility. Make them aware of the master calendar and encourage them to consult it independently when they have a question. By inviting them to be part of the process you are creating a sense of ownership and responsibility. If you have a pet and they need to be walked or let outside on moving day then encourage them to be responsible for your beloved family member. Children want to be part of the process and this is just another way to make the transition to a new place smoother.
Thinking Ahead For The Buyers
While you are protecting your important paperwork, possessions, and private information there is also the information related to your home for the buyer and next resident. If you are selling a home it is important that you leave all of the warranty information and manuals regarding the HVAC, appliances, garage door operation, openers, remotes, etc., in a central location for the new owners. Put them in a kitchen drawer and inform your realtor of where you have put everything for the new homeowners. If you live in an HOA community include the HOA bylaws or handbook with the other manuals you leave for them. Be sure to tell them about any security company codes, alarms, and contact information. Take your garage door remotes to the closing, or give them to your realtor if at all possible.
Personal and Valuable Possessions
Jewelry, family heirlooms, silver, gold, stock certificates, etc., should be in your personal possession on moving day. While reputable moving companies carry more than the required insurance limits you are best served by transporting your most prized valuables in your own car. Again, this is the place for the briefcase, backpack, etc., that you have designated for the important stuff! This way you know these items are always in your possession!
Being organized for your move will ease the stress that accompanies every single move for a family. Start early and write everything down and keep everything in a central location!
The Moving Gurus have a strong record of safe packing, on-time delivery and they carry 10X’s the required insurance limits of South Carolina law including all three types of coverage. They believe providing “peace of mind” in a move is their mission and calling to all of their customers. Contact us today to discuss your move and how we can help. We will provide our Google and BBB ratings as well as proof of all protection coverages and references of those we have recently served. We take the stress out of moving!
The Moving Gurus
Phone: 864.626.6264
Email: TheGuru@TheMovingGurus.com
Snail Mail: 306 Miller Street, Greer, SC 29650
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