A Successful Moving Experience Starts with Creating an Effective Timeline

You've sold your house and bought another one. Now it's time for the all-important move to your new dwelling. There are several considerations to take into account when you plan your move. Things have to be organized, packed, and ready to go when the time is right. Here are some tips for writing out a timeline for your move when you switch from your previous home to the next one.

Preparation

As with anything regarding a plan, preparation is the key which is why you should write out a timeline in the first place. The stress of finding a new place to live is over so now you have to work out the details of moving. What should be packed? Do you use a mover? Can you move yourself with help of friends and family?

Making a list on a computer is a great way to organize your thoughts about moving. Make a list of stuff packed into boxes, which room they belong to, and possibilities of stuff to give away are all things you can organize onto a computer program neatly and easily. You can print out the final list as you need it.

One thing that may help get some perspective on moving is having a yard sale. If you really don't need something perhaps it is time to shed some of the stuff that you have accumulated over the years. A yard sale, or even giving away your stuff to friends and family, should happen relatively early once you find out you're moving.

Size Matters

Having a yard sale is vital if you are moving into a dwelling that is drastically different in size. If you are moving from a three bedroom house to a two bedroom apartment you'll need to have one of two things done before you move. You can make some money by having a yard sale or you can get a storage unit.

Moving stuff to a storage unit can be done gradually or even the same day you move into your new house. Make sure you designate which stuff is for storage and which stuff is for your home. Storage items should be packed towards the back of the moving van so it can be dropped off before you make it to your house.

The length of the move also matters. If you are simply going across town then you can probably make several trips to storage to fill up your unit. If you are moving cross country you will need to call and arrange for storage before the moving van arrives.

Weather

Many people move during the summer when it is warmer. If you can help it, moving during the warm and dry months are preferable. In the Midwest that means July, August, or even October would be great for moves. March is also viable even though it may be a bit chilly.

August is very hot but the chances of rain on your moving day will probably be less in the Midwest. Southern states may be rainier as August is hot and muggy and a thunderstorm will likely pop up in the afternoon.

Winter time moves aren't the best because when things get too cold they can get brittle and cold. People who are moving and are cold at the same time may not function as well and boxes as well as furniture may get dropped.

Money

If you have the money, I highly suggest hiring a reputable moving company. If the move is out of town expect the charges to be higher as they may tack on mileage and overnight stay charges in addition to an hourly rate. Many moving companies have a minimum hour requirement such as four hours.

If you decide to hire a moving company you need to call them and reserve your date as soon as you know what day you will be moving. Dates can fill up fast during the summer so you need to be expedient if you are calling a mover to get your stuff. Some movers will even pack your stuff for you for an extra fee. Make sure that everything is ready once the mover arrives.

If you decide to move on your own, reserving a moving truck should also be done as soon as possible to ensure you get the size you need. Nailing down when you are moving is perhaps the most important thing you can do to start your moving timeline going in the right direction.

In simpler terms, first you should nail down a time and date for the move. Find out if you are getting a mover or moving yourself. Have a yard sale or get some storage. Pack your stuff. Move your stuff. Enjoy your new house.