Packing For The Movers

You’ve chosen a new home, selected a mover, and now comes the task of packing for the move. There are 3 important things you should remember that will save you a lot of time and frustration later:

• Collect all the materials (boxes, tape, paper) you’ll
need to pack.

• Don’t put packing off until the last minute.

• Stay organized!

Here’s a list of the materials you’ll need to pack efficiently:

• Paper for wrapping your items:

Many people collect old newspapers and use them. Just remember that the news ink never dries and will come off on your belongings. If you want to avoid the need to wash everything when you arrive, you can purchase packing paper from your mover.

• Boxes:

You can collect boxes from your local supermarket and other businesses. Select strong boxes in good condition and make sure they have covers. Divided boxes like liquor boxes are great for glasses and stemware.

Your mover can also provide you with boxes especially made for moving. However, these boxes are expensive and you may want to purchase only those which are usually necessary like wardrobes for hanging clothes, mattress cartons, and cartons for large pictures, mirrors and table lamps.


• Sealing Tape - Use plastic tape that’s 1½-2” wide

• Magic Marker – to mark boxes for contents and special instructions like “fragile”, “this side up”, etc.

Now that you have all your materials, you’re ready to start packing! Start as far ahead of time as you can. Waiting until the last minute will create a nightmare you don’t want to experience! If you begin early you can pack a few boxes a day and have everything completed without stressing yourself unnecessarily.

It’s really important that you keep your packing organized; it will save a lot of confusion later. It’s best to pack a room at a time so that you can keep everything thing together that belongs together.

Start in areas containing articles that aren’t used frequently such as your attic, basement, garage, etc. You can leave an extra box to hold items that can’t be packed early.

Packing Up the Kitchen

The hardest room to pack is probably the kitchen so let’s discuss that in detail.

Remember when you’re packing fragile items to pad the bottom of the box with several sheets of paper. Place the heaviest items on the bottom of the box and the more delicate things on top.

When you pack flatware like plates, saucers, etc., wrap each item separately and then combine in groups of three. Rewrap that group in more paper and seal with the plastic tape. Each group will then be better protected. Stand them on end in the box.

You can nest glasses and cups 3 or 4 together and separate with small sheets of paper. It’s best to pack them in divided containers if you have them. If the box isn’t full to the top, stuff with additional paper. If you don’t have divided containers, you can place them in other boxes where you have empty space; just be sure to fit them in toward the top of the box so they aren’t crushed.

Don’t nest Goblets and stemware, wrap them individually.

Try to keep small kitchen appliances like the toaster, crock pot, etc., all together rather than mixing them with other items. Wrap them individually with 2 or 3 sheets of paper and wad up paper to fill any empty space. However, if you have a lot of extra room you can add some pots and pans.

You can nest pots, pans and large bowls in groups of 3 with a couple sheets of paper between each of them.

When you pack boxed foods such as cereal and rice, be sure to seal the tops with plastic tape. (Remember to do this for salt and pepper shakers also!) If your things are going be stored for very long, you may want to discard these items to avoid rodents or insects.

You can pack filled canisters as long as they are individually wrapped and the tops are sealed with plastic tape.

Finally, here are some miscellaneous tips to remember:

• Don’t pack anything that’s flammable, combustive or explosive. This includes items like aerosol spray cans, gasoline, and paint thinners.

• Empty all drawers.

• Pack heavy items like books and canned goods in smaller boxes.

• Pack bulky and lightweight items like toys, blankets, and pillows in large boxes.

• You don’t need to wrap toys, books and shoes individually.

• Stand books and records on end.

It isn’t as hard as it sounds, but it you don’t want to deal with packing, your moving company will be happy to pack for you ~ of course, that service comes with a very hefty price tag!

Happy Moving!

How To Move With Young Children

Moving can upset children of any age. It frequently causes them to feel apprehensive and insecure. But, don’t despair; there are many things you can do to make the moving experience less scary for your children.

Involve Them from the Very Beginning.

Tell your children as soon as you know you’re moving; don’t spring it on them at the last minute. Explain why you’re moving in terms they can understand. Do you need more room? Are you relocating because of a new job? Be sure to explain what will happen so they’ll know what to expect. This will remove a lot of the fear and confusion they may be feeling. Tell them when the move will take place and how their things will get from the old house to the new house. Be sure and answer their questions as fully as you can. Remember that your attitude about the move will rub off on them, so stay upbeat and positive. To help prepare them further, you canchoose from among many children’s books available on moving. Just a couple of these are “Berenstain Bear’s Moving Day” by Sam Berenstain and “Goodbye House” by Frank Asch. Check your local library for more.

Make the Move an Adventure.

