You are moving to Anchorage, Alaska. This is an extremely exciting time in your life: New location, new home, new people, new job, and new opportunities for your life. But with all the excitement of a new beginning in your life it is important not to overlook the key aspects involved in your move. Here are some moving tips on what you need to know to prepare for a move to Anchorage.
Find a Reputable Moving Company
Your move to a new home is most likely going to involve moving a good amount of your possessions with you. But if you are like most new home buyers in a new location, you will not be able to physically move all of your belongings with you. That is where a moving company comes into play. It is important to do your homework and choose the moving company that is best suited to your needs. Not all moving companies are created equal.
First, decide how much of your stuff you need moved because some moving companies specialize in smaller moves and others for large orders. Check the companies reputation online, usually found under customer reviews. Review moving companies’ pricing plans, their insurance plans, and their overall moving process. Some moving companies only offer vehicles for rent while others will come to your home and pack up all of your stuff for you.
Organization is Key
Any job worth doing is worth doing right. Moving is no exception. The best way to ensure that you do not make any mistakes in the moving process is to itemize all of your moving needs in an easily understandable list. Start this process as soon as you know you are going to make a move. Do not wait until the last minute. Document when, where, how, what, and who is making this move. Is it just you or do you have an entire family to move?
Create lists on a computer and then back up those saved files. Have a detailed chronological plan of action. List what duties need to be performed by whom at by a certain time or date to ensure your move runs as smoothly as possible. Ensure that all packing is completed in a timely manner.
Get Rid of Unwanted Goods
As you begin the packing process, this time is a great chance to get rid of unwanted things around the house. Your expenses will just climb if you decide to move these items with you. Instead, sell them or give them to Goodwill. Have a garage sale and make a few extra bucks. If there’s still some things left over, pass them down to friends or list them on eBay. Make sure there’s plenty of room waiting for you when you get to Anchorage. Don’t re-stuff your home.
Get Packing Supplies
The most obvious item for packing is boxes, but too often, homeowners forget to stock up on tape, bubble wrap, Sharpies, and newspaper. These items will ensure secure packing, but rarely cross people’s minds. Get a lot too! People underestimate how much packing tape they really use when packing a whole house full of stuff.
Have an Unpacking Plan
Once you arrive to Anchorage, you don’t want to face a chaotic situation of unpacking everything randomly. Have a plan ready. Start with the necessities first and start with the rooms that will be used first. Bedrooms should come first — get the beds set up (both master and children’s). Bathrooms should get towels and other necessities. If you’re still waiting on setting up internet and cable, have some lamps ready for reading at night. Next, get the kitchen ready. Take out all the pots and pans, as well as the cups. Anything that is essential. Once you’ve finished the important rooms, you can move on to the extras (like the home office).
Completing Your Move to Anchorage
With a solid plan and good organization, you can make your move as painlessly as possible. If you’d like to learn more about living in Anchorage, read our helpful guide. If you have any questions about moving to the area, feel free to contact us:
