Page 27 - AAA Hudson Valley – AAA Every Day – March/April 2019

MOVER’S HANDBOOK
Unpacking
The Dos & Don’ts of
Boxes, boxes, packing peanuts and—you guessed it—more boxes. If the thought of unpacking disorder after a move makes you sweat, you’re certainly not alone.
Even the most even-tempered can become overwhelmed by the enormity of organizing a new home.
Keep in mind that everything will be unpacked eventually, as long as you keep working, stay organized and maintain a positive attitude. Consider some dos to get the unpacking process underway in no time:
• Do unpack the “essentials” box first. This “lifeline” of sorts should be the first off the moving truck and perhaps even transported with you in the car. The small (but mighty) box should contain everything you need for a couple of nights including medication, extra toiletries and towels. Keep in mind that a little goes
a long way — if, in dire need, a convenience or drug store is likely minutes away in any new city.
• Do unpack the kitchen early on in the process. If all boxes have been clearly labeled, you should be able to locate what you need fairly quickly. Having major food appliances like the coffee pot and toaster hooked up makes life a little more comfortable in what can be an exhausting (and hunger-inducing) process.
• Do take time to enjoy your new space once you’ve unpacked the main essentials. Breaks are ideal
for easing stress levels, getting to know your new neighborhood even sooner and avoiding too many open boxes being strewn about at one time. Set aside time each day for packing but also a few hours to explore.
A few key points to avoid in the unpacking process include:
• Don’t assemble large furniture until you’ve planned where it will be placed. If you obtained plans to your new home before moving, arranging furniture should be reasonably straightforward. However, large armoires or tables in random places are not only annoying but dangerous if continually being dodged. Always try to put furniture organization toward the top of the unpacking to-do list.
• Don’t assume you have to unpack everything in one day — or even in one week. While unpacking marks the end to a long move that’s likely been in the works for months, resist the urge to conquer
the unpacking process too quickly. It’s an entirely reasonable reaction to want to put everything in its proper place as soon as possible but always think ahead before diving in. Adjustment to the new home will begin, regardless — spare nerves in the process.
Save up to 60 percent or more on state-to-state moves with Atlas. Plus, AAA members receive up to $100,000 Full Value Protection at no additional charge (an average savings of $560). Savings also are available for across town, within state and international moves. Across
town (local) and within state (intrastate) services are performed under Atlas agent’s authorities. Discounts may vary and are not available in all areas.
Visit AAA.com/atlasvanlines or call 1-800-621-6547.
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