Moving Tips

If the thought of having your friends and family move your belongings to your new place causes you to panic, hiring movers is the logical alternative. Hiring movers can be a simple task as long as you're organized.

When looking for movers, there is a variety sources available including online services. You should also ask your friends, coworkers and family members for recommendations (or warnings). Once you have a few suggestions, you should research them on consumer web sites like the Better Business Bureau, MovingScams.com and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's website. Be sure the companies you investigate are licensed and insured to legally move you.

 

Before you contact any movers, make a realistic assessment of how much you will need to have moved to your place. Consider how much furniture will be moved from your old place to your new one. The antique bed that took forever to assemble may be difficult to reassemble in your new place. Also, if you collect anything from books to limited edition action figures which could increase the number of boxes that need to be moved.

 

Once you've investigated the companies, contact the moving companies by phone or online for estimates. Make sure you mention any conditions that could affect the move including stairs, parking problems and delivery time restrictions. After you've compared the estimates, you need to make a decision. You should be wary of estimates that are much lower than they others and review them to see what differences exist. Also, compare any estimates that are much higher to see what is adding to the additional costs. Some questions to consider when selecting a mover include:

Once you've selected a mover be sure to confirm the move dates and details. On moving day, get a written copy of the mover's inventory list; provide detailed directions to your new place and a contact number that can be used during the move. While hiring movers can seem complicated and expensive, consider the time you (and your friends and family) will save by hiring professionals.

You've found a great place to move to and now you just have to move in but you can't or don't want to deal with the expense of movers. If you decide not to use movers, you'll probably need to rent a moving van or truck.

Before contacting any companies, you'll want to assess how much you will be moving in the truck and how long you'll need it. Generally companies estimate the size of the truck you'll need based on how many rooms you're moving. According to several rental companies a 24-foot truck will move 3-4 bedrooms; a 17 to 15-foot truck will move 2-3 bedrooms, a 14 to 10-foot truck for 1 bedroom. You should ask friends, family and coworkers for recommendations and about their experiences. You'll want to look for patterns involving reservation, maintenance and returning problems.

 

After you've identified the companies, you want to start contacting them to determine availability for your move and price. Prices can change and can be more expensive during busy times of the year this is particularly true of the summer months. Also, keep in mind that weekends can be a busy time and renting at the last moment can be difficult. You will want to ask companies about driver requirements, including age, as some companies will not rent to anyone under 25, or if special licenses are needed. Check your car insurance to see if coverage extends to rental vans. If not, check with the rental company and your insurance company about coverage.

Once you've found an available rental truck that meets your needs, make the reservation. Check with the company about any special instructions for operating the truck. This could include basic driving tips if you've never driven a large vehicle. Most companies have written instruction manuals available at the pick up locations or online. Be sure to ask if you have any questions regarding operating the truck. You may want to confirm your reservation as your move date approaches. Don't forget to refill the tank before returning it or you'll be charged a refueling fee and for the gas. Be sure to note what type of fuel is required. And it probably wouldn't hurt to check what side of the truck the gas nozzle is on before you get to the gas station.

Once you have your truck, you're ready to make your move.

 

You've signed the lease on your new place and now it's time to plan you move. You may think you only have two options: hire movers or move yourself. But there is a third option available where you pack and load your stuff and someone else drives.

How does a self-service move work? When you contact the moving company, you'll set up a time for the truck or trailer to be delivered. You're responsible for packing and loading your belongings and a professional driver is responsible for picking them up and transporting them to your new place. You may want to consider a self-service move if you don't feel comfortable with driving the moving truck.

There are several advantages to doing a self-service move. You can control costs since you pay based on the space used so you won't have to worry about being charged more because of poor a weight estimation. There are no hidden costs like gas that can come with renting a moving truck. As moving is already stressful, with this method you won't have the added pressure of driving an unfamiliar moving truck.

 

There are several advantages to doing a self-service move. You can control costs since you pay based on the space used so you won't have to worry about being charged more because of poor a weight estimation. There are no hidden costs like gas that can come with renting a moving truck. As moving is already stressful, with this method you won't have the added pressure of driving an unfamiliar moving truck.

