7 tips for a stress-free relocation
The thought of relocating brings beads of sweat to the foreheads of many. Not without reason: “Moving three times is as bad as burning down once,” the American publisher, scientist and politician Benjamin Franklin was already convinced of this. However, with good planning, the stress of moving can be significantly reduced – we have collected the most important 7 tips for you:
Firstly: Book a transporter, freight forwarder or moving company in good time.
Only rarely is a suitcase the only companion when moving house. Rather, sofas, wardrobes, armchairs and other household goods must be moved from the old to the new place. Since there is rarely a suitable transporter parked in the garage, it has to be obtained either from friends or elsewhere. The sooner you do this, the sooner the vehicle will be available on the desired date.
The same applies if you entrust boxes and co. to a freight forwarder or the entire project to a moving company. But it is not only the means of transport that is important: if you are moving on your own, you should also ask friends for support in good time and organize the necessary materials (boxes, cartons, bubble wrap, adhesive tape, but also carrying straps, work gloves, etc.).
Second: Look carefully and compare
If you decide on one of the latter two options, you should not necessarily accept the first offer on the Internet and take a closer look at the offer or the company. A detailed imprint, a landline number and company address on the website as well as the seal of approval for small hauliers from the Chamber of Commerce are indications of the seriousness of the company. A look at the company register number and business license can also protect you from trouble.
Another indication that the company is reputable is when the estimate is provided after a free home inspection. According to consumer advocates, it is important to discuss all points in advance – in addition to the price and payment terms, these include the question of whether damage is insured or whether there may be additional costs (for example, for more boxes than agreed).
Third, take time to muck out
Take advantage of the move to thoroughly clean out! Anything that hasn’t been used in a while – from clothes to furniture, books to odds and ends – can be donated, sold or, in the worst case, disposed of.
Fourth: Start packing on time
The sooner, the better – this also applies to packing the moving boxes. Therefore, relocation experts advise to start already three to four weeks before the relocation day.
Fifth: Draw furniture layout plan
Don’t drive your helpers to despair by first considering where to put chairs, table and co. in the new apartment. Set the places in advance.
Sixth: Well packed
Pack the moving boxes yourself, be sure to protect the contents well – and that the boxes are not too heavy. Also, label boxes and crates so it’s clear where they belong. A few pieces of clothing and laundry, but also toothbrush and co. should be packed separately in a travel bag. The same applies to medicines and, if necessary, baby food, diapers, toys or pet food. But also for important documents.
Seventh: Do not forget the official mold
A move is also associated with bureaucratic effort: The rental contract must be terminated, a date for the return of the apartment must be arranged. Electricity, gas or district heating as well as radio, TV and Internet must be changed or deregistered or registered at the new address.
In addition, residents must also deregister at the old residence and register at the new one within three days of moving; this can also be done digitally. Anyone moving to another district must also do so with their motor vehicle.
In addition, the change of address should also be disclosed to employers, insurance companies, banks, cell phone operators and the like. This is one of the reasons why it is worthwhile to set up a forwarding order with the post office.
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