Ready To Move When You're On The Move

My husband and I enjoy a career that guarantees the possibility of moving on the average of once a year (we’ve already moved 3 times since March!). Our performance at a particular location, needs within the company or even the time we’ve been employed can all feed the relocation-monster. Sometimes it seems as if we‘re barely unpacked before we get the call that tells us we need to start packing again. It’s crazy, but it’s true!

Fortunately, Scott and I entered into this with our eyes open, and we actually consider our frequent moves to be a part of our life’s grand adventure. Our kids are grown and doing their own things, so we look forward to the different directions our job could lead us—even if we’ve only gone about 50 miles so far from where we started out!

With each move we’ve gotten a little more efficient—not just in the packing and unpacking, but in the times in-between, and in how we stay prepared for the next move.

Here are some tips that, when combined with your own common sense and experiences, that can help to save you time, money and a little peace of mind.

1.) Don’t throw away those boxes and bubble wrap! Our landfills are FULL of stuff like that; besides, you already know you‘re going to need them again, right? Why not take a little care in unwrapping your fragile items to salvage those expensive bubbles? Plus, cardboard boxes, when broken down flat, store easily in tight spots*, like between your washer and dryer, under the kids’ beds (!!) or in the attic.

2.) Shop smart! When shopping for furniture and decor, scrutinize each purchase with an eye for relocation. Ask yourself if the item will travel well, how it will stand up to frequent packing and unpacking, or if it will even fit in your new home.

3.) Whittle it down! In addition to the shopping tip in #2, consider each item you already own as you unpack it. Does it still ‘go’ with your new home? Are you even still fond of the piece? Many times our tastes and styles change, but we are holding onto older items for sentimental reasons. If you look around your home with your new relocation-focused lens, then you just may find items you can discard to make life easier (or make room for that special something you’ve had your eye on!).

4.)  Keep a short list! A handy list of local moving companies, truck rental locations and packing supply stores will save you valuable research time if you‘re moving in a hurry.

5.) Keep those old towels and blankets! Even if you’ve changed color schemes or your linens are just getting a little frayed around the edges, they can still work wonders as extra padding. Save them to wrap around mirrors, artwork, or the corners of your china cabinet to keep it from rubbing.

*Just don’t have room to store? Then please consider donating your boxes to another family on-the-move. Online networks like [Link Removed] or your local freecycle group are great resources for giving and getting free moving supplies.

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