Take an inventory what you'll need to move. You'll need to decide if you'll be able to load it yourself or if you'll need assistance and how much. As with any move, you should ask friends, family and coworkers for recommendations (or warnings) when selecting a company. You can request an online quote for the cost estimate. Some companies will offer additional services such as assistance with loading and unloading and packing materials for an extra charge.

Once you've set your pick up and delivery date and times, be sure to confirm them with the company. The amount of time you need to pack and load will depend on the amount you're moving. If you're unsure how long it will take you to load and unload your stuff, ask the moving company for an estimated length of time needed. Find out if there are any charges if you need additional time to load or unload. Also, provide them with a number you can be reached at during the transport of you belongings, in case there are any problems or questions arise.

 

When you have a couple of options to use, you'll want to want to inspect the facilities. Make sure they have smoke and sprinklers. This can be important in climate controlled facilities, where the units are located in enclosed buildings where fire can spread to multiple units more quickly. You'll also want to check the size of the available units and the prices.

Once you have selected the facility you'd like to use, you'll need to sign an agreement with them. You will be responsible for the items in your storage space so you'll need to provide your own lock for the unit. You'll need to know the hours of operation. Some facilities have limited hours and others have 24/7 access so select one that meets your availability. Also, you'll want to look into insurance for the items your storing.

After you've rented your storage unit, you're ready to move your things. Be sure that you store your property correctly so you don't damage it. You'll want to cover furniture and wrap and box breakable

 

items. By renting your storage unit you'll be able to organize your belongings even if you can't keep them all in your place.

 

All personal items of high value such as jewelry, coins, prescriptions, etc., are best carried with you when traveling to your new residence.

Remember; note missing or damaged items on the Household Goods Descriptive Inventory upon delivery. Failure to do so could result in denial of your claim!

Remember that when filing a claim for missing or damaged items, you will be required to substantiate any loss with a proof of value and ownership. This can be accomplished in the form of cancelled checks, sales receipts, a homeowner’s policy or appraisals.

Never throw out an item that has been damaged! The van line's appraiser or repair firm may want to inspect it and if you dispose of a damaged item your claim may be denied due to the article not being available for inspection.

If you cannot be at your residence on the day of packing, loading, unloading or unpacking; you will need to name an agent or representative to act on your behalf and to supervise the movers, as the mover's may have questions which will require immediate answers.

You or your company has been provided with an estimate for the cost of your move. Only the services detailed on this estimate are approved. Any additional service that is required should be approved by you or your company before it can be performed.

  

Please don't make travel plans for packing, move out, move in or unpacking day. Plan on being occupied with the service being provided for the entire day.

Keep your telephone functioning through the planned loading day. Likewise, try to have your new telephone installed and functioning for move in day at your new (destination) residence. You or the movers may need to communicate with the outside world.

All personal items of high value such as jewelry, coins, prescriptions, etc., are best carried with you when traveling to your new residence.

Remember; note missing or damaged items on the Household Goods Descriptive Inventory upon delivery. Failure to do so could result in denial of your claim!

Remember that when filing a claim for missing or damaged items, you will be required to substantiate any loss with a proof of value and ownership. This can be accomplished in the form of cancelled checks, sales receipts, a homeowner’s policy or appraisals.

Never throw out an item that has been damaged! The van line's appraiser or repair firm may want to inspect it and if you dispose of a damaged item your claim may be denied due to the article not being available for inspection.

If you cannot be at your residence on the day of packing, loading, unloading or unpacking; you will need to name an agent or representative to act on your behalf and to supervise the movers, as the mover's may have questions which will require immediate answers.

You or your company has been provided with an estimate for the cost of your move. Only the services detailed on this estimate are approved. Any additional service that is required should be approved by you or your company before it can be performed.

 

 

Beds - Disassemble the bed frame. Tie rails and cross-pieces together with packing tape. Be sure to mark on tape to show where pieces fit together for reassembly.

Bicycles, Tricycles, Baby Carriages - Loosen, lower and turn handlebars at right angles to save space. Clean and cover chains and pedals to protect other items from being snagged or soiled.

Books - They're heavy, so use small boxes. Don't mix books with other items. Pack books flat, alternating bindings, and fill empty spaces with packing paper or bubble wrap.

Bureaus, Dressers - Fill drawers with small breakable items and cushion well with loose clothes. Secure drawers with pad or blanket and tape. Do not overload drawers with heavy items.

