Six tips for first time movers

Although moving is rarely a stress-free experience, things can at least be made a little easier via some smart planning. Here are Westmar’s tips for first time movers.

The purge

Before even thinking of putting stuff in boxes, first decide what items don’t need to make the journey with you. Hold a garage sale, list online, give to friends and family or donate to charity. Still holding onto financial documents way past their expiration date? Send them through the shredder.

Paper and plastic

Instead of relying solely on single-use cardboard boxes as containers, acquire a few large reusable rubber or plastic bins that can be reused afterwards for storage. Protip: choose the clear, see-through variety for contents requiring immediate accessed like kitchen and bathroom supplies.

Labels

This might seem obvious but you don’t want to be stuck with a bunch of unmarked and sealed receptacles. Rather than post-it notes prone to falling off or tearing, use a more reliable medium and label on the sides of the box so information stays visible even when stacked.

Packing zone

Pick one less used part of the home to begin packing so other rooms can continue to function normally. Keep all relevant tools and materials (tape, scissors, measuring tape, etc.) together as you move from area to area so nothing goes missing during the process.

Strata bylaws

Moving into an apartment? Unlike a house, most condos have specific strata bylaws in place when it comes to moves, such as requiring the booking of an elevator for a specific time slot and a security deposit. Check with the building well in advance of the big day.

Professional help

If the scope of the project feels too big to handle alone, that’s what the pros are for. Ask co-workers and neighbours for recommendations, or hit the Internet to research reputable household moving companies. Don’t forget to read up on each one’s pricing and payment policies, specific services offered and the fine print.