Tuesday 25 October 2011

Moving 101

           

Step One


Moving can be very exciting. There’s something wonderful about a fresh start, a clean slate, a new beginning. However, moving is also a very stressful time. There is so much to do, so many details to think of and so much to remember. To make your move a little easier, I’ve broken it down for you.

First things First

  • As soon as you have confirmed your move, firm up your moving plans. Whether you’re booking a mover, calling on friends or renting a vehicle, get these plans done as soon as possible. This is not one of those items you want to leave to the last minute. Since most people choose to move around the same time of year and time of the month, you may be surprised to find trucks and moving companies book up quickly. If you are choosing a moving company, get referrals and be sure you are dealing with an experienced and reputable company.
  • If you are moving locally and can afford it, try to book a little overlap in your move dates. If you can give yourself a week or two where you can get into your new place, without having to rush out of your current home, this will allow you time to clean, paint and plan – decreasing your stress.

A Month or Two Before

  • Declutter. Declutter. Declutter. The rule of thumb for keeping items is if you haven’t used it in six months- you don’t need it. I’ll be more generous and say one year. Now is the time for a fresh start. Get rid of those unused clothes, books, electronic equipment, papers and gadgets. Why pay to move things you are not using? There are many organizations like the Ontario Cerebral Palsy Organization and the Cystic Fibrosis Organization that will do donation pick ups right from your front door. If the season is right, make a little extra moving money with a garage sale.
  • Contact your utility, phone and Internet companies to book the end and beginning of services.
  • Create an inventory of items being moved and begin packing them in categories that make sense for you, i.e. “Knick knacks from Living Room” etc.
  • Begin to use up food in your freezer and canned goods in your pantry. Again, it cost money to move these items and transporting frozen foods can be unsafe. Begin shopping with more of a short-term mind set.
  • Notify your post office, bank, magazine/ newspaper subscriptions and family/ friends of your upcoming address change.
  • Contact your insurance company about changes to your mortgage and content insurance.
  • Research and contact schools your children may be attending (if applicable).

Visit next week  for more steps on planning your move.

By: Sharon Osvald and Andrew Brown

Friday 14 October 2011

New Beginnings

Moving Again has been moving people from their homes and offices since 1996, both locally and long distance. If there is anything we know, we know moving.

That's why I decided to share some of that information. Moving can be one of the most stressful times in a person's life- whether you're moving your office or your entire home. We don't just want to move your stuff, we want to make the whole process a little easier on you.

So stop back often for tips, links and resources to make your next move an enjoyable one.
By: Andrew Brown and Sharon Osvald