Chairs - Wrap arms and legs to prevent scratches. Bundle armless chairs in pairs, seat to seat, with a folded blanket or other padding between and tie seats together.

Clothes - Dresses, coats, suits - anything hanging in closets - travel best in reusable boxes, which can be used seasonally as "extra closets" for wardrobe storage. Other clothes can remain folded in their regular dresser drawers.

Curtain Rod Hardware - Put the hardware in a plastic bag and tape to rod or pack in dresser drawers.

Dishes - Individually wrap each piece. Place saucers, plates and platters on edge - DO NOT STACK FLAT. Cups and bowls may be placed inside each other and wrapped three or four in a bundle.

Fine Furniture - You may want to wrap your best furniture in bubble wrap, not only to protect it from scratching, but to keep dust and dirt off the upholstery

Glasses - Wrap each glass separately in packing paper or bubble wrap (remember to wrap first in a plastic bag to save washing later). Pack in sturdy boxes.

Kitchenware - Pots, pans, etc. can be stacked in a box with packing paper between them.

Lamps - After disassembling lamps, pack small bases in dresser drawers surrounded by loose clothing, and large bases in boxes stuffed with packing paper or bubble wrap. Box shades individually in boxes with plenty of packing paper for stuffing. Don't use newspaper because it smudges.

Lawn Mowers - Drain fuel and oil before loading. Remove handle from hand mowers and place blade end in sturdy box. Mark properly.

Mirrors - Small mirrors can be well wrapped in paper and packed in boxes. For a large mirror, make a cardboard case by cutting pieces of corrugated cardboard. Mark “GLASS” on the outside to prevent mishandling. Always pack and store on end.

Paint and Flammables - Don't move! The same goes for other flammables such as alcohol, solvents, lighter fluid, ammunition and greasy mops or rags.

Paintings, Prints - Place in mirror boxes, wrap individually in corrugated cardboard, or wrap in cardboard cushioned with thick blankets and tie bundles with cord. Stand on sides.

Radios, TVs - Box upright and make sure items are well padded on all sides. For console-size equipment, surround with furniture pads, and then move and load upright. Rugs and Pads - After vacuuming rugs and pads, sprinkle with moth flakes. Roll up and tape.

Stereos, Compact Discs and Cassettes - Separately pack components and pack in well-padded box marked FRAGILE. Pack CDs upright in their cases in a sturdy box with tape-reinforced bottom. Tie CDs in small bundles before packing, then, fill air space with packing paper and mark “FRAGILE.” Cassettes can be packed in a similar manner, although you can group them in larger bundles.

Tables - For large tables, remove legs and tie together. Put hardware in small sealed envelope taped to underside of table top. Pad tops. Pad and tie spare table leaves. For smaller tables, pad top and wrap legs to prevent scratching.

Tools and Gardening Equipment - Drain hoses, coil and pack in boxes. Fill remaining space with lawn sprinklers, small garden hand tools, etc. Tie rakes, shovels, and other long-handled tools together with tape.

Valuables - Set aside jewelry, important papers and safe deposit box contents to be packed in a small container you can keep with you throughout the move.

Pack small appliances in original container or a box cushioned with wadded paper. (Do not use shredded paper - it can clog the appliance.)

With major appliances, check with the appliance dealer for any special moving instructions. For all large appliances, remove loose fittings and accessories and pack separately. Tie down, tape or wedge all movable parts and doors.

Gas Dryer - Have gas company disconnect.

Dishwasher/Washing Machine - Stuff towels between machine sides and tub to keep tub from rotating. Pad exterior well. Disconnect hoses, put in plastic bag, place in tub.

Freezer/Refrigerator - Defrost and dry interiors well. Fill interior spaces with lightweight linens, clothing or stuffed toys. If you want to lay your refrigerator down for moving, check first with the local dealer to determine if your brand can be moved like this. If so, make sure refrigerator stands upright for at least 24 hours before plugging in.

 

Organization is the key for a smooth move and this is the time to start getting the big and small details of your move in order. Don't panic and remember that each year over 20 million households move or relocate. Although the challenges of the move may seem daunting, many people have had successful moves and you can too!

This is the time to decide what items you wish to transport to your new home. If you decide to dispose of items that you don't need you should either donate them to a charity or consider having a garage sale. Contact a local charity or pick a date at least two weeks before moving date for the garage sale. Advertise the garage sale locally. Team up with your neighbors who want to sell some of their old belongings, and plan a large neighborhood "sale".