If you approach the coming move as an exciting adventure for the entire family, it will help to calm your children’s fears. The more positive you are about the move, the more positive they will be. Make sure they understand they won’t be left behind. Ask for their suggestions and involve them in the plans. If it’s possible, show them the new house and let them spend some time exploring it. Show them where their rooms will be. Help them visualize where their furniture and toys will go. Show them the yard and help them imagine all the fun they will have there. If it’s impossible for them to visit the new house, take tons of photos so they’ll know what it looks like and can become familiar with it. Talk about all the fun things the family will do there.

Let Them Help.

If you give your children an active role in the move they are much more likely to accept it and even grow excited about it. Let them pack some of their own belongings, even if you have to go back and repack them later. This will help them feel a part of the move. If there are old toys you don’t plan to take, let the kids help decide which of them should be given away for other children to use and which should be discarded.

What to Do on Moving Day.

The best plan is to have the children stay with a family member or trusted friend on the day of the move. If this isn’t possible, be sure and involve them in the moving activities. If you have a moving company, introduce your children to the workers so they’ll know who’s taking their stuff away. You can give them a box of their own to pack. This could be the box of special belongings you’re taking in the car with you. It should include all the things your children can’t live without ~ favorite stuffed animals, that special blanket, maybe their favorite pajamas. This will accomplish three things. It will keep the children occupied and feeling useful and it will also ensure that you know exactly where these special items are. You would never want to arrive at your new home not knowing where to locate Susie’s scruffy old bear or Johnny’s favorite action figure! It will also help the children feel secure since they have their most important belongings with them.

You’re on Your Way to Your New Home.

If you’re driving to your new home, make the trip exciting! If the kids can relate the move to family fun, they’ll enjoy it so much more. If it’s a long drive, be sure and have lots of games or books to keep the children occupied. Maybe each person could tell their own story about what they think living in the new house will be like. You’ll arrive happy and anxious to start this new phase of your lives.

How to Make Moving a Hassle Free Activity

One of the most tedious things to do is moving to another place. I remember last year when we moved, it has been the most a tiresome experience in my life all of it because we used all our efforts to relocate flawlessly: moving our stuffs, the cars, and arranging everything to the place of our destinations. Yet, it would have been more burdensome if we did not use the help of a moving company. Today there are companies that offer moving services that will lessen your effort and energy. Yes, these companies are willing to help you in any way possible.

One of the things I don not like when times to move out is packing and unpacking. This is very stressful thing for me that would surely I would lots of complain out from my mouth.

In my part hubby told me we might be moving to a different house since what we live this time is quite smaller than his previous house. He had to move in this townhouse for him and his son and since that I already got here in US then have an over 2 year old daughter we need to have a bigger and spacious house so we can put more things that have been stuck in the garage.

It has already been couple of years those stuffs have not been touched and I know hubby would like to put them in a good place like at the basement or at the proper place he could put into. When time comes we would move, this is going to be so hassle and tiring for me since it is also my very first time of packing all the things we have in this house.

The only thing that could make the move smooth and easy is to contact people like in miracle movers they are a Toronto movers which they can help to all and any residential and commercial moving needs, a hassle free move to a local destination, across North America or to any destination around the world. It is the place we can trust for our belongings since their team consists of trained and highly experienced moving experts that everyone is looking for. And they offer the best quality performance and lowest possible price that everyone deserves to get.

Let me explain: I have started planning the move and looking for a mover far in advance. The move was scheduled for March and I have started submitting estimates and making phone calls to Toronto movers in December. I had been amazed at the speed of Miracle Movers reply to my online submitted estimate inquiry: had an email in my mailbox within minutes from pressing the submit button. Being impressed, I decided to call the number and have the estimate discussed orally: fantastic. Very, very courteous personnel, professional attitude, forward thinking. Never before have I been informed of so many move details I had to know when planning the move. Remember, I had called and emailed some 15 other Toronto movers by that time. They have offered me full price  lists for packing accessories not included in the price, suggested the necessary amounts and sizes of packing boxes, offered to deliver what more could I expect.

The mover itself was as sooth and easygoing as I could only imagine: the crew was at our address in time, after a brief inspection of our possessions, the supervisor of the move has explained in details how the move would progress, what items would need to go first etc. Our king size bed had to be dismantled; it is however worthless mentioning these guys were ready with the necessary tools and the knowledge to put it apart.

So if you are also out there, needing a help you should contact them now at miracle movers. It is the only place you can find the answer of a less hassle moving experience.

