Packing and preparing for a move? There are some things that are often overlooked but necessary. With all of the craziness that comes with the entire moving process, it’s so easy to forget the things that make a big difference on moving day and the days after. Who wants to spend time searching for phone chargers the second they arrive at their new home? Take a look at these five often-overlooked, necessary moving tasks.
Organizing storage for items that you aren’t taking.
A common task people often fail to complete is arranging storage for items you cannot fit into the new house. Say you are downsizing, want to have adequate space when you move it, or have a time when you’re staying with family before you move into your own home. You may need to store the home extras. This process can add hassles to the move such as delays and stress to find homes for things. Consider the space you have before moving and weigh out the pros and cons of short and long-term storage. Make a place in advance.
Collecting the right keys from the previous owners.
You may have the front and back door keys – but what about all of the others? Don’t forget about keys for dead bolts, windows, the shed, garages or even garden gates. You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where furniture is being delivered and the delivery people are unable to bring the couch or table inside.
Once you’re moved in, it’s smart to go ahead and have all of your locks changed. You don’t know to whom the previous owner could have given a copy of the key. Plus, insurance policies are often invalid unless the locks were changed.
Checking that every place in the home has been completely cleared.
While this one sounds obvious, ensure you’ve packed every single thing before the moving company pulls away from your house. When you concentrate on the important items you use regularly, it’s simple to overlook the closet under the stairs, the higher shelf in the kitchen cabinets or the attic, especially if you’re moving in a rush. Make sure you’re extra vigilant so you don’t leave a single thing behind. Do a proper walk-through of your house, checking the cupboards, drawers, and even the walls. One of the most common items unintentionally left behind are clocks.
Informing people about the move.
You’ve taken all the steps to move, but how many people that need to know your new address actually do? It’s astonishing to know the amount of people who move that forget to tell people – even their own family members. As soon as the move date is confirmed, let people know. Take out your list of utility providers, the bank, doctors, insurers, your place of employment and anyone else you correspond with on a regularly basis and inform them of your new home address.
Keeping cleaning supplies handy.
You’ve probably dreamed of the moment you step foot inside your new house. You can’t wait for the gleaming floors, clean toilets and spick-and-span closets. Except, there’s a good chance none of that is how your new home really looks. If you arrive to a house that isn’t in tip-top shape, you’ll want to clean. Get rid of the dust bunnies and clean the floors that got dirty during the move. Some supplies to have on hand: broom and dustpan, paper towels, multi-purpose cleaning spray, rags, sponges, dishwasher and laundry detergent.
Moving is exciting, but the process is often filled with hectic days and chaos before you actually get from point A to point B. With some prep and dedication and the use of this list, you won’t forget a single thing as you clear out your old home and move into your new one.