Relocating to a new home, especially when you are downsizing, can be stressful. Luckily, there are ways you can make the transition smoother. As you downsize, you have to figure out which items you will carry and how to move them to your new home. Everything, from the fragile lamp to the furniture, has to be moved without breaking the bank. Our professional organizers, packers, and movers share their tips on making your move more efficient even as you downsize.
Preparing for the Move
1. Making a Checklist
You are going to be downsizing and therefore need a game plan that includes a timeline and a moving checklist. Since the relocation is to a smaller home, getting a realistic moving checklist is essential. You might want to start preparing two months before the actual move. For instance, if you’re going to sell some stuff as you prepare for downsizing, a two-month head start will give you enough room to lighten the load.
2. Seek Help from a Professional
Movers such as Winter Moving & Storage offer reliable moving services to decrease some of that stress. We provide answers to all packing questions and provide peace of mind as the moving day gets closer.
Packing and Storage Tips
1. Decluttering so You can Pack Less
Downsizing requires that you get rid of items you are not using. It could be that old couch or the bike gathering dust in the garage. Reducing the load makes packing less stressful. Whether you donate, sell, or toss clutter, Winter Moving & Storage recommends basing the decision on the size of your new home. Take measurements to determine items that won’t fit.
2. Getting Quality Boxes
Winter Moving & Storage provides packing boxes before the move. While it might be tempting to try and score free boxes from the local grocery, the last thing you need are boxes collapsing on you during the move. Remember to use the correct box size. Keep the larger items in larger boxes and smaller, heavier items like books in smaller boxes. You can fill up the empty spaces in the box using foam or paper cloth.
3. Setting Time aside for Packing
It’s essential to break down the packing into smaller manageable bits. You can do this by allocating two hours a day for packing. If you procrastinate and try and pack everything a day before the move, you are likely to be overwhelmed and forget a few things. Try moving from one room to the next. Pack your belongings according to size and in pairs when necessary.
4. Assign Each Room a Label
To keep the move organized, label items from each room. You can use different colors or printed labels to give each room unique identification. Labeling the boxes helps when you have to load the items on a moving truck. That way, movers can quickly identify fragile items and the necessary precautions taken. Moreover, since you are downsizing, you will keep track of the items you have packed and the space you have left in your new home.
5. Avoid Packing these Items with other Belongings
Some items can be hazardous during the moving process. You can store these items separately before the move to avoid damage to your belongings. Cleaning chemicals, paints, and tools should be packed together and labeled.
Winter Moving & Storage Downsizing Moving Services
Moving is one of those trials we face at some point in our lives. It might not be unpleasant, but it’s not exactly fun. With the right moving company by your side, you can have a stress-free move. There are plenty of tried and tested moving tips, but a dedicated moving company makes the move streamlined. As you prepare to downsize, contact us today for more information on packing for your move.