Organize Your Move

JULY 1, 2022

Organize Your Move

You probably know that we can help you organize the areas of your home that aren't working quite as well for you as you want them to - but did you know that we can help you move?

We can help you develop a moving plan, edit your belongings before moving, packing, and even unpacking and organizing your new space.

8 step moving checklist: top to-dos in 8 summarized points - get everything done without feeling overwhelmed.

• Create a Move Plan

• Choose a Moving Service

• Sort your stuff

• Start packing

• Make important updates

• Make a plan for moving day

• Go over the trip details

• Get the new house ready

Create a move plan: Although it might seem a bit like overkill, having a detailed move plan is important for your move. Moving often involves lots of moving parts and people - a plan can keep everything running as smooth as possible. When creating your plan,

Make a paper and electronic file (we like google docs!) to keep track of quotes, receipts and other important documents.

• Sort your stuff: Is your new place bigger or smaller than your current one? Is the new area of your home warmer or colder than your current one? By knowing how your new home and space is different from your current one, you will know better what you need to bring or keep and maybe some new things you might need to purchase. You can also know when unpacking what items will need to be put into storage or put into more prime real estate in the home!

• Start packing: if you choose a moving service, they will pack your items for you. Keep in mind that they will pack EVERYTHING - even your trash if you leave it out. So be sure to have everything organized before they start to pack up. If you are doing it yourself, order the supplies as soon as possible. You will need boxes, packing paper, packing tape, sharpies etc.

• Make important updates: virtually every service you use has your address on file - either for mailing or for billing. While forwarding your mail will keep you from missing anything important for a while, it is good to change the address at the source. It’s also a good time to cancel any services that are non-transferable. Here’s a list of things you will need to change:

  1.banks/finance companies/credit cards

  2. Insurance agencies

  3.gyms/fitness centers

  4.magazines/newspapers

  5.Monthly memberships/subscriptions

  6.Pharmacy

  7.Doctor

  8.DMV

  9.Social Security

  10.City/county tax assessor

  11.IRS

  12.Veteran’s administration

You won’t only just need to change your address. In order to get seamless care, speak with doctors about referrals and go through the process of transferring your medical records. Don’t forget about records for other family members (like your kids) and getting paperwork from the vet. Also, be sure to change your voting information before the next election.

• Make a plan for moving day: You are in the homestretch! Now, you need to confirm that all the details line up. To make sure everything runs smoothly:

  1.Arrange for parking for the equipment (and any moving help) at both ends of your move 2.Alert credit card companies or banks about upcoming charges for the move and travel

  3.Figure out where kids and pets should be on moving day (off-site care may be best depending on the ages/situation at your new location)

  4.Schedule any loading help for after the equipment arrives (to avoid paying for downtime).

  5.Knowing the ins and outs of the moving company (and any day-of procedures they may have)

• Go over the trip details: Don’t forget to book flights and arrange transportation to and from the airport. If you are driving, make sure everyone understands the schedule and what the moving procedure will look like. Don’t forget to pack a bag with anything you’ll need until your belongings arrive (clothing, medication, important documents etc.)

• Get the new house ready: Before your stuff arrives, the home is a blank slate. Take this opportunity to make any repairs/upgrades or just deep clean. It will make settling in so much easier! One area to focus on is home safety. Change locks, install exterior lighting, fix damaged windows and fences, and consider adding a security system.

• Hire professional organizers: They can help you unpack and get everything put in place exactly how you want it. Having organizational systems put in place right away will make the process so much easier and help you to get everything rolling rather than spending the next three months unpacking and living in a mess. If you or someone you know is moving to Kansas City, we are here for you! Moving somewhere else? We have done location unpacks or are willing to connect you with one of our many organizing friends in other cities!

Last Minute Tips

• Get the move scheduled ASAP. The longer you wait, the more availability becomes a concern. You really can’t make other plans until you nail down this detail. Call the moving company; you’ll feel better.

• Don’t forget to edit before - less to pack means less to unpack and less to find a home for! If you don’t have time for this, donate things as you unpack them. This gets them out of your home and out of your mind capacity.

• Get packing. The sooner you start packing the more grateful you will be. It always takes much longer than you think! We are happy to help :)