When saying ‘I do’ means a move — tips for combining households
Valentine’s Day is Thursday. This romantic observance is a popular time for couples to pop “the big question.”
Getting married means a whole lot of changes, not the least of which could be moving to a new house. Whether you’re getting a brand-new place for the both of you, or one of you is shifting all your earthly possessions to join your spouse, it’s a good idea to take proactive steps to make crossing that new threshold a little easier.
The following tips will help you and your new spouse handle the big move-in gracefully, economically and efficiently, so you can start your life together with as little stress as possible. Congratulations on the big day and the big move!
Declutter.
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Before moving, go through your possessions, as individuals and then again as a team. Even if you’re moving to a larger space, it’s better to start fresh with items you know you like or need, and it will save you moving things you don’t really want to keep. After you’ve each discarded old, unused or disliked items, take inventory of common household items to see if you have duplicates. Do you both have toasters, blenders, a full set of silverware? Decide as a team which of them you prefer. If the other is still in good shape, donate, recycle, or if too old and damaged, discard.
Plan ahead to save.
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Whether one of you is moving or you both are, you can save a lot of money by doing the move yourself. It’s remarkably easy to rent a truck from a reputable company, such as Penske, and you don’t need a commercial license. Driving a moving truck isn’t difficult, but it is different from driving a car. Be careful to use your mirrors to navigate turns; avoid sudden lane changes or stops; and make
sure to allow extra time. Plan ahead by reserving your truck at least two weeks in advance.
• Pack smart.
Nothing hurts more than moving your prized possessions, only to find them damaged when you arrive at your new digs. Your best bet is to pick up sturdy boxes, strong tape and bubble wrap at your truck-rental store so you know everything you pack will arrive at your new home in the same condition as when you packed it. You can also get labels to use on your boxes so you know which items belong in the kitchen, the bathroom or the bedroom.
• Be space conscious.
You’ll need about 150 cubic feet of space for the furnishings of each room in your current home. In other words, a 12- or 16-foot rental truck should accommodate the contents of most small apartments or condos. When loading a moving truck, do what the pros do. Heavier items should be loaded in the back of the truck, while lighter items should be placed in front and on top.
• Share the burden.
Invite friends, family and members of your wedding party to help you move — but be sure to make it a party. Ordering plenty of pizza and drinks for the postmove party will be a big hit. Perhaps you could pick out special items or photos as mementos of your friendships or family events during your decluttering to gift your moving helpers.