Moving Help

Whether this is your first time moving into a new home of your own, or you consider yourself a moving veteran, here are some helpful hints that everyone can use for a successful, stress-free move.

The number one tip? Start early. The earlier you begin to prepare for moving day, the smoother it will be. Try to start two months ahead of time, if your schedule will allow it.
If you choose to hire professional movers, make sure to shop around first to compare not only prices but also their reputation and service record. Also, make sure you're clear about the company's insurance coverage, any special service fees, and weight limits. Remember to make your reservation with the moving company far enough in advance to guarantee availability for your moving day.
If you, your family and friends are the ones doing the moving, remember to reserve a truck, purchase packing materials and tools, and look into buying moving insurance to cover accidental damages.
At the 1-month mark before your move, try to save yourself time and space when packing by reducing clutter. Hold a yard sale. Donate unwanted items to charity (remember to make note of the value of what you give so you can receive tax benefits next April). Begin to get rid of perishable items.
Packing Essentials: sturdy cardboard boxes, marking pens, newspaper, packing tape, scissors.
Clearly label the outside of each box with information on what’s inside, whether it’s fragile, and what room it will belong in.
Avoid packing more than 50 lbs into one box.
Don’t pack it all: There are some items you'll need on your moving day, such as cleaning supplies, toys for your children, and a limited supply of food and clothes. Also, make sure important documents like your contract with the movers don't get boxed.
To ensure there’s no interruption in your mail service, submit a Change of Address form to the post office several weeks before your move. You can fill out and submit the form online by visiting moversguide.usps.com. You'll also want to notify your bank, clubs, doctor offices, etc. of your upcoming change in address.
Make the switch: remember to switch your utility services. Contact your water, sewer, electrical, gas, home security, trash pickup, telephone and cable companies. Tell them when you're moving and when you need your services transferred.
Removing interior doors makes it easier for the movers to maneuver large items around and out of the house.
One the day before your move, make sure you've set aside food for the next day, as well as medicine and toiletry items you may need in the next 24 hours.
If you’ve hired movers, take them on a walk-through and identify items that require special care. If you haven't hired professionals and you're doing the heavy lifting yourself, be sure to take lots of breaks and drink plenty of fluids.
After everything has been moved, remember to make one final sweep of the house.