Moving is tough if you’re moving 20 minutes up the road. But moving a long distance can add additional stresses and a sense that you are jumping into the unknown.
To keep the process as easy and manageable as possible, we’ve put together some great tips for moving a long distance in the North East.
1) Pack like a pro:
There are many clever tricks you can utilise to pack your possessions efficiently. If it makes sense in your situation, wrap up your clothes in dresser drawers, or use suitcases. Don’t leave any loose space in boxes. You cannot afford any dead space in empty containers.
Pack items within each other. For example, put your silverware inside your Tupperware. Wrap linens and towels up in black trash bags, and use them to pad boxes. Again, leave no space, and no container unused! It also keeps things packed tight; if things are allowed to move, then things will break!
It might not be glamorous, but it is a great way to be efficient, and efficiency is key when preparing for a big move.
2) Downsize:
There is no better time than now to purge your belongings for your fresh start. Even if the new house is similar in style, you are not going to want to bring it all with you. If it isn’t something you absolutely love, now is the time to sell it or give it away.
Spend the weeks before doing tip runs, slowly wittling through years of clutter and things that should have been thrown away a long time ago! In a way, it’s even cathartic; enjoy it! Nothing prepares you for taking on the new, like throwing out the old!
Often times people move with all their possessions, only to find months later they are still surrounded by boxes they have never unpacked. If it’s not something you love or need, you probably aren’t going to miss it very much.
Also, if furniture costs more to ship than it’s worth, you might want to consider leaving it behind.
3) Take heed when hiring movers:
Always keep sentimental items and valuables, such as jewellery, with you if possible. For items of value, that you won’t be moving on your own, have the items insured in case they become lost or damaged.
Same to with fragile and sensitive possessions. These are better off in the car with you. Things like flat screen TV’s are so easily broken, but can be well secured in a car.
4) Be prepared to buy some new things:
As with any move, there are always things you will inevitably need when moving into your new home. Think a new dish drainer, silverware organiser, paper towel holder and other similar items.
Plan ahead and stash a little cash away for these purchases. You don’t want to add any additional stress to the move by worrying about buying the little things you will need to make your house a home.
Besides, it’s nice to make changes, and purchasing even just small things for the house can help make you feel more at home, more quickly. What’s the point in dragging a drying rack, or old garden hose with you. Some things are better off being left.
5) Be patient and give it a week or two:
When you find yourself in a new town, it is more than just physically settling into your new house. You must settle in emotionally too. It will take a couple of weeks to really feel comfortable in your new town.
Get to know the area, and do some exploring. Be patient and you will feel right at home in no time.