Whether it is a short local move or long-distance move, to ensure a positive experience with minimal stress be sure to begin planning as soon as possible at least five weeks prior to the move. Moving can be a simple and quick task, if you get it done the right way.
Remember that the most important tip is to plan ahead. This will give you and the moving company as many options as possible. Start making a moving checklist that will include everything you need to do before and during the move. Don’t forget your bills and certain expenses; they may easily be overlooked in the process.
The summer is a pick time in the moving industry, especially the beginning and the end of the months. If you are planning to use professional moving services, get several moving quotes to help you better estimate the price of your move.
Book the movers as soon as you know the moving date, just to be sure that the movers are available on the day you want to move. If you are moving locally, try to move on a weekday, it may even be cheaper than moving during a weekend. If you are planning on Do-It-Yourself move, make all rental arrangements ahead of time.
Notify your post office, credit card companies, hospitals, banks, insurance companies and etc. about your move. Transfer your school and medical records. Discontinue your gas, electric, TV, water, phone, newspaper and internet services.
If you hire professional movers, they can pack everything for you, which is an optional service. However, you should pack all your important paperwork and all high-value items yourself. Remove and pack all valuables items yourself such as jewelry, legal documents, antiques, liquor, etc. Most of the movers will not take those items and, even if they do unknowingly, they will not be responsible for such items. Some relocation companies have restrictions on flammable and hazardous products such as fireworks, propane tanks, cleaning fluids, acids, chemistry sets, ammunition, etc. If you have children, have them pack their toys. Always be there when the movers are packing your goods. Anything you pack ahead will save you time and money on moving day, but make sure to mark all your boxes by the bedrooms or contents.
Keep in mind if you decide to do your packing or partial packing that movers are not liable for damage to those boxes, unless there is an obvious exterior damage to your boxes. Find out from homeowner’s or renter’s insurance companies whether your goods are covered in transit.
Think about the space in your new home before you move. The move is an excellent opportunity to have a clear-out. Get rid of all unwanted and junk items. Have a yard sale or give it to your local charities or family members. Make a list of new items you may need in your new home.
If you are moving with children, show them around the new house before you move in and answer their questions. Children may react to moving in different ways. After the move, introduce yourself and your kids to your new neighbors and find out if any of the neighbors have any kids around the same age.
If there are any pets in your house, it will probably be best to move them first and keep them in the backyard so that they can get used to their new home too. You may also place them in a quite room while you are moving.
Clean out your refrigerator and freezer well before moving them. Keep the doors slightly open to keep the air circulating just before you move. If you are moving yourself, don’t load appliances on their sides, it can cause damage if they’re not kept upright.
Drain fuel from any lawnmowers and other machinery. If you have liquids that you plan to take with you, place them in individual waterproof bags or jars.