Moving Tips

Moving is a time-consuming and stressful process at the best of times, but being organized about it can really help lower your stress levels. Having seen thousands and thousands of clients move to and from northern Virginia over the years, here is the best advice we can offer.

As soon as you find out you’re moving:

Decide whether or not to hire a northern Virginia moving company 

Many people balk at the cost of movers and trucks, but without a strong and eager workforce, moving can take a real toll on your body — not to mention your precious time. Plus, movers will come equipped with all the blankets, restraints and other supplies necessary to ship your valuables safely. Many will even pack up the house for you. If you decide to go this route, research moving companies early or ask for a referral from your Realtor, and book as soon as possible so that you have a target date.

Clean out your stuff 

There’s nothing quite like the prospect of having to pack your stuff up and move it to help you decide what it’s time to let go of. Go through your attic, closets, basement, garage, and storage units to purge what you don’t want to take with you. Many charities are willing to pick up unwanted furniture, equipment, and clothes, so make a pile and give to the less fortunate.

Identify a source of packing supplies 

Although grocery and liquor stores have been go-to box suppliers for many, these boxes are typically quite small for most uses. However, your mover, your local office supply store, or a rental place will likely be able to supply you with blankets, packing peanuts, wardrobe boxes and more.

As you begin packing, pack wisely:

• Start packing little-used items early. Packing a few hours a day for a month beats a frenzy of packing in the last week.
• Don’t pack items from separate rooms together.
• Label boxes with their room and contents on both the top and sides.
• Identify what items you will need as soon as you move in, and pack those separately.
• Identify the items you’ll need as you leave and keep them from being packed — like a broom and dustpan, all purpose cleaner, and a few cleaning rags.
• Check the owners manual for your appliances and electronics to see if there are special moving instructions.
• When dismantling furniture, put the screws or other parts in a plastic bag and tape securely to the underside of the main piece.
• Remember, the heavier the item, the smaller the box. Dishes and books are prime examples.

Moving can be a trial, but keep your eye on the prize; the beautiful new home you are moving into, and the memories you will make there.