How to Prepare Your Home for a Move: A Step-by-Step Guide

 

Step 1:Declutter and Donate

Clearing out your home is one of the best things you can do before a move. This not only makes packing easier, but it also helps you dispose of things you no longer use or like. Start by going room by room and organizing items into piles: keep, give to charity, or sell it. Donating items in great condition to a Grand Rapids charity will not only reduce the amount of clutter in your home, but it will also be a deductible charitable donation. Moreover, your local moving company will have less items to transport, saving you money!

Step 2: Gather Supplies

You will need a variety of packing materials for your move, including moving boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers. Commence gathering these supplies ahead of time so that you have sufficient time to obtain everything you need. You may also want to consider purchasing specific packing materials for fragile belongings, such as dishware, glasses, and artwork. Your local moving company in Grand Rapids likely sells these items, or can advise the best place to purchase supplies.

Step 3: Start Packing Non-Essentials

Kick off by packing items that you do not use on a regular basis, such as off-season clothing, reading materials, and knickknacks. This will help you get a head start on the packing process and cut down on the amount of work you have to do at the end. Tag boxes distinctly and make a list of contents to keep track of what you have packed. Remember to add your last name, destination and contents on the side of the box. When the boxes are stacked, you can no longer read what’s written on the top of the carton!

Step 4: Notify Service Providers and Utilities

Tell your Grand Rapids service providers and utilities of your move at least four to six weeks in advance. This is your telecom and internet providers, utility companies, banking institutions, and other vendors. Don't forget to also set up for your mail to be sent to your new address.

Step 5: Pack a Moving Day Kit

Prepare a couple of boxes with essential items you will need on the day of your move, such as personal care items, towels, bedding, a new outfit, and disinfectants. You may also want to include a box of items you will need right away when you arrive at your new home, such as drinks, snacks, and a toolkit. This kit is something you should take with you, instead of letting your local moving company transport it with the rest of your belongings.

Step 6: Label Boxes and Rooms

Make clear labels for boxes and make a list of contents to keep track of what you have packed. Also, label each area in your home with a related number and note down the belongings in that area. This will make it more convenient for your local moving company to know where to place boxes and household items in your new place.

Step 7: Plan for your Pets and Plants

If you have pets, plan ahead for them on moving day. Consider having a pet sitter come to your home or taking them to a kennel for the day. Your local movers will likely have doors ajar for most of the day, so having pets safely secured is crucial. If you have plants, make arrangements to bring them to your new home, or consider passing them along to people you know.

Step 8: Check with your Local Moving Company

A few days before the move, confirm details with your local moving company to double-check your moving arrangements and make sure they have all the details they need. Ask about any limitations they may have, such as restricted belongings, and make arrangements for self-transported items.

Step 9: Pack up the Kitchen

The kitchen is often one of the last rooms to be packed, as it requires the most preparation. Pack cookware, silverware, and other culinary supplies in labeled boxes and wrap delicate items in bubble wrap for protection. Make sure to pack a box of necessities for your initial evening in your new home, such as caffeine and tea bags, paper and plastic plates and cutlery, liquid soap and personal care items.

Step 10: Call Corrigan

If you're unsure, rely on Corrigan Moving Systems! As a leader in long distance moving and a renowned Grand Rapids local moving company, we’re set to assist. Whether you need a local moving team to move big pieces of furniture, or you want your whole items packed, moved and unpacked for you, Corrigan has the capacity to handle it all. Give us a call today to book your free, no-obligation home or virtual moving assessment!