How to Organize, Plan and Prepare for a Household Move in Adelaide
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<strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> <strong>Organize</strong>, <strong>Plan</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Prepare</strong> <strong>for</strong> a<br />
<strong>Household</strong> <strong>Move</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Adelaide</strong><br />
By: Mark Williams<br />
(University of <strong>Adelaide</strong>)<br />
Abstract<br />
<strong>Plan</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g a house move <strong>in</strong> <strong>Adelaide</strong> can be compared <strong>to</strong> do<strong>in</strong>g a big,<br />
complicated jigsaw puzzle – you need <strong>to</strong> put all the pieces <strong>to</strong>gether <strong>in</strong> the<br />
correct way <strong>in</strong> order <strong>to</strong> achieve f<strong>in</strong>al success. If you miss a puzzle piece or put<br />
it <strong>in</strong> the wrong place, you’ll never get the <strong>in</strong>tended image. Likewise, if you miss<br />
a step of the relocation plan or don’t schedule it right, you’ll never f<strong>in</strong>ish the<br />
necessary mov<strong>in</strong>g preparations <strong>in</strong> time <strong>and</strong> won’t be able <strong>to</strong> ensure a smooth<br />
<strong>and</strong> trouble-free relocation.<br />
Incorporate some of these mov<strong>in</strong>g tips <strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong> your plan <strong>and</strong> make your mov<strong>in</strong>g a<br />
bit easier <strong>and</strong> less stressful.
1.0 Introduction<br />
Mov<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> a new house <strong>in</strong> <strong>Adelaide</strong> is never easy, it’s a process of full of stress.<br />
When your mov<strong>in</strong>g date creeps closer <strong>and</strong> closer, the mere thought of pack<strong>in</strong>g<br />
up can be daunt<strong>in</strong>g. Putt<strong>in</strong>g all your belong<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong> boxes just so that they can<br />
be taken out aga<strong>in</strong> is nobody's favorite activity.<br />
So we found some amaz<strong>in</strong>g mov<strong>in</strong>g tips that will make go<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> a new place<br />
easier than you ever thought possible. Check out these <strong>in</strong>genious mov<strong>in</strong>g<br />
hacks ahead.<br />
2.0 <strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> <strong>Prepare</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> Your <strong>Move</strong><br />
Just about any way you slice it, a move is a big, disruptive change that will take<br />
a lot of time <strong>and</strong> hard work <strong>to</strong> execute smoothly. Careful plann<strong>in</strong>g can make<br />
th<strong>in</strong>gs go a lot more smoothly.<br />
Determ<strong>in</strong>e how much time you have be<strong>for</strong>e your move.
• Even if you have very little time, a few m<strong>in</strong>utes spent plann<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong><br />
organiz<strong>in</strong>g the basics can help you make the best use of the time you do<br />
have.<br />
• If you have more time, you can plan more carefully <strong>and</strong> possibly save<br />
money <strong>and</strong> time down the road.<br />
Consider the distance you will be mov<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
Mov<strong>in</strong>g across <strong>to</strong>wn may be someth<strong>in</strong>g you can do yourself, us<strong>in</strong>g a rented<br />
truck <strong>for</strong> the largest items. Mov<strong>in</strong>g longer distances or mov<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> a new<br />
country may require that you ship items with a mover. Indeed, the farther the<br />
distance, the better off you are hav<strong>in</strong>g reputable professionals take care of<br />
everyth<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g your pets.<br />
• For overseas moves, remember there will be such issues as cus<strong>to</strong>ms <strong>and</strong><br />
bio-security clearances, appropriate shipp<strong>in</strong>g methods, <strong>and</strong> s<strong>to</strong>rage<br />
issues on arrival.<br />
Assess your budget.<br />
Will you hire somebody <strong>to</strong> move your belong<strong>in</strong>gs or rent a truck <strong>and</strong> do the<br />
job yourself? Do you have money saved up? Do you still have time <strong>to</strong> set aside<br />
the money you will need? Will an employer cover part of the cost of<br />
relocat<strong>in</strong>g?<br />
• If your employer is assist<strong>in</strong>g you, make sure that everyth<strong>in</strong>g is <strong>in</strong><br />
writ<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g any variations agreed upon verbally or otherwise.<br />
Th<strong>in</strong>gs do go wrong, <strong>and</strong> you need the written confirmations <strong>to</strong> ensure<br />
that you get reimbursed appropriately.<br />
• Written records are also vital when deal<strong>in</strong>g with professional movers.<br />
Be sure that you get a signed-off contract, that you have read all the f<strong>in</strong>e<br />
pr<strong>in</strong>t, <strong>and</strong> that you have full <strong>in</strong>ven<strong>to</strong>ry lists checked <strong>and</strong> signed off by<br />
both you <strong>and</strong> the removal company.<br />
Allow some overlap.
If your lease or purchase agreement(s) allow, get access <strong>to</strong> your new<br />
residence be<strong>for</strong>e you must give up your old one. Even a couple of days will<br />
spare you the stress <strong>and</strong> rush of an overnight move, or the hassle of mov<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong> <strong>and</strong> out of a s<strong>to</strong>rage facility. A time overlap can also help <strong>in</strong> case of any<br />
delays <strong>in</strong> clos<strong>in</strong>g on the purchase of a home.<br />
• If you must move via a s<strong>to</strong>rage unit or if your dates do not overlap, see if<br />
there is a service <strong>in</strong> your area that will deliver <strong>and</strong> move s<strong>to</strong>rage<br />
conta<strong>in</strong>ers <strong>for</strong> you so that you do not have <strong>to</strong> h<strong>and</strong>le your belong<strong>in</strong>gs<br />
twice. The more moves you have <strong>to</strong> make <strong>in</strong>-between arriv<strong>in</strong>g at your<br />
dest<strong>in</strong>ation, the higher the stress levels become <strong>and</strong> the more frustrated<br />
you are likely <strong>to</strong> feel.<br />
• If the move came as a surprise, such as if a l<strong>and</strong>lord decided not <strong>to</strong><br />
renew a lease or you have been posted overseas, you should have at<br />
least some m<strong>in</strong>imum amount of notice <strong>in</strong> which <strong>to</strong> pack <strong>and</strong> seek new<br />
