How to Prepare Your Home for a Move: A Step-by-Step Guide

 

Step 1:Declutter and Donate

Clearing out your home is among the best things you can do before a move. This not only makes packing easier, but it also helps you dispose of things you no longer need or want. Start by going through each room and sorting items into piles: keep this, give away, or sell this. Donating items in great condition to a Ann Arbor charity will not only reduce the amount of clutter in your home, but it will also be a deductible charitable donation. Moreover, your local mover will have fewer things to move, reducing your moving costs!

Step 2: Gather Supplies

You will need a range of materials for your move, including moving boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers. Start gathering these supplies ahead of time so that you have enough time to obtain everything you need. You may also want to think about purchasing custom packing materials for delicate items, such as plates and bowls, stemware, and artwork. Your local mover in Ann Arbor likely sells these items, or can advise the best place to purchase supplies.

Step 3: Start Packing Non-Essentials

Start by packing items that you do not use on a day-to-day basis, such as out-of-season clothes, reading materials, and knickknacks. This will help you start early with the packing process and cut down on the amount of work you have to do at the end. Tag boxes clearly and make a list of contents to track what you have packed. Remember to add your family name, target location and contents on the side of the box. When the boxes are stacked, you won't be able to read what’s written on the top of the carton!

Step 4: Notify Service Providers and Utilities

Tell your Ann Arbor service providers and utility companies of your move at least 4-6 weeks in advance. This is your phone and internet company, utility companies, financial institutions, and other vendors. Don't forget to also schedule for your mail to be forwarded to your new address.

Step 5: Pack a Moving Day Kit

Prepare a box with must-haves you will need on moving day, such as personal care items, washcloths, pillows, a change of clothes, and household cleaners. You may also want to include a box of items you will need immediately upon arriving at your destination, such as coffee and tea, treats, and a toolkit. This kit is something you should take with you, instead of having your local moving company take it with everything else.

Step 6: Label Boxes and Rooms

Clearly label boxes and note down contents to remember what you have packed. Also, label each room in your home with a related number and note down the items in that space. This will make it easier for your local rmovers to know where to place boxes and household items in your new home.

Step 7: Plan for your Pets and Plants

If you have pets, plan ahead for them on moving day. Consider hiring a pet sitter or taking them to a kennel for the day. Your local movers will likely have exterior doors ajar for most of the day, so having pets secure is extremely important. If you have potted plants, make arrangements to bring them to your new home, or consider giving them away to friends or family members.

Step 8: Check with your Local Moving Company

A few days before the move, check in with your local movers to double-check your moving arrangements and make sure they have all the information they need. Ask about any prohibitions they may have, such as unmovable items, and make arrangements for items you will need to transport yourself.

Step 9: Pack up the Kitchen

The kitchen is often the last rooms to be packed, as it requires extra preparation. Pack cookware, cutlery, and other culinary supplies in labeled boxes and wrap delicate items in foam wrap for protection. Make sure to pack a box of essentials for your initial evening in your new home, such as coffee and tea, paper and plastic plates and cutlery, body wash and hygiene products.

Step 10: Call Corrigan

If you're not sure what to do, rely on Corrigan! As a leader in long distance moving and a acclaimed Ann Arbor local moving company, we are ready to assist. Whether you need a local moving team to move big pieces of furniture, or you want your whole packed, moved and organized for you, we has the skills to handle it all. Give us a call today to schedule your free, no-commitment at-home or online moving assessment!