How to Prepare Your Home for a Move: A Step-by-Step Guide

 

Step 1:Declutter and Donate

Clearing out your home is among the best things you can do before a move. This not only makes packing easier, but it also helps you remove things you no longer use or like. Start by going through each room and sorting items into piles: keep this, donate, or sell it. Donating items in good condition to a Buffalo charity will not only decrease the amount of clutter in your home, but it will also be a deductible charitable donation. Moreover, your local moving company will have less items to transport, reducing your moving costs!

Step 2: Gather Supplies

You will need a selection of materials for your move, including moving boxes, packing peanuts, packing tape, and markers. Begin gathering these supplies in advance so that you have enough time to obtain everything you need. You may also want to think about purchasing custom packing materials for delicate items, such as plates and bowls, stemware, and artwork. Your local mover in Buffalo likely sells these items, or can recommend the best place to purchase supplies.

Step 3: Start Packing Non-Essentials

Kick off by packing items that you do not use on a regular basis, such as winter jackets, books, and knickknacks. This will help you start early with the packing process and cut down on the amount of work you have to do at the end. Label boxes unmistakably and make a list of contents to monitor what you have packed. Remember to include your surname, room and contents on the side of the box. When the boxes are stacked, you won't be able to read what’s written on the top of the carton!

Step 4: Notify Service Providers and Utilities

Notify your Buffalo service providers and utilities of your move no less than 4-6 weeks in advance. This will be your telecom and internet providers, utility companies, banks, and other vendors. Don't forget to also set up for your mail to be sent to your new address.

Step 5: Pack a Moving Day Kit

Pack a couple of boxes with important things you will need on the big day, such as toiletries, hand towels, blankets, a new outfit, and household cleaners. You may also want to include a box of items you will need right away when you arrive at your new home, such as coffee and tea, food, and a box of hardware. These items is something you should take with you, instead of having your local moving company take it with everything else.

Step 6: Label Boxes and Rooms

Make clear labels for boxes and make a list of contents to remember what you have packed. Also, tag each space in your home with a corresponding number and note down the belongings in that space. This will make it easier for your local moving company to know where to put boxes and household items in your new place.

Step 7: Plan for your Pets and Plants

If you have pets, plan ahead for them on moving day. Consider hiring a pet sitter or taking them to a kennel for the day. Your local movers will likely have doors open for most of the day, so having pets safely secured is crucial. If you have houseplants, make arrangements to transport them to your new home, or consider passing them along to loved ones.

Step 8: Check with your Local Moving Company

Several days ahead of the move, check in with your local movers to confirm the details of your move and make sure they have all the information they need. Ask about any restrictions they may have, such as restricted belongings, and make arrangements for personal belongings.

Step 9: Pack up the Kitchen

The kitchen is often one of the last rooms to be packed, as it requires extra preparation. Pack kitchenware, cutlery, and other kitchen items in labeled boxes and wrap delicate items in bubble wrap for protection. Make sure to pack a box of essentials for your early arrival in your new home, such as caffeine and tea bags, paper and plastic plates and cutlery, hand soap and toiletries.

Step 10: Call Corrigan

If you're unsure, rely on Corrigan! As a leader in long distance moving and a renowned Buffalo local moving company, we are ready to assist. Whether you need a local moving company to move big pieces of furniture, or you want your whole belongings packed up, moved and organized for you, we has the expertise to handle it all. Give us a call today to schedule your complimentary, no-obligation in-home or online moving assessment!