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Preparing to pack hints
What the most important thing to do before you begin to pack - PLAN! By planning ahead of time what you should pack and preparing a timeline, you will be well on your way to a hassle-free, successful move.

Make a Timeline!

6 Weeks

  • Take inventory of what you have and decide what can be thrown away.
  • Organize a garage sale. This will help you get rid of items before your move and leaves you plenty of time to discard or donate items that may not sell.
5 Weeks
  • By this time, you should have selected and scheduled a mover. Find out what packing services, if any, the mover will provide so you can plan accordingly. You should also make sure the mover knows the amount of goods you are moving.
  • If you have any very expensive items, make sure you have a written appraisal in case damage occurs.
  • If you live in an apartment of condo, you may need to reserve an elevator for the day of your move.
4 Weeks
  • At this time, make sure you have all or almost all of your packing supplies. To be safe, you should probably overestimate.
  • You can go ahead and start packing things you know you will not need for awhile.
  • Pack a box or make a detailed list of important things you will need right away at your new home, such as important kitchen items, toiletries and cleaning supplies - and make sure these items are clearly marked.
3 Weeks
  • Start packing items from the garage, attic or storage areas that you may not need immediately.
  • Dispose of chemicals or flammable materials - as well as any plants - your mover may not be willing to move. If you need to keep these materials, you may have to do the transporting yourself.
2 Weeks
  • Set aside valuable and other important items, such as important paperwork and documents, and make sure to keep an eye on these items once the move occurs.
1 Week
  • Clean perishable items from your refrigerator, freezer and cabinets that you don't plan on keeping. At this time, you can probably start cleaning these areas as well.
  • Confirm arrangements with your mover and anyone who may be helping you move.
  • Have everything packed that you will not need until after the move. Prioritize so you can pack as much as possible.

Moving Day

  • Make sure someone is always there to supervise the movers.
  • Give the mover your new contact information in case they need to get in touch with you later on.
  • Turn off all appliances and change the thermostat to a proper setting.
  • Make sure all the windows and doors are securely locked.
  • After everything is gone, make a detailed run-through of the house to check for any last minute issues.
Now that you have planned a timeline for how the move will go, it's time to start cleaning out your house and getting rid of things you don't need anymore.

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