You finally bought your dream home and cannot wait to move there. As you celebrate your new home purchase, you start to think of when you can move into your new place. Then you remember your last home move and realised that there are a million things to pack and take care of. Just the thought of it can be daunting, isn’t it?  

It’s no wonder that for some people, home moving can be a particularly stressful event, especially if there are large quantities of furniture and possessions to pack and move. Not to worry, here are some solid tips to help you manage your next home moving.

Take stock of everything at home

Begin by taking stock of every item in your home – what are the things you want to keep and what are the things you should really get rid of. Sieve out those items you want to discard and put them together in a pile.

Sell or give away these unwanted items with the remainder to be thrown away. Hold a garage sale or put up online classified ads for these items – you may be surprised at how many people may be interested in them. 

Start packing early

The best tip anyone can give you is to start packing early if you can help it. Give yourself ample time to pack. Do not procrastinate until the last couple of days before the move to pack.

Start by packing items that you won’t be using until after the move. Perishables and toiletries should be the last items to pack.

Engage a professional mover early

It is best to find an experienced and trustworthy professional mover early. Get recommendations from relatives and friends. Discuss all moving details with your mover. Matters such as special packing, insurance and time of moving should be arranged way before hand.

Legal and functional considerations in another country

If you are moving to another country, be sure not to pack any illegal item. You should also take note of differences in electrical power voltages - for example, US electrical appliances are made for 110 volts versus the 220 voltage in Singapore. No point bringing electrical appliances to another country if you can’t use them.

Cancel home and utility services

Remember to notify utility service and telecommunication providers of your move. Cleaners and newspaper delivery services should also be notified.

Change of address notifications

Inform all relevant authorities and anyone who might be affected of your change in address.

Care of children and pets

Often, young children and pets can hinder the moving process. Arrange for a relative or friend to take care of them at their homes for the actual moving date if you can.