Moving house has been named along with divorce and death as one of life’s most stressful moments. So do what you can to make it as easy as possible… Here, AGS Singapore talks us through ten tricks and tips for moving house with ease including selecting the right moving company, decluttering, nailing your packing list, organising logistics and more!
#1 Know your budget before approaching a removalist
The costliest part of an international or local move is the volume of goods to be transported. Shipping costs have increased over recent years, so it’s important to know your budget. Once you know this, you can talk to a mover about how many 20-foot or 40-foot shipping containers you can afford, and whether you may decide to do some of the packing yourself.
#2 Purge first!
When I last moved house, I was amazed at how much stuff we accumulated in six years. It involves a time commitment, but decluttering before you move means you only take with you what you need and want in your new home. Sell, donate and recycle. This is one of my favourite tips for moving house as not only is it therapeutic, but you’ll also save on moving costs!
#3 Select the right moving company
Ideally, choose a moving company early to give you time to get organised. When selecting your mover ask for a quote which should be competitive but most importantly reliable, transparent and comprehensive. Remember that cheapest doesn’t mean best, as you are transporting your valued possessions. Make sure that insurance is in place, and read reviews online about your mover. Ensure good communication systems are in place for before, during and after moving day, and ask about the claims process in the event of damage.
#4 Highlight specialty and fragile items on your packing list
To obtain a proper moving quote ask the moving company perform a site visit. During this time make sure to point out any specialty and fragile items so they are included in the paperwork. It may be that some items are better to sell than move, like a grand piano or billiard table. Ask if there are any prohibited items that cannot be moved such as aerosols, batteries, household cleaning products and electronic lighters, and keep them separate from the items to be packed.
#5 Make a moving checklist and a packing list
Prior preparation prevents a poor performance! Before packing consider using a labelling system to sort valuables and personal items and record them on a packing list. Add to the checklist some of the other tips on this list including organising essential logistics at point six below!
#6 Organise essential logistics
If you’re moving into a condo, reach out to management to approve the move-in date. Some don’t allow weekend moving, and your removal quote may even be cheaper mid-week. Arrange for utilities to be cut off and turned on at each end including electricity, water and internet. Also, process change-of-address paperwork for key contacts like banks, and re-direct mail at the post office for at least one month.
#7 Visualise moving house
If possible, obtain a floor plan for your new home so you can work out where and if your furniture will fit. If upsizing or downsizing, this will also help you decide if you need to buy or sell pieces. Take photos of your current setup, so you can re-create your spaces easily in your new environment. Pics also come in handy if furniture is being dismantled and re-assembled.
#9 Have a plan for moving day
There’s always a lot going on moving day. Make arrangements for your kids to be cared for elsewhere if possible. Put together a survival kit including food, drinks and a phone charger to get you through the day. If you can, have someone at each end to help with directing and receiving boxes. Pack a suitcase as though you are heading off on holiday. On this packing list include everything you’ll need to get you through the first day or two. And if you are relocating internationally, consider sending an airfreight box with toys and essentials for the first month in your new country.
#9 Leave time to clean your old home before handover
In Singapore, the standard expected by agents and landlords on handover is exceptionally high. Make sure you leave enough time to professionally clean your old home, including patching walls, cleaning carpets and curtains. That way you’re more likely to have your rental deposit returned!
#10 Pay for unpacking and handyman services
You’ll settle into your new home a lot quicker if you can opt for unpacking services with your moving company. Often a handyman service is also available to hang mirrors, artwork, and other personal items. This will transform your new house into a home in no time. Stress-free moving experience complete!
Written in collaboration with AGS Singapore, a branch of AGS Worldwide Movers, who specialise in relocation services within Singapore, the Asia-Pacific region and around the globe – a network spanning 148 locations across 99 different countries.
AGS Singapore
agsmovers.com
Now you’re sorted for tips for moving house without stress, why not check out our guide to neighbourhoods in Singapore?
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