The Week of Your Move

The Week of Your Move:

There are so many things to think of before a move. Here are some ideas that might make this last week less chaotic and more productive.

• Finish packing! As crazy as that sounds we’ve all offered to help move people only to arrive and find their cupboards are still full of food and glass knick-knacks sitting on their coffee table. Don’t be one of these people. If you can’t do the packing yourself ask people specifically ahead of time to help you.
• The day before your move defrost your fridge and clean it. This is also a good time to pull out your fridge and dryer and give it a good clean behind it.
• Drain the gas from your lawn mower, snow blower or any other item powered by gas or kerosene.
• If you have not already, arrange for childcare and pet care if necessary the day of your move.
• If possible take apart large items like computer desks or sectional sofas. This will make it easier to fit them in the truck and move them.
• If you have not already, make sure you have good sturdy boxes, pack and label boxes by room. This makes things so much easier at the new residence.
• Wrap fragile items individually and tightly. If you’ve run out of newspaper or tissue paper, extra towels and pillowcases are great for wrapping.
• Large garbage bags are great for packing linens, comforters and bulky winter clothing.
• Pack all linens and draperies together and mark clearly. (This should be one of the last things on your truck).
• Create a “kit” for each member of your family. Children will want to travel with their favourite stuffed animals, books, videogames, small toys and snacks. Adults will also want to pack comfort items as well as any jewelry, money, important documents and plants to travel with them.
• Create a “Last Day” Kit. These should be the last items to leave your home and the first items needed at the new place. Items should include: a first aid kit, hammer, nails, screwdrivers, screws, tape, toiletries, cleaning supplies, a vacuum or broom, paper towels. Keep this aside- it will be needed.

By: Sharon Osvald and Andrew Brown