A move to a new house in Bethesda, MD, may feel like a clean slate, but let’s face it: if you’re not ready, it can be majorly stressful. Whether you are moving into a larger space, or downsizing to a smaller and cozier one, the transition can be made easier if you prepare well. So if you are preparing to move, some planning and preparation will help reduce stress and allow you to settle into your new place comfortably.
Here’s what you can do to make your move much easier and more organized:
Get Started Early to Be Ahead of the Game
If there’s one thing that can make moving easier, it’s getting an early start (like, very early). Allowing time for yourself helps to eliminate the last-minute panic. Setting a moving date ahead of time and creating a schedule provides you with enough margin to do things in steps.
- Declutter first: Sort through your stuff and determine what should stay and what should go.
- Get quotes from movers: Search for local movers in Bethesda, MD and book EARLY to plan for your best date.
- Impose deadlines for packing: You can break it down room by room to make it more manageable.
- Transfer utilities: Arrange for your utilities to be turned off at the old home and on at the new one.
And by starting a few weeks (or even months) early, you’ll have more control and experience less panic when moving day comes.
Choose From the Different Types of Moving Companies Available
Your choice of movers can make or break your moving experience. It is wise to hire a local Bethesda MD moving company that knows the area very well. An experienced local mover will know how to navigate those tricky spots and help make sure your stuff makes it to your new home safe and sound, and on time.
So, read feedback and compare rates. Don’t just choose the cheapest option; make sure to check for reliability and previous positive feedback. Also inquire about special services, i.e., if you own fragile items, such as antiques or artwork, find out if the movers provide specialized handling.
Making arrangements with a dependable moving company can relieve much of the stress of the move and ease your mind.
Create a Moving Checklist
A good checklist will be your best friend during the move. It keeps you well-organized and ensure that nothing falls through the cracks. To prevent those “Oh no, I forgot that!” moments, just write things down and write them in the order of importance.
Here’s a basic checklist to help you get started:
- Book movers and finalize your moving date.
- Streamline and declutter your things.
- Alert your internet and utility companies.
- Start packing non-essential items early.
- Mark boxes with the room name and its contents.
- Confirm all the details the day before the move.
When you break things down into small tasks they feel less daunting and this lets you focus on one thing at a time.
Keep Only What You Need and Declutter
Moving is a great reason to declutter. Why would you take things you don’t use to your new home? Spend some time sifting through your things and determining what is worth keeping.
· Rehome or sell: The clothes, furniture, and decor you no longer use can go to someone who needs them.
· Throw out what’s broken: Don’t waste time packing things that should have been let go long ago.
· Think about storage solutions: A storage unit is a great option for anything you’re undecided about, buying you some time while you figure it out.
Not only will decluttering cut down on the number of boxes you’ll need to pack, but it will also make your new space feel more spacious and neat.
Label Boxes for Quick Unpacking
When it is time to unpack, labels can be a lifesaver. For packing—you may wish to take a few minutes and write on each box the room it is going to and a brief description of its content. Believe us—your future self will appreciate it.
- Use bold markers so that labels are legible.
- Color code if possible. For even faster sorting, color code boxes for different rooms.
- Use ‘fragile’ labels. Mark boxes as “fragile,” “open first,” etc., to prevent mishandling.
The labels help movers decide where to put what box, thus expediting the unpacking process.
Prepare Your New Home Before You Move In
Before your belongings arrive, give your new home some attention. It’s easier to clean, paint and make minor changes in an empty space, rather than one filled with furniture and boxes.
So do the following:
- Deep clean each room. There’s nothing like starting fresh in a clean space.
- Arrange utilities ahead of time: Get your electricity, water, and internet set up well before your arrival to avoid issues.
- Measure and plan: Avoid surprises by ensuring that your furniture will fit in the new space.
- Preparing your new space before move-in day can go a long way toward easing the transition.
Unpack in Stages to Stay Sane
Unpacking can be overwhelming, but breaking it down helps make it feel manageable. It’s best to handle the necessities first so that you can comfortably live in your new place.
- Begin with essentials like toiletries, kitchen staples, etc.
- Conquer one room at a time: Focus on the rooms you use most frequently.
- Do it gradually and take breaks: You don’t have to do it all in one day.
Your new space will gradually begin to feel like home.
Shifting to a new house can be thrilling yet tiring; however, with proper planning and approach, it need not be a disaster. With trustworthy movers, a plan to get rid of excess items and properly labeled boxes, you’ll be ready to tackle your move. Unpacking in stages and preparing your new space makes the adjustments feel less overwhelming as well. You’ll be settling into your new home before you know it!
