Tips for a stress-free moving home experience
Moving home can be an incredibly daunting and stressful task. It involves much more than just packing your possessions into boxes and transporting them to a new location. With countless factors to consider, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, implementing strategies to ensure a smooth transition between homes can help the strain. That’s why we have put together some tips for a stress-free moving home experience.
At Bigfoot Self Storage, we understand the importance of making your move as easy as possible. Our safe and secure self-storage units can alleviate some of the stress associated with finding enough space for your belongings during the process. By following these expert tips, you’ll be able to navigate your move with more confidence and peace of mind.
1. Create a moving timeline
Creating yourself a moving timeline will help to not feel so overwhelmed. Begin by listing all the tasks you need to accomplish before your move and allocate a deadline for each activity. A well-planned timeline can help prevent last-minute panic and ensure everything is taken care of before moving day.
Consider starting to create your timeline around eight weeks before the move, and include activities such as:
– Researching and booking a removals company
– Identifying items for a self-storage unit
– Gathering packing supplies together
– Contacting utility providers to transfer services to your new home
As the moving day approaches, reassess your timeline and update it accordingly.
2. Declutter and organise
Streamlining your belongings before a move not only makes the process more manageable but also reduces the overall cost and effort of your move. Take time to declutter by assessing each item in your home, determining its value and necessity.
Begin by categorising items into groups such as “keep,” “donate,” “sell,” and “discard.” This process can make it easier to visualise what you need to pack and what can be let go. This is also the perfect opportunity to plan which items you may need to store at Bigfoot Self Storage for easy access or long-term safekeeping.
Once you have decluttered, organise your belongings. Consider investing in some clear plastic storage bins, making it easier to see what’s inside each box. This step will ensure that all your items are in designated areas, helping you save time and energy by making unpacking more efficient.
3. Use quality packing materials
Quality packing materials are vital in ensuring that your belongings stay protected during the move. Consider investing in sturdy cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and strong packing tape to keep your items safe from potential damage.
To further secure your possessions, use boxes designed for specific objects, such as wardrobe boxes for clothes. Additionally, you can use household items like towels, blankets, or even clothing to create extra padding and protection for delicate pieces.
Remember to pack strategically, with heavier items such as books and appliances placed at the bottom of the boxes, and lighter or fragile objects on top. This system will prevent damage and make it easier to move, load and unload your belongings once you’re at your new home or storage unit.
4. Label boxes clearly
Proper labelling is crucial for an efficient move and successful unpacking process. Label each box on both the top and side, allowing for easy identification regardless of orientation. In addition to writing the contents of the box, add the destination room, making it clear where each box should be placed upon arrival.
Consider using colour-coded labels or tape to simplify the process and allow for quick recognition of the box’s designated room. For example, you could use red labels for kitchen items, blue for bedroom objects, and yellow for living room essentials. This system can streamline the moving process and help prevent misplaced or scattered belongings.
5. Plan ahead for larger items
Moving larger items such as furniture, appliances, and other heavy equipment requires careful planning and preparation. Begin by taking measurements of each large item and cross-referencing them with the doorways, hallways, and paths at your new home. Doing this will ensure that you’re aware of potential challenges in advance and can make any necessary adjustments or preparations.
Dismantle furniture wherever possible to save space and simplify transport. Keep all hardware (screws, nuts, bolts) in a labelled zip lock bag and securely tape them to the appropriate disassembled piece. Wrap delicate or fragile sections with bubble wrap or moving blankets and secure them with packing tape.
6. Keep valuables safe
Ensuring the security of your valuable items is essential during a move, particularly for irreplaceable items such as important documents, jewellery, or family heirlooms. Set aside a small, secure container or box to transport these items yourself – never leave them in the hands of moving teams.
Additionally, make digital copies of important documents and store files on a cloud storage service. This step further guarantees that your valuables are safe and easily accessible during and after the move.
Regardless of the type of valuable, remember that Bigfoot Self Storage offers a safe and secure environment to store items of high importance.
7. Remember to notify key contacts
Informing key contacts about your move is essential. Create a checklist of people and institutions that require your new address, such as family and friends, utility providers, banks, etc.
Consider setting up a temporary mail redirection service through Royal Mail, ensuring that any post sent to your old address is automatically forwarded to your new one. This service minimises the risk of losing any important mail and will give you time to update your details with all relevant organisations.
8. Arrange for a storage solution with Bigfoot Self Storage
One of the most significant challenges during any move is managing space. You may require temporary or long-term storage of items that may not fit in your new home right away. Utilise the secure and flexible storage solutions offered by Bigfoot Self Storage.