premises. In this case, your first priority should be <strong>to</strong> secure new<br />
lodg<strong>in</strong>gs, but you may still want <strong>to</strong> multitask the search <strong>for</strong> a new place<br />
with beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> pack <strong>and</strong> sort your stuff, otherwise, you might f<strong>in</strong>d<br />
yourself runn<strong>in</strong>g out time.<br />
• Too much overlap can be costly. Don't pay double rent <strong>for</strong> longer than<br />
you need <strong>to</strong>. Seek the garages of friends <strong>and</strong> family be<strong>for</strong>e pay<strong>in</strong>g <strong>for</strong><br />
s<strong>to</strong>rage options if possible.<br />
Decide how much you will pare down your belong<strong>in</strong>gs.<br />
This is a personal choice, of course, but anyth<strong>in</strong>g you can part with is<br />
someth<strong>in</strong>g you don't have <strong>to</strong> move <strong>and</strong> mov<strong>in</strong>g is always a great time <strong>to</strong> be<br />
brutal with th<strong>in</strong>gs you don't need or use. Keep <strong>in</strong> m<strong>in</strong>d that you will have <strong>to</strong><br />
balance the time spent <strong>to</strong> sort your belong<strong>in</strong>gs with the monetary cost <strong>and</strong><br />
ef<strong>for</strong>t required <strong>to</strong> pack <strong>and</strong> move them.<br />
• If you move frequently, try <strong>to</strong> keep a m<strong>in</strong>imum of basic belong<strong>in</strong>gs.<br />
• If you're downsiz<strong>in</strong>g with the move, you will have no choice but <strong>to</strong><br />
remove th<strong>in</strong>gs from your life. This can add <strong>to</strong> the stress <strong>in</strong>itially but the
esult<strong>in</strong>g lower level of possessions is often a huge release <strong>for</strong> your new<br />
way of liv<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
Start right away if you want <strong>to</strong> give away or sell belong<strong>in</strong>gs,<br />
rather than move them.<br />
One alternative <strong>to</strong> tak<strong>in</strong>g that old sofa-bed with you is <strong>to</strong> sell it or give it away<br />
<strong>to</strong> someone else be<strong>for</strong>e you leave.<br />
• If you have expensive antiques or furniture consider an auction or<br />
estate sale.<br />
• Craigslist, Freecycle, <strong>and</strong> the like are excellent resources <strong>for</strong> sell<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong><br />
giv<strong>in</strong>g items away. In some places, you can leave items on the curb <strong>and</strong><br />
they'll disappear of their own accord <strong>in</strong> no time (check with municipal<br />
regulations though).<br />
• Consider hav<strong>in</strong>g a garage sale. Be sure <strong>to</strong> advertise your mov<strong>in</strong>g sale if<br />
you don't th<strong>in</strong>k you can rely on foot traffic alone <strong>for</strong> cus<strong>to</strong>mers.<br />
• Phone local charities <strong>to</strong> see what used items they can accept. Many can<br />
send a truck <strong>to</strong> pick up items you do not wish <strong>to</strong> move.<br />
• Many <strong>to</strong>wns now have recycl<strong>in</strong>g centers so that you can have your items<br />
resold <strong>for</strong> the benefit of the community rather than simply dump<strong>in</strong>g<br />
them <strong>to</strong> be treated as garbage.<br />
Determ<strong>in</strong>e how you will dispose of th<strong>in</strong>gs that cannot be<br />
recycled or donated.<br />
If all you have <strong>to</strong> do is haul stuff by the armload out <strong>to</strong> the apartment<br />
dumpster, there may be noth<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> plan. On the other h<strong>and</strong>, if you will be<br />
shredd<strong>in</strong>g documents, mak<strong>in</strong>g a run <strong>to</strong> the dump, buy<strong>in</strong>g extra trash bags, or<br />
hir<strong>in</strong>g a haul<strong>in</strong>g company, plan <strong>for</strong> these activities as soon as you can. Hav<strong>in</strong>g a<br />
dumpster that is easily accessible dur<strong>in</strong>g your move can make your job much<br />
easier.<br />
Beg<strong>in</strong> us<strong>in</strong>g up food.
If you have time be<strong>for</strong>e the move, you may want <strong>to</strong> run through the usable<br />
foods <strong>in</strong> your pantry <strong>and</strong> freezer. If you do not have time, or if there are items<br />
rema<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g that you do not have time <strong>to</strong> move, see about donat<strong>in</strong>g the<br />
nonperishable stuff <strong>to</strong> a food pantry. You might also give usable items <strong>to</strong><br />
friends <strong>and</strong> neighbors.<br />
• If mov<strong>in</strong>g overseas, cart<strong>in</strong>g food <strong>and</strong> beverages with you is rarely an<br />
option. Give away what you can, from spices <strong>to</strong> chocolate stashes.<br />
Investigate the rules about the carry<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> acceptance of such items as<br />
alcohol if you wish <strong>to</strong> take your special w<strong>in</strong>e cellar overseas with you.<br />
There can be a lot of strict rules surround<strong>in</strong>g food <strong>and</strong> alcohol<br />
importation, depend<strong>in</strong>g on the country; most countries do not let you<br />
move alcohol.<br />
L<strong>in</strong>e up help.<br />
Even if mov<strong>in</strong>g day is months away, start now <strong>to</strong> get the help you will need.<br />
The budget option is <strong>to</strong> call <strong>in</strong> favors from family <strong>and</strong> friends. Otherwise, look<br />
around <strong>for</strong> someone you can pay <strong>to</strong> help with pack<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> mov<strong>in</strong>g. Get<br />
recommendations from friends or read rat<strong>in</strong>gs if you have the time.<br />
• One th<strong>in</strong>g friends can be a huge help with is meals. Once you start<br />
pack<strong>in</strong>g away your kitchen equipment, meals become problematic, so<br />
accept all offers <strong>for</strong> good food from others.<br />
• Friends can also be great babysitters <strong>for</strong> kids <strong>and</strong> pets, who can often<br />
get underfoot or <strong>in</strong>crease your stress levels when you're worry<strong>in</strong>g about<br />
where they are.<br />
• On the day of the move, strip all the beds, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g the mattress pads,<br />
<strong>and</strong> gather the used <strong>to</strong>wels. Get a neighbor <strong>to</strong> wash, dry, <strong>and</strong> fold<br />
everyth<strong>in</strong>g, then pack all <strong>to</strong>gether <strong>in</strong> one box <strong>for</strong> immediate use <strong>in</strong> the<br />
new place.<br />
<strong>Plan</strong> <strong>for</strong> any special or challeng<strong>in</strong>g objects you must move.
