Are you moving in the next few days? This may be a fairly stressful period for you. Thankfully, it is easy to remedy this by being well prepared. It is also possible to reduce the associated costs as well as your environmental footprint. Here’s how!
One: Get Rid of Some Things
Moving is the ideal occasion to do some major housecleaning. Decide what you want to keep, what you want to throw out (anything broken) and what you want to get rid of. This latter category is often the most laborious! It may be challenging to give away objects that are still in good condition. What if I do need this pair of skis one day? What if I lose some weight and can wear this dress again? Do I really need this third wooden spoon? And yet, it’s amazing how much better you will feel after the purge! You might even get some money out of it by selling your items. Plus, you will have less to pack for the big day.
Two: Take Pictures of Important Documents
It’s not rare for things to go missing on moving day. Some years ago, it was recommended to photocopy important documents. Today, as a far greener practice, it is suggested to simply take pictures of such papers with your phone. As for the computer, it is advised that you make a copy of the hard drive, just in case there should be an accident.
Three: Use Second-Hand Boxes
The time has come to pack up your things. You will need some materials, like wide adhesive tape, a box cutter, protective packing material (see below), and, of course, dozens of boxes. As a more environmentally and budget-friendly practice, you might ask friends and family members, or post a request on your city’s Facebook page to obtain free boxes. You can also ask businesses: grocery stores, pharmacies, SAQ, restaurants. Many commercial establishments put out cardboard boxes for recycling several times a month. Don’t be embarrassed to ask!
Three (Continued): Use Clothes to Protect Items
Fragile objects, such as vases or wine glasses, must be carefully wrapped up. We often opt for bubble wrap, newspaper or flyers. The last two materials are more environmentally friendly than the first. You can also use clothes (that are not delicate nor expensive), or even bath and kitchen towels.
Four: Identify and Organize
It’s pretty smart to pack all the things that go in a same room together in the same box and clearly identify it with a marker. Additionally, small heavy items should be placed in boxes of a similar size to avoid having them broken. Here’s a tip: line the bottom of the box with a large piece of fabric to protect it if the box should tear. Place lighter items together in large boxes (linens, pillows, papers, shoes, etc.) and don’t hesitate to pack them tightly to maximize space.
Five: Prepare an Emergency Bag
Prepare one or more bags containing your and each family member’s essentials (including your pets). This will prevent having to make an emergency shopping trip to the local grocery store to buy things you already have, but that are in boxes. Here are a few suggestions: snacks, toothbrushes, deodorant, diapers, underwear, a change of clothes, pyjama and rain coat (it’s no fun to move in the rain!).
Six: Protect the House
It can be frustrating to damage your new home. Some accidents that can happen include holes in the wall from an oversized couch or scratches on the floor caused by a stone stuck in the sole of a shoe. Think of having a bag on hand with practical tools during this stressful day, such as a universal screwdriver to remove doors. And to prevent damage to the floors of your property, it is essential to protect them by laying down sheets or canvas.
Seven: Change Your Address and Redirect the Mail
Do you know that you can change your postal address with more than 700 public and private organizations in only 5 minutes? MovingWaldo will help you complete this task: they offer a practical service when it comes to moving. It is also recommended that you contact Canada Post to have your mail redirected for the next three months.
You now have all the tools you need to have a Zen moving day. We wish you a successful move!