One of the most stressful things in life is moving across the country to a new place, especially with kids; but you can make it easy. Here’s how.
Make Your Cross-Country Move With Kids Easy
Moving is always a drag, especially if you’re relocating across the country. There is a never-ending list of things to think about and when you have children, they will do everything in their power to make that list even longer. But if you are well-organized, even this endeavor can go smoothly. Here are some tips that can come in handy when preparing for the big move.
Prepare Early
One of the most important things for such a move is ensuring that you give yourself plenty of time to start your move. If possible, look for ways to buy some extra time before the move. While doing so, never underestimate how long it would take you to start planning. It’s essential that you prepare the kids as well. If they are old enough, you should include them in the planning process. They could go through their things and declutter before you start packing. In an ideal situation, it’s advisable to start planning for your cross-country move at least eight weeks before the scheduled day.
Organization
While it might or might not be in your natural disposition to stay organized, a cross-country move is one of those tasks that you should never leave to the last minute. Get organized as early as possible by creating a moving plan and checklist. Don’t forget to create a detailed schedule that lists out all your family’s everyday and weekly moving tasks.
A thorough checklist ensures that nothing is left behind or forgotten. As the big day approaches, cross off those tasks that contribute towards the move. On moving day, you will be glad that you have not left anything and will not scramble trying to make up for the lost time.
Get Cleaning
As counter-intuitive as it sounds, it’s always a good idea to clean up your apartment or house and even your car with these toxic free car care tips before your big move – and make sure everything is spotless. If your children are too young to help with the cleaning, you could arrange to take them to your parents or a trusted friend after school or kindergarten so as to make this process a bit easier. Cleaning before moving helps you get a good idea of where everything is and also offers you a clean space to work in. In turn, you will be in a better position to determine what can or cannot come with you during your move.
Start Decluttering
The best time for that decluttering exercise you are always putting off is just before your big move. Decluttering involves getting rid of things you don’t actually need or use, including junk, tools, old toys, and kitchenware. It’s time you get vicious and get rid of as much of it as you can.
Start Packing
After getting rid of everything you can just about live without, it is time to put your stuff in boxes. For starters, consider investing in some boxes, packing paper, durable wrap. These items will play a pivotal role in reducing the chances of breakages during the transition. The children can help you label all the boxes. This will get them busy, and they will have fun doing it too.
Place important documents like auto-registration papers, passports, birth certificates, and insurance policies in a special box. Remember to place essentials like toilet paper, chargers, medicines, and paper utensils in another box.
Your Mode of Moving
Now is the time you need to consider how you will eventually get all your belongings to your new destination. Fortunately, you have the option of using your vehicle, renting a moving truck, or hiring professional movers. The last option is the easiest, but you need to compare different service providers to find a great deal.
Conclusion
Once you follow the steps enumerated above, you will realize how easy and hassle-free a cross-country move can be, even with kids. In fact, you will most likely enjoy the entire experience. With the right planning, a big move can be a joy for the whole family!