If you <strong>and</strong> your friends can move the sofa, f<strong>in</strong>e. But if you have anyth<strong>in</strong>g<br />
especially large, heavy, or fragile <strong>to</strong> move (such as a piano), you may need<br />
specialized help.<br />
• When mov<strong>in</strong>g long distances, ask the removal company about their<br />
wrapp<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> packag<strong>in</strong>g techniques, as well as their policies with<br />
respect <strong>to</strong> breakages.<br />
• If ask<strong>in</strong>g others <strong>to</strong> remove valuable items, get references from people<br />
who have used their services <strong>and</strong> been satisfied with them.<br />
Make a list of people <strong>and</strong> organizations you will need <strong>to</strong> contact.<br />
When you move, you should <strong>in</strong><strong>for</strong>m government agencies, <strong>in</strong>stitutions with<br />
which you do bus<strong>in</strong>ess, utilities, <strong>and</strong> so on. Make this list as soon as you know<br />
you will move, <strong>and</strong> cont<strong>in</strong>ue <strong>to</strong> update it as monthly bills <strong>and</strong> statements<br />
rem<strong>in</strong>d you of whom you should <strong>in</strong><strong>for</strong>m.<br />
• In some countries, the post office offers a st<strong>and</strong>ard <strong>for</strong>m with a list of<br />
names that you can check <strong>and</strong> they will advise the most obvious<br />
companies <strong>and</strong> agencies that you have moved. Inquire at your local post<br />
office <strong>for</strong> more <strong>in</strong><strong>for</strong>mation.<br />
• Consider mail <strong>for</strong>ward<strong>in</strong>g <strong>for</strong> a while. Although this can cost money, it is<br />
better than hav<strong>in</strong>g your mail go astray until you've caught up with all<br />
the address changes.<br />
• If you cannot <strong>for</strong>ward your mail <strong>to</strong> a <strong>for</strong>eign country ask a trustworthy<br />
friend, or family if you can <strong>for</strong>ward it <strong>to</strong> them. They can hold the<br />
important mail <strong>and</strong> throw away the unimportant.<br />
• Consider open<strong>in</strong>g a jo<strong>in</strong>t account with a family member or friend that<br />
you can access onl<strong>in</strong>e. This way if you need bills paid you can transfer<br />
funds <strong>and</strong> have them pay with them.<br />
<strong>Organize</strong> any repairs or clean<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
If the new place must be cleaned or repaired be<strong>for</strong>e you move <strong>in</strong>, plan<br />
overlapp<strong>in</strong>g time or time with your belong<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong> s<strong>to</strong>rage <strong>to</strong> complete these
tasks. If you must clean or repair the home you are leav<strong>in</strong>g (such as <strong>to</strong> recoup<br />
a clean<strong>in</strong>g deposit or <strong>to</strong> leave it respectable <strong>for</strong> the buyers), plan that time, as<br />
well. Remember that clean<strong>in</strong>g is generally easiest <strong>and</strong> most effective <strong>in</strong> an<br />
empty residence.<br />
• If you have purchased a new home, <strong>in</strong><strong>for</strong>m the real estate agent that you<br />
would like a time set aside <strong>for</strong> a clean<strong>in</strong>g company <strong>to</strong> assess the cost of<br />
clean<strong>in</strong>g be<strong>for</strong>e settlement is complete, if possible. This allows you <strong>to</strong> set<br />
up the clean<strong>in</strong>g well <strong>in</strong> advance <strong>and</strong> also encourages the seller <strong>to</strong> be<br />
more prudent <strong>in</strong> clean<strong>in</strong>g out their stuff because you'll be aware of what<br />
needs <strong>to</strong> be cleaned <strong>and</strong> can raise particular concerns. It is demoraliz<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>to</strong> move <strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong> a new home with the old grime <strong>and</strong> junk of the previous<br />
owner still there.<br />
Reserve a truck.<br />
If you will be rent<strong>in</strong>g a truck, us<strong>in</strong>g a shipp<strong>in</strong>g or mov<strong>in</strong>g company, then<br />
reserve your time as soon as you know that you will need it. In some areas <strong>and</strong><br />
at some times of year (such as college <strong>to</strong>wns at the end of the school year), the<br />
dem<strong>and</strong> may be very high <strong>and</strong> you might have <strong>to</strong> wait longer than <strong>in</strong>tended <strong>for</strong><br />
a free spot.<br />
List <strong>and</strong> secure any needed supplies.<br />
Boxes, newspaper, pack<strong>in</strong>g tape, <strong>and</strong> markers are the basics. Do you also need<br />
carts or dollies, any special carry<strong>in</strong>g cases, or anyth<strong>in</strong>g else?<br />
• Some companies sell quality mov<strong>in</strong>g boxes <strong>in</strong> bulk. This might be a good<br />
deal consider<strong>in</strong>g the boxes will be made <strong>for</strong> carry<strong>in</strong>g items <strong>in</strong>tended <strong>for</strong><br />
household removal <strong>and</strong> won't be flimsy or strangely shaped as<br />
supermarket boxes can be.<br />
• Labels such as "fragile", "this way up", <strong>and</strong> expla<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g the contents <strong>and</strong><br />
room, etc., can be made up on your home computer with ease. Just be<br />
sure <strong>to</strong> tape them on securely.
• Check Craigslist or Freecycle if it is active <strong>in</strong> your area <strong>and</strong> time permits.<br />
You may f<strong>in</strong>d mov<strong>in</strong>g boxes <strong>and</strong> pack<strong>in</strong>g materials that others have just<br />
emptied.<br />
Start at least a basic plan <strong>for</strong> how you will arrange your<br />
belong<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong> the new home.<br />
If you can, label or mark each box with where you want it <strong>to</strong> go rather than<br />
where it came from. (Often, this may be the same, s<strong>in</strong>ce items com<strong>in</strong>g out of<br />
the kitchen probably will go back <strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong> the kitchen.)<br />
<strong>Plan</strong> <strong>and</strong> pack a survival kit.<br />
These are the items you will keep out or keep separate so that you have the<br />
most essential items at h<strong>and</strong> when you first arrive. These items might go <strong>in</strong> a<br />
specially labeled box or <strong>in</strong> suitcases. You will know best which items <strong>to</strong> pack<br />
<strong>for</strong> yourself, but remember <strong>to</strong> <strong>in</strong>clude medications, eyeglasses, wallets <strong>and</strong> ID,<br />
plus a few changes of clothes. If pets will move with you, <strong>in</strong>clude the basics<br />
you need <strong>to</strong> care <strong>for</strong> them, as well.<br />
• It's a good idea <strong>to</strong> pack one box with a teakettle, a small pot, some<br />
teabags/coffee/cookies, some cutlery, a few plates, a <strong>to</strong>aster, some h<strong>and</strong><br />
<strong>to</strong>wels <strong>and</strong> liquid soap, etc. <strong>for</strong> those much-needed th<strong>in</strong>gs when you first<br />
arrive. This will save you from rummag<strong>in</strong>g around <strong>for</strong> basics <strong>and</strong> allow<br />
you <strong>to</strong> get on with the bus<strong>in</strong>ess of unpack<strong>in</strong>g methodically.<br />
<strong>Plan</strong> <strong>to</strong> pack less-frequently used items first.<br />
Especially if you have plenty of time <strong>to</strong> pack, start early, pack<strong>in</strong>g th<strong>in</strong>gs like<br />
books <strong>and</strong> cloth<strong>in</strong>g that is out of season. You will unpack <strong>in</strong> approximately the<br />
reverse order.<br />
3.0 Should You Hire <strong>Move</strong>rs or <strong>Move</strong> Yourself?
When it comes time <strong>to</strong> move, you will have <strong>to</strong> decide if you should hire a<br />
mov<strong>in</strong>g crew or do the job yourself. There are some obvious pros <strong>and</strong> cons of<br />
each scenario. When you hire movers, you avoid heavy lift<strong>in</strong>g. When you do it<br />
yourself, you save money.<br />
Ultimately, it’s up <strong>to</strong> you. That’s why we compiled a list of considerations <strong>to</strong><br />
help you decide whether <strong>to</strong> hire movers or go DIY. Read on below <strong>to</strong> help<br />
yourself get some clarity on this <strong>to</strong>ugh decision.<br />
Compare the cost<br />
It should be relatively obvious that you will save money if you choose <strong>to</strong> move<br />
by yourself <strong>in</strong>stead of hir<strong>in</strong>g a mov<strong>in</strong>g company, but there is more <strong>to</strong> it than at<br />
first glance. You also need <strong>to</strong> evaluate your other mov<strong>in</strong>g-related costs. For<br />
example, if you choose <strong>to</strong> move on your own, you’ll have <strong>to</strong> pay <strong>for</strong> a truck<br />
rental <strong>and</strong> gas used <strong>to</strong> drive it, which can add up if you’re mak<strong>in</strong>g a longdistance<br />
move.<br />
Additionally, you’ll need <strong>to</strong> account <strong>for</strong> how much longer it will take <strong>to</strong> move<br />
by yourself, especially if you have <strong>to</strong> take time off work. The sav<strong>in</strong>gs of a DIY<br />
move may not be worth lost wages. F<strong>in</strong>ally, don’t <strong>for</strong>get <strong>to</strong> weigh the risk of
<strong>in</strong>jury, as well as the potential cost of medical bills. You will not save money if<br />
you throw out your back <strong>and</strong> need months of physical therapy.<br />
Th<strong>in</strong>k about time spent<br />
Most of us f<strong>in</strong>d mov<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> be an aggravat<strong>in</strong>g process that we would prefer <strong>to</strong><br />
be done as quickly as possible. Many people hire movers because they argue<br />
that, if they do so, the process will go more quickly. <strong>Move</strong>rs know the best way<br />
<strong>to</strong> pack <strong>and</strong> carry awkward <strong>and</strong> heavy objects, allow<strong>in</strong>g them <strong>to</strong> move<br />
efficiently. They also have a good eye <strong>for</strong> organization. With movers, no time is<br />
wasted figur<strong>in</strong>g out how <strong>to</strong> fit items <strong>in</strong> the truck.<br />
On the other h<strong>and</strong>, if you’re th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g of go<strong>in</strong>g DIY, ask yourself the follow<strong>in</strong>g:<br />
Do you have the organizational skills needed <strong>to</strong> pack efficiently, or will you<br />
leave it all <strong>to</strong> the last m<strong>in</strong>ute? Do you have good spatial relations skills? Do you<br />
have the know-how <strong>and</strong> stam<strong>in</strong>a <strong>to</strong> lift heavy objects without risk<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>jury?
