Top Five Moving Tips

June 29, 2012 by Frank Peditto

An average of 11.6 percent of U.S. residents move each year. Whether it’s a move down the street, across the country or around the world, it’s said that moving is one of the most stressful events in ones life. As we enter our peak season, following are a few tips to reduce the stress and possibly eliminate a few headaches.

1. Hire professionals. It seems obvious, but people are always looking for a deal. Professional movers are experienced, insured and will alleviate a large amount of the stress, and risk, of moving. A great resource is Moving.org, provided by the American Moving and Storage Association.
2. Get multiple quotes. Invest the time and after you have pre-qualified two to three movers, have them conduct an in-home survey, which will provide them with the information and details to offer a competitive, accurate quote. Review those quotes side-by-side to check on the amount of packing materials, additional labor, full replacement coverage insurance, and whether or not unpacking is provided. It’s also critical that they have the location of your new home, so they can assess the neighborhood and truck access to determine whether or not a shuttle may be needed. Taking time with this process will help eliminate any surprise expenses during the move.
3. Don’t pack yourself. If you pack your own goods, they are not covered by insurance, so it’s critical, and a lot more convenient, to have the professionals pack the vast majority of your items.
4. Prepare in advance of move day. This could really be it’s own post, but in a nutshell it’s critical that you get rid of anything you’re not moving in advance, organize the rooms according to how you want them packed and don’t leave a lot of things for yourself to do on the day of the move.
5. Hire a babysitter. If you have kids, it’s wise to hire a babysitter or have them scheduled for a play date on the days of the move. Your focus needs to be 100 percent on the activity going on in the home and you need to be there to answer questions and ensure that the movers are working efficiently.

While I don’t think there is ever a ‘perfect’ move, research and preparation will make a huge difference in your experience. Don’t overbook, don’t wait to the last minute, and don’t worry – you’ll make the move.