5 Tips for First Time Movers

Are you a first time mover? Moving out for the first time can be a very stressful situation. It will be essential to create a game plan and understand what to expect during your first move. We decided to put together a quick and easy to follow guide to help you survive your first move. 

#1 – Create a moving to-do list

We find that new movers are often overwhelmed by everything involved with a move. It’s essential to try and think of every task that needs to be completed and organize within a list. You may find yourself asking, “Where do I start?”. The correct answer is anywhere! We recommend starting by taking an inventory of items you’d like to move, and things you will be leaving behind or throwing away. Creating a list will allow you to understand how big your move is, and what sort of equipment may be required to complete your relocation. We also recommend creating a task list of items that may need to be completed. Some popular items are Turning Utilities on/off, Notifying landlords, preparing pets or animals, scheduling rental trucks, or moving services, donating or moving pantry, and food items. 

#2 – Create a moving budget

It’s essential to understand that moving costs money. Having a general idea of costs involved will help save you some headaches, and potentially some hard moving decisions. We recommend making your budget a top priority! Some popular items to budget for include: Hiring help, buying packing materials, purchasing insurance, new housing expenses, security deposits, utility bills, items for your new house. Don’t forget about apparent things such as groceries, travel gas, and utility start-up fees. 

#3 – Know what to pack

You should inventory your items, and create a packing list for items you plan to move, and items you plan to donate or throw away. If you’re moving long-distance, you may want to ask yourself if you plan to use each item in the future. You may want to consider if things will make the travel safely. Doing this will also help you organize your move, allowing you to save time on unpacking. 

#4 – Pick a safe moving date 

This one may seem obvious, but it’s important to give yourself and your movers enough time to successfully move. Try not to schedule other important events on your move day. You should plan for delays since this is your first move! If you are moving out of an apartment, you may need to work with your landlords to find a good day to prevent interruption to other tenants, such as scheduling elevator times. Work with your movers to ensure that you have enough time to move everything safely. The more up-front you are with your movers, the less likely you will encounter surprises. 

#5 – Research your new living area

After your move, you’ll find that you have to learn a new routine. You may want to create a list of new or additional chores that you’ll need to complete. Often you’ll find yourself shopping at new stores, paying new companies for utilities, and visiting new places. You’ll want to create a new budget to make sure there are no new surprises while you’re getting comfortable in your new home. 

If your moving the first time, and have questions for our full-service moving staff, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! We handle all of your moving needs!