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You can save time and money on your move by taking these steps:
Take only what will fit in your new home.
- Measure the rooms of your new home before you pack and move.
- Measure the length of closet rods in your new home and reduce your wardrobe to fit the available space.
- Sell, donate or give away large pieces of furniture such as dining tables, entertainment centers and sectional sofas that will not fit in your new home.
Bring only what you currently use and value
- Sell or donate clothes that no longer fit you and your children.
- Share or sell materials from sports, hobbies or projects you no longer enjoy.
Use up consumable items before you move
- Use up extra food, paper goods, laundry soap and pet food.
- Stop buying items in bulk a month or more before you move so that you do not have to pack and ship these extra items.
Pack a “first night” boxes and bags
- Pack and label boxes with everything you need for your first night in your new home: bed linens, towels, personal care products and medicines, change of clothes and important papers. Bring them in your personal vehicle.
- Pack a small bag with essential cleaning supplies.
- Assemble some disposable plates, cups and tableware, snacks and bottled drinks.
- Bring a few basic tools, including a measuring tape, hammer, screwdrivers, WD40, duct tape and a flashlight.
Bring your memories, not all the stuff
- Take photos of your old home before you start packing so that you can remember it.
- Photograph items and places that hold special memories.
- Bring a sample of a favorite item rather than a whole collection.
Rachel M. Gambone is the owner of ReOrganize with Rachel, LLC. In addition to general home organizing, she specializes in helping you organize your office, papers and digital information. Her signature approach is positive organizing where she builds on your strengths, helps you find your treasures, and teaches you life-long organizing skills. See more organizing tips and a link to her free podcast at www.reorganizewithrachel.com.
