Forget the adorable ‘Moving In’ Instagram photos, where the new homeowners are all smiles and gaiety. Setting up house some place new is a stressful affair, usually accompanied with a never-ending list of things to do. Regrettably, all the to-do list items need to be ticked off. The key lies in planning and spreading them across a couple of weeks instead of days.
We have previously told you all that needs to be catered for before you jump on the sofa and look around you with pride; now we’re sharing some words of advice on how to plan your move… all specifically planned across two months, to give you enough time to think and breathe.
2 MONTHS BEFORE YOU MOVE IN
- If you currently reside in a rented place, it’s time to inform your landlord of your intentions of moving out soon.
- Create a filing system with separate sections to store bills, purchases, bank statements and notices, guarantees and all the paper work that comes with owning a place. Being organised before the move will come in handy once you’re settled.
- Contact movers to book relocation of furniture, large household items and boxes. Even if you drive a car, some items will not fit and you’ll need to make multiple trips to get everything to the new place. Best to let the professionals handle it for you.
- If chaos is not your playground, you’ll benefit highly from setting up a planner. Nothing too complicated – make a list of what is being dropped off when, what needs to be handled by which deadline, and highlight the Move-In Day (just in case you forget!).
1 MONTH BEFORE YOU MOVE IN
- Sort out your belongings. From clothing to home accessories, bathroom supplies to kitchenware, any items you’d rather not make the trip to the new place should be thrown away, donated or sold. Remember to recycle correctly.
- Watch informative YouTube videos to learn how to pack wisely, enhance space and protect items against damages as they make their journey. Purchase cardboard boxes or opt for reusable cases and label them according to the rooms in which items should be placed. Saves you time from running through the rooms and getting items misplaced.
- Re-confirm dates with the movers. Verify whether the workers require lifters on the day and No Parking street permits.
- Contact the banks to inform them of your imminent move. Head over to the post office to place a post redirection.
2 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING IN
- Inform your boss about booking days off from work so as to oversee the move. The process is going to be hectic – taking time off from the stress of work will let you focus on your move’s priorities.
- Go through each room and make a list of supplies you require; from toiletries to kitchen utensils, extra light bulbs to brooms. Fridge and freezer items are best bought a week before you move in.
- Do the last repairs necessary, such as scrubbing off the last paint spots on the floor and dusting the furniture after delivery.
1 WEEK BEFORE MOVING IN
- The apartment should benefit from a thorough clean-up to ensure every corner is sparkling for the furniture, frames and beds to be settled in. The bathrooms will benefit from a good scrub.
- Withdraw some cash to pay the movers and have enough money reserves for random purchases.
- Daily essentials should be packed in suitcases for ease of use.
MOVING DAY
- Get there early before the movers arrive. They will require guidance as to what goes were.
- Keep a notepad handy – you’ll definitely remember something you might have forgotten; whether it is supplies or calling upon a neighbour. Make a note to call upon your insurer and review your home contents policy.
- Make a note to call upon your insurer and review your home contents policy.
- Don’t waste time. While the professionals are busy placing furniture and making their deliveries, work on your unpacking. Keep a duster nearby to give packed items a quick clean before placing them in their new home.