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Moving Tips

Moving to a new place can be both exciting and stressful. This page provides essential tips and resources to help make your move as smooth and efficient as possible.

1. Planning Your Move

  • Create a Moving Checklist: Outline all tasks that need to be done before, during, and after the move.
  • Set a Moving Budget: Estimate costs for movers, packing supplies, and other expenses.
  • Timeline: Develop a timeline to ensure tasks are completed on time.

2. Packing Tips

  • Gather Supplies: Boxes, tape, markers, bubble wrap, and packing paper.
  • Declutter: Donate, sell, or discard items you no longer need.
    • Check out Clutter for a Cause and OCSS Furniture Collection during the summer for easy ways to donate unwanted items.
  • Pack Room by Room: Label boxes clearly with contents and destination rooms.
  • Protect Fragile Items: Use bubble wrap or packing paper for dishes, glassware, and electronics.

3. Hiring Movers or Renting a Truck

  • Research Moving Companies: Read reviews, compare prices, and check for insurance.
  • Book Early: Schedule your moving service well in advance.
  • DIY Moving: If renting a truck, ensure you understand the rental terms and have the necessary equipment.

4. On Moving Day

  • Stay Organized: Keep important documents, keys, and essentials handy.
  • Supervise the Move: Ensure everything is handled with care and follow your plan.
  • Final Check: Do a last walkthrough of your old place to ensure nothing is left behind.

5. Settling Into Your New Place

  • Unpack Essentials First: Prioritize unpacking items needed for daily use.
  • Update Your Address: Notify banks, utilities, and the post office of your new address.
  • Explore Your Neighborhood: Get familiar with local amenities and meet your new neighbors.

6. Safety Tips

  • Lift Safely: Use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.
  • Secure Valuables: Keep valuable items with you during the move.
  • Check Weather Conditions: Plan accordingly if moving during inclement weather.

7. FAQs

  • How far in advance should I start planning my move?
    • It’s best to start planning at least 6-8 weeks before your moving date. This gives you ample time to create a checklist, set a budget, research moving companies, and start packing.
  • What are the best practices for packing fragile items?
    • Use bubble wrap or packing paper to protect fragile items like glassware and electronics. Pack these items in sturdy boxes and clearly label them as “fragile” to ensure they are handled with care.
  • How do I choose between hiring movers and renting a truck?
    • Hiring movers is ideal for convenience and professional handling, especially for large or fragile items. Renting a truck is a cost-effective option for those who prefer a DIY move but requires careful planning and physical effort.
  • What should I do on moving day to stay organized?
    • Keep important documents, keys, and essentials with you. Supervise the move to ensure everything is packed and loaded correctly. Do a final walkthrough of your old place to check for any missed items.
  • When should I update my address and who needs to be notified?
    • Update your address as soon as you move in. Notify banks, utilities, the post office, and any other organizations or services you use regularly to ensure you receive all important correspondence at your new address.