The idea of moving house strikes fear into the hearts of most, sparking memories of lifting heavy furniture through narrow doorways. But those in the know are here to help.
Here are the best moving tips you never knew.
Don’t mindlessly book removalists for a weekend.
Check about the possibility of cheaper days and times to move, as a weekend move can often be more costly than a weekday one.
Empty any gas cylinders, air bottles and similar containers several days before moving.
Also dispose of all flammable liquids, such as thinners, paint and cleaning fluids, as it’s illegal to transport these items.
Pack an ‘essentials’ carton, including things like remote controls, bed legs, shelf supports, furniture keys and manufacturer’s instructions for the reassembling of items.
This will save you rummaging through dozens of boxes on your first night in the new house.
Gather all the ‘must-have’ items such as the kettle, tea and coffee, breakfast supplies, special children’s toys, phone chargers, school needs, pet requirements (i.e. the lead), bathroom necessities, medications, snacks, corkscrew, spare light globes, scissors, tools, toilet paper and garbage bags, and pack them into the one box or place them in one area.
Check if furniture will fit through doors and up and around staircases at the new property. Some items may need to be moved with a scissor lift.
Do a floor plan of the new house for furniture placement and measure spaces to ensure furniture will fit, particularly for larger items such as the fridge.
Use white butcher paper for wrapping up items like plates and valuables.
Many people don’t realise newspaper can soils items.
When packing decanters, always pack the stopper separately, label it clearly and tape it to the decanter.
Every decanter has a different sized stopper and can be impossible to replace if lost.
If moving to a built-up area, secure reserved parking for the moving van in advance, to allow for easy unloading and access.
Fines can be hefty if you park in an unauthorised spot.
Pack sufficient towels, bed linen and pillows separately so that beds can be made up as soon as possible.
At the new property, consider kids’ safety.
Check pool fencing and any garden hazards.
Consider using professional packers. They work quickly and efficiently and can save you lots of time and angst.
An easy way to hook up with removalists and cleaners – who make the packing and moving process a cinch – is with connectnow, a one-stop home moving service. Connectnow can provide free quotes for removalists and cleaners, so you can find the best fit well in advance of your moving date, hassle-free.
They can also connect your electricity, gas, internet, pay TV and more in one simple phone call.
Done and done!
CLICK HERE for further information
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