March 25, 2015 - Moving 101: 5 Ways to Create a Cost Effective, Stress-Free Move
A Haphazard approach to moving is sure to bring you a lot of stress and unexpected expenses. For example, unless you plan ahead and get all the necessary moving supplies (boxes, tape, padding, etc.), then you can plan on making several trips to the hardware store come moving day.
Here are the basics for creating the most efficient and stress-free move (without costing you an arm and a leg).
1. Plan ahead!
The amount of stress involved with a move directly corresponds with how much you plan ahead!
Start by buying all the supplies you need. Essentials include:
- Moving boxes of various sizes (pro tip: liquor stores are an excellent place to score free boxes—the crates and boxes they use are typically sturdier and ideal for packing things like glassware)
- Sealing tape
- Permanent marker for labeling
- Padding or bubble wrap
2. Pack one room at a time
Give yourself as much time as possible to pack, and don’t procrastinate! There are many strategies to boxing up your house, but perhaps the most effective way is to pack up one room at a time. As you fill boxes, label the box with what’s inside as well as what room it is going to.
3. Filling the moving truck
Having friends and family help you on moving day is a great way to save money on your move—but do everyone a favor and have everything packed up and in boxes before your helpers arrive.
Before you put anything in the truck, come up with a strategy for how you are going to fill it. Here are some tips:
- Put large and heavy items first, such as appliances
- Put long items like mattresses and book shelves up against the wall of the truck
- Heavier boxes go on the bottom—lighter boxes stacked on top
- Fill up all the nooks and crannies of the truck with small boxes, pillows, and other odds and ends
4. Tips for Large Appliances
Bulky appliances might be an area where you want to trust in the professionals. However, as long as you’re careful, you can load many big appliances yourself, such as refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, washers, and dryers.
Your first step to loading up a large appliance is to consult the user’s manual. There may be special instruction for moving, such as how to disassemble hoses, wires, etc.
When it’s time to move the large appliances, use a sturdy appliance dolly, tape lids and doors shut, secure everything with straps, and enlist the help of several able-bodied adults.
5. Valuables and Breakables
If you want to avoid the heartbreak of discovering a box full of broken dishes, take great care in packing up your valuables and fragile household items.
A few pro tips: clothing can double as bubble wrap, and socks can provide extra padding for glassware. When packing plates, place them vertically side by side (with padding in-between) like you would stack records.
Some items like chandeliers and other treasured objects may be simply too valuable for you to pack yourself—enlist the help of professionals (like the best moving company in Utah!).
6. Don’t Forget an “Essentials” Box or Bag
Last, but certainly not least, you’ll save yourself a lot of aggravation if you pack a special box or bag for “essentials.” These are the items you’ll need right away when you get to your new home—toiletries, clothing for the first few days, your laptop, etc.
Keep this box with you in the car or cab of the truck. This way you won’t have to rummage through all your boxes just to find your toothbrush!
Remember: you can bring in professionals for any step of the move. We can help with the large, bulky items like pianos and refrigerators, or we can aid with every step of the process. Of all Utah moving companies, you can trust in Redman Van for friendly service and affordable rates!
