9 Simple Tips for a Stress-Free Move
By Pro.com
Special to Yahoo Homes
Between the beginning of May and Labor Day, almost half of the moves in the United States take place because people often relocate after school ends, but before it starts up again. The U.S. Census Bureau says 43 million Americans change residences every year and people in the West move more than any other area of the country. The average American moves 12 times in their life.
Although a change in residence is only number 32 on the Holmes and Rahe Stress Scale, the reason for the move can skyrocket you to the top of the list. Death of a spouse, divorce and marital separation are numbers 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Other reasons associated with moving – a change in living conditions, a large mortgage or a change in financial status – are all higher up on the chart than moving. Anyway you cut it moving can be stressful. But it doesn’t have to be.
Here are some helpful hints on how to make a move from an apartment to your first home easier.
1. Give Notice
Try to let your landlord know 30 days ahead of time that you’ll be moving.
2. Buy Boxes and Packing Supplies
Use new, sturdy boxes purchased from a moving or storage company instead of already-used ones from the grocery store that may collapse. If you don’t already have tissue paper, bubble wrap, plain newsprint, tape or marking pens, then buy them now.
3. Hire a Moving Company
To avoid moving scams, choose companies that display the ProMover logo, which means they are a member of the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) or select a company that belongs to your state’s moving association. Get three estimates and make sure the representative comes to your residence in person to make an estimate. You can leave all the packing to them or do the majority of it yourself. Ask what the difference in cost might be.
4. Start Packing
If you plan to do the majority of the packing yourself, start with the rooms you use the least, which might be a basement, guest room, storage room, etc. Don’t wait until the last minute to start packing. AMSA provides a handy pre-move countdown checklist to keep you on schedule.
5. Pack Strategically
Fill boxes so they won’t crush when another is placed on top of the box. Pack plates and saucers sideways, put heavier items in the bottom and lighter ones layered on top. Protect mirrors, glass and artwork. Get rid of flammable items instead of packing them.
6. Label Boxes
Write the name of the room the box is destined for or use “Smart Move Tape" which comes already color-coded and with the names of the different rooms on it. Then, list what’s inside the box.
7. Put Valuables in a Suitcase
Place items like jewelry, important papers, cash, medications and documents pertaining to the move in a suitcase and carry it with you. Including electronics and chargers is also a good idea.
8. Clean Before You Leave
Remove any nails or screws you used to hang things in your rental and spackle over those holes. Unless you’ve made a mess of the carpet, you shouldn’t have to shampoo it, but do make sure your apartment looks presentable so you can get your security deposit back. Extra money will come in very handy in your new home.
9. Enjoy Your New Home
Unless this is a brand new house, change the locks so you don’t have any surprise visitors. Then, decorate using your own creativity and some tips from Pro.com.
Pro.com is a website founded in 2013 by service industry entrepreneurs and former Amazon executives to simplify home services -- especially research on contractor fees and qualifications.
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