Toronto Moving Service Experience

Moving is one of the most stressful times in the average persons life. Whether you are moving across the country or planning a local move, the organization, planning, and work involved can be stressful. Changes are the only thing that stays eternally in a persons life. Barely anybody can detect with a life that has no changes, shifting and moving. For numerous reasons, like private and certified, we essential to move from one place to another, however, sudden note of transfers can be very disturbing. But then these effects are important to embellish up your life to some area. So lastly, it can concluded that changes are inevitable so must be accepted with a smirk on the face. And to share this burden of moving, we have Miracle Movers, Toronto movers to help and make the full agreement a little calm on our shoulders. It is never a puzzle with the movers of this company even if you are moving lonely or on commercial and corporate level. By the end of this article, you should have gained enough new skill on this topic to be able to describe its major points to another persona. It offers navy for both inside the city transfers and national relocations. So you just have to relax after making an agreement with this tender help supplier. People often start packing their belongings effective and seriously time before to attract of moving and this kills the excitement of shifting. Thank God! We have a choice of Miracle Movers, Toronto movers, because their packaging tailor is a sincere dominance, where they make efficient that every item is packed and accepted with complete nurture. Every entry is packed in cartons, boxes and sack bags imparted by the company. These boxes are very roomy and convenient to depot different kind of entries. Faster they disclose for super correct bundle as well, because they have intrinsic cushions protecting the bunch from defiance. Therefore it is easy to store rock and schooner entries in these containers. Distant from charming foster of the cargo stockroom, the moving company also looks after the belongings of diverse sizes, be it large, average or small. The mode in which Miracle Movers, Toronto Movers work is very professional and there is no kernel unturned to give useful fight, therefore goodbye no scope for complaints. Charming nurture of all activities combined to stockroom, it makes the entire manner of relocation very easy and endless of tensions. And then it optimally meets the wishes of the clients, making it the first selection of clients. Just before the deal is finalized while, the movers company has to be given an ahead notice of about a week, so that it can present in the best of behavior and moving the grind navy. Miracle Movers, Toronto movers let out the provisions of storing, loading and entire carter management for the clients so that they can have a harmless and cheerful journey with no ruffian errands of shifting. Then, it is alphabets a enjoyable experience to show with them. From now until the now until the end of this article, take the time to think about how all of this information can help you. Miracle Movers, Toronto movers do not have the word hurdle in their work dictionary. The professions are best to gain everything that you could doubtless ask for while moving. Wrapper distances seems to be their hobby and attaining client satisfaction is their passion. The process of shifting requires lot of time and focus. And, as you are delicate of this aspect; it is recommended that a before note of at slightest 15 living should be given to the business to give you a simplified experience. If you could take the core thoughts from this article and put them into a inventory, you would a great overview of what we have educated.

Ten Moving Tips

These moving tips may include a few things you hadn't thought of, or things you just need to be reminded of. Forget that safe deposit box, for example, and you may have to drive a long way to get at it. Ten more moving tips follow. 1. Get rid of things. Consider carefully what you need to keep. People spend hundreds of dollars to move things that will undoubtedly be thrown away some day. It's not just a matter of the expense, but the hassle too. Moving time is the best time to get rid of the things you really don't need. 2. Have a yard sale. It's a good way to get rid of those things, and you might even raise enough money to pay for the move. 3. Use lists. You will forget things, especially if you don't have a list or two. Start with a list of things to do before the move. It may include getting school documents transferred, filling out change of address forms, returning borrowed books and movies, transferring prescriptions, getting maps, and arranging utility shut offs and start ups. 4. Make the the moving company reservation a month ahead. You wouldn't want to find out they are booked up on the date you need them. 5. Pack early. It's hard to say how long it will take until you are doing it. Start early to avoid running around looking for boxes at the last moment. 6. Have an "essentials" box. This will have things to make your arrival easier, like toilet paper, paper plates, soap and such. Pack the box where it is easily accessible. 7. Check weather reports. It's no fun arriving in a snowstorm with your coat packed away somewhere. Allow for extra moving time if the weather is going to slow down traffic. 8. Notify family and friends of your new address and phone number(s). Do this before you have the phone shut off. 9. Save your receipts. Save receipts for moving expenses, like gas, hotel rooms, and anything else related to the move. Then ask your accountant or tax preparer if you are eligible for a tax deduction for moving expenses. 10. try to re-establish your routines quickly. It helps to quickly re-establish routines in your new home, so if Friday night is movie night, don't break with tradition. Moving is less traumatic if you have some consistency in daily life. If you are moving with children, this may be one of the more important moving tips.

