Empty Your Fridge and Pantry Before You Move
Most people do not think about the contents of their refrigerator, freezer and pantry when they think about moving. There are many other items of concern that are more important so they don’t consider these items until moving day arrives. This is a mistake. You could end up losing a lot of money in groceries if you don’t plan ahead.
The best plan for moving groceries is to move as few of them as possible. Most movers charge by the pound, so the less food you move, the more money you will save. This means you will need to use up as many food items as you can prior to moving day. It also means that you should refrain from buying more groceries as your moving day approaches so you don’t end up wasting food when it comes time to move. You will have to go to the grocery store when you get to your new location, but it’s better than taking a chance on the food going bad between your old house and your new one, particularly if you are moving a long distance.
There are certain food items that you should never move from your old location to your new one. These include milk, meat and vegetables. These are not going to stand up to the move and could spoil before you get to your new house. It isn’t even worth taking a chance on eating or drinking these items when you get to your destination. Only buy what you think your family can use before the move. Otherwise, you will need to dispose of anything left over on moving day.
Frozen foods are more durable during a move, but only if you are moving to a location that is fairly close to your old one. If any frozen food thaws out, it must be eaten right away since it is not advisable to refreeze most foods. These foods, if they must be moved, need to be packed in a cooler filled with ice and put back in a freezer as soon as possible. They should also be moved by you in your personal car instead of by your moving company. If you are moving a long distance, consider donating your frozen food to a local food bank.
Open foods such as sugar, eggs and flour should not be moved. These items will make a huge mess if they are spilled during the move. Either throw your extra out or donate it to your friends and family. These foods are not expensive and can be replaced fairly cheaply when you move to your new house.
About the Author –
John is a shrewd consumer who writes about personal finance, finding deals, and local consumer home services like: Houston movers & packers and Los Angeles mover.