Moving can be stressful, but the right preparation can make it much smoother. If you’re considering a move that involves storage, timing is everything. Understanding when to start planning can save you a lot of future headaches. This guide will help you determine the best time to start preparing for your move, especially when you have specific storage needs.
1. Assess Your Storage Needs
Item Inventory
Before you start packing, you need to take stock of what you own. Make a detailed inventory of all your belongings. This will help you decide what to store and what to let go of. Knowing what you have will also be useful when looking for appropriate storage facilities.
Decide on Short-Term or Long-Term Storage
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Are you moving temporarily or permanently?
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Will you need access to your stored items frequently?
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Do you need climate-controlled storage for sensitive items?
Answering these questions can help you decide whether you need short-term or long-term storage solutions.
2. Start Early
Three Months Out
Three months before your move is a good time to start your preparations. At this stage, you should:
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Research moving companies.
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Compare storage facilities.
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Start gathering packing supplies.
By starting early, you give yourself ample time to secure the best options available.
3. Research Storage Options and Moving Companies
Check Reviews and Ratings
Look for customer reviews and ratings for both moving companies and storage facilities. Word of mouth can be incredibly reliable, but online reviews can also give you a broader perspective. For instance, you might find valuable insights when researching businesses like Delaware Moving & Storage, which can help ensure you make the best choice.
Compare Prices
Storage units can vary greatly in cost. Compare prices between different facilities. When setting your budget, it’s also essential to factor in the cost of moving services.
Visit Facilities if Possible
If you can, visit the storage facilities in person. This will give you a better idea of the conditions and security measures in place and give you the chance to ask questions directly.
4. Declutter and Downsize
Start Decluttering Early
Start decluttering your home about two months before your move. This is the perfect time to decide what to keep, what to donate, and what to throw away. Holding a garage sale can also help you reduce the number of items you need to store.
Prioritize Essential Items
Make a priority list. Items you need immediately after your move should be easily accessible, while less essential items can go into storage.
5. Plan Your Packing Strategy
Packing Supplies
You will need a variety of packing supplies, such as:
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Moving boxes
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Packing tape
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Bubble wrap
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Markers for labeling
Start gathering these materials about six weeks before your move.
Labeling and Inventory
Create a system for labeling boxes. This can be as simple as numbering each box and keeping a corresponding list of its contents. Not only does this make organizing easier, but it also simplifies the unloading and unpacking process.
6. Book Movers and Storage Units
Secure Moving Services
Booking your movers about six weeks in advance is generally a good idea. Take your time; otherwise, you might have fewer choices. Additionally, moving companies can provide valuable assistance with packing and transporting your belongings.
Reserve Storage Units
Once you’ve chosen a storage facility, reserve your unit in advance. This ensures you have the space you need when you need it. Some facilities offer discounts for early reservations.
Understand the Terms and Conditions
Before finalizing your reservation, carefully read the terms and conditions of the storage contract. Ensure you understand policies regarding access times, fees, and any insurance requirements.
7. Notify Important Parties
Change of Address
About a month before your move, start updating your contact information with:
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The post office
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Banks
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Utility companies
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Subscriptions
Inform Friends and Family
Let friends and family know about your move. They can offer support, whether it’s helping with packing or providing recommendations for local services in your new area.
8. Pack Efficiently and Safely
Start with Non-Essentials
A month before moving, begin by packing items you don’t use daily. Seasonal clothes, books, and decorative items can go into boxes first.
Pack an Essentials Box
This box should contain everything you will need immediately after your move, such as:
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Toiletries
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Basic kitchen items
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Important documents
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Chargers for electronics
Use Proper Packing Techniques
Ensure you use proper packing techniques to protect your belongings. Use bubble wrap for fragile items, don’t overpack boxes, and make use of soft items like towels for additional padding.
9. Utilize Professional Storage Solutions
Many interstate moving companies Delaware offer additional services such as professional packing and storage. These services can be invaluable, especially if you have many delicate items or need temporary storage during your transition.
10. Finalize Details
Double-Check Reservations
Confirm all your reservations and bookings about two weeks before the move. This includes your moving company, storage unit, and any extra services you’ve arranged.
Create a Checklist
Create a detailed checklist a week before the move. This should include tasks like final packing, cleaning, and ensuring all utilities are set up or disconnected as necessary.
11. Moving Day Preparation
Coordinate with Movers
On a moving day, coordinate closely with your movers. Please provide them with any special instructions and be available to answer questions.
Inspect the Storage Unit
If you’re moving items into storage, inspect the unit one last time. Ensure it is clean and that you understand how to access it post-move. Understand that when selecting storage facilities in Delaware, you must account for both security and convenience to ensure your items are safe and easily accessible when needed.
2. Stay Organized Throughout the Move
Keep Essential Documents Handy
Carry essential documents, such as identification, moving contracts, and important numbers, with you. These might be needed at various stages of the move.
Stay Calm and Flexible
Lastly, remain calm and flexible. Moves rarely go 100% according to plan, but with a little patience and adaptability, you’ll get through it just fine.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a move with storage needs can be daunting, but with the right strategies and timing, it becomes manageable. Start early, stay organized, and choose the best services that fit your needs. By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
