Moving into a new house is an exciting time. There is a lot to do, but you can make it easier by staying organized and doing some chores in advance.

We recommend that people do not plan to move in on the closing day. Having one family moving out while another is trying to move in makes for a chaotic situation or, the closing may be delayed. Try to move in the day after closing if possible. Here are more tips to help make the moving process go more smoothly:

1. Painting

It is much easier to paint when there is no furniture or boxes in the room. If possible, arrange to have all the painting done prior to move in.

2. Cleaning

We all want to start out with a clean home. Again, this will be much easier when the home is empty. Plan to hire a cleaning service prior to move-in day or have the whole family pitch in to clean the night before the furniture arrives.

3. Buying a Few Necessities

Before the moving truck arrives, purchase bottled water or pop and a few snacks to share with the movers. Be sure to pack a “first off” box with necessities such as toilet paper,  soap, light bulbs, paper towels, paper plates, cups, and some utensils.  

4. Floor Plan

Prepare a floor plan, so you and your movers know where all major pieces of furniture are to be placed. This will save considerable time on the move.

5. Taking Delivery

If you hired a professional mover, have the mover’s inventory on hand when the crew arrives so you can check off the items as they are unloaded from the truck. The van operator will explain how to do this delivery check-off to ensure that all your belongings arrive at the new house. Direct the movers as to what room the items go as they are being unloaded from the truck.

6. Unpacking

For many people, unpacking is their least favourite thing about moving. If you have arranged for the mover to do some or all the unpacking you will still need to be involved to give them direction. If you are doing your own unpacking, remember to take it in stages, otherwise, it can be overwhelming. Start with the kitchen then work your way through the other rooms, in order of importance. For the first night in your new home, unpack bed linens, towels, and a change of clothes for the next day.

7. Set Up Children’s Rooms

Moving can be extremely hard on children so it is important to make them feel as comfortable as possible in their new home. Getting their bedrooms set up should be a priority and it will make them feel better.

8. Familiarize Yourself with the House

Check the house to see where the main circuit breaker and the water shut-off valve are located. Look at the furnace filter to see if it needs to be changed.  Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have batteries installed. Replace any burned-out light bulbs.

9. Safety and Security

It is a good idea to have the locks changed within the first week of moving into a new home and change the security code on the alarm system.

10. Get to Know the Neighbourhood

Take a tour of the new neighbourhood to familiarize yourself with the stores, the schools, parks, and playgrounds.  Premiere Van Lines can arrange for Welcome Wagon to supply you with information on your new neighbourhood that will help your family settle in quickly.

For more moving tips or to get a no-cost, no-obligation moving quote contact Premiere Van Lines toll-free at 1-877- 671-6683.