Relocating Your Home or Office? These Tips Will Ensure a Seamless Transition
01 October 2022
Moving is said to be one of life’s biggest stresses. In fact, research shows that some consider it to be more taxing than divorce! Several factors contribute to this way of thinking. First, is the seemingly constant decision-making that’s required. When to sell your current property, how much to put it on the market for, where you’ll move to next, etc. Part and parcel are the financial implications of relocating, even within the same city. Then, of course, there’s the emotional toll of packing up your living space ahead of the big move.
So, how do you remedy this? Become a pro at packing up your belongings and remove unnecessary stress while you’re at it. Here are a few tips and tricks to get you started.
1. Divide & Conquer
Preparation is everything when it comes to moving houses. The sooner you can begin the process of packing up, the better! Start by addressing spaces/rooms that include items you’re unlikely to need in the weeks leading up to the move. Doing so will also allow you to clear up some space for sorting your belongings. There are even services available to remove unwanted items for you. Loadit moving company, for example, will collect any junk or recyclable items that need disposing of and drop them off at the relevant sites. The same applies to any goods that need donating. The Loadit moving team will happily pick up and deliver them to Hospice or any other charity of your choosing at a date and time that suits you.
2. Maximise Space
Since we’re on the topic of packing, there are ways to envelop your belongings to maximise space, while minimising damage or mess. Newspaper is hugely effective for wrapping plates, for example. It protects them from chipping and allows you to stack them to fit in more. Looking to save space in your suitcase? Put glasses and mugs in your socks! Perhaps an unusual packing method, but an effective one. Ziploc bags are great for items that can spill or leak. Utilise them for packing food, cleaning materials, and beauty products. These bags also come in handy for transporting cords, chargers, and plugs with ease.
3. Equip Yourself
Packing supplies are hugely important for a seamless move. The last thing you want is to be dashing to the shops to pick something up when you could be packing. Duct tape and boxes of varying sizes should be first on your list. A close second is labelling materials like Koki pens or stickers to identify what goes where and for unpacking purposes. As mentioned, newspaper is good to have on hand, as are Styrofoam and bubble wrap. Cargo straps and rope are necessary for securing your items inside or on top of the moving trucks. Moving companies like Loadit provide straps and ropes as well as moving blankets to protect your cargo. They also have different sized truck and bakkie options available depending on what goods need transporting.
4. Storage Solution
Renting a storage unit makes sense for items you’d like to keep but have no room for, or as a temporary solution while finalising your big move. Gone are the days of transporting these items yourself. Nowadays, companies like Loadit will collect your belongings and transport them to your chosen unit. Speaking of which, when choosing a storage unit – ensure that it has enough space to store your items – and for you to move around. Are any of your goods temperature sensitive? There are climate-controlled storage facilities available to store goods at optimum temperature levels. Easy access is key if you’re planning on visiting your unit frequently. Take note of the facility’s operating hours. Flexibility in this regard caters for any unplanned/emergency visits to your unit, as well as those you’ve organised beforehand.
5. Shipping No-No’s
Long-distance moves often require more effort and planning. The most important consideration is how to transport your belongings to your new spot. Shipping is often the preferred method for these types of moves. It’s important to remember, however, that there are limits to what you can ship. In South Africa, these include biodegradable materials like plants, food, and other perishable items. Anything too large to fit on a pallet such as lawnmowers, agricultural machinery, and heavy or sharp objects. High-value items are also prohibited – be it TVs, jewellery, currency, precious metals, and fine art, to name a few. For those immigrating, be sure to check the shipping restrictions that pertain to the country.
6. Plan for Pets
Moving is as tough on pets as it is for us, if not more so. Since they’ve established a home base and are comfortable in their current environment, it’s up to you to make their move as stress-free as possible. Many advise that you pack up in front of them to get them used to it. Don’t pack their items away, rather keep as many items with you to retain some familiarity. Try and keep their routine as constant as possible leading up to the move and keep them entertained so as not to cause unnecessary stress. Chat to your vet about remedies that can help keep them calm and to ensure all their vaccinations are up to date. Take note of any new pet laws if you’re moving to a new complex, estate, or a different country. If possible, get your new home ready for your pet before you introduce them to the space.
7. Business Moves
Whether you’re moving offices or working from home – when it comes to business moves, much of the above principles apply. There are, however, additional steps to keep in mind to ensure a smooth transition. Inform your colleagues, clients and/or customers of your move and when you’re likely to be unavailable. Inform them as to when you will be back online and running and update them should this change. Consider the time it will take to reconnect all your tech before committing to a date. Ensure physical files are in order and labelled accordingly and electronic documents are backed-up should anything happen to your devices. Take inventory of what needs to be moved and select a moving company that can cater to such. Loadit moving company, for example, is experienced in business moves and has different-sized truck and bakkie for hire options available to transport your work contents safely and securely.
8. Outsource Movers
With the packing out the way, another hurdle many people face is finding a reputable moving company to transport their belongings quickly and efficiently. This can be both a nerve-wracking and expensive exercise if not enough research is done beforehand. You might be asking "Where is a moving company near me?" Loadit, a moving company in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town and Durban strives to remove the stress associated with relocating by offering a fully integrated service. Much like a moving app, Loadit offers a website that offers a seamless booking process allowing you to select a time and date, as well as the vehicle(s) you’ll need to complete the job. Qualified drivers ensure the job goes off without a hitch and remain in contact with you from start to finish. Loadit also offers additional assistance in the form of helpers. The best part? Customers also only pay for Loadit’s moving services when they need them.
Loadit is the partner you need to move with ease. To learn more, visit our services page.
Let’s get moving!
We understand that every move is unique which is why Loadit gives you the ability to personalise our services according to your needs.