Moving House: Your Essential Handbook for Stress-Free House Movers
Hey there, future mover! Therefore, you are planning on making a new home move and that is one of the most thrilling prospects in life. Whether you are young and eager to buy a large house with a garden in the suburbs or you’re young and decided that it’s time to leave all that space behind and get a small apartment in the city, let me assure you – moving is quite the exhilarating experience. But don’t worry! Being a Chicagoan and having shifted multiple times in my life, I’m quite aware of the do’s and don’ts while moving and that is why I have got quite a few hot shots to share with my fellow Chicagoans.
Start Early, Stress Less
First of all, it is necessary to stress that it is worth starting planning as early as possible. Let me assure you, Future You will thank you for it profusely. First of all, make an advance checklist of all such motions. The expert moving companies have a great customizable checklist to keep you on the right track. Please always bear in mind that Rome was not built in a day and your moving boxes will not pack themselves at night!
Declutter Like a Pro
Relocation is the best opportunity to tidy up with the spirit of Marie Kondo. Sort out your things and put on each item, ‘Does this cause me joy?’ If not, discard it. Put the items on sale on Facebook Marketplace, donate to nonprofit organizations such as The Salvation Army Chicago, or offer to friends. With fewer things, there will be fewer things to pack, carry, and unpack during a move. Win-win!
Packing: The Art of Organization
Now, let’s talk about packing. Begin with goods and objects you do not often employ, such as Christmas tree ornaments or some kitchen accessories. boxes should be strong – you can get these for free from local grocery stores, liquor shops, etc. Pro tip: for those interested in getting free boxes try out the U-Haul’s Box Exchange to get a list of available boxes in your locality.
Color-code your boxes based on rooms or categories. It might seem silly, but when you’re surrounded by a sea of cardboard, you’ll be thankful for that system. And don’t forget to label everything clearly. Future You will thank Past You for this thoughtfulness!
Hire Professionals or DIY?
This is the ever-evolving moving question. Conversely, if you are thinking about using professionals, then use movers company websites for the details, and positive and negative feedback on moving companies. They are of great help in freeing any troublesome situation.
If you’re going the DIY route, don’t forget the next day’s pizza for your friends, the packing material, and the rental on the truck. Companies such as Budget Truck Rental usually have flexible prices for local moves; at least they used to before the recession.
Do Not Forget the Essentials
It is advised to prepare a box with all the things you are going to need in the new flat right after your arrival. This includes items like toilet paper, soap, a phone charger, a set of clothes, and some other stuff one may require in an emergent situation. I assure you, it is not a sight to behold when after coming back from an event at midnight you have to search through the boxes to find the toothbrush.
Update Your Address
This one is usually passed over, but it matters. The online change of address form from the US postal service helps your mail migrate to the new home with ease. Finally, do not forget to notify the changes in your address in significant service providers such as banks, credit cards, and subscriptions.
Protect Your Belongings
Consider getting moving insurance, especially for valuable items. Your regular homeowners or renters insurance might not cover items during a move. The Illinois Department of Insurance has some helpful information on this topic.
Plan for Your Pets
If you have furry family members, make sure to plan for their move too. Keep them in a quiet room with familiar toys on a moving day to reduce stress. For long-distance moves, check out BringFido for pet-friendly hotels along your route.
Take Care of Utilities
Nothing’s worse than arriving at your new home to find no electricity or water. Contact your utility providers well in advance to schedule service at your new address. The City of Chicago’s website has a useful guide on setting up utilities if you’re moving within the city.
And hey, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, there’s no shame in calling in the pros. Chicago’s got plenty of reputable moving companies ready to take the weight off your shoulders – literally!
Also Read:
