Your Ultimate Guide to Moving
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The Art of the Move
There is a saying that says statistically moving is the third most stressful event one can endure, following death and divorce. Lets face it, moving sucks. However, like every transition there is a strategic element that goes along with it and with these tips you will discover the art of the stress free move.
4-8 WEEKS OUT
1. Pick A Mover:
The first step to making a successful move, whether it’s interstate or just across town, is to pick a mover. You always want to make sure that the mover is the right fit for you. It’s important to spend time doing some research. Consider the following as you do your research:
– AMSA Membership – The American Moving and Storage Association is something of a national watchdog for movers and, as such, can be your best friend when looking to relocate
– Price – price plays perhaps the biggest role in most consumers’ decision-making process, and rightfully so. Just keep in mind the old adage that “you get what you pay for.”
– Services Offered – Decide what it will take to get your belongings from where they are to their new destination. Do you have items that require special packing? Find out what services each mover offers and consider the full range of your specific needs.
2. Decide What Not to Take
Deciding what to take and what to get rid of is important for a number of reasons. First, it can save you time and money if you have fewer items to pack, load, move, and unload. Secondly, you may even be able to profit from these unwanted items if you are willing to hold a yard sale.
1-4 WEEKS OUT
3. Make the Checklist
Setting up your move can be difficult at times. If you try to remember each and every little thing that you need to do, it will be twice as difficult. Make a checklist and stick to it. Below is a basic checklist, that might pertain to your particular circumstances.
SAMPLE CHECK LIST:
4 WEEKS OUT:
– Start packing (or schedule it to be done by the mover closer to move date)
– Make any necessary arrangements for your new home (repairs, etc.)
– Make arrangements with the new school for your children
3 WEEKS OUT:
– Make arrangements for your utilities, phones and appliances
– If moving into an apartment contact landlord to reserve the elevator
– Procure all necessary records, including: medical, dental, veterinary
– Handle the automobile paperwork, including: license, registration, insurance
2 WEEKS OUT:
– Go to your local post office, complete and return change of address card
– Figure out arrangements for the transportation of pets and plants
– Take care of any final bills for your current residence
1 WEEK OUT:
– Call your pharmacy and transfer prescriptions to your new home
– Cancel all delivery service to your current address (newspapers, etc.)
4. Get Hands-On
Once you’re only a day or two away from moving, you’ll notice a shift in your preparations. By all means, feel free to create another checklist for the final two days.
Sample Checklist
2 DAYS OUT:
– Defrost your fridge and freezer. Dry them out to avoid mildew or mold
– Have the mover or packing service pack your belongings
THE DAY BEFORE:
– Take cash out of your account for any expenses along the way
– Don’t forget, you’ll need to have acceptable form of payment for the mover
– If you’re driving be sure to do a final check of the following (gas, tires, oil,)
MOVING DAY:
5. Stay Calm
When moving day finally arrives, the most important thing you’ll need to do is stay calm. By now you should be able to relax because you’ve handled all the preparations in advance. If a problem arises, as they tend to do in life, just remember that every problem has a solution. Keep your cool and stay stress-free.
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THE ARRIVAL
6. Seek Reassurance
Finally, once you and your belongings have arrived at the destination, take the time to speak with your mover. Let them set your mind at ease by asking questions. Ask them how the drive went, if they encountered any issues along the way. By now if you hired the right movers, you should feel comfortable enough to speak with them informally.
Moving is never easy, but if you follow these tips you will understand that there is an art to moving and with that art comes a stress-free experience.
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Dan Ryan is the owner of College Hunks Moving & College Hunks Hauling Junk. For more tips and advice on the perfect move please visit: http://www.collegehunks.com or call 1-800-586-5872.
