Earnest Parenting.com logo

Encouraging Heroes. You can be one too.

Moving is exciting, but it can also be very stressful. The process is even more difficult if you are moving a long distance. Fortunately, if you start preparing early, then the process of moving will become a lot easier. Below are some tips to help you prepare for the move and make your new a home a lot easier to adjust to.

Start De-cluttering

Before you move, you will need to get rid of all of the things that you no longer want or need. Instead of throwing away unwanted items, you may want to sell them, or give them to the less fortunate. It will be a lot easier for you to clean your home if you de-clutter prior to cleaning it. Go one room at a time and start with small spaces like closets and drawers. You can start this type of cleaning months before the actual move date.

Get Estimates From Your Movers

If you plan to use a moving company, then you should get estimates at least two months prior to your moving date. Call some of the movers in your area and compare prices. You may also want to consider asking friends and family for recommendations. It is important for you to select a reliable moving company that is licensed and insured. You should also choose a company that is backed by the Better Business Bureau.

When you have selected a mover, it is important for you to understand everything before you sign the final agreement or contract. Will the company charge you by the hour, or by the weight? Will I have to pay extra for things like a pool table or piano? Those are some of the questions you will want to ask a moving company up front. If you plan on using a company like the Baton Rouge storage facility, then you should get also estimates on them as soon as you can.

Start Packing Up Early

You certainly do not want to wait until the last minute to start packing. The earlier you start packing, the better. Start packing up the items that you do not use often first. For example, if it is the summer time, then you can start by packing up your winter items. When it gets closer to moving day, start packing up the items you tend to use more frequently and make priorities as to what gets put into the last few boxes, or overnight bags.

Notify Others You Are Moving

One month prior to your move, you should notify your billing companies, insurance companies and utility companies of your move. You will also need to go to the post office and complete a change of address form. You should also notify your dentist, doctor, children’s school, and work of your move. Get the documentation on old house forms and finances and be sure you have a separate place for your documents on the new house.

Moving a long distance can be difficult, but early preparation will make things easier for you and your family. You should start de-cluttering and packing early, and you should get estimates from movers at least two months in advance. Moving can be daunting, but don’t succumb to the pressures of moving too early, and use these simple tips to help get started.

Earnest Parenting: help for parents getting ready to move house.