A Successful Move Is All in the Details

If you’re about to leap into the exciting, yet hectic, process of moving into a new home, you’re not alone. Nearly 35.5 million Americans move each year, according to data from Move.org. With so much to think about – from organizing and packing to lifting and moving heavy boxes – it’s easy to forget the little things. We compiled a list of tips to make your move smoother and stress free:

1. Unplug Carefully

Don’t just pull the plug on expensive electronics and toss them in a box – a little planning will help you protect expensive gadgets like TVs, laptops and stereo systems. Think before dismounting that big, flat-screen TV by yourself. Follow this step-by-step TV dismounting guide to make sure nothing is damaged. Place all user manuals in a folder so they don’t get lost in the shuffle. Don’t panic if you misplace them because you can usually find them on manufacturers’ websites. Consider a professional mover for your more delicate electronics. Atlas Van Lines suggests using a qualified professional to uninstall any wall-mounted AV equipment and to call in advance to schedule an appointment.

2. Food for Thought

Don’t forget about dinner – you still need to eat during a move. Packing up the kitchen is usually the last and most challenging part of the moving process, but if you make plans, you won’t go hungry.

• Donate: Think about donating canned or unopened food to your local food bank. This leaves one less thing to pack and supports your community.
• Meal Plan: Use the foods still left in your fridge and freezer for meal planning. Take inventory of the foods you have available leading up to the big day. Home Cooking Memories has some tasty ideas.
• Label and Organize: Don’t pack up those cooking utensils just yet. Label your moving boxes to easily access the kitchen gadgets you still need to whip up a quick dinner. Consider the packing order of appliances you won’t need, like the blender, and place everyday items, like spatulas, on top for easy access.

3. The Essentials

You’ve unloaded the last box and you’re ready to shower, eat and relax – only to remember that your toiletries are buried in a dozen boxes, spread across the house. Avoid this all-too-common mistake by packing one or two “essentials boxes” that contain extra clothing, towels, toiletries, medications, bedding and phone chargers that will last up to three or four days.

4. Know Your Limits

It may be tempting to save money by doing the moving yourself, but don’t get in over your head. Know your limits. OZ Moving and Storage suggests “If you’re not sure if you can accomplish some part of your move without professional help, don’t try. We were called up once by a trio of college students who had gotten their couch stuck in a staircase. Getting in over your head and having to call emergency help is not ideal.” Get quotes from a few moving companies to determine what needs to be moved or packed by a professional.

A successful move is all in the details – but, with a plan in place you won’t forget the small stuff. Keep calm, and call DiVito Dream Makers to make your next move!

Article originally appeared on RE/MAX.