Moving - Hints

Before you set a date for moving, think about the day and time of the week that will work best in your area. After all, moving is stressful enough without having to fight rush hour traffic. If you can, start mid-morning on a day in the middle of the week. This way you will have time to make easy multiple trips.

Watch the weight of those boxes! What may seem only a little too heavy on the night you packed it can easily hurt your back after a full day of moving. When in doubt, lighten the box since few people ever complain about boxes not being heavy enough!

Save Money by Not Buying Boxes

Purchasing brand new boxes can really add up, throwing your moving budget right out the window. Plan ahead and seek out other sources of quality boxes. Often, friends and family members will save paper, bubble wrap and shipping boxes for you if they know you’re collecting them. Ask your local grocer if they have spare boxes you can use. Though many stores now recycle their boxes or reuse them, many will try to help you out if you ask early enough. Remember, if you agree to pick up boxes at a certain time or place, be there on time and be as appreciative as possible! If you are packing yourself, remember to grab more boxes than you think you will need for your move. Experts and people who have moved often know that boxes fill up fast and your stuff will seem to multiply when you aren’t looking. Worst case, you have a few extra boxes that you don’t use!

Packing Hints

When you start packing up your belongings, it can help to have boxes and bags set aside for trash and for charity. Before you pick up each item, you can ask yourself if it can go in the give-a-way box. Before you fill up your trash can with all of those belongings you no longer want, consult the phone book or internet for local charities that may well want those items. The Salvation Army or other local groups may even be willing to come to your old home and pick the items up. This can save you time and money!

Many people get so caught up in packing and moving details that they forget to label their boxes adequately. While "toys" may seem like a fine label as you fill the box, it can be problematic on the other end when you can’t remember whose toys they are. It is far easier to label every box with the name of the room in the new house where it belongs as well as the type of contents. Then, before beginning to unload the truck, label each room to correspond with the box labels. You want the movers to know exactly where you want each box.

Choosing a Moving Company

If you are getting movers, ask about guarantees about any items that you are thinking of packing yourself. Most movers will refuse to insure property that they did not pack themselves. Asking questions is always a great idea before you get started packing! Research several moving companies carefully before you sign a contract or pay any fees. While a great many companies offer honest, quality service, there are a few bad apples in every bunch. It pays to do your research before you get stuck!

Moving Day Suggestions

Let the kids take a few minutes to say goodbye to the old house. They need the closure of seeing their room empty and the family items removed from the yard. It is hard to know how kids will react to moving. Some children hardly seem to notice, while others may experience melancholy. Remember to pack all medications in a special container that goes with you in the car or on the plane. If it goes on the truck, replacing the medication can be a huge waste of time and energy. Let the kids choose one or two toys that will accompany them on the trip. This not only keeps them occupied, but will give them a sense of control that can be very important during moving. Explore Fairmont, CA Real Estate