- Donate: If you have items that you no longer use but they could be of benefit to somebody else, consider donating these items. Put all the items you are going to donate in one location. As you begin to pack you will find more and more items for the donation pile. Then a few days before your move call a local charity to find out the best way to donate these items. Don’t forget your tax receipt!
- Be realistic: If you haven’t used an item or worn an article of clothing in two years chances are you can consider donating or tossing it.
- Food: Try to minimize grocery shopping the last month before your move and use all the old cans of soup and packaged goods that haven’t expired. This way you won’t have to pack food as part of your move and you will have cleaned out your pantry. If you run out of food go out for a bite to eat. Chances are you will need a break from the stresses of packing anyway, and the chef of the house will surely appreciate it.
- Movers Guide: For interstate moves ask your mover for the government-issued guide, “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move.” Movers are required to furnish you with this upon request. If the mover doesn’t have the guide, that is a red-flag.
- Time Off: Take twice as much time off work as you think you’ll need. Maybe you can move your whole house in three days, but even if you could, do you want to? Moving is stressful enough as it is, don’t let time be another stress.
- Cleaning: Send somebody ahead or hire a service to clean your new place before moving in. It is much easier to clean without all of your stuff moved in, and once you move in you will want to unpack rather than clean.
- Is Your Mover Reputable? Contact the American Moving and Storage Association and make sure your mover is a member.
Also visit the Better Business Bureau and perform a free search on the company you are considering hiring for your move.