Whether you are moving temporarily during a remodel, moving across the country, or even just across the street, if you want to have a stress – free move, you need to be prepared. Here are some quick do’s and don’ts to assist you in preparing for the move without breaking the bank or your back.
Do’s
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• If you will be hiring professionals, finding the best moving companies doesn’t have to be difficult. One thing to remember is to get at least 3 estimates before you make your decision. Remember that some professional movers can add in hidden fees, so make sure you get everything in writing. Also, try to plan your move in the off-season, which is typically when school is in session. If that isn’t possible, try to move in the middle of the month or the middle of the week. This will get you better rates most of the time.
• Make lists. You will find the move goes more smoothly when you have lists to help you remember everything. You need a checklist for inventory and everything that will need to be packed, as well as one to help you remember things like changing your address with the post office, transferring utilities, and anything else you might need to remember to get done.
• While you are packing, make sure to set aside the things you no longer need or want. You can sell these things at a yard sale, online, or through apps. If you aren’t up to that and just want to get rid of the stuff, donate it. You can get a receipt for your donation and use it for a tax deduction.
• When packing, make sure that you label each box so that you know what is in it. Also, make sure that you add what room it goes in so you can just cart it straight to that room as you are unloading the truck.
• Packing supplies. You can get free boxes from places like offices, liquor stores, and grocery stores. All you have to do is ask, and don’t be afraid to. The worst they can do is tell you no and that happens very rarely.
• Cleaning. As you get everything out of each room, clean that room. This is especially important if you have been renting and want to get your security deposit back. It is also just good etiquette.
• Weight. Try to make sure that the weight is distributed evenly when you load your things into the moving van if you are doing a DIY move. It is recommended that the heavier items go towards the front. If you want the absolute best results, make sure that the weight is distributed evenly from both front to back and side to side. This will prevent shifting when the truck is in motion. It also lessens the risk of your items bumping into each other and being unnecessarily damaged.
Don’ts
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• Never mix fragile or expensive items in the same box with heavier and bulkier items. This can mean your fragile items get damaged. This is one of the more common moving mistakes.
• If you will be hiring professionals to handle your move, don’t expect them to be available if you call them a few days before you have to move. You need to book them a minimum of 4 weeks ahead of the move.
• Don’t wait until the day of the move to start packing. This will cost you time, make the moving more difficult, can damage your hastily packed things, and might even cost you money if you hired professional movers and you aren’t ready when they get there.
• Don’t make the mistake of leaving your old home without a final walk through. You need to do this to ensure you aren’t leaving anything behind.
• Packing. Try not to overfill boxes or make them too heavy to carry. At the same time, remember that space is important, which means that you should fill the boxes completely. Also, don’t forget to label boxes that have fragile things in them so you know to handle those boxes with care.
By following these do’s and don’ts, your move will go as smoothly as possible.
