Moving tips
Moving is one of the most stressful things a person experiences. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to prevent excess anxiety. Check out these tips from one of our knowledgeable moving coordinators, and add them to your moving checklist.
- Schedule your move as early as possible to ensure your desired move dates are available.
- Avoid mixing items from different rooms in the same box.
- Use wardrobe boxes to make closets easier to pack.
- Empty out your dressers, desks, etc.
- Clothes in drawers can be placed in suitcases.
- Separate all items you plan to take with you prior to the crew's arrival.
- Make sure that the items you may need access to immediately are not out there for the movers to pack. This could include cellphones, chargers, prescription medicine, car keys, clothing, etc. - anything you'll need while the majority of your belongings are on a truck.
- Label these items so the crew knows not to pack them.
- For large appliances be sure to check your owner's manuals to see if there are special instructions for moving.
- Make sure that all of your appliances are unplugged, drained and or defrosted.
- Never use printed newspaper to wrap fine china.
- Always stack dishes upwards when packing. Also, make sure that dishes are separated and padded with packing paper. Remember: the heavier the item, the smaller the box.
- Don't pack with food or supermarket boxes. You never know what little critter might be hiding there- or if the box will be strong enough to support your possessions.
- Don't use used boxes. You don't know if the box will be strong enough to support your possessions. Previous use effects the integrity of the box.
- By law, a moving company cannot transport hazardous materials such as gasoline, bottled gases and other flammables, ammunition and explosives. We also do not transport liquids.
- Clean out closets, the attic, and the basement as soon as you decide it's time to move.
- Do not ship sentimental or important documents such as birth certificates, insurance papers, deeds, medical records, passports or anything that may be required when purchasing or renting a new home, such as bank statements, Add these to that "do not pack“ pile.
- Pack and label a box of "essentials," or items you will need upon delivery. Having paper towels, a sponge, soap, toilet paper, disposable dishes, light bulbs, etc. in one well-marked box means your family can begin to settle in quickly.
- Label all cables and wires to TVs, stereos, DVD players, video game consoles, etc. for easy set up at destination. This will prevent you from trying to solve a complicated puzzle on a hectic day.
- Plan to be available for all of the days you have set aside for servicing your move - do not schedule travel the same day, as unexpected events may occur.
- Perform a complete walkthrough prior to the truck operator leaving your home to ensure all items have been packed. Open and check all cabinets, closets and drawers; look outside, on patios and in the garage. Has everything been packed and placed on the truck? That overlooked cabinet of dishes probably won't fit in your car or your carry-on luggage.
- Ensure the truck operator has a cell phone number to reach you at any point up to delivery. Make sure you keep your charger with you.
- Make sure to get enough cash to get you through moving day.
- Take time to say goodbye to friends and neighbors before your busy moving day or afterwards.
- Do not plan delivery of your household goods on the same day of closing on a new home. No matter how early your appointment is or how late the truck operator plans to arrive, plans change. You don't want your shipment to have to go into storage!
- Have a printed layout of the new residence so you can quickly advise the movers where to place items. This will help you avoid rearranging too much furniture and minimize your heavy lifting.
- What is the main theme here? Being as organized as possible can make your move go smoothly.
