Getting a place of your own for the first time is a milestone. It’s your opportunity to live away from home. Some of us have that experience while we’re still in college while others wait until graduation to experience it.
At Additional Financial, we have a lot of members who are currently undergoing the thrill (and the uncertainty) of moving out on their own. We’ve compiled six of the most useful moving tips to help you relocate with as little stress as possible.
#1: Make Lists
Even people who’ve moved a lot forget things. Making lists won’t eliminate that risk, but it will help you get (and stay) organized before and during your move.
Here are some lists you may want to make:
- Things to pack
- Packing material checklist
- Things to buy for your new place
- Utility companies
- Address changes/updates
It’s important to be methodical about any move. Lists will make it easier to keep track of everything. And, when you have a ton of stuff to do, there’s something satisfying about scratching items off a list. It means you’re making progress!
#2: Make a Budget
Budgeting might not be glamorous but it’s necessary, especially when you’re striking out on your own. It’s easy to get overwhelmed thinking about the responsibilities you’re taking on. A budget can help you get things under control and get a handle on your finances.
The best tip we can give you about living on a budget is that it’s doable at any age and any income level. Yes, it requires some discipline – but that’s part of being on your own. You can check out our free monthly budget calculator if you need some help getting started.
In many ways, this is the most important moving tip of all. It will set you up for success.
#3: Get Your Moving Supplies Early
Packing is one of those things that always takes longer than you think it will. You’ll need to sort through your things and decide what to bring with you. You’ll also need to protect anything that’s fragile and label everything. It’s a lot of work.
One thing that can help is getting your moving supplies as early as possible. Remember, there’s no need to shell out your hard-earned money for boxes. Most grocery stores and liquor stores will give you their boxes for free. All they’re going to do is recycle them – and if you talk to the manager, they’ll be happy to save themselves the work and set them aside for you.
In addition to boxes, you’ll need:
- Packing tape
- Labels
- Packing peanuts, paper or bubble wrap to protect breakable things
You may have to buy these, but they typically don’t cost much.
#4: Label Everything
We already mentioned labels, but it bears repeating. One of the most time-consuming things about moving is getting pieces organized in your new place. If you do the organization part ahead of time, you’ll save yourself hours when it’s time to unpack.
At the very least, you should create a label for each box so it’s clear where the box should go and what’s in it. That way, your friends (or movers) can put the boxes where they belong. That’ll simplify the unpacking process. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can take it a step further and create a full inventory list for each box.
#5: Decide What You Need to Buy Now and What Can Wait
One of the things that can take first-time movers by surprise is how many staples they’ve simply taken for granted living at home. We’re talking about basics like ketchup, mustard and salt.
It’s important to remember that you don’t need to fully stock your kitchen and pantry on the first day. We suggest breaking it down into “must have” items and electives. You probably aren’t going to make many great meals without salt, so that’s a must. But, while you might love hoisin sauce, you might be able to get by without it for a few weeks at first.
Remember, you can pick up a few things at a time every week when you hit the grocery store. Your budget will thank you for not going overboard at first.
#6: Set Up Online Payments
Some people move out on their own for the first time never having paid a bill. That can create some serious sticker shock! Our final moving tip will help you keep track of everything and establish good credit.
Online payments are a great way to ensure you’re not late with a payment and that you don’t forget about a bill. They’re also better for the environment because most companies have paperless billing that’s ideal for online payments. Once you set them up, you can relax knowing that your bills are taken care of.
It’s exciting to be moving out on your own! These six moving tips will help you move out – and get settled in your new place – with as little stress as possible.
To learn more about how Addition Financial’s checking accounts can help you with your financial goals, click here now.
Posted on Jul 28, 2019
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