Consider how <strong>to</strong> protect your possessions<br />
There are two fac<strong>to</strong>rs at play when it comes <strong>to</strong> protect<strong>in</strong>g your possessions<br />
dur<strong>in</strong>g a move: theft <strong>and</strong> breakage. With a DIY move, there is no risk of items<br />
be<strong>in</strong>g s<strong>to</strong>len. That said, it is <strong>in</strong>credibly rare <strong>for</strong> movers <strong>to</strong> steal objects,<br />
particularly if you hire a reputable mov<strong>in</strong>g company. You can also carry any<br />
valuables directly with you <strong>to</strong> further mitigate the risk.<br />
The bigger concern when mov<strong>in</strong>g on your own will be the potential <strong>for</strong><br />
break<strong>in</strong>g items. If you carry someth<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong>o heavy <strong>for</strong> you, there is a chance you<br />
will drop it, which could mean los<strong>in</strong>g someth<strong>in</strong>g valuable. S<strong>in</strong>ce movers carry<br />
heavy <strong>and</strong> awkward objects all day long <strong>for</strong> a liv<strong>in</strong>g, they are much less likely<br />
<strong>to</strong> damage your possessions by accident. They also know the best way <strong>to</strong> wrap<br />
up large, fragile items, such as TVs, mirrors <strong>and</strong> cab<strong>in</strong>ets with glass.
Evaluate the size of the move<br />
If you are mov<strong>in</strong>g between furnished apartments <strong>and</strong> have m<strong>in</strong>imal<br />
possessions, it may be practical <strong>to</strong> do the task yourself. Even if you have a<br />
small place with a h<strong>and</strong>ful of smaller pieces of furniture, it may make sense <strong>to</strong><br />
rent a mov<strong>in</strong>g truck <strong>and</strong> ask friends if they will help you. In cases where the<br />
move is short <strong>and</strong> you have m<strong>in</strong>imal belong<strong>in</strong>gs, a DIY project makes sense.<br />
<strong>How</strong>ever, any time more than one or two pieces of furniture are <strong>in</strong>volved, it<br />
may be smarter <strong>to</strong> hire a crew <strong>to</strong> take care of the mov<strong>in</strong>g <strong>for</strong> you. Most people<br />
hire movers if their new home is further from their old location due <strong>to</strong> the<br />
amount of driv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>volved. The process simply goes much more smoothly<br />
with the help of a crew, even if you do end up spend<strong>in</strong>g a little more money.
4.0 Sett<strong>in</strong>g up the Mov<strong>in</strong>g Budget<br />
Whenever you are plann<strong>in</strong>g a move, the first th<strong>in</strong>g you should do is create a<br />
mov<strong>in</strong>g budget. Most people who move feel they do not have time <strong>to</strong> set up a<br />
budget, however, not be<strong>in</strong>g prepared could cost you more <strong>in</strong> the long-run.<br />
Small items such as buy<strong>in</strong>g a new shower curta<strong>in</strong>, sheets, or res<strong>to</strong>ck<strong>in</strong>g your<br />
shelves after you move all add up. Set a budget first be<strong>for</strong>e you do anyth<strong>in</strong>g<br />
else.<br />
Create a Mov<strong>in</strong>g Budget Template<br />
Software programs are probably the easiest way <strong>to</strong> create a budget template.<br />
Someth<strong>in</strong>g basic like Microsoft Word or Excel are some of the best programs<br />
you can use with Excel allow<strong>in</strong>g you <strong>to</strong> use <strong>for</strong>mulas <strong>for</strong> easy calculations.<br />
If you would rather have someth<strong>in</strong>g more portable or if you do not want <strong>to</strong><br />
spend the time sett<strong>in</strong>g up a document on your computer, purchase a<br />
bookkeeper's record book at your local office supply s<strong>to</strong>re. You may need <strong>to</strong><br />
make a few adjustments <strong>to</strong> the column titles or entry boxes, but it will provide<br />
you with the basic outl<strong>in</strong>e of expense track<strong>in</strong>g that you will need. Also, make<br />
sure you have a good calcula<strong>to</strong>r on h<strong>and</strong>.<br />
Mov<strong>in</strong>g Company Expenses<br />
If you are hir<strong>in</strong>g a mov<strong>in</strong>g company, there are a few expenses you need <strong>to</strong><br />
th<strong>in</strong>k about <strong>and</strong> work <strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong> your budget.<br />
• Mov<strong>in</strong>g company fee: This fee should <strong>in</strong>clude fuel charges <strong>and</strong> labor.<br />
Ask <strong>for</strong> estimates from three competi<strong>to</strong>rs <strong>and</strong> even if you have not<br />
decided on which company you will choose, add the highest quote <strong>to</strong><br />
your budget.
• Additional <strong>in</strong>surance: If your possessions are worth a lot <strong>to</strong> you, you<br />
may need <strong>to</strong> add consider add<strong>in</strong>g on additional <strong>in</strong>surance <strong>to</strong> your <strong>to</strong>tal<br />
mov<strong>in</strong>g costs.<br />
• Extra services: Some mov<strong>in</strong>g companies may charge extra <strong>for</strong><br />
prepar<strong>in</strong>g appliances or mov<strong>in</strong>g a piano. Ask the mov<strong>in</strong>g company <strong>for</strong><br />
quotes if you feel you might need additional help.<br />
• Extra charges: Depend<strong>in</strong>g on the distance you are mov<strong>in</strong>g, you might<br />
tack on extra charge. These may <strong>in</strong>clude accessorial charges, expedited<br />
service charge, flight charge, long haul charges, long carry charges, <strong>and</strong><br />
shuttle service.<br />
• Claims/damage costs: Assume you may have damage. You do not need<br />
<strong>to</strong> <strong>in</strong>clude an amount here, but <strong>to</strong> be safe, add <strong>in</strong> a 5 percent cont<strong>in</strong>gency<br />
rate based on the <strong>to</strong>tal mov<strong>in</strong>g company fees.<br />
• Professional pack<strong>in</strong>g: Pack<strong>in</strong>g yourself? Or need someone <strong>to</strong> do this<br />
<strong>for</strong> you? This is an optional service with an additional fee.<br />
Mov<strong>in</strong>g Yourself<br />
If you are mov<strong>in</strong>g on your own, there are a few charges you will need <strong>to</strong> th<strong>in</strong>k<br />
about <strong>in</strong>volv<strong>in</strong>g the mov<strong>in</strong>g van or truck <strong>and</strong> other equipment you may need.<br />
Truck rental: Rates vary accord<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> size <strong>and</strong> whether you are mov<strong>in</strong>g one<br />
way or return.<br />
Mileage/gas: Ask the rental agency how many miles <strong>to</strong> the gallon you can<br />
expect from the van or truck that you are rent<strong>in</strong>g. If you are mov<strong>in</strong>g a far<br />
distance, f<strong>in</strong>d out the cost of fuel along your route. You can do this by us<strong>in</strong>g the<br />
AAA fuel calcula<strong>to</strong>r.<br />
Insurance: Be<strong>for</strong>e you purchase <strong>in</strong>surance, contact your credit card<br />
companies <strong>to</strong> f<strong>in</strong>d out if you are covered under their service. It could save you<br />
some extra money. If you are not covered, make sure you <strong>in</strong>clude an <strong>in</strong>surance<br />
fee.