How to Pack for the Movers

You’ve chosen a new home, selected a mover, and now comes the task of packing for the move. There are 3 important things you should remember that will save you a lot of time and frustration later: • Collect all the materials (boxes, tape, paper) you’ll need to pack. • Don’t put packing off until the last minute. • Stay organized! Here’s a list of the materials you’ll need to pack efficiently: • Paper for wrapping your items: Many people collect old newspapers and use them. Just remember that the news ink never dries and will come off on your belongings. If you want to avoid the need to wash everything when you arrive, you can purchase packing paper from your mover. • Boxes: You can collect boxes from your local supermarket and other businesses. Select strong boxes in good condition and make sure they have covers. Divided boxes like liquor boxes are great for glasses and stemware. Your mover can also provide you with boxes especially made for moving. However, these boxes are expensive and you may want to purchase only those which are usually necessary like wardrobes for hanging clothes, mattress cartons, and cartons for large pictures, mirrors and table lamps. • Sealing Tape - Use plastic tape that’s 1½-2” wide • Magic Marker – to mark boxes for contents and special instructions like “fragile”, “this side up”, etc. Now that you have all your materials, you’re ready to start packing! Start as far ahead of time as you can. Waiting until the last minute will create a nightmare you don’t want to experience! If you begin early you can pack a few boxes a day and have everything completed without stressing yourself unnecessarily. It’s really important that you keep your packing organized; it will save a lot of confusion later. It’s best to pack a room at a time so that you can keep everything thing together that belongs together. Start in areas containing articles that aren’t used frequently such as your attic, basement, garage, etc. You can leave an extra box to hold items that can’t be packed early. Packing Up the Kitchen The hardest room to pack is probably the kitchen so let’s discuss that in detail. Remember when you’re packing fragile items to pad the bottom of the box with several sheets of paper. Place the heaviest items on the bottom of the box and the more delicate things on top. When you pack flatware like plates, saucers, etc., wrap each item separately and then combine in groups of three. Rewrap that group in more paper and seal with the plastic tape. Each group will then be better protected. Stand them on end in the box. You can nest glasses and cups 3 or 4 together and separate with small sheets of paper. It’s best to pack them in divided containers if you have them. If the box isn’t full to the top, stuff with additional paper. If you don’t have divided containers, you can place them in other boxes where you have empty space; just be sure to fit them in toward the top of the box so they aren’t crushed. Don’t nest Goblets and stemware, wrap them individually. Try to keep small kitchen appliances like the toaster, crock pot, etc., all together rather than mixing them with other items. Wrap them individually with 2 or 3 sheets of paper and wad up paper to fill any empty space. However, if you have a lot of extra room you can add some pots and pans. You can nest pots, pans and large bowls in groups of 3 with a couple sheets of paper between each of them. When you pack boxed foods such as cereal and rice, be sure to seal the tops with plastic tape. (Remember to do this for salt and pepper shakers also!) If your things are going be stored for very long, you may want to discard these items to avoid rodents or insects. You can pack filled canisters as long as they are individually wrapped and the tops are sealed with plastic tape. Finally, here are some miscellaneous tips to remember: • Don’t pack anything that’s flammable, combustive or explosive. This includes items like aerosol spray cans, gasoline, and paint thinners. • Empty all drawers. • Pack heavy items like books and canned goods in smaller boxes. • Pack bulky and lightweight items like toys, blankets, and pillows in large boxes. • You don’t need to wrap toys, books and shoes individually. • Stand books and records on end. It isn’t as hard as it sounds, but it you don’t want to deal with packing, your moving company will be happy to pack for you ~ of course, that service comes with a very hefty price tag! Happy Moving!

Checklist For Moving

Using a checklist for moving can keep you from forgetting things. Important things, like turning on the electricity in your new home, or filling the heating oil tank. Of course you have to make your own moving checklist, but you can start with the suggestions here.

Checklist For Moving - A Month Before The Move

- Submit your change of address forms to post office.

- Obtain documents for school transfers, if you have children.

- Find a moving company, and make reservations.

- Give your new address to friends and family.

- Hold a garage sale or otherwise lighten the load.

Checklist For Moving - One Or Two Weeks Before

- Move your banking accounts to the new location.

- Return rented movies, books to library, etc.

- get your prescriptions transferred to the new location.

- Clean your house.

- Call for utility shut-offs and new connections.

- Dispose of things that won't be moved.

- Begin packing and labling boxes.

- Organize and pack an "essentials" box for arrival (toiletries, paper plates, etc.).

- Final moving plans (make hotel reservations, get maps, etc.).

Checklist For Moving Day

- Remember to eat.

- Start early.

- Check every room and storage area.

- Turn off all lights, lock the doors.

- Give the keys to the new owner or real estate agent.

There will be many more items to add to your personal list. Begin writing down anything you think of as soon as you know when you'll be moving. Can you have your new phone ready to use when you arrive at your new home? Will you need to return across the country because you forgot about a safe-deposit box? To avoid problems like these is to start early on your checklist for moving.

