Moving is such an overwhelming process, from packing up your belongings to managing the logistics- the whole process can very easily turn out to be stressful. Thankfully, technology today has made things so much easier to put your move in order and make things simpler. Following are a few ways you can leverage technology to make a smooth transition with your family.
Create a Moving Timeline Using Applications
Probably, one of the most effective ways to manage a move is by developing a timeline. You can then easily take advantage of mobile device applications such as Trello or Todoist to organize tasks regarding setting deadlines and responsibilities among family members. Create packing, cleaning, and logistics lists, then break those tasks down into manageable steps. In that way, it’s easy for all group members to understand what they need to do and when exactly it needs to be done.
You can also consider one of many specialized moving apps, Move Advisor and Sortly. These programs may have both checklists and reminders included in their structure to keep you on point during your relocation.
Leverage Packing and Inventory Management Tools
Packing is sometimes quite chaotic. Of course, there are effective ways to remain organized with the use of some digital tools. Using inventory management applications, such as StuffKeeper or MoveLoot, take pictures of your possessions and make notes about their conditions. This will give you a clear overview of what you own and what needs packing.
While packing, there are several packing apps that you can use for tracking the boxes and their contents. This allows you to easily find your essential items when you arrive at your new home. Several packing apps allow the option of scanning barcodes quickly to update inventories.
Research and Hire Movers Online
Finding reliable movers can be quite overwhelming; technology makes it more manageable. Take advantage of Yelp or Angie’s List to read reviews for moving companies and compare them side by side. You may also want to check out websites like Thumbtack, where you post what you are looking for, and multiple movers quote a price.
Besides, most moving companies have online booking facilities these days, where you can book your move according to your convenience. This saves you time and also bypasses the back-and-forth communication that generally originates with this traditional method.
Virtual Tours of New Neighborhoods
Know your new neighborhood before you arrive: use technology. Websites like Zillow or Trulia often provide virtual tours of homes and neighborhoods. Connect to local community groups through social media on Facebook and Instagram and obtain detailed information about schools, parks, and events.
With this information available online, you can make more informed decisions about your new home and community, thus softening the blow a little for your family.
Group Messaging Lets You Keep in Touch with Family
During a move, communication is even more crucial, especially among families. Since you are connected through group messaging services like WhatsApp or GroupMe, family members can let others know what’s going on. In turn, family members will be able to let them know with much greater ease when something has changed, be able to coordinate a task with another, or even if they just need emotional support through this process.
You may want to consider setting up a group chat about your move. You can share tips there, logistics for the move day, and last-minute changes. This is how you can avoid confusion and ensure everyone has the same information.
Take Advantage of Smart Home Technology in Your New Space
If you’re going to be moving into a home that includes smart technology, then it is your best option to learn about all of the systems before moving in. In a smart home, so many devices are controlled through apps on your smartphone: thermostats, lighting, security systems.
These can be set up the minute you move into your new home. For instance, you can preset the smart thermostat so that your new space is just at the right temperature when you arrive. Smart locks will not only make life much easier for you but also secure your home.
Relocation often means lots of paperwork, ranging from lease agreements to utility contracts. Organize things by using cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox to store important documents digitally. Create several folders for categories such as “New Home,” “Utilities,” and “Moving Contracts.” This way, you can have access to essential documents right away without having to go through tonnes of paper.
Conclusion
Although relocation can be quite exhausting, the incorporation of technology into this task can make it easier on you and your family. From detailed timelines and inventory lists to learning about the new neighborhood and keeping in close touch with the family, all the right technologies will make your move smooth and less stressful. Let technology help create a positive moving experience for you and kick-start this fresh beginning in a new home.