Extra equipment rental: If you are mov<strong>in</strong>g a lot of stuff you may want the<br />
conveniences of a dolly, load<strong>in</strong>g ramp, mattress <strong>and</strong> furniture covers, <strong>and</strong> so<br />
on. Be<strong>for</strong>e you add this item <strong>to</strong> your budget, ask the truck rental company if<br />
these extras are <strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong> the fee.<br />
Incidentals: Add <strong>in</strong> an extra cont<strong>in</strong>gency amount just <strong>in</strong> case the price of gas<br />
goes up or if you end up need<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> make some extra s<strong>to</strong>ps along your route. It<br />
is always better <strong>to</strong> build extra costs <strong>in</strong> up front.<br />
Travel <strong>to</strong> New Home<br />
If you are mov<strong>in</strong>g your car along with a mov<strong>in</strong>g truck or van, you will need <strong>to</strong><br />
add <strong>in</strong> costs <strong>for</strong> transportation, lodg<strong>in</strong>g along the way, your meals, <strong>and</strong> more.<br />
Transportation: If you are mov<strong>in</strong>g a car <strong>in</strong> addition <strong>to</strong> a mov<strong>in</strong>g van, add <strong>in</strong><br />
the costs <strong>for</strong> fuel <strong>and</strong> ma<strong>in</strong>tenance fees, such as oil, fluids <strong>and</strong> a check-up. If<br />
you prefer, divide these costs <strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong> separate l<strong>in</strong>e items.<br />
Lodg<strong>in</strong>g: Research your s<strong>to</strong>ps along your mov<strong>in</strong>g route <strong>and</strong> f<strong>in</strong>d out how<br />
much lodg<strong>in</strong>g will cost. Determ<strong>in</strong>e the number of nights <strong>and</strong> the room rates<br />
ahead of time. Use a <strong>to</strong>ol such as Expedia <strong>for</strong> rates, availability, <strong>and</strong> book<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
Meals: Calculate an average cost per meal per person <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g dr<strong>in</strong>ks <strong>and</strong><br />
snacks.<br />
Child or pet care: If you require any additional services <strong>to</strong> care <strong>for</strong> members<br />
of your family either be<strong>for</strong>e or after your move, you should <strong>in</strong>clude that cost <strong>in</strong><br />
your budget.<br />
Temporary hous<strong>in</strong>g: Will you <strong>and</strong> your family require temporary shelter at<br />
your f<strong>in</strong>al dest<strong>in</strong>ation be<strong>for</strong>e your home is ready? If so, you will need <strong>to</strong> fac<strong>to</strong>r<br />
<strong>in</strong> those costs.<br />
Pack<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> S<strong>to</strong>rage Fees
While it might be difficult <strong>to</strong> determ<strong>in</strong>e how much pack<strong>in</strong>g supplies you need,<br />
it is a good idea <strong>to</strong> add <strong>in</strong> an amount anyway.<br />
Boxes: Determ<strong>in</strong>e the number of mov<strong>in</strong>g boxes you will need. If you cannot<br />
f<strong>in</strong>d these <strong>for</strong> free, then there is a cost <strong>in</strong>volved.<br />
Wrapp<strong>in</strong>g materials: You will want <strong>to</strong> protect your breakables with<br />
protective bubble wrap or newspapers.<br />
Pack<strong>in</strong>g materials: You will need markers or labels <strong>to</strong> mark your mov<strong>in</strong>g<br />
boxes, which will help you keep organized. Do not <strong>for</strong>get pack<strong>in</strong>g tape <strong>to</strong> seal<br />
your boxes.<br />
Mattress covers/padd<strong>in</strong>g: If you are us<strong>in</strong>g a mov<strong>in</strong>g company, they usually<br />
provide these supplies at no cost, but double check <strong>to</strong> be sure.<br />
S<strong>to</strong>rage fees: If you will need s<strong>to</strong>rage space be<strong>for</strong>e, dur<strong>in</strong>g, or after the move,<br />
then contact a few s<strong>to</strong>rage companies <strong>and</strong> use the highest price if you have not<br />
yet decided on which s<strong>to</strong>rage facility you will use.<br />
Extra <strong>in</strong>surance: If you are s<strong>to</strong>r<strong>in</strong>g valuables, <strong>in</strong>clude extra <strong>in</strong>surance <strong>to</strong> make<br />
sure your goods are covered.<br />
Mov<strong>in</strong>g costs: These are costs <strong>to</strong> move the items from your home <strong>to</strong> the<br />
s<strong>to</strong>rage facility. It may be <strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong> a l<strong>in</strong>e item above, or the mov<strong>in</strong>g<br />
company may allow you one additional s<strong>to</strong>p at no extra cost.<br />
Sell<strong>in</strong>g Home or Mov<strong>in</strong>g from Rental<br />
Consider the costs of sell<strong>in</strong>g your home or costs <strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> leav<strong>in</strong>g your<br />
rental property.<br />
Commission: If you are sell<strong>in</strong>g your home, keep <strong>in</strong> m<strong>in</strong>d that you will likely<br />
have <strong>to</strong> pay a commission fee <strong>to</strong> your broker or agent.<br />
Sell<strong>in</strong>g fees: There are additional fees such as lawyer fees, title fees,<br />
<strong>in</strong>spections, appraisals that all fac<strong>to</strong>r <strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong> the cost of sell<strong>in</strong>g your home.
