Smooth Moves, Part II: Moving Day and Beyond
Thanks to meticulous planning and careful packing, you feel ready for one of the most exciting yet potentially stressful days of your life—the move to your new home. However, no matter how prepared you are, moving day itself can be more challenging than you might expect. Taking some time to consider what will happen during the actual day of your move and in the days and weeks thereafter can make the final steps in the process easier for both you and your family.
Moving Day
When you wake up on moving day, the last-minute details can seem overwhelming. Having a plan for the day can make your move easier and more hassle-free. Also, take care of yourself and your family. During the uncertainty of moving your body needs special care. Changes in sleep habits, food intake and exercise can create physical symptoms, such as headaches, backaches, indigestion and immense fatigue.
Whether you are moving in or out, be courteous to your neighbors; make sure the moving truck doesn’t block driveways and that boxes don’t obstruct the sidewalk. Don’t leave unwanted furniture or other debris on the curb; instead, place it in proper containers, and if it begins to overflow, go to the local dump.
If you are working with professionals, be available to answer any questions your movers may have. Professional movers will ask you to sign a bill of lading and check an inventory sheet when they are done loading the truck. Before the van foreman leaves for your destination residence, give him a phone number where you can be reached.
Upon delivery, check your goods for damage. Do not sign the inventory until you have inspected your furniture and the exterior of the cartons. If any of your household goods are damaged or lost, report the facts promptly and in detail on the van driver’s copy of the inventory sheet before you sign it. If you notice damage after unpacking, a claim must be filed within nine months after delivery.
If you are satisfied with the way the movers handled your possessions, it’s customary to tip the movers about $20 each, depending on the difficulty of the move and the quality of service you received. If your family or friends helped, provide food and drinks for a post-move celebration.
Unpacking and Settling In
Unpacking and getting settled into your new home can be chaotic, but it also can be fun. To simplify the process, unpack one room at a time; begin with the kitchen so that you can have snacks, meals and beverages as you work. You then may want to move on to the bathroom—hang the shower curtain and make sure the toilet and faucets are operational.
Since a good night’s sleep is essential for a smooth move, head to the bedrooms next. Ask your movers to place bedroom furniture at the outset to make unpacking easier. Organizing your closet also can help you quickly feel settled in your room.
When you tackle the main living room, enlist the help of everyone in the household, since there will be a lot of items to deal with. For every room, place furniture so the room feels open and functional. Hang pictures properly by measuring correctly the first time, and add potted plants for extra color or to fill empty corners. Finally, enjoy your new home!