My family moved three times interstate and one time internationally, so I know how stressful moving is; it takes a lot out of you emotionally, physically and financially. Here are the most important moving tips that’s going to save you a lot of hassle and trouble, especially out-of-state moves/interstate moves.
The best moving tip: Separating “3 to 6 months box”
Putting everything into one room that you need in daily life, your job, your family and your lifestyle for a minimum of 3 months. The basic idea is that if you touch anything once in a week, you want to put that into a separate room and pack into separate boxes that movers don’t touch. This way you will have all these essential items to live a normal life in your new state without missing anything. You may need a small trailer or a small truck for these boxes, which will be worth it rather than not be able to live conveniently and/or losing valuable items. Remember, the movers lose boxes and the boxes get damaged.
This may include: Passports, diplomas, wills, marriage certificates.
- Work items: computers, chargers, work journals/files
- Personal hobby items: guitar, yoga mat, your sports gear
- Kitchen items: coffee maker, essential cooking items
- Medications: vitamins and any prescription meds
- Clothing: clothes and shoes you wear often
Other important moving tips
- Declutter before packing: Here’s a great opportunity to get rid of things you don’t need in your life. I shipped my heavy lawn mower from Minnesota to Oregon. My Portland house had a sloped yard which didn’t have any grass. That mower was expensive to move which I ended up selling right after the move. Don’t make the same mistake.
- Take photos and make a list of important valuable items for any potential missing or damaged items for insurance claims.
- Vet the movers thoroughly: There are scammers pretending to be legit movers and they take all your boxes and disappear. Make sure to check your state business registry, Better Business Bureau, Google, Yelp… Also, if a company is too new, stay away from them.
- Rent a moving container: The container can be moved and be used as self storage. It can save money compared to moving everything via professional moving trucks.
- Update new address: Postal service, your professional license, drivers license, utility companies, financial institutions, insurance companies, gym membership, subscription services, friends and families.
- Get some cash: You may need some on the road.
- Leave house keys, mailbox key, garage door openers for the next owner or back to the landlord.
- Items that require separate movers: piano, high value art pieces, vaults.
- Let your neighbor know and exchange phone numbers.
Lastly, hydrate, eat well and take it easy on your moving day.
If you’re moving to Portland, Oregon, we are here to help you buy or sell real estate. Give us a call or text 503-515-4499.
Shawn Realty 