You know you have a lot ahead of you, so why wait until the last minute to throw things together? Plan well in advance and start taking steps now to make your move more manageable.
Be an Informed Mover
Start by creating a "move file." You'll need a place to keep important information and receipts for moving related expenses. Contact the IRS or visit their Web Site to determine what expenses can be deducted on your next tax return. Make sure to file contact information for ABF U-Pack Moving and any other special services you might need.
Research your new community. Start by visiting your new city and state's Web Site or contact their chambers of commerce for relocation packets. Check out local entertainment, shopping and restaurants. This can be lots of fun and will give you much to look forward to. You'll also want to order a phone book and city map for your new location. This will allow you to start researching new schools and service providers and is a must for your "essentials" box. Finally, consider ordering a local newspaper. Most news providers will send a complimentary issue to prospective customers.
[Top]
Order Moving Supplies
As you continue through the next few steps of the moving process, you will find it helpful to already have some moving supplies on hand.If you start packing some of your non-essentials as you begin cleaning closets and paring down, you will be glad later.Also, before you begin any packing you will want to review our packing and loading tips.Because who wants to pack anything twice?
You can order boxes from U-Pack and they will be delivered direct to your door.The most popular items are included in packages, to make it even easier for you to order the right amount and sizes. For your convenience, please use the Box Estimator to determine just how many you will need.
[Top]
Start Paring Down
Moving is tough, but it can also be an opportunity. This is the perfect time to get rid of the extra "stuff" you've accumulated. Take it one room at a time and prepare to make tough decisions.
Survey each room and ask yourself:
- Does this have sentimental or monetary value?
- Does anyone really use it?
- Is it worth lugging around?
- Is there room for it in our new home?
If the item in question doesn't make the cut, ditch it! Plan a yard sale, post an online auction or simply donate anything that does not meet your criteria. This is a great way to earn a little extra cash or another tax deduction.
Start using up items that can't be moved to your new home. Properly dispose of flammable or potentially hazardous chemicals. This would include anything in an aerosol can, cleaning and lighting fluids, paint, matches and ammunition. Eat foods that are frozen or stored in glass jars and don't plan on replacing these items until you are in your new home. Finally, be aware that live plants cannot be shipped with your other household goods. Plan on taking these in your car or find new homes for them.
[Top]
Take Inventory
Sorting through your home gives you the opportunity to take inventory of your belongings. Make a list of everything you decide to keep and assign replacement values for insurance purposes. Make note of items that are difficult to replace. Either carry these items with you or ship them by insured or certified mail. Such items might include:
- Photos and home videos
- Birth certificates, wills and other legal documentation
- Jewelry, rare coins and special collections
- Stock certificates, insurance policies and financial records
- Computer diskettes with backups of important files.
Know what you will need upon arrival to your new home. Plan ahead and make a checklist of things you will need to pack in suitcases and an "essentials" box. Allow for extra clothing and be sure to make room for treasures, toys and snacks for the kids. Your essentials box should include things you'll be scrambling for upon arrival.
- Scissors, masking tape, utility knife, can opener
- Coffee cups, paper plates, paper towels
- Plastic forks, spoons, knives
- Dish soap, trash bags, towels
- Instant coffee, tea, beverages
- Toilet paper, toiletries
- Prescriptions, aspirin or other pain relievers
- Flashlight, light bulbs, hammer
- Phone books, pencils and paper, your "move file"
- Telephone, radio, batteries
Plan on keeping your essentials box and luggage handy, preferably in your automobile.
[Top]