Advertis<strong>in</strong>g: If you have <strong>to</strong> list your home, you might be responsible <strong>for</strong><br />
advertis<strong>in</strong>g fees, <strong>to</strong>o.<br />
Clean<strong>in</strong>g/repairs: Be<strong>for</strong>e you sell your home, you might need <strong>to</strong> clean it or<br />
repair it. This can <strong>in</strong>clude pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g costs. The same applies <strong>for</strong> leav<strong>in</strong>g a rental<br />
property <strong>in</strong> the condition you got it <strong>in</strong>.<br />
Lease cancellation charges: If you are unable <strong>to</strong> give enough notice <strong>to</strong> a<br />
l<strong>and</strong>lord, you may be charged <strong>for</strong> cancel<strong>in</strong>g your lease or they may withhold<br />
your <strong>in</strong>itial deposit.<br />
Buy<strong>in</strong>g or Rent<strong>in</strong>g Your New Home<br />
Whether you plan <strong>to</strong> buy or rent your new home, the costs multiply from fees,<br />
<strong>in</strong>surance, deposits, taxes, utilities, <strong>and</strong> more.<br />
Home buy<strong>in</strong>g fees: In addition <strong>to</strong> the cost of your new home, you will need <strong>to</strong><br />
fac<strong>to</strong>r <strong>in</strong> all the fees that creep <strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong> the cost such as the lawyer fee, title search<br />
fee, survey fee, <strong>and</strong> <strong>in</strong>spection <strong>and</strong> appraisal.<br />
Home or apartment <strong>in</strong>surance: Wherever you go, whether it is a home you<br />
buy or rent, you will want <strong>in</strong>surance <strong>to</strong> protect your valuables.<br />
Redecorat<strong>in</strong>g costs: The cost of redecorat<strong>in</strong>g can be hard <strong>to</strong> calculate. Look at<br />
the largest room <strong>in</strong> your house <strong>and</strong> the one which requires the most work or<br />
items, break down each cost (pa<strong>in</strong>t, curta<strong>in</strong>s, rugs, lamps, garbage conta<strong>in</strong>ers,<br />
etc.), then add it up. You can either do this <strong>for</strong> each room or calculate an<br />
average cost <strong>for</strong> the entire home.<br />
Property taxes: Most people look at the cost of the house <strong>and</strong> work around<br />
that, some <strong>for</strong>get how important it is <strong>to</strong> fac<strong>to</strong>r <strong>in</strong> the cost of your property tax.<br />
Depend<strong>in</strong>g on the area, this cost fluctuates <strong>and</strong> can make or break your<br />
budget.<br />
Utility deposits: You will need <strong>to</strong> contact the utility companies <strong>for</strong> these costs<br />
or contact your current providers <strong>and</strong> ask what they charge. Make sure you<br />
<strong>in</strong>clude telephone, cable, water, electricity, heat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> any other services you
currently have. If you will be rent<strong>in</strong>g, ask your l<strong>and</strong>lord if these costs are<br />
<strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong> the monthly rental fee.<br />
Apartment deposits: If you are rent<strong>in</strong>g, you will likely have a rental deposit,<br />
damage deposit, <strong>and</strong> if you are br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g pets, a pet deposit, <strong>to</strong>o.<br />
Miscellaneous costs: If you are rent<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> got your apartment from a<br />
broker, you might have a broker's fee. Other <strong>in</strong>cidental costs that add up<br />
<strong>in</strong>clude park<strong>in</strong>g permits, garbage disposal fees, <strong>and</strong> association fees if you<br />
belong <strong>to</strong> a homeowners association or condo association.<br />
Calculate Your Total Costs<br />
This comprehensive list helps you figure out your <strong>to</strong>tal costs. Add all the l<strong>in</strong>e<br />
items up, multiply that <strong>to</strong>tal by 5 percent, which will give you a cont<strong>in</strong>gency<br />
buffer. Make sure you add that 5 percent <strong>to</strong> your <strong>to</strong>tal.<br />
Now that you have created your mov<strong>in</strong>g budget, you may want <strong>to</strong> check out<br />
ways <strong>to</strong> save dur<strong>in</strong>g your move. There are ways <strong>to</strong> save when mov<strong>in</strong>g cross<br />
country, ways <strong>to</strong> cut fees if you pack yourself, <strong>and</strong> budget-sav<strong>in</strong>g methods of<br />
pack<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
5.0 A Quick Guide <strong>to</strong> Gett<strong>in</strong>g Started <strong>and</strong><br />
Complet<strong>in</strong>g a <strong>Move</strong><br />
Mov<strong>in</strong>g sucks. There's really no way around that, but it can be a lot more<br />
<strong>to</strong>lerable <strong>and</strong> a lot less stressful. Here's a look at our best recommendations<br />
<strong>for</strong> an easier <strong>and</strong> more efficient move.<br />
A lot of mov<strong>in</strong>g generally takes place over the next few months, <strong>and</strong> while<br />
everyone's experience <strong>and</strong> needs vary a little, a lot of the work <strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong><br />
mov<strong>in</strong>g is the same no matter who you are. There's a lot <strong>to</strong> go over, so feel free<br />
<strong>to</strong> skip around:
• Preparation<br />
• Pack<strong>in</strong>g<br />
• Label<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> Manag<strong>in</strong>g Your Inven<strong>to</strong>ry<br />
• Mov<strong>in</strong>g In<br />
Preparation<br />
There is so much <strong>to</strong> do <strong>in</strong> preparation <strong>for</strong> your move: set up mail <strong>for</strong>ward<strong>in</strong>g,<br />
change over your utilities, acquire pack<strong>in</strong>g supplies, <strong>and</strong> so on. The move,<br />
itself, is really the easy part as you'll spend most of your time pack<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong><br />
unpack<strong>in</strong>g. If you want everyth<strong>in</strong>g else <strong>to</strong> go as smoothly as possible, you'll<br />
need <strong>to</strong> prepare well. It's a time-consum<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> detailed process.<br />
Pack<strong>in</strong>g<br />
More than anyth<strong>in</strong>g, I hate pack<strong>in</strong>g boxes because of how long it takes <strong>to</strong> do it<br />
well <strong>and</strong> how many th<strong>in</strong>gs there are <strong>to</strong> consider. On <strong>to</strong>p of that, you have <strong>to</strong><br />
th<strong>in</strong>k about what you can't pack <strong>and</strong> actually need on a day-<strong>to</strong>-day basis.<br />
When you're surrounded by everyth<strong>in</strong>g you can't yet pack, it gets a little<br />
stressful.<br />
Label<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> Manag<strong>in</strong>g Your Inven<strong>to</strong>ry<br />
Unmarked boxes are no fun when unpack<strong>in</strong>g, but there are so many ways <strong>to</strong><br />
keep track of your stuff—<strong>and</strong> label it <strong>in</strong><strong>for</strong>matively—that it can be hard <strong>to</strong> f<strong>in</strong>d<br />
the best system. The most common method <strong>in</strong>volves a black marker <strong>and</strong> room<br />
names on your boxes. I f<strong>in</strong>d this method really annoy<strong>in</strong>g, however, because<br />
you generally have <strong>to</strong> bend yourself <strong>in</strong> an awkward position <strong>to</strong> write on the<br />
box. Space <strong>to</strong> write is also a concern, especially when it comes <strong>to</strong> smaller<br />
boxes. Search<strong>in</strong>g the list <strong>for</strong> what you're look<strong>in</strong>g <strong>for</strong> can also be more difficult<br />
s<strong>in</strong>ce 1) you have a lot of items on the box <strong>and</strong> 2) you can't search h<strong>and</strong>written<br />
text. I th<strong>in</strong>k <strong>in</strong>ven<strong>to</strong>ry <strong>and</strong> label<strong>in</strong>g is one of those th<strong>in</strong>gs best h<strong>and</strong>led<br />
on a computer—or at least electronically <strong>in</strong> some way.
