By: Kimberley Heit

Kimberley Heit — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 23:48:01 +0000

Tears, anger and frustration! They are an inevitable part of any big move, but they can be minimized with some good planning.
I've had my fair share of long distance moves. From packing half a house into a Tic Tac sized car, to moving far, far away from civilization to towns barely registering on the population stats. Now with another move just around the corner it's time to write a plan of action!
ORGANIZATION:
-Have a huge clean out, garage sale or get ebaying before moving day. Yes you really can let go of that pet rock collection from 1st grade. Having less to pack makes life easier and keeps costs down (makeover games).
-Ask stores ahead of time to keep boxes,bubble wrap etc. for you so that you don't have to pay for these items.
-Use Black and Red markers to label boxes.With the black write what category the items you're packing fall under so that when you get to the new place you don't have to go through 16 boxes to find those plates for dinner. Use the red to mark boxes that contain fragile items.
-Changing address details- it's easy to forget what details you have actually changed so create a spreadsheet to keep track of it. Divide the spreadsheet into three columns. Column one for person/company, Column two for the contact details and Column three for a tick when complete. To Create the list of details to change start keeping a list of any mail that arrives at your current residence before you move. Go through your purse or wallet and you will find many details you need to change from formal things like your driver's license, through to memberships.
-Something you might not consider until it is nearly upon you is that you may have a time frame where you have already shipped your possessions yet you are not at your new destination with them. If temporary accommodation is not an option it is wise to keep old clothes bedding etc. and buy disposable items that you are happy to toss out when you actually leave. Include some cleaning items in this list because you will need to leave wherever you are leaving from in good condition.
-Create a small emergency packing kit- include first aid items, pain relief tablets, tissues etc. and if desired some snacks and a book or pack of cards.
SOCIAL ASPECTS OF A MOVE:
There are not only practical issues to consider in a move, there are also social and emotional issues. The following tips are to help cope with leaving your current family and friends:
-Before moving have a going away party or touch base with those important to you. Knowing you have people who care and will lend an ear will help in those lonely or frustrating times.
-Choose a telephone plan that allows cheap long distance calls to stay in touch with family and friends.
-Look into other ways to stay in touch. For example use VOIP instead of a traditional land line phone plan. You can really save a heap on long distance calls.
-Instead of sending and receiving presents ask for/give money towards a trip to visit family and friends.
DEALING WITH UNEXPECTED FRUSTRATIONS:
-Confirm everything- many large removalists outsource work, make sure you have confirmed with the actual person responsible for picking up your possessions that they are coming when specified. I had a company turn up half a day late after many phone calls on the day. If I hadn't rung they wouldn't have come at all.
-Try to take plenty with you in your suitcase/car. Your new possessions do not always turn up with when they are supposed to or in one piece so you could be living out of your suitcase for quite some time. In addition think long and hard about what sentimental or important things you need to take with you. All records documents like birth certificates, passports etc. are wise to take with you even if you don't think you require them at the time. The same goes for your address book. Do you want to risk putting your wedding album, family photo's into storage? Many airlines let you take more luggage on a one way trip or for free or a reasonable charge.
-Costs- even if you're moving costs are covered through company relocation there will always be several extra costs to keep in mind. Take away food whilst busy moving, new phone, Internet, water, gas connections etc. etc. So try and put some money away when you first find out you are moving. In addition get any quotes especially from companies like your removalist in writing. They have been known to change their prices after they have taken your items into their possession and hold you to ransom.
-If you do encounter problems with a supplier such as your removalist there are usually watchdogs to help. Find out who governs this trading in your new area and lodge all details with them. Even if they cannot force the company to comply with your wishes the investigation on them is usually enough to get things on track.

Comments on: Moving overseas is an experience of a life time

By: Kimberley Heit