All About Moving Companies

If you’re planning your next big residential move or office move, you’re becoming aware of the issues involved in transporting a house or office full of belongings, furniture, and people. In the back of your mind, you’re thinking that you can do this by yourself and yet some of your valuable property might probably be damaged during the move. Part of the cost of moving? On the other hand you could hire a moving company and know that they do this sort of thing everyday and have all the people and transport equipment to get things done efficiently.

When faced with the cost of hiring a moving company for a cross-town move, most people will round up their relatives, friends and even neighbours to get their property loaded up to the moving van or into a moving pod. In some cases, that’s fine, yet given how mobile many people, families and businesses are today, you can only rely on your friends and relatives so often. You’ll wear out your welcome if they have to take several days off of their precious free time to help others move. If they’re getting older as most people are today, they’re not going to appreciate the possibility of getting injured while carrying your heavy property items such as sofas, fridges, beds, tables, TVs, and desks.

The work involved in moving isn’t for everyone, yet professional moving companies are skilled in making moves go smoothly, from planning, to safe packaging to trouble free transport.

Moving to Florida

My sister and her family are in the process of moving to Florida where she and her sons will join her husband who is now working there. They will be using a big moving company to manage the logistics of the move. All she and her sons have to do is drive down to Florida. If we had to help them with the move and pack up a house full of furniture, kitchenware, bikes, golf clubs, hockey equipment, baseball equipment, fishing gear, desks, chairs, TVs and computers, it would take two days. Even then, I don’t think we could pack it properly in the moving van or truck. It would undoubtedly shift during the trip despite our expert rope tying tricks and special packing system. The truth is, we don’t know what we’re doing, and their furniture would be all banged up with loosened or broken legs when they opened the moving van doors down in Sarasota.

That’s when the ugly surprises happen. When you find your TV doesn’t work and your family heirlooms are going to need some serious “crazy glue” repairs, you get angry with yourself for not being cautious. For the sake of a few dollars, your belongings get damaged and their appearance is diminished. If you have a plasma TV, you can kiss it goodbye if you try to pack it yourself.

Yes, everyone is upwardly mobile these days and the task of an international, interstate, or cross-town move is on many to-do lists. One way to cross off the details of that big project is to hire a professional moving company.

Professional Moving Services

Big national movers offer a wide range of move planning and related moving services. They can handle all relocation services from reserving the moving van to packing your property to helping you with childcare and real estate related services in the city you’re moving to. These relocation services shouldn’t be underplayed. If you’re on your way to a strange city or a foreign country, you’ll need a little help in making the adjustment. You may need to store your belongings while you’re gone and these companies usually have big temperature and environmentally controlled storage warehouses and units that can keep your property clean and dry over long periods of time. Contrasting that with having your belongings collecting mould in someone’s basement or garage.

Moving firms have relocation specialists that handle these projects frequently. They know what you’re going through emotionally and in terms of preparation. They can help in many ways. As an example, they provide home marketing assistance including home disposition and in the home-sale process, and even property management. For employee transfers to new cities, they can coordinate the details of managing the employee’s property until the employee returns home. They can find short-term housing for the transferee, and find a new home for them. These real estate related services include area orientations, broker selection, negotiations, pre-purchase appraisals and closing.

You’re no doubt a smart, capable person and can master all of these transaction issues at your new location, however, if you’re moving to a new job in a strange city, how will you find the time? You can only handle so much stress and you’ll need support in your new hometown.
Let go of your image of moving companies as a bunch of sweaty, strong guys that push furniture into the back of a moving van. These companies plan and carry out moving tasks in a professional manner and offer moving and relocation services that will help you and your family better adjust to your new location. It’s important to get off on the right foot in your new home location. You’ll have schools to find for your children and you’ll be spending time just discovering how to get to your new work place and around town.

On office moves, you will have strict times and locations by which you can manage your move. Certainly, your staff can assist in the transfer and organization however; it is best to have a professional handle the logistics and moving from office building to office building. You can avoid damage and hard feelings towards employees who were trying to be careful before they dropped something.

International Moving

For your next International move, interstate, local and office move, call a professional moving firm such as Humboldt Storage & Moving Company.

A Moving Experience

I’ve found a cool apartment! Okay, okay…so it’s not perfect. Just a few bugs. I mean literally! First expense? An exterminator! Is it worth the cash? Well, I can’t afford a more expensive place, so a one-time (please!) cash outlay should be okay. Maybe just a can of “Raid?”

I need a way to move my stuff. Daddy, can I borrow your truck? You don’t have one? Why not? Do you want one? I’ll help you pick it out! Well, it was just a suggestion. No need to get all bent out of shape! I guess I’d better call the truck rental places. What do you mean…$200…PLUS mileage? AND Gas? Good grief!

While I’m on the phone I’ll call the utility and phone companies. Yes, I know I haven’t used your services before. No, I don’t have a credit card; this is my first place. You want what? A $100 deposit? For EACH? Holy cow…do you people have a license to steal?

