Moving to an apartment can be a challenge, especially if you are moving there as the result of selling your house. Think about all the things you have in your house, about moving to an apartment, then dash for the door and get a garage sale going fast. There is no way all your furniture in your house will fit into your new apartment. Moving to an apartment will also mean you will need to do some serious downsizing in terms of garden supplies and outdoor tools etc.
Go through your house room by room and figure out what can go on the list for the day you are moving to an apartment. Then figure out what to do with the things “left over”. You have several options for remaining furniture, appliances and other items. You could donate them to a local charity. You just have to call them and tell them you are moving to an apartment. You could give items away to friends or family, sell them or recycle them for free. It’s up to you.
Once you have lightened your load, start finding the things you will need to start packing. Moving supplies can be found in just about anywhere. If you want boxes, your moving company usually sells them. Or try the local liquor store, a grocery store, pharmacy or a major chain store that gets daily deliveries. Just ask them to save the boxes, not break them down and shred or burn them.
Make sure you have a good supply of strapping tape, and a good box cutter. Box cutters let you re-size boxes to fit the items you have packed in them. Cutting your boxes to size can save on space needed in the van, which will save you money on the cost of your move.
Grab some masking tape as well to label your boxes clearly. This beats playing guess what’s in the box when you go to unpack. If you have kids, it’s a good idea to let them label their own boxes so they know their belongings are going with them to the new location. This lets them help with the move and calms them down. Try not to pack the fave Teddy Bear until the last minute.
A taping gun is a total life-saver if you have a lot of boxes to seal. Insert a roll of tape into it, touch the end of the roll of tape to the box, roll it out and rip it off at the serrated edge. It is quick and easy, and a real time saver. The less hassle you have packing, the easier your move is going to be in the long run.
