Tips on Moving

Moving can be an exciting time for anyone. It is an opportunity to start fresh, get organized, and clean out closets and boxes that you have not used in far too long. Whether by choice or not, use your moving opportunity to hit the reset switch and regain control of clutter and do something good for someone else. Let’s get to it!

The first step to a smooth move is to take the time to be organized. One may think that it is easier to just start throwing stuff in boxes, but that's just not the case in the long run. If you take the time to think through a move before you start chucking books in with kitchen knives, you'll thank yourself when you unpack. First make sure that you have the right tools to move. You will need the following moving supplies:

1. Good boxes - Get these for free at your local grocer or megastore when they are stocking or pay for some good boxes to keep from your local moving company.

2. Packing tape and tape gun - Get real packing tape and use it. If you try to fold your box flaps in on themselves, they will be unsturdy and you could have a blow out.

3. Box knife - A good box knife makes unpacking easy and is always a good tool to have. Keep good boxes clean and stable for the next move by cutting the tape instead of pulling it.

4. Reliable marker - I prefer black, but any color will do. It's important to label your boxes.

5. Big pull string trash bags - These come in handy for soft stuff and to protect your clothes.

Now that you have all the moving supplies that you need, get organized! You should sort your items and try to keep them with similar items. As you are packing, set aside things that you haven't used in one year to donate to charity. Use smaller boxes for heavy stuff like books and larger boxes for light stuff like pillows and blankets. You can use trash bags for pillows and blankets, too! Also, those bags will come in handy for when you are packing your clothes.

When you pack your clothes, grab a group of hangers that are still comfortable in your hand and aren't too heavy when picked up together. Before pulling them off of the rod, pull a trash bag up over the bottom of them and pull it up. Tie the pull strings of the bag around the hangers. Now your clothes are packaged and somewhat protected. This makes it much easier to move them.

Finally, if you totally hate packing and moving, go and get some moving quotes. It can't hurt to see how much it would cost to have someone else do it for you, and if it's in your budget, treat yourself right!