Ready, Aim, Move!: The Complete Guide to Preparing for a Big Move

Whether you’re moving down the street, abroad to a foreign state, or across the country, the prep work and planning required to pull off a successful relocation is extensive. Long before you head off to your new home, you should begin outlining essential steps, organizing important documentation, and writing up a packing plan to ensure a seamless transition. That said, consider creating a binder or excel sheet to track upcoming dates, create to-do lists, and store any other essential information. Make sure all the files are converted from word to pdf format for better security.

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While there are plenty of potential roadblocks, like mislabeled boxes, damaged belongings, and irresponsible movers, you can avoid most annoyances through planning and research. If you require moving know-how and helpful info, read on for an all-inclusive guide to completing the big move.

Research auto transportation services

When it comes to moving, transporting your belongings from point A to point B safely should be your top priority—especially if you’re shipping your vehicle instead of driving it. However, choosing a reputable company can be challenging with an oversaturated service market. To begin your pursuit, make sure you compare rates and look up reviews, prioritizing transparency, upfront pricing, and customer service when interacting with potential movers. Once you’ve landed on a trusted team of movers like those at Guardian Auto Transport, you’ll sleep easy knowing your car will be in good hands.

Purge your belongings

Few things are more frustrating during a move than hauling unnecessary boxes filled with useless or unused items to your new home, only to leave them stowed away in storage until your next big relocation. To sidestep extra heavy lifting, consider purging unwanted items pre-move to widdle down the amount you transport. Selling, donating, or discarding unused belongings will not only save you time and effort, but it can also save you money on packing and moving fees.

Collect supplies early on

You don’t want a lack of supplies to slow you down once you’ve begun packing, which is why you should stock up on moving essentials like boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers before you start consolidating your belongings. That way, you can scour the web for discounted equipment and free cardboard, allowing you to save big on supplies.

Create a moving binder

One of the most challenging aspects of moving is keeping everything organized while your belongings are displaced and scattered. Fortunately, you can sidestep disorganized chaos by creating a moving binder once you begin to accumulate documentation and solidified dates. Simply create a labeling system that works for you and store critical paperwork, master to-do lists, mover information, and packing plans to simplify the relocation process.

Solidify a moving budget

Unfortunately, moving can cost a pretty penny without proper planning and research—especially if you’re relocating an entire family. That said, it’s critical to set a budget before jumping headfirst into the process. Consider the cost of shipping services, packing companies, essential supplies, and cleaning fees when allocating funds, and make sure to put aside extra funds for emergency circumstances.

Wrapping up

Although relocating can be a stressful and time-consuming endeavor, there are plenty of tips and tricks to achieving a smooth, successful move, like early planning, thorough research, and careful budgeting. Just make sure to give yourself plenty of time to draw up a detailed plan, and you’ll settle into your new home in no time.