As a moving company, it always pains us a bit to hear, “moving is one of the most stressful things a person experiences.” Unfortunately, many aspects of moving are just plain stressful. Fortunately, there are a number of moving tips to prevent excess anxiety. Check out these tips from one of our knowledgeable move coordinators, and add them to your moving checklist.
- Schedule your move as early as possible to ensure your desired move dates are available – especially in peak season, which tends to run roughly from May to September. If you’re able to move in the fall or winter, you’re more likely to have more flexibility with your pack, load and move dates.
- Separate all items you plan to take with you prior to the crew’s arrival. This could include cell phones, 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.
- 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 can occur.
- Perform a complete walkthrough prior to the van 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 van operator has a cell phone number to reach you at any point up to delivery. Make sure you keep your charger with you.
- 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 van 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.
Some good moving tips right? What is the overarching theme here? Being as organized as possible can make your move go smoothly. Good luck!
Here are some useful resources that might come in handy.