Daddy, I need $500 for moving expenses! I used all my money for the first and last months rent AND the damage deposit. Well, how was I to know this was going to be so expensive? Sell something? Daaaaad…I NEED my TV!

Boy, this place is pretty empty. Maybe I should buy a couch and a chair. Nah…I have my bed. That’ll be good enough. I don’t need a table; I’ll just use this box.

Renters Insurance? I don’t think so! What do I have to insure?

Just got my first phone call! I’d love to come to your party! Daddy, I need a car. Because it’s too far to walk to work, that’s why. Umm, Daddy…there’s car insurance too! Thanks, Dad…you’re the best! And gas? I didn’t think so…

Time for dinner. Let’s look in these boxes. Oh, No! No dishes or pans. No FOOD!

Uhhh, Mom?

A Moving Checklist

MOVING! The very thought of it can send chills down our spine and can cause us to break out into a cold sweat. Experts say that any kind of "change" creates "stress". Moving, (and especially if we are relocating to a new city or state), represents a huge change and naturally brings a great amount of stress along with it. This can be a double whammy, because stress can lead to a lack of energy and motivation. Many of us tend to procrastinate during stressful periods of our lives. This is one time, though, when we must rise above that. When preparing for a move we need to put the pedal to the metal and get a lot of things done. This checklist contains many suggestions that may seem like "no-brainers". However, the very act of printing out these simple suggestions and reminders can become a significant security blanket as the dreaded time approaches. Moving and relocating calls for being proactive, grabbing the bull by the horns and actually completing certain chores well in advance of their deadlines. Hopefully this little paper will help you to accomplish that. In this particular article we are leaving out the "big things" such as finding the best moving company, researching your new neighborhood's transportation, parking, employment, etc. Those are for other articles on another day. Today we are concentrating on the basics of planning and preparation.

Get rid of what you don't need.

Many of us are "pack rats". One thing that we can accomplish immediately is going through all of our "stuff" and getting rid of what we don't need anymore. Moving unwanted clothing and bric-a-bracs from one place of residence to another is a great waste of time and effort. It is surprising how much more in control we feel once we start narrowing down our "inventory" to what we actually need to keep. Getting rid of the unwanted items can be done by having a garage sale long before moving time and then donating the leftovers to the Salvation Army or other charitable groups.

Get all important papers and documents together and secure them.

Since moving is hectic, to say the least, we need to be aware of the exact location of all of our important items. Things that we absolutely must not lose or misplace should certainly be hand carried, not put in a box for the movers:

Address Books, Birth Certificates, Bank Statements, Checks, Credit Cards and Statements, Home Movies, Irreplaceable Memorabilia, Insurance Policies, Marriage Records, Medical and Dental Records, Military Records, Passports, Photos and Photo Albums, Resumes, School Records, Stock Certificates, Tax Returns, Telephone Numbers, Valuables, Vehicle Documents, Wills.

Prepare well in advance for living at your new location.

There are many things that we can do at our new location well in advance of our move that will help smooth out the bumps and grinds of our relocation process when the actual event occurs: Open up new bank accounts. Open up a new Safe Deposit Box. Contact the new area utility companies and arrange for your new services. These can include Cable TV, gas, electric, oil, telephone, water and Internet access. Arrange for new medical providers. If you are moving to a new state, contact the DMV and get forms necessary to re-register your vehicles. Contact your insurance companies and find out if your car insurance, homeowner's insurance, etc. can be transferred. If not, find an Insurance Broker in your new area and discuss your needs and requirements for new policies. Go to the post office and get a moving kit. Prepare change of address forms for all of your correspondents; credit card companies, other credit accounts, banks, insurance companies, current utility companies for final statements, magazines and other subscriptions, family, friends, and any other persons or businesses that you correspond with on a regular basis.

As the time approaches, get a nice new legal pad.

As moving day approaches and when the moving process actually begins, you don't want to be hunting for phone numbers in wallets, purses, or address books. Have a nice new legal pad ready with all important phone numbers written clearly and legibly for both your old and new contacts: Banks, Doctors, Emergency contacts, Family members, Friends, Landlords or Real Estate Brokers, Movers, Pharmacies Schools, Storage Facilities, Utilities.

With proper planning and preparation the moving process, though never fun, can at least be sane. With proper planning and preparation the utilities at your present address can be disconnected the day after you move and the utilities at your new address can be connected the day prior to your arrival. With proper planning and preparation you will not be frantically searching for a new doctor or pharmacy, if that unfortunate need arises. With proper planning and preparation you will have all of your important documents at the tip of your fingers at all times. With proper planning and preparation your mail will start arriving the day after you move in to your new abode and your life will endure a minimum of chaos and clutter.

