BE PREPARED AND HAVE A PLAN

If you tell the movers you are going to pack yourself, then you must pack. When the day of the move arrives and you have not packed, it will only create problems for everyone and will cost you more money. I strongly suggest that you have the movers pack you.

• If you do pack yourself, use boxes with lids. You must understand that if something in a box is broken and the outside of the box is not damaged, the insurance will not cover the contents if you packed it yourself.
• When packing, use butcher block paper or white tissue paper instead of newspaper.
• Some companies will sell you used boxes at a reduced rate. Ask!
• Unpacked and empty boxes will be removed from your new home while movers are still on site.
• Don’t assume the movers will unpack for you. Unless it is specified in the contract, that does not happen. Movers will usually not place things when they unpack.
• Everything that is not going MUST be labeled, placed in a separate area or designated that it is not going. I’ve seen movers pack a full garbage can.
• Local moves are charged by the hour, so being as organized as possible will save money.
• Let the movers do as much as possible. It is hard enough getting ready for the move without the additional worry of packing. It’s worth every penny to have the movers pack.
• Make a complete list of what you are taking. The confusion of the move can sometimes cause us to forget.
• You do not need to empty bureaus and desks as long as there are no breakable items inside.
• Movers move fast. It is important to be out of their way the day of the move. That’s why it’s so crucial to be organized beforehand.
• It is a common practice to tip the movers.
• Carry your jewelry and small valuables with you the day of the move, or better yet, put them in a safety deposit box a few days before the move. These are the last things about which you should be worrying.
• It is very important not to cancel your phone service until the morning after you move.
• Put your packed overnight bag in your car the night before the move, so the movers will not pack it.
• Make sure your bedding is easily accessible, so take it in your car, or put it in the bottom of a wardrobe box.
• Find out what your Homeowner’s insurance covers before the move.
• It is better to take too much than too little. You can always give the excess away, but it’s next to impossible to get it back.
• Don’t expect the kids or friends to do everything. You are the only one who knows which letters and papers you want to keep. Start going through drawers and shoeboxes stuffed with papers early. It takes more time than you think to sort through these kinds of things. Memories come flooding back and people tend to get sidetracked. Do a little everyday and the job will not seem so overwhelming. Just don’t wait until the last minute.
• Do a room or like items all at one time.
• Make a schedule for yourself and try to stick to it.
• Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. You can have the movers do everything if you want. All you really need to do is decide what you want and don’t want. Make it easy on yourself.
• Throw away all the bags of rubber bands, bottle caps, string, most of your plastic containers, shopping bags and leftover Christmas boxes. You won’t be needing any of it.
• In this type of move, most people dispose of 75% of their households.
• Take care of yourself. Get someone else to lift heavy boxes.
• Try and keep a good attitude, as you will soon be settled in your new home. Your frame of mind will make or break the move. Humor can get you through hard times.
• When the movers have left, relax and hit the sack!

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