Getting ready for a major move can seem like a never ending list of tasks to be done, and at some point you’ll probably feel like you’ll never be ready in time for the big day. It may be true that you won’t get every single thing done that you wanted to, but that’s why the importance of having a sensible and realistic plan from the outset can’t be underestimated.
To help you with that, we have seven crucial tips to help prepare your home for packing. Complete this simple list, and you’ll find the entire process becomes much easier very quickly.
1) Throw away what you don’t need
A common mistake people make is organising everything first, then throwing things out. This isn’t the most efficient use of time because you’re sorting things only to get rid of them. Start by disposing of anything you obviously won’t miss, and you’ll free up a surprising amount of space.
2) Organise the rest
Once the only things you have left are the things you want to keep, then it’s time to get more organised. Come up with storage systems that will help you easily move or find items when you need to. Every item should have a home.
3) Create an inventory
As you go along, make a list of everything you own and keep it up to date. Note down where everything is, and if possible, include a unique identifier for each item. You might find it useful to document all of this on video to help you find things later.
4) Keep cleaning as you go along
Eventually you will need to leave your property in at least a reasonably clean state, whether you are giving it back to the landlord or selling it yourself to a new buyer. Cleaning all in one go will be difficult and might never happen, but if you clean as you go it will make the whole process more rewarding and streamlined.
5) Put important documents together
Everyone tends to end up with stacks of papers in a few places, usually with important things mixed in with other letters and so on. Make sure you sort these out into different files according to subject matter and priority so you can easily find things later.
6) Start collecting packing supplies
There’s no need to pay for all of your packaging materials when you can reuse things you get for free. Save any large boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper and other handy materials when you come across them so you can make a head start and save some money.
7) Book your removal company early
A final recommendation from us: make sure you place your booking as soon as possible to make sure the movers can collect your items and take them to your new home. If you choose a quieter day to move (like a Sunday at the end of the month, on average) you might have a better chance, but it’s best to get this done well in advance.
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