This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of CORT Furniture Rental for IZEA. All opinions are 100% mine.
When it comes to life’s little hiccups, we can easily become stressed. Moving is one such hiccup. Yes, sometimes it is a planned move, and sometimes life throws you a curveball and you need to figure out what to do even when you don’t want to do it! Throwing a tantrum won’t help (isn’t that what we tell our kids?!) When you either are forced to move, or choose to move, take it from those who’ve done it time and again to give you a few words of advice to get you through the big move.
10 Family Moving Tips and Tricks from Real Families
Families who’ve moved a few times know that there are things that you have to do to make the transition easier for all. Please note, I didn’t say easy, just easier. After all, no matter if the move is across town or to another country, there are bound to be bumps in the road, but perspective and a positive attitude does help! Here are some tips that should help you make the move smooth.
- Separate items into four piles: pack, donate, bring along, and trash. If you aren’t sure of measurements, don’t be afraid to donate your window furnishings and other items that have to match a new location. Sometimes it is good to say “out with the old, in with the new!” A move is a good time to do that.
- Even if someone is moving you, pre-pack and discard unnecessary items. There’s no reason to take unmatched socks with you, so do your best to go through your items before packing for the move.
- Don’t buy new before you move, unless you know for sure you cannot get it at your new locale (like an international move).
- Prepare your kids early and make sure that they have a say in the small things that are actually big things. These include: what things to pack for “with us” versus “in the moving truck.”
- Ensure everyone has something big to look forward to: a new bedroom set, a visit to the new location’s “fun” spot early on, etc.
- Plan a big hurrah – a going away party either at your home or at a fun location so that everyone has a chance to say their good-byes with good memories.
- If you’re moving across town, plan a party for your new place that isn’t necessarily a housewarming party, but more of a “don’t forget about us!” party!
- Before you make the move, plan to find the dance studio, gym, karate school, places so that there’s no down time for activities. This also helps with consistency and ensures everyone can find a new “group” to be around in the new location.
- As you unpack, don’t be afraid to make another trip to the donation center. If you don’t have space or if it just doesn’t match the new place, keep boxes aside that stay ready for donation. Make it a point to avoid cluttering your new place, and this is one way to get started on the right foot!
- Ask your movers if they can take the boxes with them. If they do the unpacking for you, often times it includes removal of moving supplies – but you have to ask for it. This will help prevent unnecessary clutter as well.
Bonus Tip 1 Are you frequently moving? My husband and I used to move six times per year for his work. That was exciting and stressful. Making large furniture purchases for your place might not be the best choice. My hubby and I often stayed in apartments and we’d rent furniture. It worked well for our budget and lifestyle. CORT Furniture Rental offers furniture on demand when you need it. There is no hassle. Moving is stressful enough. Try out CORT for your next big move!
Bonus Tip 2
Get to know your neighbors early. If you see people out walking or gardening, say hello! If you have children and in temporary housing while you seek your final abode, look for play structures and new basketball hoops – these are often indications that kids live near! You may want to even knock on a few neighbor’s doors and get a feel for the neighborhood, before you put an offer or deposit down on a new location.
Moving can be both exciting and frightening. By being prepared, having a plan, and avoiding unnecessary clutter, your new place can be home in no time at all.
