A moving experience

A picture is worth a thousand words.

It’s not a cheery thought, but every now-and-then something will get damaged or lost during a move. Take an hour or two to walk through your home to take pictures and/or video tape your personal belongings. Make sure you get close-ups of your valuables, collectables, and favorite pieces of furniture. That way, in the event of an insurance claim, you’ll be able to show exactly what you lost.

2. Make a list and check it twice.

Before you even pack the first box, create a simple record keeping system. One of the best methods is to mark all of your boxes with numbers. Then, using your computer, create a list with corresponding lines next to each number. A spiral-bound notebook will do the job just fine also. Write down EVERY item you put in the box next to the box number on the sheet. You will thank yourself later when you’re looking for the phone, a new book of checks or a pot to cook in.

3. Create a centralized place for packing.

Designate one area of your house as Packing Central. Everything you need to pack goes here – labels, marking pens, box tape and the all-important list you’re making in Tip 1. That way you won’t waste valuable time looking around for materials amid the chaos.

4. Get lots of boxes in different shapes.

You will need lots of boxes!!! Once you start pulling stuff out of cupboards, drawers and closets, you’ll be amazed how much stuff you have. Wardrobe boxes are particularly well suited for bulky items such as comforters, pillows and blankets. Dish boxes are also useful for books and “fragile items” that are either heavy or need more protection. Have at least 10 boxes set aside for the last minute items you’ll be packing on moving day. Be sure to have packing paper (newsprint can work for most things but can stain some materials), bubble wrap and packing tape, preferably in a dispenser with a serrated cutter.

Don’t overload boxes with heavy objects. If you have lots of books, for example, spread the weight out over several boxes and mix them with lighter objects. You don’t want to break the box or your back. Moving day is a long, long day and you certainly don’t want to wear yourself out.

5. A nice trick for clothing.

If you’re not moving cross-country, a clothing burrito is a nice way to deal with your wardrobe. Place a comforter or blanket on the floor and lay your clothing in the middle of it, hangers and all. Tie up the corners on the top. Your clothing gets a nice comfy ride inside a padded and protected bundle that is easy to undo on the other end. An added bonus: you don’t need to deal with tangled hangers. Simply pull out your clothes one piece at a time and re-hang in your new closet.

If you’re moving a greater distance or using a moving company, try this. A few days before your move, fill some sturdy handled shopping bags with bulky closet items such as shoes, sweaters, belts and jeans. On moving day, fill the bottom of the wardrobe boxes with some of the shopping bags, then add your hanging clothing. Pack everything tightly so things won’t fall off hangers or shift around. Cover the shoulders of your clothes with dry cleaning bags, and then add a few sweaters or sweatshirts on top.

6. Color coordinate.

Now that you have your boxes numbered, add some color to the mix. Purchase some colored stickers at an office supply store – one color for each room. As you pack by room, place the appropriately colored sticker under the box number. In your new home, put a matching sticker on the door to each room. Those helping you move will then know where each box goes without you having to supervise. Finally, post a big sign on the wall of each room where you want boxes stacked so furniture and traffic areas remain clear.

8. Re-Key.

If you’ve purchased an existing home, you never know how many house keys are floating around. The previous owners may have given them to neighbors, ex-boyfriends, workmen, relatives or cleaning services. Get some peace of mind by getting some new locks. Locks are relatively inexpensive and they are easy to change out.

9. Take advantage of storage systems.

Manufacturers have developed some really great storage systems for kitchens, closets and garages. These systems can more than double or even triple your space efficiency and turn a jumbled mess into a well-organized place to store your items. Professionals can install these in a snap. If you want to save some money, you can do it yourself by getting the components at a local home improvement store. The first installation will seem daunting but after that, they go along faster as you get used to the steps involved.

10. Upgrade before you move in.

If you’re moving into a new home, you may have all the electrical outlets you need. In an older home, outlets and switches may not be ideally placed. An empty room is an ideal time to bring in an electrician. As long as you have him there, think of all the options. Does the bathroom have a breaker switch? How about additional outlets for entertainment systems and computers? This is also a good time to think about ceiling fans or a new light fixture location. Finally, have the electrician show you which breakers do what in your home so you don’t have to fumble around in an emergency. Remember, an electrician is on the clock, so the less he or she has to move around furnishings or boxes, the lower your final bill will be.

Using these tips, you'll find that moving can be a pleasant experience. You'll feel right at home immediately! Happy moving!