I don’t mean to rush your summer fun away, but if you’re planning on moving to a new home, a new apartment slash dorm or even to a new airstream at the end summer, it’s imperative to start planning now! But don’t panic, I’m here to guide you with a few of my helpful moving hints.
1. Take Measurements
Make sure to take measurements of your new rooms so you’ll know whether your current furniture fits or to determine what the correct size of your new furniture should be. With your measurements, you can plan out and even sketch the floor plan. It’s extremely important to know if your hallway, or walk-up stairwell is not too narrow for any couch or coffee table delivery. Believe me, I know. We had this problem with a pullout couch from Costco (yes, it’s a great place for furniture, too!) and the delivery people could not carry the couch up the stairs. But what we DID realize is that Ikea is a fabulous place for purchasing inexpensive, do-it-yourself furniture and decorative items. Perfect for that 1st apartment after college! And if you’re not a do-it-yourselfer? Simply inquire with your rental company for some handy man referrals. Ikea + Handy Man = Eureka!
2. Schedule Deliveries
Schedule the delivery of any new furniture or appliances on the first day of move-in, unless your kids are moving into a dorm – then the extra long twin bed is included! Don't forget the mini-fridge!
3. Go Shopping
Purchase all necessary items for your new place such as sheets, mattress protectors and towels ahead of time at a Bed, Bath and Beyond in your current hometown, find a BBB in your new town and pick up all the new stuff when you’re ready to move in. It’s a service called Pack and Hold. I’ve used it several times and it’s efficient, convenient and better than lugging everything across the state or country! And remember, for tiny bedrooms where every space matters, you can purchase bed lifters to raise the bed for added underneath storage. Always wanted to live up in a tree house or sleep on the top bunk? This is your chance! Ha!
4. Have Fun!
Moving doesn’t have to be boring. Blast your favorite tunes. Take a break and go out to lunch in your new neighborhood. Or even spend the night before move-in day at a fun and fashionable boutique hotel!
I recently did this when I helped move my daughter to Boston and here are a few of my great finds in the city:
1. Charles Street – fashionable boutiques and good eats! Need some suggestions? Just Ask!
2. The Liberty Hotel – a renovated jailhouse. Clink!
3. Cape Cod – where I was introduced to Kiel James Patrick anchor/knot bracelets hand-crafted in my home state of Rhode Island. I also purchased a Sea bag made from recycled sails!
So, as much as you dread moving, you can at least make it a fun experience. Enjoy what life has to offer right now! It’s all about creating memories. :)
Need help in moving, shopping or discovering fun things to do in your new city? Just Ask!
Happy schlepping!
