Whether it’s a job transfer, a military reassignment or moving to be closer to the grand kids, whatever the reason, a move is always stressful. So to get that relocation started on the right foot, review these essential moving tips.
First Things First
After everyone involved has wrapped themselves around the need for a move, the next step is to decide how this relocation will be accomplished. Will it be a do-it -yourself, rent-a-U-Haul project, or a task assigned to a professional moving company?
If the decision has been made to hire a moving company, don't wait to start working through these move planning tips. Reviewing and implementing these suggestions as early as possible will help you find the best moving company to fit your time requirements and budget.
- Approach a local Realtor or Real Estate office to provide you with a reputable moving company reference.
- Gather a list of at least two more prospects and start calling. Compare pricing and ask for referrals who have volunteered to receive phone calls from potential customers.
- Discuss insurance policy to get the specifics on what is, and is not covered.
- Get a clear understanding of each moving company’s damage and repair policy.
- Do some online research by running the list of movers through the online Better Business Bureau to view their public service rating.
- Request an estimate on paper with the exact details regarding packing, pick-up, and delivery.
- If at all possible, in order to save money, schedule the move in the middle of the month or during the off season when movers have less of a demand for their services. Prices may be negotiable.
The Do-It-Yourself Move
The assumption is made that a do-it -yourself move will save money, but that is not always the case. Review the following list to determine whether doing it yourself is the best decision.
All the packing, loading and hauling involved in a move will take a toll on the body, especially if someone hurts their back or gets a hernia or pulls a muscle. There won’t be much money saved if a doctor or chiropractor has to be seen for treatment of these injuries.
Though U-Hauls are comparatively cheaper than hiring a moving company, be sure to factor in the travel expenses, including gas, hotels, meals and road fatigue. It may, after all, be cheaper to hire out.
A do-it -yourself move has no damage or breakage insurance. There is no safety net in the back of a rented moving truck. If you break it, you’ll have to buy it – again. Do you have the confidence to keep the crystal safe and the TV in one piece?
Don’t Forget These
Regardless of the decision to choose to move yourself or hiring a company there are some things everyone will need to do to make the transition from one location to another.
- Initiate change of address at the post office
- Cancel or notify all subsciptions about change of address
- Schedule shut-off of the old utility services and start-up for the new ones
- Get rid of unneeded stuff before you move, which will make the load lighter and cheaper
- Hire a cleaning crew to clean the home left behind - it's too exhausting to try to do it yourself
- Tape and clearly label the cables for all your electronics systems
One last piece of advice - expect any move to take longer and cost more than expected. By leaving room for the unexpected, such as variations in weather and traffic, and pick-up or delivery delays, the relocation will go smoother all the way around.
Sue Krippner - After studying art history at Thomas Edison State College with advance studio studies at the University of the Arts in Pennsylvania, I ...
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