Preparedness is the key to success, whether you’re moving an office or a home, or just moving to storage with a few pieces of furniture that don’t get used anymore. By planning ahead you can get everything arranged in its new place as quickly as possible, and with as little stress as possible.
If you’re moving home, the last thing anyone wants to be doing on that first morning is hunting through a dozen boxes searching for a toothbrush. Time would be wasted, the mess would be made, and frustration would flow freely. It really does pay to pack your boxes carefully and make sure everything that will be needed on that first day comes easily to hand. Here’s a quick list of things to have ready:
-Clean clothes. Packers and movers (both professional and otherwise) will get dusty, sweaty, and dirty. Make sure all the family has at least one set of clean clothes either in the bag, they are going to carry with them, or in a special and clearly labeled box.
-Towels and toiletries. That box can also hold a towel, and essential toiletries like toothpaste, soap, and shampoo. Toothbrushes can be packed in plastic bags or placed in a Tupperware box.
-Phone numbers and addresses. The internet is a wonderful thing. It will let you find out where to get medical care close to your new home, where the local grocery stores are, and where to order takeout. The first item on that list is always good to know in advance just in case someone drops a heavy wardrobe on their toe. The second will help you stock up on fresh food as easily as possible, and the third provides a quick option if you don’t have the energy or the time to go out and find a good meal.
It can also be very useful to have the phone number of a local plumber and electrician, just in case there are any problems with your new home. Add the phone number of the local police station to the list and keep it handy.
-Plates, cups, and cutlery. If you have a plastic picnic set, this is perfect- you won’t have to worry about unpacking it from rolls of padding, and they’re generally lightweight and compact so can be carried with you and pulled out for a meal or a drink at a moment’s notice.
-Cleaning aids. Most people will want to give their new kitchen a good going over, so having cleaning products, dish towels, and sponges ready is helpful.
-DIY equipment. A few spare light bulbs, shelf paper rolls, and batteries could come in handy, along with a hammer and a couple of screwdrivers.
-Toys and books for the kids. It will sometimes be necessary to give the kids something else to do while the adults get the house in order. Keeping a few new coloring books or games ready for after the move will help make sure they don’t get underfoot when heavy boxes are being moved and keep them happy while important jobs get done.