Moving is often such a daunting task that we tend to remain in places or situations for longer than we think we will!  It’s almost like the excess of space triggers some sort of desire to fill it, which in turn makes it that much harder when the time comes to move it all.  We have compiled a short list of tips and tricks that are so simple in concept but often don’t come to mind when it’s cluttered with all the thoughts of filling boxes and lugging heavy pieces of furniture.   The first thing to start with is a question:  Do you think you are going to have more trash than you have cans to put it out on the curb – or are you moving on a day that is not on or right before your city’s pick-up day?  If yes, then the first thing you want to start with is ordering your dumpster.   No one wants to move things that they don’t use, just get rid of them and cut down on clutter – you will be so happy that you don’t have to do this once you are at your new place.  For a small house or an apartment, our 10 yard dumpster is usually just right and we can often bring you one the same day you call.  Here are some other tips that might be helpful.

• Have the proper packing supplies on hand:  tape, boxes, scissors, garbage bags, newspaper/bubble wrap and markers.
• Start one room at a time and begin to de-clutter – this is where the dumpster comes in handy.  Separate things into piles: pack, throw away & give away – this way you can start putting packable items into their proper boxes, trash items into your dumpster and thinking about friends or charities that may want some of your unused, but still useful items.
• Call ahead to the utility companies and make sure to have the water, power and gas/oil turned on before or on your moving day.
• Before beginning to pack your boxes you want to think about the things you will immediately need in your new place and set them aside or pack them into their own boxes separate from the main load.  These things may include: cleaning supplies, rags or towels, broom & pan, vacuum, toilet brush, sponges, mop & bucket, basic kitchen utensils, snacks or simple food items, garbage bags, toiletries and sheets & blankets to make your beds the first few nights!
• Clearly Label your boxes with a brief description of the items they contain and which rooms they either have come from in your old place or the room in your new place where they will go (if you already have this planned out).  This will help you out whether you are doing the moving yourself or are hiring a company to do the heavy lifting.
• Label the rooms in your new place to help your movers, friends and family put the boxes into their rightful homes – this will avoid your having to direct traffic.

The rest is the daunting task of putting your things away in their new homes – which of course will be made so much easier since you were organized and followed these simple rules as you packed.  Good luck!