Start collecting suitable moving and packing supplies if you plan to do your own packing or partial packing. You can purchase moving boxes from moving companies or a moving supply company. All boxes that you purchase from a moving company or a moving supply company are specially designed for the moving industry to prevent any damages to your belongings. Getting boxes from other sources may create some difficulties when packed in the van. These boxes may be unusually sizes and they may not be strong enough to prevent damages to items packed inside.

Think about your new home layout and start thinking about where you'll place the furniture. Create a floor plan of your new home that will prevent the stress of making decisions when your furniture arrives at your new home.

Get familiar with your new community. Request information on schools, community programs, parks and recreation from the local Chamber of Commerce.

All travel arrangements (hotel, flights, car rental, etc.) for your family should be made at this time. Try to keep your plan flexible as possible to accommodate any schedule changes or delays.

Keep all receipts for moving related expenses in a designated moving folder. Many moving expenses are tax deductible. Obtain an IRS Change of Address form, Form 8822, by calling (800) 829-1040 or visiting the IRS website. You will be able to download and print form 8822 and most other IRS tax forms; e.g., Form 3903 to help deduct moving expenses.

Finalize all real estate needs.

Contact your insurance agent to transfer medical, property, fire and auto, and homeowner’s  insurance.

All medical and dental records should be placed in a safe and accessible place. Be sure to include prescription, vaccination records and eyeglass specifications.

Plan on taking all important documents such as wills, stock certificates, and other one-of-a-kind items (jewelry, coin collection, photos etc.)

 

Contact the Post Office for the Change of Address form to tell of your move. Give your new address to:

Friends and family

Banks, insurance companies, and other institutions

Credit card companies

Doctors, dentists and other service providers

Any clubs or associations memberships.

Local government agencies, Federal agencies and IRS.

Magazine and newspaper subscription.

 

It is the time to take a look at what you own, and decide what must go and what can be left behind. All items such as old books, magazines, broken items, old toys can be left behind.

Remember-adding more weight to your shipment costs more money.

Organize your move by deciding and making lists of what items you will not transport, what items your moving company will move and what items you will move yourself.

Make a decision if the items not going that will be sold at a garage sale, picked by a charity or trash it.

Make a decision on who will do most of the packing or all the packing. It is a good idea that you let the moving company do most of the packing. moving companies know the best methods for keeping items safe; that's what they do for a living.

If you will do most packing or all the packing please refer to our packing guide. Any one of a kind items must get special attention. Please ask the moving company you use for further details about handling unusual and delicate moving situations. Start preparing those items not used often for your move.

Get your kids involved with the moving process. Let your kids do some packing and let them suggest a layout for their new room. Make it fun and exciting for them to move.

 

Notify your moving company if there are any changes in the dates of your move. If you will need any additional accessorial service such as piano moving, packing and unpacking, storage you should inform the moving company for pricing information. Also inform the moving company if you add or subtract items from your planned shipment.

Decide how much packing your will handle yourself. You should inform the movers of any items that you decided for him/her to pack.

Whether you transport your car with the moving company or an auto transport company, you should make your final reservation for a car pick up at this time.

Consider giving your plants to friends or a charity if you are moving from one state to another. Some state laws prohibit the moving of houseplants.

Make transportation arrangements for your pets. Take your pets to your veterinarian to ensure proper up to date health certificates and rabies inoculations. Some states will require these documents.

You will need to carry all valuable jewelry with you. If you have any valuables around the house, be sure to collect them before leaving.

Return any borrowed items such as library books. Also collect all items that are being repaired stored or cleaned (clothing, furs, shoes etc.)

 

Transfer all prescriptions to a drugstore in your new city. You do not want to find yourself without important medicines while you locate a new doctor in your new city.

Call your bank to find out what your options are relative to transferring your bank and investment accounts. If you choose to change banks when you arrive in your new city, understand what the process will be for you to move funds from your current accounts into a new bank. Many people will want to open new accounts to accommodate direct deposit options that they may have with the new employer. If you have any safety deposits boxes, you should clear out the contents and arrange for place to store these items in your new city.