By selecting a storage unit that suits your requirements and budget, you can safely store your items. This option alleviates the pressure of finding space for everything during the move while providing secure, accessible storage.
9. Keep essential items easily accessible
Create an “essentials box” containing items you’ll need during the first few days in your new home. Important items might include toiletries, a change of clothes, essential kitchen items, medication, chargers and important documents.
Having these essentials readily available will save you time and minimise the stress associated with settling into your new home. Remember to label this box clearly and instruct your moving team to place it in an easily accessible location upon arrival.
10. Take care of yourself and stay positive
Throughout the moving process, it’s crucial to take care of both your physical and emotional well-being. Moving can be physically demanding and stressful. Ensure you get enough sleep beforehand, stay hydrated and eat nourishing meals. Remember to take breaks and ask for help if needed. Moving is a significant undertaking and it’s essential to seek help when necessary.
Maintaining a positive mind-set can also go a long way in reducing stress during a move. Focus on the exciting aspects of your new home, such as the opportunity to redecorate, renovate and meeting new neighbours. Keeping the end goal in mind will make it easier to tackle challenges that may arise during the move.
11. Choose the right removal company
Selecting the right removal company is vital for a stress-free move. They will be responsible for packing, loading, transporting, and unloading your belongings. Begin by researching prospective companies, checking reviews, and assessing their experience. Obtain multiple quotes to compare services and pricing.
Once you have narrowed down your options, discuss your specific requirements with them and ask to schedule an in-home survey. They will assess your belongings, estimated time frame and any specific needs to provide you with an accurate quote.
12. Take advantage of online resources and apps
In today’s digital age, you can find an array of online resources and apps designed to simplify the moving experience. For example, Sortly is an inventory app that allows you to track your belongings and labelled boxes, ensuring nothing gets misplaced during the move.
Other apps, such as Glympse and Wunderlist, help maintain effective communication between family members and allow you to stay organised during the move. Look on local council websites to provide valuable information on local amenities, schools and services.
13. Safety and security measures for your new home
Moving home presents an opportunity to review and update the safety and security measures for your property. Check that all doors and windows feature approved locks. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors where necessary throughout your home. Check that the intruder alarm is working if installed and consider getting it serviced.
By implementing these safety and security measures, you can enjoy your new home with the peace of mind that your family and belongings are protected.
14. Transferring utilities and services
You will need to transfer your utilities and services, ensuring they are up and running as soon as you move in. Contact your current utility providers, including electricity, gas, water, and phone/broadband. Inform them of your moving date, provide them with your new address and meter readings.
15. Packing fragile and valuable items
Packing fragile and valuable items, such as antiques or glassware, requires special care and attention. Wrapping delicate items in bubble wrap or packing paper can help protect them from damage during transport. When placing items in boxes, fill any gaps with packing peanuts or crumpled newspaper to prevent movement and ensure a snug fit.
Remember that Bigfoot Self Storage offers secure and dry storage units. These are perfect for keeping your fragile and valuable items safe for short or long-term periods of time.
16. Packing household appliances
Packing household appliances for a move involves several steps to ensure they remain functional and in good condition. Begin by disconnecting the appliance and checking the manufacturer’s guidelines for moving instructions. Clean and dry all appliances before packing, as residual moisture or dirt can lead to mould, foul odours or damage during transport.
For larger appliances, such as washing machines or refrigerators, secure any loose parts and tape doors shut to prevent movement. Before moving, ensure freezers are defrosted and washing machines are drained down of water.
17. Managing pets during a move
Moving can also be a stressful experience for pets. Consider scheduling a visit to the vet for a check-up and to update any identification tags or microchip information.
On moving day, arrange for friends or family members to have your pet to reduce their exposure to the chaos. Alternatively, consider utilising a pet daycare or boarding facility on the day of the move. Once in your new home, create a comfortable and familiar space for them.
18. Preparing kids for the move
Moving home can be confusing and difficult for young children. Discuss the move with them in advance, using simple and reassuring language. Focus on positive aspects, such as the opportunity to make new friends or decorate their new room to build excitement.
During the actual move, enlist the help of friends, family, or a babysitter to care for your kids. Once you have moved in, help them to settle into their new home environment.
Ensuring a smooth move with Bigfoot Self Storage
Moving home can be a complex and challenging time. Following these tips for a stress-free moving home experience will help to streamline the process. Try to stay organised, enlist professional help and focus on the well-being of yourself and your family.
Bigfoot Self Storage can be an essential component in your moving journey, providing secure and accessible storage solutions. Our range of flexible storage options can accommodate your needs and budget. Contact us today to get your quote and reserve your space.
