What Is Residential Moving? Dos and Don’ts Explained
First things first. Congratulations on your new home! You deserved it. You are going to be starting a new chapter of your life. In a better space with a better neighborhood. However, packing and lifting boxes can quickly become overwhelming.
You have probably clicked on this blog because you want to know how to make the process smoother. We have got you! We will start with the basics, like what is residential moving? and then cover the dos and don’ts. Let’s make your residential moving fun!
What is Residential Moving, Exactly?
Residential moving is basically relocating your belongings from one home to another. It includes everything from packing your items and loading them onto a truck to unloading. It also means setting things up in your new place.
Many people underestimate how much work goes into a move. You should not! You can end up losing items and damaging furniture. You don’t want that, do you? That is why professional moving services exist to make the process less stressful.
You are probably deciding to do it yourself. We think knowing the dos and don’ts of residential moving can save a lot of headaches. So, read along as we discuss these!
The Dos of Residential Moving
DO Plan Ahead
Moving is not something you can do last minute. At least, not easily! Start planning at least a few weeks before your move. Make a checklist that includes packing supplies, moving truck arrangements, stuff you want to donate/recycle, and any tasks like canceling utilities.
A good plan helps you prevent those last-minute panics when you realize you forgot to label boxes or call the movers.
DO Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect chance to get rid of things you no longer need. Go through your closets and garage. It is time to donate or toss out the things you have not used in a year. This way, you will have fewer boxes to move. Fewer boxes mean saving time and reducing costs if you are hiring movers.
DO Label Everything Clearly
Label every box with its contents and the room it belongs to. For example:
- Kitchen: Pots and pans
- Bedroom: Bedsheets, pillows, clothes, lamps, etc.
This simple step makes unpacking so much easier. You will know exactly where everything goes instead of digging through every box.
DO Protect Your Valuables
Keep important documents, jewelry, keys, medicines, and fragile items separate from your regular boxes. Transport them yourself if possible. While movers are professional in this stuff, it is best to handle irreplaceable items personally.
DO Hire Professional Movers (That too Early!)
Save yourself and your back from unnecessary fatigue. Hiring residential movers, if your budget allows, can make a world of difference. They bring the right equipment, tools, experience, and manpower to move your belongings.
Professionals know how to pack trucks (they do it all the time) and lift heavy items correctly. All while saving you a lot of physical effort.
The Don’ts of Residential Moving
DON’T Wait Until the Last Minute
Packing always takes longer than you think. Start a little too late and you will find yourself crying on the floor at 3 am. Throwing things into boxes without organizing makes unpacking a nightmare. Don’t do that to yourself! Start small and early. One room at a time.
DON’T Forget to Measure
A little measuring tape can save you a big headache. Measure doorways, hallways, rooms, and then your stuff. This is kind of an important step before moving. The last thing you want is to arrive and realize your sofa won’t fit through the front door. Oof.
DON’T Forget to Take Care of Yourself
Moving is physically and mentally demanding. Your health should be your number one priority.
- Take breaks when possible
- Don’t neglect your diet and stay hydrated
- Don’t try to lift heavy items alone.
- Hire someone to take care of pets and kids
- Wear protective clothing so you don’t get any bruises
- Ask for help when needed, whether from friends or professionals.
DON’T Overpack Boxes
It is so tempting to stuff boxes full to reduce the number of trips. Overpacking can make boxes too heavy and cause them to break. Keep them manageable. Don’t forget this when packing books or your china dishes.
DON’T Move Without Insurance
Accidents happen, even with the best planning. Make sure your moving company offers insurance. Check if your homeowner’s policy covers moving damage.
To Wrap Up
Moving houses is a fresh restart. It should be exciting, not tiring. Residential moving is more than just packing a few boxes. It is actually lots of planning and avoiding mistakes that can make your move stressful. You can, too, make your move efficient and even enjoyable. Just follow the dos and steer clear of the don’ts. Take it step by step. Stay organized, and you will be proud of how smoothly your move went.
FAQs
What is a common item people forget to take when leaving the house?
People like to hide money in their homes. But they usually forget where they put it. Children’s toys and chargers are also common items people forget.
What is the hardest room to pack when moving?
The kitchen and the garage are the hardest rooms to pack when moving. The kitchen’s difficulty comes from delicate dishes and cookware. The garage has hazardous waste and bulky equipment like lawnmowers and bicycles.
What’s the first thing on a moving checklist?
You should pack those things first that are currently not in use and won’t be needed for some months. Sporting equipment and holiday decorations are examples.
Do I have to fill holes in walls when moving house?
You should do minor repairs like leaky roofs and holes in the walls. However, it is advised not to make large repairs when selling your house. Buyers do not appreciate it.
What to throw away when moving?
Outdated electronics, old bills and receipts, clothes you never wear anymore, expired food items, and broken dishes.