How to Prepare Your Home for a Move: A Step-by-Step Guide

 

Step 1:Declutter and Donate

Decluttering your home is one of the best things you can do before a move. This not only makes packing easier, but it also helps you get rid of things you no longer need or want. Start by going through each room and sorting items into piles: keep, give away, or sell it. Donating items in great condition to a Pittsburgh charity will not only reduce the amount of clutter in your home, but it will also be a tax-deductible expense. Moreover, your local moving company will have fewer things to move, helping you save money!

Step 2: Gather Supplies

You will need a variety of supplies for your move, including moving boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers. Start gathering these supplies ahead of time so that you have sufficient time to obtain everything you need. You may also want to take into account purchasing custom packing materials for breakable objects, such as dishware, stemware, and sculptures. Your local mover in Pittsburgh likely sells these items, or can advise the best place to purchase supplies.

Step 3: Start Packing Non-Essentials

Start by packing items that you do not use on a regular basis, such as wardrobe items that are not in season, literature, and decorative items. This will help you proactively tackle the packing process and minimize the amount of work you have to do at the end. Tag boxes unmistakably and create a list of contents to keep track of what you have packed. Remember to add your family name, room and contents on the side of the box. When the boxes are stacked, you can no longer read what’s written on the top of the carton!

Step 4: Notify Service Providers and Utilities

Inform your Pittsburgh service providers and utility companies of your move at least 4-6 weeks in advance. This includes your phone and internet company, utility companies, banking institutions, and other suppliers. Don't forget to also arrange for your mail to be sent to your new address.

Step 5: Pack a Moving Day Kit

Prepare a box with necessities you will need on moving day, such as toiletries, towels, blankets, a change of clothes, and sanitizers. You may also want to pack a box of items you will need right away when you arrive at your destination, such as coffee and tea, treats, and a box of hardware. This kit is something you should carry yourself, instead of letting your local moving company transport it with the rest of your belongings.

Step 6: Label Boxes and Rooms

Clearly label boxes and make a list of contents to remember what you have packed. Also, mark each room in your home with a corresponding number and note down the possessions in that room. This will make it simpler for your local moving company to know where to place boxes and furniture in your new home.

Step 7: Plan for your Pets and Plants

If you have pets, plan ahead for them on moving day. Consider hiring a pet sitter or boarding them at a kennel for the day. Your local movers will likely have exterior doors ajar for most of the day, so having pets safely secured is top priority. If you have potted plants, make arrangements to transport them to your new home, or consider giving them away to friends or family members.

Step 8: Check with your Local Moving Company

Several days ahead of the move, check in with your local moving company to double-check your moving arrangements and make sure they have all the information they need. Ask about any special instructions they may have, such as restricted belongings, and make arrangements for personal belongings.

Step 9: Pack up the Kitchen

The kitchen is often one of the last rooms to be packed, as it requires the most preparation. Pack kitchenware, silverware, and other cooking tools in labeled boxes and wrap delicate items in bubble wrap for protection. Make sure to pack a box of necessities for your initial evening in your new home, such as coffee grounds and tea leaves, paper and plastic plates and cutlery, liquid soap and toiletries.

Step 10: Call Corrigan

When in doubt, rely on Corrigan Moving Systems! As a leader in long distance moving and a renowned Pittsburgh local moving company, we are prepared to assist. Whether you need a local mover to move big pieces of furniture, or you want your whole packed, moved and set up for you, we has the skills to handle it all. Give us a call today to book your complimentary, no-pressure at-home or virtual moving estimate!