Good luck with your move and good luck in your new home or apartment.

You’re Retired, Now What?

For years you’ve lived in that sprawling house where you raised your children . . . it’s home. But now you don’t need all the space and the upkeep is becoming more difficult every year.

You now have to consider things that weren’t issues before. When you were younger, you never thought about how many times a day you went up and down the stairs. You didn’t mind having the bedroom upstairs and the laundry facilities in the basement. Now, all those steps are taking their toll.

Washing windows isn’t as easy as it was before either, is it? Climbing an extension ladder to reach the second story becomes a bit scarier with each passing year. As you age, you become more concerned about falling.

You may be thinking it’s finally time to move into a home that’s a bit more senior-friendly, but what are your options?

• Smaller, single level houses

• Condominiums

• Apartments

• Retirement communities

• Assisted living facilities

Let’s take a more detailed look at these options:

Smaller homes built on one level with convenient laundry facilities may be what you need.

Look for a house that requires little outside maintenance. A brick or vinyl-sided house won’t require painting. An open floor plan may be helpful if you’re ever confined to a wheelchair. A smaller yard allows you to garden but still keeps the yard work to a minimum. An attached garage is a helpful feature, especially in the winter when icy sidewalks can cause falls. Of course, finding a location that’s close to shopping, public transportation and medical facilities is also important.

Condominiums provide privacy without a lot of maintenance.

Like individual houses, there are many different types of condominiums from which to choose. The main advantage of a condo is that outside maintenance of both the structure and the yard is usually provided. Most condos include a small area where you can plant flowers but the lawn and other common areas are maintained by the association. There are additional fees for this mandatory service so be sure to find out if they will fit into your budget.

Apartments require no maintenance.

One of the main advantages of apartment living is that you aren’t responsible for any maintenance. You don’t have to worry about painting, replacing major appliances or yard work. Apartments also give you a certain degree of freedom because you don’t have to worry about them if you travel a lot. It’s important for laundry facilities to be easily accessible and that there is an elevator if your apartment is to be on a higher floor. You won’t have as much privacy and your only personal outdoor space may be limited to a small patio or balcony, if that. Rent is likely to increase and is not tax deductible on your Federal returns.


Retirement communities or assisted living facilities give you the highest level of security.

Both of these options are specifically designed for seniors and offer many safety features not found in regular housing. The amount of privacy you have depends on which community you choose. Your medical condition will usually dictate whether a retirement community or assisted living facility is your best choice. Some retirement communities offer private living space, much like individual homes, as long as you’re healthy and then provides assisted living if your health deteriorates.


Giving up the home where you’ve lived for many, many years may seem a little scary. But, often a new home that brings less responsibility and greater peace of mind will make you feel years younger.

Your Moving Checklist

A moving checklist can keep you from forgetting important things, like turning on the utilities in your new home. You'll want to make your own list of things to be done, but you can start with the suggestions below.

Moving checklist - One Month Before

- Make reservations with moving company.

- Notify friends and family and give them your new address.

- Submit change of address forms to post office.

- Get documents for school transfers, if you have children.

- Have a garage sale or otherwise lighten the load.

One Or Two Weeks Before

- Arrange utility shut-offs and new connections.

- Transfer banking accounts to new location.

- Return books to library, rented movies, etc.

- Transfer prescriptions to new location.

- Clean house and dispose of things that won't be moved.

- Start packing and labling boxes.

- Pack an "essentials" box for arrival, with toiletries, paper plates, etc.

- Make moving plans (make hotel reservations, get maps, etc.).

Moving Day

- Start early and remember to eat.

- Double check every room and storage area.

- Turn off lights, lock doors.

- Leave the keys with the new owner or real estate agent.

You will undoubtedly have many more items to add to your personal list. Start writing down anything you think of as soon as you know you'll be moving. Will the phone be on when you arrive at your new home? Will you have to return across the country just because you forgot about a safe-deposit box that has the family jewelry? The best way to avoid problems like these is to start early on your moving checklist.

10 Relocation Tips To Keep Yourself Centered When Your World Is Spinning

Ten tips for happy relocation (across town and around the world)

Relocation is stressful because you change more than your address. You'll begin to navigate a new way to be a spouse, parent, friend, lover, choir member, PTA officer, and more.

Here are ten tips to a help you tune in to your inner compass when your world is spinning.

1. Ask, "Who am I? What do I need to be happy?"

The secret to a successful move depends on how you answer the question, "Can I still be me?”

To answer this question, write ten “I am” statements about yourself -- anything from “I am a mother” to “I am a dog-owner” to “I am friendly and outgoing.”

Before you move, ask yourself, “How will this list change after I move?” You may still be a dog-owner and a dad...but will you create these roles the same way?

