As Senior Move Managers, we work with clients before, during and after a move. From experience working on hundreds of moves, we’ve learned how to avoid some of the pitfalls and make the move process as smooth and stress free as possible.
Stress associated with moving can be triggered by the many changes brought about by the move, worry about the cost of the move, and how much time it requires to get everything done. Planning ahead and arranging for help if you need it are two of the ways you can minimize stress.
In addition, there are a few things you can do to avoid adding to an already stressful event. From personal experience – and a few mistakes along the way – here’s what we have learned:
1. Book your mover early. The best movers book up quickly especially during peak moving seasons and at the end of the month. Because you don’t want to settle for second best, do your research, get price quotes and make your selection as soon as you know your move date.
2. Understand the mover’s base insurance coverage. Although we all hope our move goes smoothly and nothing is damaged, that is not always the case. Make sure you are not surprised about how you are compensated for damage if something goes wrong. Most moving companies include insurance at the rate of 60 cents per pound. If you do the math, that doesn’t add up to much. If you have items of value, find out the cost for full value insurance. Also, be sure you understand any timing restrictions for making a claim.
3. Declutter, declutter, declutter. Everything you move costs money to pack and move so avoid moving belongings you don’t use or love. It’s easier and more cost efficient to purge before you move.
4. Move valuables to the home of a trusted relative or a safety deposit box before having packers, movers or repair companies in your home.
5. Label your packed boxes clearly and indicate the room they will be moved to in the new home. Being in your new home surrounded by packed boxes can be daunting. Unpacking will be much easier if the boxes are placed by the mover in the correct room.
6. Be 100% ready for the movers when they arrive on move day. The movers will want to get started quickly. Make sure any last minute items are packed before they arrive. If there are boxes or furniture pieces that are not be loaded on the truck, make sure they are clearly marked.
7. Persoanally move your own prescriptions, checkbook and any important papers with you to your new home on move day. In the hustle and bustle of the day, you want to keep track of these important items.
8. Moving day is exhausting so have a plan or extra help on hand to make sure the shower curtain can be hung and the beds made. You also should have a kitchen and bathroom moving box that is labeled “UNPACK FIRST.” These boxes should contain items you will need right away including toilet paper, paper towels, a few trash bags, the coffee pot or tea kettle and personal care items.
It’s important to remember that you don’t have to go it alone. Ask friends or family members for help. If you need outside help, consider hiring a Move Manager. Make sure the company is bonded, insured and willing to provide references. With planning, preparation and good partners to help during the move process where needed, you will be settled comfortably in your new home with the move a fading memory.