Are you moving out of state? Tips to keep your sanity

I have moved many times, so I can tell you from my experiences (both good and bad) what to look for when you get to those last few days. This is from the prospective that you will be driving your own car to the new home to meet the moving truck. 

Did you ever hear of a “go bag”? In the movies, it’s for the spy who has to leave the country fast. For you, it will be for leaving home base. Before the day of the move, pack:

A few plates, forks, spoons, knives along with a skillet and sauce pan.

Light bulbs, garbage bags, toilet paper, paper towels, a general cleaner and maybe a bucket

Bar of soap, and a few towels.  Other items to consider:

Family address book, phone and laptop chargers, laptop, smartphones, notebook, checkbook. pen and any paperwork you will need in the next week.

Once you have your “go bag” ready, PUT IT IN THE CAR. Some of the things you will need right up to the last minute, but put it in the car before the movers arrive early in the morning. Why, you ask? Well, if the movers are packing for you, they will pack everything, even the “go bag”.

2.       Preparing the house is also necessary. The day before moving day, make sure everything is in its place. If you leave your tennis shoes in the kitchen, they will be packed with your Pyrex, Bisquick and tea bags. 

Movers can pack a house in a day or two and this is why. They don’t organize anything.

Have a roll of duct tape and baggies available. Tell every one of the movers where they are. They will disassemble everything they can. Ask them to tape any screws, bolts etc. on the bottom in the baggie.

If you are leaving your appliances, take out the owner’s manuals and mark them: Leave for new owners

Take a set of sheets for every bed you will need that first night and stick it in your dresser or chest of drawers. When you arrive at the house you can make the beds first thing. You will appreciate that when you are ready to collapse the first night!

The last few weeks are also important. You can set up the disconnect of utilities well in advance of the move day. Also, set up the new ones at the same time. Cancel the newspaper and put in change of address forms for magazines. Keep your pantry items to a minimum and start using up anything in the refrigerator and freezer.  Check with your movers about cleaning supplies and fire arms. They may not allow them on the truck.  

Lastly, once the movers are in the house, don’t plan on being able to do anything in the house. It’s time for the movers to take over and for you to look forward to arriving at the new house.  Good luck and don’t stress too much. Before you know it you will be in your new home. Enjoy!