DFW Real Estate

DFW Real Estate Articles: 2008

A Moving Experience
© by Mike Stevenson

Depending on how many times you've done it, the thought of moving can either be exciting or exhausting. You look forward to your new home and the new adventures, but you're also faced with the here and now of doing a "truckload" of work. One thing you know for sure, you're going to need a LOT more boxes!

If you're moving across town, mistakes aren't usually a disaster. But in a long distance move, you get only one chance. In either case, do yourself a favor by gathering materials and making your plans early. Once you've started, the road doesn't seem quite so long; soon, you'll be on your way to that new destination!

Very often, your upcoming move can help you in selling your house. Cleaning out closets and getting rid of unused items can make the house seem larger a give the impression of abundant storage space. The kitchen is an excellent place to get a quick start. Box-up the extra set of dishes and those seldom used serving platters. Don't forget about the specialty items and the small appliances that haven't seen daylight in nearly a year!  By starting early, you'll get a feel for how many boxes and how much packing paper you'll need to complete the entire project. Consider these few thoughts as you begin:

• You may want to double-tape the bottom box flaps for more secure travel. It will dampen your spirits for sure if the bottom falls out of the fine crystal stemware.
• Mark or label the boxes as you pack them so you'll know which room they go to in the new house.
• Prepare two or three OPEN FIRST boxes with items you'll want to get to quickly. Include bed linens, personal items, important papers, vitamins and medicines.
• When stacking packed boxes, don't make the stacks too high and put the lighter boxes on top of the heavier ones.
• Keep valuable items separate from the rest and personally carry your most precious items, or make arrangements for their safe transport.
• Use boxes that are specially made to handle wardrobe items, pictures and mirrors.
• Pack out-of-season or seldom used clothing separate from your main wardrobe. This will save you the trouble digging through all the clothes right away when you arrive.
• Watch out when packing boxes of books. They get VERY heavy in a hurry! Use smaller boxes for these and other heavy items.
• Be sure that anything with sharp edges or "points" is safely covered with extra cardboard, wood or specialty materials.
• Never try to move potentially flammable or explosive materials along with general moving items. These must be reported to your mover for special transport.