It is with much excitement (and some sadness) I will be trading up from 90 square feet to 500. While the closing is the end of January/early February, I’ve already begun packing. And even though I don’t have a fraction of what most people own, the steps for the move remain the same.
Weed. Your stuff, that is. I’ve given away books, tossed files and donated clothes.
Forwarding address. In the last month, keep track of mail you receive and make a list of who to contact with your new address – bank, credit cards, magazines, friends, job, etc.
Collect packing supplies. In the hallway on my floor I’ve amassed a number of cardboard boxes. And since I plan to get new sheets and towels (would
you believe I’ve had some for ten years!), I will use the old to wrap delicates.
List furniture room by room. Okay, so in my case there’s only the one room. But there are still chairs and shelves. Then next to each piece mark if it’s being donated, tossed or the exact room in the new place. This utilizes the movers’ muscles so that heavy objects get placed where they’re going.
List built-in items. Is there track lighting? A shelving unit? Are you leaving it? Taking it? Will you need to repair anything in the room before you go? Write it down and you won’t forget.
Go through your list once more. Is there more you can toss or donate? Do you really want a ratty couch in your new living room? Chipped plates in your new kitchen? Think of it as a fresh start. Say buh-bye!
Start packing a few weeks before the move date. Stuff adds up fast, while time, I promise, will whoosh by. First pack items you’re not using. Off-season clothes, books, seldom used kitchen appliances, etc.
Label the boxes with numbers, rather than contents, especially if stuff is going into storage. I may have to utilize a storage unit (because of renovations), so I will make a numbered list in a notebook with their contents. This is helpful if I need something then I can find it easily in storage. Of course with delicates, write “fragile” on the side, but you should ask the movers to assume all your stuff is fragile.
Use up toiletries, cleaning supplies and food. By far, my favorite step. Who wants to have to pack a bottle with just a little conditioner in it? Half a box of crackers? Also, the remaining cleaning supplies you can use to clean after the home is packed, plus you’ll have it ready for the new place.
Use your luggage to pack pictures.
Pack an overnight bag with pajamas, toothbrush, clean sheets, blanket and an outfit for the next day so you’re not scrambling for the basics on your first night.
Countdown is on!
Comments