Moving can be very chaotic.  Between making sure that you have everything packed, making sure everything gets moved to your new home, and getting everything unpacked it can be a very nervewracking experience.  Whether this is old hat for you or your first real move, there are some things to remember:

If you are hiring a mover:

• Take the time to research the different movers.  This is the time to look at their reputation and find out what their policies are.
• Talk with friends and family about their experiences.
• Get multiple quotes.  Especially if this is a big move, this is not the time to just go with the first quote you get.  These should also be in-house quotes because it gives you a chance to meet the mover and get a feel for them.

If you are moving yourself:

• Research the different companies if you decide to rent a truck.
• Even if you are moving yourself you may be able to “rent” movers.  Check their policies because some have a minimum number of hours for which they can be hired.

Basic Tips:

•  Use this time to do the purging you have been meaning to do.  You can have a yard sale that will ensure you have less to pack/unpack and you have a little moving money.
• Start packing early. Take a little time after work to pack a box or two of items that you won’t need until after the move.  You may even want to designate a room as the packing room where you can store the boxes.
• Make an inventory of everything you pack.  If you are having a mover pack you up they will do this for you.  You should make sure that everything is checked off.
• Mark the boxes as to what is in them and where they go.  You may want to chose a color for each room.  This can help get everything to the right place and avoid potential chaos on “moving day.”
• You may want to hire a professional house cleaner to deep clean the house that you are leaving and the house you are moving into. 
•  Lastly, take that last look around the house before you leave.  You don’t want to forget anything!

There are also some basic tips for making sure that the move goes as smoothly as possible. There are many, many different sites for tips for moving.  Some include a check list for the different aspects of the move, including when to get your address changed and when to change your utilities.  Some of the movers will have websites that will have the different services they provide to make your move easier.

Moving doesn’t have to be chaotic.  This is a wonderful time when you have a new place to learn and explore.  Take the time to do your research and start packing early and enjoy this new phase of your life.