1. START SORTING NOW
Sorting through possessions can be overwhelming. Pick one area to start with: the bedroom closet; the kitchen cabinets; your files. An hour or two a day is enough time to spend. The important thing is to begin.
2. WHAT DO I DO WITH MY STUFF?
Starting early allows you to find the right home for items that are not going with you. Now is the time to give the books to the library for their book sale; to find out whether or not your daughter wants grandma’s china; to see if the consignment shop will take the silver. There are many different ways to dispose of your items: antique dealers, consignment shops, yard sales, non-profits, etc. Each resource has its’ own guidelines. Don’t assume for example, that the local Goodwill wants your old exercise equipment (they don’t). Call and check.
3. MAKE A FLOOR PLAN
As soon as you know where you are going, make a floor plan. Cut out templates and arrange them on your floor plan. This will allow you to visualize where your furniture will fit and prevent you from taking too many pieces with you.
4. INVENTORY YOUR STAPLES
About a month before your move, take stock of paper products, canned goods and items in your freezer. Begin using up as much as possible. If you have too many items, consider donating them to the local food pantry.
5. NOTIFYING EVERYONE
Make a list of everyone who needs to know about your move: post office; utilities and other services; friends, relatives, neighbors and organizations that you belong to.
6. DESIGNATE A “DO NOT TOUCH” SPACE
Several days ahead of time, set aside items that you will need the day of the move in a spot you have reserved. Items you might wish to include are: an overnight bag packed with a change of clothes and personal items (toiletries, medications); important papers; sheets and towels; basic tools (screw driver, hammer, flashlight); cleaning supplies (sponges, paper towels, cleanser); kitchen needs (snacks and drinks, disposable plates and cups, folding chair). Also include whatever form of payment the moving company requests. Most moving companies will not accept a personal check.
7. TAKE CARE OF THE MOVERS
Plan to have something cold for the crew to drink. They will appreciate it
8. A DIFFICULT TIME
It almost goes without saying, but moving is a difficult time for everyone. It is hard to leave a home you have lived in for many years with all its’ memories. Moving is a transition and all transitions contain an element of loss. You are saying goodbye to part of your life. Expect to feel some grief along with your excitement and anxiety.