Tips for Moving

As we prepare for another move with the military (as are many others due to the Summer move cycle),  I wanted to share some things that have helped us during the process. Especially when it comes to the military moving, I know quite a few people that have chosen to move themselves. I'm sorry but there is not enough alcohol in the world that would make me want to do that.

Here are just a few tips that I have figured out over our several moves with the Army.

Pre-Move 

*Keep all of your important documents in one place. I have a binder that keeps everything together, you have no idea how much time this will save you.

*If you have pets make sure you get all their vet records, that way when you get to your new home you will be ready to go.

*PURGE! Get rid of stuff that you don't need, especially with a military move. You are only allowed a certain weight and believe me you can hit that pretty quickly if you aren't careful.

*Shred any old documents, that way you aren't having random items packed and you will get rid of unnecessary paperwork.

*Keep any valuables with you especially jewelry, they likely won't pack it anyway.

*Take notice of any furniture that was already damaged before the move, that way you can differentiate between what was already damaged and what got damaged in the move.

*I bubble wrap important items, we have so many plaques and awards that I wrap just as an added precaution.

*Put all of your silverware and kitchen utensils in plastic bags. This avoids them just getting dumped in boxes.

*Put all of your sheets and towels into vacuum seal bags, this will keep them from smelling funny when you get to the new place.

*Pack up all your electronic cords and put them into a giant plastic tote. Our first move was a nightmare when it came to this. We ended up missing several important cords.

*Keep boxes to televisions (and other electronics), if you don't have them they will have to make one and it can be a pain.

*Vacuum seal formal dresses and uniforms. It makes me nervous that something will happen to my dresses and Kyle's dress uniform so I make sure to vacuum seal them so they are safe.

*Take down all curtains/curtain rods and pictures before the movers show up. They normally tell you that you don't have to do it but it makes things go so much faster.

*If you have the time take an inventory of all video games, movies and CDs. Just in case something goes missing you can identify exactly what those items are. Also keep track of serial numbers on high value items.

*Have your mail forwarded to your new home, if you don't already have a new place have it sent to a family member.
 

Mid-Move

 
*If you feel so inclined provide food and drinks for the packers/movers, this obviously isn't a requirement but it does help the process.

*A recent one I learned is use color coded tape to identify the boxes. That way in your new place you can tell the movers what boxes correspond to each room.

*If you are keeping items with you make sure you put them in a designated place. Preferably in a bathroom with a sign on the door. Movers get packing happy and will pack anything (including trash lol).

*Make sure you keep cleaning supplies and a vacuum. That way cleaning your soon to be old home is easy and you aren't trying to borrow things from friends.

*Make sure that walls and floors aren't damaged, if you notice damage let your transportation liaison know right away.

Post-Move

* Ensure that all items that were taken apart before loading are put back together. 

* Make sure that you notate any damage right away! Make the movers aware that you will be filing a claim. 

*Gather the proper documentation to submit to transportation and make sure to weigh vehicles (if you are doing a partial or full dity move) if you did not do so at your old duty station.

*Make sure you have your mail forwarded to your new address and change the address on all of your accounts. 

* Enjoy your new home!

I hope these tips have helped, not just for military moves but for moving in general. 

Any tips that have helped you when moving?