July 25, 2016, by Meghan Belnap – In the military, moves and relocations are expected. But it is also stressful and time-consuming. And more often than not, you are not the only one to consider in the move. Your spouse and children are also going to have to uproot and notify their employers and schools about the change. If you currently find yourself in this tough situation, make your move easier with these 4 tips:
Accomplish Something Each Day
Don’t wait until the last minute to complete tasks associated with moving. Write down everything you need to do several weeks in advance and start completing a task or two each day. Notify your satellite or cable, phone and electric companies and apprise them of the last day that you’ll need their services. Go to the post office and fill out a relocation form. You should also contact utility services at your new base so you can arrange to get those connected in advance.
Get Rid of Unnecessary Items
Sell or donate clothing items that you no longer wear and old fax machines, copiers and other equipment you don’t need. Similarly, go through your drawers, filing cabinets and closets and toss out old documents, papers and junk. You’ll be surprised at the number of garbage bags you will fill with the paper items alone. Throw an open house to sell larger items such as wash machines and refrigerators you don’t want to move.
Label Your Boxes
Purchase a spiral notebook and number every box you pack. That way you can keep track of all of the items you move. Start with one room and continue to number those boxes until you’ve completed packing that room. Consider using letters in front of the numbers to designate rooms, such as the kitchen and bedrooms, or simply write the room in front of the number. This will save you time when unpacking at your new location. You can also load your items on the moving truck in a more orderly fashion.
Rent a Trailer
If you’re trying to save money by moving yourself, consider renting a trailer. There are vendors like Hillsboro Industries that can supply you with any type of trailer you need. Cargo trailers will make carrying boxed items and equipment much easier. Take advantage of flatbed trucks for moving automobiles and cars, and tilt trailers for the safe removal of all vehicles.
Utilize these tips when your next transfer comes in. Remember to be there for your family and take their emotions and feelings into consideration throughout the process. Together you can make the move more pleasant so you can focus on your new assignment and get acclimated to your new home.
Author Bio: Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She loves being in the outdoors and exploring new opportunities whenever they arise. Meghan finds happiness in researching new topics that help to expand her horizons. You can often find her buried in a good book or out looking for an adventure. You can connect with her on Facebook and Twitter.