So you’ve decided to move…a task that often involves too much work and not much fun. Take heart, and follow these tips towards a well-organized and less stressful move! The first step is to start with planning. Begin planning a minimum of 30 days and preferably 60 days before your move date.  The numerous tasks associated with buying and selling a home, don’t leave much time for planning your move so start early to ensure the process is smooth. Begin by researching moving and packing companies. Find out what their policies and procedures are, especially on insurance. Keep all details of your plan and all contact information (such as movers and packers) in one manual. Every receipt, phone number, and name should go into that folder. During the initial stages of planning your move is also a great time to start purging items in your house you no longer use or love. You don’t want to pay in time and money to move things that you do not need, that are broken, etc. As you are purging keep in mind your new location. House size, shape, and climate might change what you really need. Involve everyone in making decisions about their things, so the burden is not left on one person.

The week before your move, start packing. Use a labeling system, packing like items together in each room. Do not mix items from different rooms. Make sure you label your box with the following info:

Always use appropriate packing materials and boxes. Use plain packing paper instead of newspaper because newspaper may leave marks on your items. Pack heavy items in small, manageable boxes, and lighter things in large boxes. Clothing can be left in drawers. Remember, valuable items, important documents, and necessary medications should always be carried by you in lieu of being shipped by movers.

Lastly, remember to reconfirm all tasks at your old home and new home, from repairmen, cleaners, and movers, to utilities, school dates, and any other important info when possible.

To remove some of your burden, rely on your professional help when possible. Your realtor can be a wealth of information and contacts. Consider a professional move manager or organizer. The free time they give you to keep up a good job at work, as well as keeping things properly scheduled and helping you with all the steps of purging and packing can seem like a savings instead of a cost.

Then there is always my brother-in-law’s advice. Call friends with weak minds and strong bodies!