Disassemble and disconnect your computer systems and home networks before your move. This is a great time to clean out unwanted files and programs and to complete a full back up of important files and documents onto an electronic media storage format. Consider taking all of these files with you personally as you do not want these files to have any exposure to extreme temperatures, which could damage or corrupt your files.

Make all of your final packing decisions. If there is anything that you have not yet thrown out and are not going to need in your new home, this is the time to say goodbye to these items. The less that you take with you, the less expensive your ultimate move will be. Clean and clear your home including closets, basement and attics and the items that you will take

Dispose of items that represent a hazard and are not allowed to be shipped. Please refer to our section on more information on items that are not allowed to be shipped.

Tape and seal all cleaning fluids that are non-toxic, non-flammable in plastic bags.

Drain your lawn mower, snow blower, power tools of all the oil and gasoline to ensure safe transportation

Schedule appliance disconnection and preparation with a service provider.

If you need to store anything call your moving company about storage options available.

Inform gas, electric, cable, and telephone services of your move. Arrange to have them disconnected from your present home the day after your scheduled moving day. Sign up for services at your new address and connect them on your moving in day.

Have your automobile serviced if your travel is by car. Make sure your oil has been changed and your tire pressure has been checked.

If you will be driving to your new home, spend some extra time to go through some detailed maps. There are some great online mapping sites that can help you plot your route to your new location. Try to stay on major highways and thoroughfares as much as possible to reduce the likelihood of getting lost.

 

During this hectic time, remember to stick to your plan. Don't panic and remember that you have organized yourself for the move and are ready for anything.

Make sure to mark which items you'll take yourself, so the movers won't take them or have any questions.

Make sure you haven't overlooked anything in the house. Don't forget about attics, basements and other crawl spaces in which you may have stored items.

Mark your moving boxes to be shipped with "Fragile", "Do Not Load", "Load Last" stickers.

Empty, defrost and clean your refrigerator, freezer and clean your stove, at least 24 hours before moving to give them adequate time to air out before you leave the house. Baking soda can be a very helpful to get rid of any odors that may be left behind.

Prepare items you will need while your goods are in transit. Just as you would if you were taking a trip, keep a change of clothes and other necessities in case anything gets delayed in transit. Pack your suitcases and confirm travel arrangements for you and your family. Try to keep plans as flexible as possible in the event of unexpected delay or schedule change.

Make sure your contact person from the moving company knows both the mailing address and phone number of your new home. You should also provide an address and phone number, preferably a cell phone or family member, where you can be reached until you will get to your new home. The moving company may need to contact you during the shipment of your goods and you want to make this as easy as possible for them.

Arrange for payment to your moving company by contacting your movers to inquire about methods of payment accepted. Many moving companies will accept major credit cards but make sure you know their policies before the move begins. You do not want to find yourself in a new city having to access large amounts of cash to pay for your move.

Inquire with your moving company about protecting your goods through purchasing additional moving insurance. Please carefully read and review the various protection options available to you before your goods are in transit. Should anything be damaged, you will want to have your insurance in place in advance and understand what the claims process involves.

 

Try to tell your family (including the children) about the move as early as possible. Just as you did, they will need to get used to the idea of moving also. Depending on the ages of your children, moving may involve many major changes to their own daily lives.

Focus on the positive aspects of the move for the family. If it involves a job change, discuss how the new city will offer a new and better house, new schools and the chance to make new friends, new entertainment facilities and so on. Focus on the unique aspects of the new city that you believe that your family will find most appealing.

Maintain a positive attitude but do not over do it as they will hold you accountable for whatever you say. Your positive attitude will also rub off on your kids so be enthusiastic about the new adventure ahead.

Be prepared for negative comments and reactions and do not lose your cool when these opinions are voiced.

Listen and be patient and reassure them you will be there to help them through the transition. Moving can be very traumatic for the family and it is important the family stick together and provide mutual support for each family member during this period of transition.

Let them know they can help with the move and that this is a family event. They may be able to help with some planning or packing.

Answer any questions as best as you can with examples if possible. It's okay if you cannot answer all the questions right away as long as they see you are completely open to any questions. This will make them feel more comfortable with the move. Most importantly, be honest about the feelings that your family members will have. It is never easy to leave a school, friends and familiar places. If you are empathetic of the life changes that everyone will face, it will make the entire process much easier to handle.