You’d think a small move can go off without a hitch. After all, you’re only moving a few items and not a multi-story house. However, even moving a few boxes can quickly turn into a nightmare without some planning.
So, how do you ensure your small move doesn’t run into any obstacles? To help better guide and inform you a bit, here are some key tips for a smooth small move.
Decide How You’ll Move Your Items
As soon as you find out a move is in your future, start figuring out how you’re going to get everything from one place to another.
Are you going to load the boxes in your vehicle or get friends and family involved? If you’re planning on using professionals to help with your small move, reserve the date at least several weeks before your moving date.
Moving companies are usually busy, which means that they usually can’t fit your last-minute small move into their schedules. Some seasons and days are busier for moving companies than others, and this can also affect your moving date. For example, weekends and the summer months tend to be the busiest.
If you can move during the week or in the offseason, think fall, you may be able to score a cheaper moving rate. You’re also more likely to be able to reserve a moving truck that fits your schedule.
Go Through Everything
When was the last time you went through your closet and drawers? If you’re like most people, you may be struggling to come up with a date. Don’t be surprised at what you pull out of the back of your closet or a forgotten drawer.
Moving is the perfect time to clear out some of your clutter. Don’t forget, this is also a small move so you’re only taking a few boxes.
A good tip to help you stay organized and still get rid of some items is to create three piles. You’ll have a pile of items you can’t live without, one for trash, and the other for donations. However, before filling boxes for charity, think about having a yard sale. The proceeds can go towards reducing the cost of your small move.
Even if your friends and family are the ones helping with the move, they’ll at least expect some food as a thank you. What doesn’t sell, you can box up and drop off at your favorite local charity.
Get Packing Supplies
Okay, unless you’re planning on carrying a bunch of loose stuff, you’re going to need some packing supplies, which typically includes boxes, tape, and some packing paper. Try to stay away from packing peanuts. While the bits of Styrofoam work great for packing, it’s also terrible for the environment. Packing paper is a much more eco-friendly option.
You can get everything you need to pack up your stuff at any shipping or moving store. However, you can save some money by hitting up grocery stores for their old boxes. The boxes may already be broken down, but you can easily reassemble them. A little tape across the bottom and the boxes are as good as new.
If you don’t want to purchase packing paper, old newsprint works just fine. The only downside is the ink often rubs off so be careful using newsprint around clothing.
Pack and Label the Boxes
Even if it’s a small move you don’t want to wait until moving day to start packing. Ideally, everything should be ready to go the night before. This may mean starting your packing a few days before moving.
As you’re packing, try to keep items from one room together in the same box. In other words, don’t mix up your kitchen utensils with your toothbrush. You don’t want to spend the first night in your new home frantically trying to find your toothbrush—this isn’t really the best way to start life in your new address.
Label every box as soon as you finish packing it. Don’t wait until the end. If there are breakables in a box, label it as fragile. You may even want to mark which end is up.
Do a Final Walkthrough On Moving Day
Congratulations, it’s finally moving day! Even though you’re probably excited to get the show on the road, don’t rush out the door. Do a walk-through and check every drawer, cabinet, and closet to ensure you haven’t left anything behind.
Once you’re sure you’ve packed everything, it’s time to head to your new address. Since you took the time to label your boxes, you shouldn’t have a problem unpacking after your small move.