Mov<strong>in</strong>g In<br />
If you've taken the time <strong>to</strong> prepare, unpack<strong>in</strong>g shouldn't be <strong>to</strong>o difficult.<br />
Nonetheless, you'll still have a number of tasks ahead of you. Here are some<br />
th<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>to</strong> consider when mov<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>to</strong> help everyth<strong>in</strong>g go smoothly.<br />
Assembl<strong>in</strong>g Furniture<br />
Hopefully your couch made it over <strong>in</strong> one piece, but some furniture—like your<br />
bed—is probably best when transferred <strong>in</strong> disassembled <strong>for</strong>m. If you f<strong>in</strong>d that<br />
you don't remember how <strong>to</strong> put th<strong>in</strong>gs back <strong>to</strong>gether aga<strong>in</strong> <strong>and</strong> the manual<br />
isn't available onl<strong>in</strong>e, you can often have <strong>in</strong>structions sent <strong>to</strong> you from the<br />
manufacturer by just mak<strong>in</strong>g a quick call. If email isn't an option <strong>for</strong> them <strong>and</strong><br />
snail mail will take <strong>to</strong>o long <strong>for</strong> you, often times you can conv<strong>in</strong>ce the<br />
company <strong>to</strong> fax the <strong>in</strong>structions. A quick Google search will turn up several<br />
30-day free trials <strong>for</strong> fax services that you can use <strong>to</strong> get your <strong>in</strong>structions <strong>and</strong><br />
then cancel as soon as you have what you need.<br />
Clean <strong>and</strong> Dust First<br />
If your furniture wasn't dusty or dirty when you loaded it <strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong> the truck, it<br />
probably is now. Be<strong>for</strong>e you br<strong>in</strong>g it <strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong> your home it's best <strong>to</strong> wipe it down<br />
just a little bit. You can dust more thoroughly once <strong>in</strong>side, but def<strong>in</strong>itely be<br />
sure <strong>to</strong> do it be<strong>for</strong>e you put the furniture <strong>to</strong> use.<br />
Use Your Closets<br />
It's easy <strong>to</strong> clutter up your home when unpack<strong>in</strong>g because you'll have stuff<br />
everywhere. It can become a little <strong>in</strong>timidat<strong>in</strong>g when you have <strong>to</strong> move it all<br />
around. If you can manage, fill your closets first—even if it's only temporary.<br />
This will help keep clutter out of the way <strong>and</strong> leave you more room <strong>to</strong> unpack<br />
the important stuff.<br />
Trash Disposal <strong>and</strong> Recycl<strong>in</strong>g<br />
When you're all done, you'll have papers, boxes, <strong>and</strong> other items left over.<br />
Gett<strong>in</strong>g rid of boxes can be as easy a a quick post on Craigslist. You can't pass<br />
everyth<strong>in</strong>g along, however, <strong>and</strong> will need <strong>to</strong> dispose of it properly. If you're
mov<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong> an apartment, it's best <strong>to</strong> check with your build<strong>in</strong>g's management<br />
be<strong>for</strong>e seek<strong>in</strong>g out trash <strong>and</strong> recycl<strong>in</strong>g. The build<strong>in</strong>g may have un-posted<br />
policies you're not aware of.<br />
6.0 Key Th<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>to</strong> Know In Order <strong>to</strong> Simplify a<br />
<strong>Move</strong><br />
Interstate moves are always complicated, time-consum<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> expensive. It<br />
doesn’t matter where you are relocat<strong>in</strong>g, be sure <strong>to</strong> engage yourself from the<br />
start <strong>to</strong> end of your mov<strong>in</strong>g journey with extreme care <strong>and</strong> responsibility.<br />
For example, if you are mov<strong>in</strong>g from Sydney <strong>to</strong> <strong>Adelaide</strong>, you need <strong>to</strong> draft a<br />
cus<strong>to</strong>mised mov<strong>in</strong>g plan that can protect your belong<strong>in</strong>gs from be<strong>in</strong>g<br />
damaged while ensur<strong>in</strong>g their quick delivery <strong>to</strong> the f<strong>in</strong>al dest<strong>in</strong>ation.
<strong>How</strong>ever, it is good <strong>to</strong> hire highly-tra<strong>in</strong>ed Sydney <strong>to</strong> <strong>Adelaide</strong> Removalists, but<br />
you can also grasp some useful tips <strong>to</strong> simplify your complicated mov<strong>in</strong>g<br />
chore.<br />
Below are the seven key th<strong>in</strong>gs that will ensure a quick <strong>and</strong> stress-free move:<br />
1. Mov<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Plan</strong><br />
No matter how many times you have actively participated <strong>in</strong> a mov<strong>in</strong>g<br />
process, you can’t ignore the fact that th<strong>in</strong>gs will get ru<strong>in</strong>ed if you start<br />
without a cus<strong>to</strong>mised mov<strong>in</strong>g plan. It is always imperative <strong>to</strong> have a welldef<strong>in</strong>ed<br />
plan <strong>to</strong> keep an entire mov<strong>in</strong>g process streaml<strong>in</strong>ed, especially if you<br />
are mov<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>terstate.<br />
Relocat<strong>in</strong>g a house or office from Sydney <strong>to</strong> <strong>Adelaide</strong> requires thorough<br />
plann<strong>in</strong>g, right strategies <strong>and</strong> professional assistance. In order <strong>to</strong> simplify<br />
th<strong>in</strong>gs, you have <strong>to</strong> set your mov<strong>in</strong>g timel<strong>in</strong>e, create your pack<strong>in</strong>g plan, change<br />
of address checklist <strong>and</strong> calculate your estimated mov<strong>in</strong>g budget.<br />
Also, create a mov<strong>in</strong>g checklist so that you can work accord<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> the plan<br />
without committ<strong>in</strong>g mistakes. This will ensure a safe <strong>and</strong> successful relocation<br />
process while keep<strong>in</strong>g your precious belong<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong>tact.<br />
2. Get Rid of Unnecessary Items<br />
There is no doubt that mov<strong>in</strong>g fewer items will be convenient, more<br />
com<strong>for</strong>table <strong>and</strong> faster as compared <strong>to</strong> relocat<strong>in</strong>g more belong<strong>in</strong>gs –<br />
especially if you are relocat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> the different city.<br />
You can create a list of th<strong>in</strong>gs that you don’t need <strong>to</strong> take along with you <strong>to</strong><br />
your new house. Once you are prepared with your list, arrange three boxes:<br />
one <strong>for</strong> trashed items, second <strong>for</strong> sold items <strong>and</strong> the last one is <strong>for</strong> donated<br />
items.<br />
This is how you can get rid of ‘unused’ or ‘unnecessary’ items <strong>and</strong> reduce your<br />
mov<strong>in</strong>g burden <strong>and</strong> cost.<br />
3. Look <strong>for</strong> a Professional Help
Noth<strong>in</strong>g can be more stressful than pack<strong>in</strong>g fragile items <strong>and</strong> lift<strong>in</strong>g heavy<br />
furniture <strong>for</strong> a move. If you want <strong>to</strong> ensure the safety of your belong<strong>in</strong>gs while<br />
simplify<strong>in</strong>g your process, then search <strong>for</strong> a professional removalists company<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>Adelaide</strong>.<br />
If it is a long-distance move, make sure you choose a reliable company that<br />
can assist you from start <strong>to</strong> end throughout the mov<strong>in</strong>g journey with utmost<br />
delicacy. A highly-experienced team of removalists knows the right tricks of<br />
mov<strong>in</strong>g your house <strong>and</strong> office us<strong>in</strong>g new-age equipment <strong>and</strong> techniques<br />
with<strong>in</strong> your estimated budget.<br />
Tip: So, make sure you do <strong>in</strong>-depth research be<strong>for</strong>e mak<strong>in</strong>g the f<strong>in</strong>al decision.<br />
It is good <strong>to</strong> opt <strong>for</strong> recommended companies that can offer you quality<br />
service with<strong>in</strong> the estimated budget.<br />
4. Pack Non-Essential Stuff<br />
Pack<strong>in</strong>g is one of the trickiest parts of mov<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>and</strong> that’s why it is vital <strong>to</strong> start<br />
a pack<strong>in</strong>g process two <strong>to</strong> three weeks be<strong>for</strong>e the f<strong>in</strong>al move out day. But, it<br />
becomes quite difficult <strong>to</strong> pack everyth<strong>in</strong>g- as you are still liv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> your house<br />
<strong>and</strong> do<strong>in</strong>g your day-<strong>to</strong>-day activities.<br />
Well, there is a solution! You can start the pack<strong>in</strong>g process with non-essential<br />
items such as off-season clothes, kitchen utensils, books, extra bedroom<br />
l<strong>in</strong>ens, seasonal designs, etc. This is how you can get started with the pack<strong>in</strong>g<br />
process <strong>and</strong> f<strong>in</strong>ish it with ease <strong>to</strong> stay organised on the mov<strong>in</strong>g day.<br />
5. Arrange corrugated boxes<br />
Apart from buy<strong>in</strong>g high-quality pack<strong>in</strong>g supplies such as pack<strong>in</strong>g paper,<br />
bubble wraps, mattress protec<strong>to</strong>r, tape etc., make sure you <strong>in</strong>vest <strong>in</strong> some<br />
right corrugated boxes. In order <strong>to</strong> protect your valuable treasures from<br />
damages, it is good <strong>to</strong> buy high-quality <strong>and</strong> cus<strong>to</strong>m-made boxes <strong>for</strong> proper<br />
pack<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
Make sure they have h<strong>and</strong>les <strong>and</strong> can s<strong>to</strong>re your items safely. If you want <strong>to</strong><br />
save your money, then it is good <strong>to</strong> buy renewable boxes- they are cheap,<br />
effective <strong>and</strong> available <strong>in</strong> different sizes.
