A Bowl Full of Lemons

 
It’s been over three years since we moved to South Carolina from Ohio. Wow, time has flown by. At that time, I shared many tips on how we prepared for the big day and today I’m updating the original post to give you even more helpful moving tips. Follow these seven easy steps to organize a successful move!

1. Set up a timeline. Before you begin, you’ll want to set up an organized schedule of when everything will take place.  Don’t have one yet? Print one out for free here.

2. Create a moving binder. You’ll need a place to keep important documents, receipts, phone numbers, the timeline, etc. It’s easy to do. Simply purchase a 1 inch binder and tabs, fill in categories to fit your needs, and add paperwork as you go. This binder will be your saving grace for the next few weeks.
 

 

 
3 . Collect boxes. I found that by using 3 different sized boxes (small, medium, and large), it was much easier to pack the moving truck.  The boxes fit snug and nothing caved in or fell over, as they stacked easily on top of each other. We purchased our boxes at Lowes. If money is tight, you can find used boxes at many local stores. They are usually happy to donate.

4. Gather supplies. Designate a moving basket to keep supplies in. You’ll need pens, markers, moving tape, labels, scissors, etc. Don’t waste time searching for these items over and over. Contain them!

5. Create a moving legend. Write down all of the rooms you are packing up/moving into. Then create a moving legend with different colored dots. Scan and print multiple copies of the moving legend to hang in different areas of the house, so the movers have something to refer to when unloading the truck. You can even write “downstairs or upstairs” beside the room so they know where the room is located. This eliminates the need for you to stand at the door, to direct them on where to go.

6. Make colored signs to hang on the doors. Movers will immediately know which room the boxes go by referring to the color coded dot on the box and sign on the corresponding door.

This is the color coding legend in action (during our move).

7. Print out inventory labels to stick on boxes. Don’t have labels?  Here are some great moving labels you can print out for free!  You’ll also want to mark boxes “fragile” if needed and describe what’s inside.

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful. By preparing ahead of time, following your plan, and staying organized, it can even be quite enjoyable! And don’t forget to ask for help. Try throwing a moving-dinner party. Order a few pizzas, pass the packing tape around, and turn up the music.  For more moving tips, visit blog.allstate.com and don’t forget to research your insurance needs when it comes to moving. It’s very important to know what’s covered and what’s not. Visit Allstate.com for details.

Toni

Tags: how to organize, moving organization, organize
Blog, Organize, Other Spaces, packing, September 2015 Posted in 4 comments