Moving house is a part of life. It can be a stressful process but experience has taught us there are some things that can reduce the amount of work. Check out these quick tips for a smooth move.

1. When packing, use paper towel roll tubes to protect sharp knives. Insert the blades in the tube, fold over the ends and secure with tape. Mark the end with an arrow pointing to the word SHARP!
2. Place necklaces onto a soft hand towel a few centimetres apart, and fold the edges of the towel over the necklaces. Carefully roll the towel up. It will prevent them from tangling inside the jewelry box.
3. Pack books flat or upright with the spines facing inside the box. Stuff tight with packing paper to avoid shifting. It will prevent warped covers and bent pages. This is important on long-distance moves when the books are rattling over bumpy roads.
4. Pack things you will need on arrival in a transparent tote. This includes toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags, some dishes, utensils, cookware, and essential tools for reassembling furniture. Consider also a bin for fresh linens and towels for your first night in your new home.  You can easily see what is inside the transparent bin and it will be easy to spot amongst the cardboard boxes.
5. Keep zipper-seal bags handy to stop small parts from disappearing. When you take apart furniture, toys, etc. put the tiny bits into a zipper-seal bag and write on it with a marker. (We like Sharpies). Then, attach the bag directly to the furniture with tape or store it in your transparent bin.
6. Before you disconnect your TV, computer and electronics, take photos. Simply look at the photo when you’re ready to set everything up in your new home.
7. Take photos when you are disassembling furniture (e.g. bed frames). Use the pictures to re-assemble these items in your new home.
8. Avoid packing items in garbage bags! There is a (high) risk that well-meaning family members or friends could throw these bags in the garbage instead of on the moving truck. Clothing and household items in clear plastic bags could be accidentally donated to charities. If you use plastic bags, label them well with brightly coloured tape and markers.
9. If you are renting, take photos of your old home to show that it is clean and empty. Likewise, take photos of your new home before moving in. Take detailed photos if there are damaged areas.
10. Keep track of all expenses. Your employer may reimburse some moving expenses if your move is work-related. Some expenses are tax-deductible. An accordion-style folder is ideal for storing paperwork and receipts.

Moving to a new home may be unavoidable, but with help from Out of Chaos, you can have a Stress-Free Move. Read more quick tips for a smooth move, learn about Out of Chaos’ Move Management Services or for more information contact us.