Before You Move
Don't wait until your current home sells to start packing! Here's what you can do right now to ensure smooth sailing during the rest of your move.
Reorganize & declutter
Want to lighten the load before moving day? Work room by room to get rid of the things you won't need in your new home. It may be beneficial to sort your things into "keep," "store," and "throw away" piles to keep yourself organized. You can even host a garage sale for some extra cash or donate any gently used items to charity.
Make a plan
Determine how you'll be moving as far in advance as possible. Many professional moving companies can be booked out during peak season, so it's best to get estimates at least a few weeks ahead of the move. You'll also want to rent out any storage units, trucks, or other moving supplies before the big day. If you need to make hotel reservations or buy plane tickets, don't wait until the last minute.
Change your address
It can take the post office a few weeks to process a change of address and begin forwarding your mail—that means you should put in your request at least two weeks before you move in. Now is also the time to alert loved ones and important service providers (such as banks, doctors, and utilities) of your new address.
Handy Packing Tips
- Reinforce: Use sturdy, reinforced boxes and bubble wrap to pack your belongings.
- Innovate: Get creative with your packing! Unused luggage or suitcases work just as well as a conventional box. Linens, towels, and other soft items make great padding, too.
- Pack small: Pack heavier items in smaller boxes so they're easier to carry.
- Check off: Create a checklist to keep yourself organized as you pack. Check off each room as its completed and make note of where you pack any high-value items.
- Prepare: Put together an "open me first" box containing all of your essentials, like cleaning supplies, tools, a first-aid kit, toilet paper, and anything else you might need on moving day. This box shouldn't go on the truck!
- Label: Label all of your boxes by room so you'll know where they go in your new home. You can even color code each box based on its contents for an added level of organization.
On Moving Day
The big day is finally here! Follow these tips to ensure a hassle-free move-in.
Keep important information
There are certain items—like medication, financial and medical records, IDs, and valuables—that should never go on the moving truck. Keep these things with you at all times so they don't get lost during the chaos of moving day.
Pack an overnight bag
There's a chance you might not be able to move into your home right away...or you could make it to your new place before the moving truck. That's why it's always a good idea to pack an overnight bag with all of your essentials, such as a phone charger, toiletries, and a change of clothes.
Keep important contacts
Make sure any important contacts are stored in your phone before moving day. If you're using professional movers or renting a truck, you'll want to have digital and paper copies of any contracts just in case something unexpected comes up.
After You Move
You've finally made it to your new home—now it's time to start unpacking, cleaning, and enjoying your new space!
Clean first
It's easier to clean your home when it isn't filled with boxes and furniture. If you don't have the energy for a full scrub-down, it's worth investing in a professional cleaning company to spruce up your new place before you move in.
Unpack by room
Not sure how to tackle that never-ending pile of boxes? Work room by room, starting with essential spaces like your kitchen, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Breaking down the unpacking process into smaller tasks will make it seem much more manageable.
Relax!
Unpacking and moving can take a toll on you, so don't be afraid to take a little time for self-care. Kick back, relax in your new home, and explore everything the Maine and New Hampshire Seacoast has to offer—you've earned it!
Let's Get Started!
Ready to streamline your move to New Hampshire or Maine? Contact us today to get the ball rolling on your next move—we look forward to helping you start your next chapter on the Seacoast!