Are you planning a move to a new home or business facility? The moving process requires close attention to numerous details. Preparation is the key to making a successful move, whether you’re heading across town or to another state. The following list of things to consider will help you get ready for what lies ahead.

Organizing Your Move

Planning your move as far in advance as possible will allow you to organize the process more efficiently. It will also alleviate the stress that results from trying to do everything at the last minute. Some helpful organizing tips include:

  • Start packing items you will not need ahead of time.
  • Pack a box of essential items that you will need immediately after the move and make sure it is the last item on the truck. Remember to mark it appropriately.
  • Clean out closets, the attic and the basement as soon as you confirm that you are moving.
  • Cancel newspapers, cable, lawn service, etc. about 1 week prior to your move.
  • Mail in change of address forms 1 week prior to your move.
  • Have a plan B if you are moving yourself.
  • If you are planning to transport your “home goods” yourself, please consider scheduling a mover to load your items into your rental truck.  Items will shift in transit, we are the professionals…safer, less hassle to you, and we will load the truck more efficiently.

Packing & Unpacking

Packing and unpacking are among the more tedious and time-consuming aspects of the moving process. It’s essential to choose the right cartons, crates or boxes for the objects you’re bringing with you. You might also need to wrap some items to protect them from damage during transport. Keep these tips in mind during the packing and unpacking process:

  • Use only small boxes for books; they get heavy very fast.
  • Never use printed newsprint to wrap fine china or crystal.
  • Always stack dishes upwards when packing.
  • Pack important documents separately and clearly mark them for easy access.
  • IMPORTANT RULE OF THUMB…the heavier the item, the smaller the box.
  • Never use duct tape – use only packing tape.
  • Clearly label the box on the top and on the side.
  • AVOID mixing items from different rooms in the same box.
  • Don’t use boxes without tops.  Boxes without a top make it impossible to stack.
  • Always tape boxes, never interlock the top.
  • Wardrobe boxes make moving your closet much easier.  Loose items such as belts, shoes, etc. can be placed in the bottom.
  • Always pack and unpack fragile items over a padded surface.

Related: Packing Tips for Your Next Move: A Room-by-Room Checklist

Appliances & Electronic Equipment

Large and potentially fragile items, such as electronics, require extra care and planning when moving them. You’ll need a few able-bodied people to handle the heavier objects, as well as equipment such as handcarts and dollies. You might also have to take some additional preparation steps to minimize the risk of damage to these items during the move:

  • Check your owner’s manual for large appliances to see if there are special instructions for moving.
  • Pack electronic equipment such as stereos and televisions in their original boxes when possible; otherwise use bubble wrap.
  • Clean your stove before you move out.
  • Defrost your refrigerator the day before the move.
  • For large appliances, be sure to check your owner’s manual to confirm any special instructions for moving.

Furniture

Moving sofas, chairs, dining room tables and other heavy items is another area where you’ll need some muscle. Because of their size, it’s easy to damage these when dropping them or banging them into doorways. In many cases, disassembling and wrapping the furniture makes it easier to move and provides more protection:

  • As you disassemble furniture and other items, make sure to tape all parts to the main base.
  • Make sure your mover wraps your furniture items appropriately to prevent dings and scuffing, and loss. Padding and shrink wrap over the item is best practice.  Keep pillows encased within the wrapped sofa, tabletops and legs covered, etc.

Securing a Mover

Choosing a professional, experienced mover can make the process much easier and less stressful. Your mover should be fully licensed and insured and have a solid track record with minimal damage claims. It’s advisable to go with a company that uses its own employees instead of hiring temporary day laborers. Other factors to consider when selecting and working with a moving company include:

  • Make reservations with your mover two to four weeks before your desired move date.  We are on a schedule too. Calling ahead will help to ensure your move date is confirmed based on your schedule, and not our availability!
  • Make sure you explain your expectations clearly and reconfirm them. Make a list of concerns and specific ideals regarding your move and address these with your mover.
  • Remember to confirm packing and unpacking requirements. Time for these services must be scheduled and the fees for these services must be included in your quote accurately.
  • Gain a clear understanding of your fees/quote.
  • Understand the difference between hourly rates and flat rates. Are there any risks…which is best…why?

To learn more about David McCarthy Moving and our specialized moving services that we perform, get in touch with us today.

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