About 40 million people move every year in the U.S., and an estimated 80 percent of those moves happen between April and September. The peak season for moving hits in June, July, and August, which is easier for families who have children in school and want to make their move between school years.
Some hire professional movers, but many people choose to do it themselves. In fact, the American Moving and Storage Association reports that more people choose the DIY method than use professional movers.
Move Like a Pro
If you’re among those who want to tackle the moving job yourself, there are several ways to make it easier. Planning ahead is key, of course, but that’s not the only way to ensure a smooth move.
Get organized
Create checklists of things to do, and create a calendar of when each task should be completed. If you’re tech-savvy, then download apps that help keep you organized, such as Sortly, which can also be used to keep track of what items are in each box.
Keep it together
Once you start packing, it’s easy to lose track of things. Instead of wondering where you left the tape or what happened to the Sharpies you were using to label boxes, designate a bin for holding all your packing supplies.
Approach it like a pro
Spring for professional moving boxes to make sure they’re sturdy and up to the task of moving. Then, make sure all your dishes, glassware, and other breakables are bubble-wrapped and the boxes are secured with packing tape.
Fill your truck properly
Professional movers know certain tricks, like loading appliances last (so they’ll be first off the truck) and taping electric cords to the side of the appliance. Put heavy boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top. Make sure that anything that could break, end up scratched or ripped, or damage other items is wrapped in plastic, bubble wrap, or blankets.
Think about lightening your load
Moving is the perfect time to have a garage sale. Not only will you simplify your move, but you’ll earn some extra cash to cover your costs. Once you arrive in your new location, you can rent furniture for one monthly payment instead of footing the bill to replace your items.
Storage Unit Tips
In some cases, you may not have room for all your belongings in your new place. For instance, if you’re relocating for a job and are going to live in temporary housing while you look for a permanent residence, then you might need to consider using moving storage containers or renting a storage unit until you find a home. If you go that route, use these five tips to keep your storage unit organized:
1. Arrange it carefully
Instead of just shoving boxes and furniture into the unit, plan the layout ahead of time and organize it so you know where items are when you need them.
2. Wrap your furniture
Even though the storage unit or container is closed, it can collect dust. Wrap furniture in plastic, or cover it with cloths or even old bedspreads for protection. Just make sure everything is thoroughly covered.
3. Use vertical space
Standing large or bulky items — couches, dressers, etc. — on their ends will create more room for other belongings.
4. Consider adding shelves
Metal shelving is a great way to add more organization to your storage space. Plus, it allows you to stack several boxes without worrying about crushing the boxes on the bottom.
5. Leave an aisle
Don’t pack everything in so tightly that there’s no room to walk. Create an aisle so you can enter the unit, find what you need, and even remove boxes from the back if necessary. Knowing your moving and storage options can help take some stress out of the move. To really go for less stress, let CORT Furniture Rental provide the furniture for your new home and deliver it right to your door.
