Here are some expert tips to help keep your move relatively stress-free.
You’re moving
Start researching removalists if you will need one and get at least tHicks Real Estatee quotes. Give yourself six weeks lead-up time if possible.
Australia’s removalist industry is unregulated but some operators have formed the Australian Furniture Removals Association, which offers insurance to protect your belongings in transit and encourages high standards of truck, equipment and training.
De-clutter
Every item moved adds costs to transport and/or store, and means needing bigger houses, said Bonnie Black from Little Miss Organised.
“Start by pulling everything out, putting back only what you use or love,” she says. “Items can go into keep, rubbish or donate piles: do not have a ‘maybe’ pile.
Hire or buy boxes and start packing early. Always start in the least-used room in the house, leaving the kitchen last.
Move in batches
If you are moving locally and your new home is vacant, start moving small items ASAP.
Name a “first night” box: remote controls, toiletries, scissors, packing tape, favourite toys, cleaning items and medications – then put it somewhere safe.
24 hours to go
Tape drawer and cupboards closed when emptied.
Confirm bookings. Double-check your removalists and/or mates are all ready to go.
Check utilities such as electricity, gas and water will be on from day one.
Moving day
Unplug the refrigerator early to give gases time to settle before it is lifted. Unplug appliances and save time and money by winding each cord up and securing it.
The more you do yourself, the more money saved.
“Keep all boxes for a room together, labelling them numerically (i.e. kitchen 1) in order of importance and use,” Ms Black says.
“Create a list of boxes, it shows in one glance any missing boxes at the other end.”
Prioritise rooms required for eating and sleeping.
A working kitchen helps a newly moved family settle quickly so unpack it first.
Next, put together your beds complete with sheets, doonas and pillows because when you’re completely wrecked from the big day, it is a huge relief knowing you can jump in a comfy bed.
Moving doesn’t stop on arrival
FIRST 48 HOURS
? Check for damage. Items occasionally break, no matter how much care has been taken. But don’t wait too long to check if you are covered by insurance.
? Unpack and flatpack boxes Many movers offer standard-size recyclable rental boxes for rent and will return to collect them soon after the move.
? Make your home a ‘home’.
Story: Caroline James – The Telegraph Source: www.news.com.au
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Hicks Real Estate Team
Hicks Real Estate is a Brisbane based, full-service real estate agency supporting buyers and sell as well as renters and property investors. With almost 20 years experience in the local market, we are the real estate experts you can rely upon.
I will be sure to follow your useful tips when we move to a new apartment. We have been thinking that it will be easier if we just hire a mover company upon seeing your post now we are certain that hiring one will be a big help. Thanks! :)