Mover Connection Center

Resource Center

9 Tips to Simplify Your Move

In the big picture of moving, sometimes it’s the small stuff that’s the most frustrating. For example, avoid tiny shards of broken glass by removing light bulbs from lamps. Don’t forget to pick up things you may have out for service, such as dry cleaning, before you move. And take the time to pack a “Last Load” box with essentials for your first night.

Here are nine moving tips that may not seem that big, but can help avoid surprises as you deal with the bigger aspects of the move.

  1. If you plan to sort through and dispose of items as you pack, know that realistically, you probably won’t do it. Consequently, you’ll pack it all and decide to deal with it later. Take the time to go through clothes, books, toys, etc and donate, trash or sell items before you start packing.
  2. Pick up dry cleaning and items out for repair and on loan. Clear out safety deposit boxes. Return library books.
  3. Fill any prescriptions or medications you need for humans or pets.
  4. Dispose of flammables, corrosives and poisons. Empty the lawn mower and power tools of fuel. Discard propane tanks for barbecue grills.
  5. Buy a large sturdy file with a flap that closes to store all the documentation and paperwork associated with the move. You’ll be referencing this file frequently and you don’t want anything to slide out of it.
  6. Designate a folder of important information for the new owner of your home. Clearly mark it so it’s not packed.
  7. Learn about special offers and home services bundles that are available at your new address. Promotions change frequently and may be geographically specific, so visit Allconnect to compare choices specific to your new address.
  8. Designate “essentials” boxes and include tea, coffee, snacks, mugs, sugar, tools, paper and pen, phone chargers, toilet paper, trash bags, measuring tape, cleaning materials (including the vacuum cleaner), and sheets and towels for the first night. Mark these boxes as “Last Load.”
  9. Before the moving truck leaves, walk through the house, the garage, the basement, the attic, the yard to make sure you haven’t left anything behind. Remember, do this before the truck leaves.