Moving to a new place can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. The thought of starting afresh in a different location brings a mix of anticipation and anxiety. There is a lot of paperwork to take care of, followed by the stress that comes with handling the logistics of the move. From packing things to safely moving them to the new place, the entire process is undoubtedly exhausting – especially if it is a long-distance interstate move from a busy state like Chicago.
But do not fret! Proper planning and organization can make this apparently stressful part of your life easier and more exciting.
We have compiled a list of tips to help make your move smooth and stress-free.
Consider traffic conditions
Let us face it, traffic in Chicago can be a nightmare. Congestion may be higher during certain times of the day or week. Plan your moving day to avoid peak commuting hours to minimize the stress of navigating the city’s bustling streets. Trust us; you do not want to be stuck on Lake Shore Drive during rush hour with a truck full of belongings.
Summer is the peak moving season, so you can expect some delays due to heavy traffic during the move. Not only does the moving season lead to higher jams, but it may even result in higher costs related to the move. The best thing to do would be to schedule the relocation in early winter (if possible) and hire professional movers to make the move seamless. All you have to do is search online with the keyword residential movers near me and choose a service that best fits your requirements and circumstances. These professionals are experienced and trained in ensuring safety and efficiency during the moving process.
Pack and declutter early.
Moving is no spur-of-the-moment affair. Start planning early, and get in touch with a new brighton mn moving company if this is your desired location, to avoid any last-minute chaos. Create a timeline, make a checklist, and determine the tasks you need to accomplish before the big day. Moving provides the perfect opportunity to declutter your life. Sort your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. It is essential to get rid of unnecessary items and make your new space a fresh, clean slate. Also, focus on one room at a time to maintain organization. Doing everything together will overwhelm you. Label each box with the name of the room it belongs to and describe its contents, making it easy for long distance movers Calgary. This labeling system will make unpacking a breeze.
Timing is Key
Chicago’s weather can be unpredictable and reach extremes during peak summer and winter. Moving during extreme temperatures can affect both you and your belongings. High temperatures can make the moving process physically demanding and uncomfortable while freezing temperatures can pose risks to your health and make handling fragile items more difficult. Chicago is also known for its heavy snowfall during winter months. Slippery surfaces increase the risk of accidents and injuries for you and your movers. It is necessary to monitor weather forecasts and plan your move on a day when conditions are more favorable.
Pack essentials separately
You do not want to open all boxes on the first day searching for utensils. Hence, pack a separate box or suitcase containing essential items you will need immediately upon arrival at your new home. Include toiletries, a change of clothes, basic kitchenware, vital documents, and any other things you might require within the first few days.
Parking predicament
Parking can be a challenge, especially if you are moving to a busy neighborhood. Contact the local office or the city’s transportation department to obtain a temporary parking permit for your moving truck. Doing this will save you from hefty parking fines and make your move much smoother.
Communicate with the building’s management.
If you are moving into or out of a high-rise building, check with the building’s management about any specific moving regulations or time restrictions. Building personnel may also be able to provide additional tools or equipment that can facilitate the moving process. Moreover, high-rise buildings typically have multiple floors, and using the regular elevator for moving furniture and boxes can cause inconvenience for other residents. Check if the building has a service or freight elevator that can be used for moving purposes. Contact the management in advance to reserve exclusive access to the elevator during your moving day and time.
External Storage
Living spaces in apartments can be tight. Trying to fit everything in might give your place a messy look. Hence, look for external space if you need extra storage. Explore options like self-storage units or shared storage facilities. These can be a lifesaver for those precious items you can not part with but do not have space for in your new place. Ensure that the unit is near you and has excellent security. Do proper research before settling for a service provider.
Explore your neighborhood
Take the time to explore your new neighborhood before moving day. Doing this will ensure your first day is not too stressful. Locate nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and healthcare facilities, as well as coffee shops and restaurants.
Introducing yourself to your neighbors is also advised. Drop by to say hello and inform them about the move-in. Doing this will ensure they understand where the drilling noises are coming from and do not file a complaint.
Figure out home services and change your address
Set up essential services before settling into your new home. Contact local utility providers to arrange for electricity, gas, water, and internet installation in advance. Nobody wants to unpack boxes in a dark home with no internet. Doing this beforehand will save you from minor inconveniences on the move-in day.
Do not forget to update your address with the necessary parties. Notify the United States Postal Service, your bank, credit card companies, insurance providers, and any subscriptions or memberships you have. These changes should be made before the move-in so there are no delivery errors.
Conclusion
We’ll be honest: moving in is as stressful as it sounds. Fortunately, we can always hire expert service providers who know the ins and outs of this process. Take help for them if the DIY route is not for you. Also, do not forget to have fun while it lasts. Be excited about your new location. Once you’ve settled into your new abode, take some time to explore the city. Remember, home is where the heart is, so make sure you fall in love with your new place!
Infographic provided by USA Home Listings, a provider of leads for moving companies