2. Take a test drive.

When you buy a car, you don't just go around the block. You try the freeways and the rough roads.

Considering a move to Seattle or Syracuse? Study the culture as if you were an anthropologist. What do people do? How do they dress? How do they talk to each other?

Most important, how do you feel? Did you develop new allergies, headaches or back pain during your visit? Or did you find yourself wishing you cold stay forever?

3. Pack an emotional first aid kit.

Most hikers pack a first aid kit with sunblock, band-aids, and insect repellent.

For relocation you can pack
Coping phrases to repeat when you feel frazzled:
"Let go and relax."
"I can deal with this."
"I face the future with confidence."

Tapes of meditation and visualization (for unexpected bouts of anxiety)
Favorite photos of friends, family, places and pets (so you remember who you are)
Phone numbers of trusted confidantes (for moments when you really need to hear a familiar voice)

4. Develop ceremonies to honor your new life.

As you unpack boxes or begin a new assignment, play your favorite music and enjoy your favorite foods. Arrange one room -or one corner of the room-to look familiar. Some people create a special ritual of settling in to make the new life their own.

5. Plan for downtime.

For the first few months you'll probably have gaps in your calendar. Maybe you had a standing dinner date with the neighbors on Wednesdays. You held office in civic organizations and you took classes.

Plan to fill downtime with meaningful projects. I recommend taking on a challenging creativity project. Write a novel. Complete a painting. Join a dance group.

And I would add a physical activity, anything from weight-lifting at the gym to running marathons to walking the dog extra times.

When you nurture yourself, you communicate strength and confidence to others. If you are seen as vulnerable and needy, you will attract negative people and negative experiences.

6. Take your time as you make new commitments.

Most newcomers need two to five years to make lasting friends. During your first six months, avoid joining organizations (let alone running for office). Sign up for short-term options so you can test the waters.

You won't know the hidden dimensions of joining. Once I eagerly joined a group, only to learn that their meetings were held in out-of-the-way places - and that's where most members lived! A huge waste of time and dues.

7. Celebrate everyday life. Think small. A walk around the lake. A perfect cup of coffee in a nearby coffee shop. A friendly face at the trade show. Listen for the moments when you say, “I could get used to this...”

No matter what happens, you will find at least one pocket of joy in your new life...usually something wonderful you never anticipated.

Finding Your Perfect Home

If you have decided to pick up everything and move to a new city, you are probably full of mixed emotions. It can be exciting to move but it can also be a nerve-racking experience. How can you find a neighborhood that is right for you without ever having lived in that city? Its a difficult decision if you are renting and an even tougher decision if you are committing to buying a home. Read along, and this article will give you some tips on choosing the perfect neighborhood for you and your family.


The first thing that you need to take into consideration is what kind of home you are looking for. Do you want a house, a condo, an apartment or a townhouse? Do you want to live in an active city or a slow paced suburb? Is it important that you be close to shopping, restaurants, or parks? Before you start looking, decide what type of home and area you want. It will save you quite a bit of time.


Once you find a possible area, you need to take into account the crime rate. Everyone wants to live in a safe neighborhood. The easiest way to find crime statistics is to call the local police department. They should be able to give you statistics. You also want to look at the sex offender registry to make sure that your area is not heavily populated with sex offenders. Lastly, look around closely at your neighborhood for signs of crime. Look for broken glass, bars on windows and doors, graffiti and people loitering. If you can, drive the neighborhood at night. Many neighborhoods look like heaven in the daylight but quickly become hell when the sun goes down.


If you are moving with children, you will want to look at the local school system next. Are the schools in walking distance or will your kids have to ride a bus? How do the schools rank? You should be able to do a search online for the school district and come up with rankings. Even if you do not have kids, you should probably look into the school system. Who knows, you might one day decide to have children. Also if you are buying the home, you want a good school system. Bad schools make for lower property values and homes that are harder to sell.


If you are purchasing your home, you must also look at what the property values are doing. Are they moving up or are they stagnant or even falling. Your realtor should be able to let you know. If they aren't much help, do a search for the county's tax appraiser online. They will probably have a searchable database with previous years home values. If that fails, look to see if the neighborhood is kept up. Are yards neatly trimmed or are they overgrown and full of weeds. Do people pick up the trash or are cans, cigarette butts and bottles thrown about. If the neighborhood isn't kept up, you can probably bet that it is on a downward slide.


It might seem like a lot of work to do this much research on your new home, but it is better than choosing a bad one. If you sign a lease on a bad home, you might be stuck there for one or even two years. If you buy a home in the wrong neighborhood, you might be unable to sell it and may be stuck there longer. Do your research however and you will dramatically improve your odds of finding your perfect home.