Moving from one home to another always puts a lot on one’s plate. Nevertheless, moving doesn’t have to be a bad experience. Here are a few things to keep in mind that may make your move a little smoother.

• Consider how you will provide the necessary means to actually move your belongings. Decide if you will hire a moving crew, rent a moving truck, or use a portable storage unit, such as SmartBox or PODS. Have your reservation made at least one month in advance.
• Prepare all of your change of address materials about one month in advance. The post office, utilities, insurance, DMV, and anyone you do business with should be notified with a change of address form. Be sure your friends and relatives have your new address before you leave, too.
• Start packing a couple weeks in advance. Start with the stuff you don’t use or won’t need until after you move. If possible, bring these things to the house early.
• Make sure you have all the packing supplies you will need before you get started. Boxes, tape, packing material, markers, labels, and box-cutters should all be readily at hand. Save your newspapers and such for a few weeks before you move.
• Use your head when you pack up your belongings. Work smarter, not harder. Be sure to use appropriate boxes and other packing materials when packing valuable or fragile items.
• Clean the new house before you move all your stuff in. No need for an explanation here. It’s common sense, but we all need reminders from time to time.
• After you have cleared out the old place, do a final walkthrough. Then do another, and another. Be sure to check all cabinets, closets, storage areas, etc.

Most importantly, be sure to have a plan. Keeping a checklist is a good idea. Use these tips as well as your own personal needs to create a personal checklist to keep you on track. Enjoy the new home!