6. <strong>Prepare</strong> your Appliances <strong>for</strong> a <strong>Move</strong><br />
When plann<strong>in</strong>g your move from Sydney <strong>to</strong> <strong>Adelaide</strong>, make sure you properly<br />
prepare your delicate appliances <strong>for</strong> a smooth <strong>and</strong> safe transition. Don’t <strong>for</strong>get<br />
<strong>to</strong> take precautions while prepar<strong>in</strong>g your appliances <strong>for</strong> a move.<br />
With the assistance of your appliance technician, you can prepare your<br />
dishwasher, refrigera<strong>to</strong>rs, s<strong>to</strong>ves <strong>and</strong> microwave <strong>for</strong> safe relocation.<br />
• Disconnect or turn off the power but<strong>to</strong>n of your appliances.<br />
• Clean up <strong>and</strong> prep your s<strong>to</strong>ve <strong>and</strong> refrigera<strong>to</strong>r<br />
• Defrost your freezer<br />
• Empty your dishwasher<br />
• Secure your cords<br />
• Tape all doors (fridge, microwave, dishwasher)<br />
7. Label your Packed Boxes<br />
Most of the people migrat<strong>in</strong>g from one city <strong>to</strong> another like Sydney, <strong>Adelaide</strong> or<br />
Melbourne <strong>for</strong>get <strong>to</strong> label their packed boxes <strong>and</strong> then end up with a messy<br />
relocation. If you really want <strong>to</strong> simplify your <strong>in</strong>terstate move, please take<br />
some time out of your busy schedule <strong>to</strong> label your mov<strong>in</strong>g boxes.<br />
Labell<strong>in</strong>g not only simplifies transition of your belong<strong>in</strong>gs but also organises<br />
the entire unpack<strong>in</strong>g process – saves your time <strong>and</strong> money while lett<strong>in</strong>g you<br />
settle down your new house <strong>in</strong> a breeze.<br />
So, write someth<strong>in</strong>g relevant, such as ‘kitchen items, ‘fragile items’, <strong>and</strong><br />
‘bedroom belong<strong>in</strong>gs’ etc. on your boxes. This is one of the best tricks that will<br />
help you avoid common blunders while mov<strong>in</strong>g your possessions from one<br />
place <strong>to</strong> another.
Conclusion<br />
These are just a few th<strong>in</strong>gs that you should keep <strong>in</strong> m<strong>in</strong>d while mov<strong>in</strong>g your<br />
house from one place <strong>to</strong> another. So, the plans are made <strong>and</strong> the<br />
organizational stage of your move is over. You have researched, analyzed <strong>and</strong><br />
thought over every aspect of your relocation adventure. You have learned <strong>to</strong><br />
plan the perfect move. In this complete chapter you read the complete<br />
plann<strong>in</strong>g, organiz<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> execution of a successful mov<strong>in</strong>g plan.<br />
Now, the time has come <strong>to</strong> set your plan <strong>in</strong> motion. Good luck <strong>and</strong> may your<br />
plan bear fruit!<br />
References<br />
<strong>How</strong> To <strong>Plan</strong> A <strong>Move</strong>: Relocation <strong>Plan</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g At Its Best | My Mov<strong>in</strong>g Reviews,<br />
Retrieved 12 July, 2019 from,<br />
https://www.mymov<strong>in</strong>greviews.com/move/how-<strong>to</strong>-plan-a-move/<br />
2018 | 24 Ingenious Mov<strong>in</strong>g Hacks That Make Pack<strong>in</strong>g Pa<strong>in</strong>less | Popsugar,<br />
Retrieved 12 July, 2019 from,<br />
https://www.popsugar.com/smart-liv<strong>in</strong>g/Mov<strong>in</strong>g-Hacks-Make-Pack<strong>in</strong>g-Easy-<br />
35362851<br />
2018 | <strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> a <strong>Move</strong> | Wiki <strong>How</strong>, Retrieved 12 July, 2019 from,<br />
https://www.wikihow.com/<strong>Plan</strong>-a-<strong>Move</strong><br />
2018 | Here’s <strong>How</strong> <strong>to</strong> Decide Whether <strong>to</strong> Hire <strong>Move</strong>rs or Go DIY <strong>for</strong> Your <strong>Move</strong><br />
| Freshome, Retrieved 12 July, 2019 from,<br />
https://freshome.com/mov<strong>in</strong>g/hire-movers-or-DIY/
2019 | Set Your Mov<strong>in</strong>g Budget With This Guide | The Spruce, Retrieved 12<br />
July, 2019 from,<br />
https://www.thespruce.com/budget-be<strong>for</strong>e-you-move-2436525<br />
2010 | The Start-<strong>to</strong>-F<strong>in</strong>ish Guide <strong>for</strong> Mov<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> a New Place | Life Hacker,<br />
Retrieved 12 July, 2019 from,<br />
https://lifehacker.com/the-start-<strong>to</strong>-f<strong>in</strong>ish-guide-<strong>for</strong>-mov<strong>in</strong>g-<strong>to</strong>-a-new-place-<br />
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2018 | Key Th<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>to</strong> Know In Order <strong>to</strong> Simplify a <strong>Move</strong> | Better Removalists<br />
<strong>Adelaide</strong>, Retrieved 12 July, 2019 from,<br />
https://www.betterremovalistsadelaide.com.au/key-th<strong>in</strong>gs-know-ordersimplify-move/