Making Your Move Easier
So the big decision has been made.
You’ve found the perfect adult lifestyle community for your needs and it’s time to move.
You probably have visions of your last move, when after the moving van left you vowed “Never again!” but relax – although no move is ever really stress-free, there are many common sense things you can do to make your move easier.
Choosing a mover
Even with drastic downsizing, you will have accumulated possessions that would overwhelm a casual rental van, or even willing children, grandchildren and in-laws who might volunteer for an inexpensive DIY move. Your best bet is to select a full-service professional mover who will do everything for you, even the packing and unpacking if your budget will allow it.
Beware of cut-price movers with clever online bargain offers. Numerous horror stories reveal unscrupulous movers who get all the furniture loaded and then hold the load hostage while they piled on extra costs. Get at least two quotes from reputable companies, and be sure to give them a complete picture of what is to be moved, where, and the conditions involved. They should visit you and assess what is needed before they supply you with a quote.
Preparation
Boxes, boxes, boxes. You could scour your local grocery or liquor stores and bring home an oddball collection of sizes, or you could buy new ones for about $2-10 each depending on the size. Home Depot or Staples can help you there, or your moving
company may supply you with new or used ones for a small fee. How many will you need? Professionals will say an average three-bedroom home could use up to 100 boxes, depending on the contents.
Tape and packing materials
A couple of taping dispensers are vital, with an ample supply of postal tape and two box cutters to make sealing and opening the cartons a lot easier and faster. You will also need thick black felt markers as you should label each box, its contents, and the room in which it will end up.
Unprinted newspaper is best for packing but ordinary newspaper will do if you don’t mind risking possible stains. Bubble wrap is sold in sheets and is best for fragile ornaments and glassware. Ordinary paper or Styrofoam plates placed between each china plate is an economical way to pack dishes. Stand them on end, not flat, to absorb shock.
Electronics
A reputable full-serve mover will supply suitable moving pads for your flat screen television, but you might consider moving your own computer and smaller electronic devices.
Plan ahead
Once you’ve selected your moving company and set the date for your move, work backwards from that moving date and be systematic about packing. If you have empty spaces in any boxes, fill them with towels or other packing material. Make sure each box is clearly labelled so your mover will know
where to place it. Try to set aside an area for stacking and storing your boxes.
Work with your mover
Your professional full-service mover will be happy to work with you to ensure a smooth and safe move, so follow their advice on how to pack your various items. Don’t forget to cancel newspaper and cable services, and pay for at least six month’s forwarding services from Canada Post.
When the van arrives at your new adult lifestyle community, you have made a decision you will never regret, and chances are your new neighbours will be on hand to welcome you.
