Moving is never for the faint of heart, but a last-minute move? Look out, those of you who sold a house quicker than you thought, as well as buyers who suddenly have found a house to buy. You're going to need your strength, whether you're moving into that home you found among Ridgewood homes for sale, or you just sold one.
Never fear. Here are some tips from our agents that will help you calm down and get it together for your sudden move.
1. Hire Movers or Hire a Truck, but Decide Quickly
You'll need to decide right away if the job is too big for you and your helpers and you need to hire movers, or if you think you can handle it and just need a truck. If you hire movers, decide if you're going to pack yourself or ask movers to pack for you. Make at least three calls to moving truck companies and three to professional movers, but also look for reviews and recommendations before you go with the lowest bid. Decide as soon as possible, to avoid being told no trucks or moving vans are available when you want to move.
2. Go Through Your Home and List What You Want to Throw Away, Donate, or Pack
Now is no time for sentimentality. If you haven't used it or even looked at it in years, toss or donate it. We guarantee that even when you're ruthless, after you move you will be asking yourself, why did I bring this?
3. Pack Strategically
Make a list of what you're going to move, if you have time. Then calculate how many and what size boxes you'll need. Buy your boxes, bubble wrap, markers, and some sturdy packing tape. (Don't be stingy on tape. One of the worst things that can happen is if boxes shift and tape gives way and your boxes come open during the move.)
Do not overload boxes, as you'll need to move them around. Don't leave big spaces in the boxes where things can move about, because even if you mark boxes "This end up," or "Fragile," not every mover will pay attention in the flurry of getting your household packed up. Stuff towels and clothing in boxes with fragile items such as lamps or vases. Don't leave empty spaces where things can shift around. Number boxes so you know where everything goes. You'll be glad you took the time for this, but realistically, if you're in a jam, you may have to toss everything in boxes, tape them up, and sort them out later.
4. Make a Moving Essentials Bag
Whether you're moving across town or across the country, you need your essential stuff: medications, makeup, important papers, best jewelry, or whatever you treasure. Pack it and put it in the car with you.
5. Take a Shortcut With Clothes
Take clothes and hangers out of the closet, and stuff them into strong garbage bags, securing the bag ties around the hangers. Leave clothes in drawers and move them as they are. Obviously, you'll have to do this yourself.
6. Let the Movers Help
In a hurried move, you probably won't get to everything. Movers can help by throwing everything in the closets in wardrobe boxes and by wrapping up furniture.
Need advice on last-minute emergencies? What if you run out of space in the moving truck? What if you don't have time to clean? We've heard it all and can help with advice. Contact us today.
