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We know moving can be time consuming and stressful, especially for our service members that are regularly being relocated. Whether you are relocating nearby or moving long distance, let us show you our level of service and commitment to those that serve our nation every day. Take a look at these 7 tips and tricks to make your move hassle-free!
1. Plan Efficiently, Not Excessively
Did you know that, on average, a military family moves once every 2.5 years? As easy as it is to start planning and worrying as soon as you hear about potential orders, save yourself some time and energy by holding off your planning until you have your orders and know your destination. Most moving tasks cannot be accomplished until the couple months so get yourself out of the constant packing and moving cycle and wait to start until you the appropriate time.
2. Create a Moving Binder
From orders to rental agreements, military moves come with a lot of paperwork. Do yourself a favor and create a home for all of your important documents. Creating a brightly colored binder with dividers will give you increased peace of mind that your social security cards, birth certificates, and other important paperwork are not lost in the clutter of the moving process.
3. Liquidate Your Liquids
We all hate waste, so have your household play a game the last month before you move and go liquid-free! Chemicals and liquids don’t move with you, so be cognizant of replacing any of your household cleaners in the month before your move. Switching to detergent powder over liquid detergent can save you from watching hard-earned dollars go down the drain.
4. Don’t Move Boxes from House to House
While we’re happy to provide packing services and even a free, in-home, estimate to our military families, the time before a move is a great time to evaluate what you need and what you don’t to cut down on your clutter. One of the simplest ways to see what should and what should not make the cut is to donate any boxes that were never unpacked in your previous move. Although certain items, such as winter coats, are destination specific, many are not so declutter your space and stop lugging those boxes around.
5. Pack with Purpose
Whether you are packing yourself or hiring professional movers to assist you, make sure you have your rooms together. Use new boxes and have them labeled correctly. Few things make unpacking more stressful than opening a box labeled “kitchen” and finding a bunch of bedroom supplies. Having your packing plan in order will make sure your transition is as quick and easy into your new home as possible.
6. Plan Playdates
Don’t add extra stress to moving out by having to take care of your kids while your packers and movers are present. Keep your full attention on directing the process that day. Neighbors and friends will be lining up to watch your kids if you are moving out, so use your resources. Your kids will have more fun and you will be able to have your full focus on the task at hand; win-win.
7. Have Your First Day Bag with You
Know what you need for that first day in your new home and have that box in your car with you. Take some time to think about what you are going to buy (toiletries, snacks, cleaning supplies) and then have a separate bag or two for things you will definitely need for that first night. Items like bed sheet, eye masks and an outfit or two will save you the stress of having to search through boxes on your first night.