It is not uncommon to review our current living needs as we age and get older. Our kids may have all moved out. May be we are considering downsizing into a smaller home. We might want to move closer to our grandchildren.

Regardless of the reasons, moving long distance or locally can present some challenges for seniors. We may not be as active as we used to be. We cannot easily lift heavy objects and move furniture. Some moving tasks could even be outside our abilities.

But that does not mean moving cannot be successful. We just need to make sure to plan and prepare for the upcoming move. To help prepare, we offer these moving tips for seniors:

Tip #1. Hire a professional moving company.

Start requesting moving quotes as soon as you know you will be moving. The sooner you do, the more likely it will be to get your preferred moving company.

Tip #2. Inquire with your mover about “value-added” services.

Some movers offer packing and unpacking assistance. They may even haul away anything you no longer want and take it to a local charity.

Tip #3. Go through your belongings.

Everyone accumulates a lot of “stuff” over the years. You can have excess clutter and items you no longer want, need or use. When sorting make three piles: Keep, Sell/Donate, and Trash.

Tip #4. Have a garage or yard sale.

If you are able, have a garage or yard sale to sell any unwanted items. The sale can help earn some extra money, maybe even enough to pay for your movers! Anything left over after the sale, donate to a local charity.

Tip #5. Inform your children your desire to move.

Make sure to keep your children informed of your plans. They may even offer to help with various moving tasks to make things easier on you.

Tip #6. Do not wait until the last minute to pack.

It is better to pack at your own pace if you are doing the packing yourself. Set packing goals to make sure you stay on track. For example, you could set a goal to work on packing for two hours each day.

Tip #7. Label your boxes when packing.

Make sure to write on each box the contents and what room it goes in at your new home.

Tip #8. It is okay to take breaks when you need one. If you feel like a break, take one as needed. On moving day, your movers will be doing all the work, so it is okay to relax while they load and unload the moving truck.

Tip #9. Have your movers put the furniture where you want it.

Your movers are happy to help by unloading furniture exactly where you want it placed.

Tip #10. Start by unpacking essentials.

Focus on what areas of the home matter the most, like the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom.

For more great senior & long distance moving tips or to request a free moving quote, please feel free to call Sueland Moving & Storage at 416-747-9889 today!