Moving is a big job that many people dread. But thanks to our ultimate moving tips, you will be well prepared for your move.
1. Calculate your moving volume
Knowing your moving volume will be for your move is useful. This way, you will know how many moving boxes you will need. In addition, the number of cubic meters (m³) is useful for the removal company to know so that they can estimate how many movers must be deployed and the size of the removal van. Then, when requesting a moving quote, they can also make an accurate calculation. Not sure how many m³ you are going to move? No problem. Easily calculate the volume of your household effects with the moving volume calculator.
2. Making a checklist
The worst nightmare while moving: I forgot to arrange something at the last minute! Fortunately, we have made a moving checklist for you so that you have everything in order and can check everything off one by one. Handy, right?
3. Arrange administrative matters
Arrange the most important administrative matters surrounding your move. For example, think of:
- Register with the new municipality;
- Report changes of address to important authorities such as the tax authorities, the bank, your employer, your insurance companies, etc.;
- Notifying your energy supplier of your move or even concluding a new contract with a party that may have a more attractive offer; ( Note: only if you are not tied to a contract)
- If your new network administrator is known: arrange gas, water, and light;
- Not to forget, of course: change the address of your chipped dog or cat!
4. Measure furniture
Very important moving tip: measure your furniture. There’s nothing more frustrating than finding out during the move that your sofa won’t fit through your door or window. Therefore, measure the large furniture to see if it can go through the door. Doesn’t it fit through? Then we recommend that you start disassembling on time. You can read more extensive advice in the article moving furniture.
5. Arrange moving boxes
Moving boxes can be arranged in various ways. You can buy them, and you can borrow them. Moreover, you can even arrange them for free! Finally, the moving company may also offer a service to make moving boxes usable for your move.
- You can buy moving boxes online at various websites. Order the size and number of moving boxes well before your move so that you can be sure that you will receive them in time.
- You can also borrow moving boxes from your circle of friends or your environment. Do you know people who have recently moved? Ask if you can borrow their moving boxes.
- Go around supermarkets and see if you can take free boxes. Sometimes you are lucky enough to be able to take large job boxes with you, without bananas, of course, 😉.
6. Throwing away things you no longer use
A move is also a good moment to throw away old things you no longer use. That old chair that has been gathering dust in a corner for years in the shed or in the attic that no one is looking at anymore, or all those electronics that you have used a few times and put in a corner. So check all the rooms carefully whether there are things or clothes you can make someone else happy with. Then you start with a fresh start without old stuff in your new home, and you have to pack less and therefore carry less .. two birds with one stone! Are you already starting to enjoy moving?
7. Packing your belongings
Packing your moving boxes properly is crucial when moving. Sturdy boxes, not packed too heavily, everything taped shut, everything well distributed. But how do you pack your belongings as best as possible? We thought you’d never ask.. 😉.
Provide enough filling and packing materials
To properly protect all the contents of the boxes, you can use filling and protective packaging materials. Think of bubble wrap, paper, polystyrene foam, or kitchen paper. This way, you can be sure that nothing will be damaged.
Distribute the weight well
Try to distribute all heavy items as evenly as possible. For example, do not fill a box with books or plates, because that is very heavy and there is a chance that the moving box will tear.
TIP: Pack heavy items in a smaller box. This prevents a box that is too heavy or that the box is left half empty because it is already heavy enough. Use a rug and mattress storage bag to protect them from external hazards.
8. Keep medicines and valuables separate
After your move, you don’t want to search endlessly for valuables and medicines at the bottom of a moving box somewhere in the room. Therefore keep them separately in a bag or in a bag and transport it personally. This way, you can be sure that your belongings will be moved quickly and safely to your new home.
9. Fragile and Flammable Goods
Pack fragile items in a separate box and wrap them in the paper. It is even safer in towels or clothes because they protect against shocks. Next, pack the heavy items, such as plates, at the bottom of the box.
TIP: Never put bottles in moving boxes horizontally but upright. As soon as the moving boxes are packed, you can indicate on the box that it contains fragile items.
It is best to move flammable goods such as aerosol cans or other highly flammable liquids separately. You are not allowed to pack these goods; temperature changes can cause leakage and, worst case, an explosion. You don’t want that on your conscience, of course.
10. Did you forget anything?
The time has come: all moving boxes are packed! But you’re still done. Check again if you haven’t forgotten anything to pack. Walk around your house again and check all the rooms. If you have a basement or shed, you can also search it again. Are you sure everything is in order and packed? Then you can start the move with peace of mind!