Professional movers know that proper preparation is the key to a successful and stress-free move, whether it be an onsite move within the same building or complex, local within the same community, short distance within the same county, or long distance within the state, country, or even internationally.
There are many tricks to the moving trade. Moving professionals know the efficient methods of packing goods and transporting them from location to location. There are certain boxes and containers which work best, packing materials which perform superior, special ways to secure appliances, safe methods to lift furniture, and space-saving secrets to loading a truck, trailer, or container.
Movers know how to transport belongings in a timely manner and how to unload them at the new location in order to maximize efficiency, remain economical, and minimize the potential for damage.
Fortunately, many professional movers freely share their tricks through tips and checklists which are widely available on their websites.
Checklists
Checklists are incredibly helpful in making sure you’ve thought of and prepared for everything. Using a checklist prepared by experienced moving professionals is some of the best insurance you can buy to save you time, money, and hassle.
Here are some examples of popular checklists that will help to improve the moving process:
- Two-Month Moving Checklist — Preparing to move should begin several months ahead of the actual moving date. This checklist gives helpful advice on things such as allocating funds, changing addresses for accounts, and securing reservations for moving materials, help, and transportation.
- Non-Allowable Checklist — This list identifies hazardous items that pose a potential threat to the health and safety (i.e. explosives, flammable gasses and toxic substances) and should not be packed into a moving shipment.
- Pre-Packing Checklist — Items to consider and obtain before starting to pack like boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and tissue paper.
- The First Night Box Checklist — Things to pack in one box for the first overnight stay. Consider what’s needed for basic unpacking, some non-perishable food, cleaning supplies and the necessary hygiene products.
- Unpacking/Destination Checklist — Consider what’s needed at the new location.
- Pack Separately Checklist — Things needed for personal security, identification or emergency supplies that might get lost in normal packing and moving. These items are best kept in personal vehicle for best and easy access.
- New Home Move-in Checklist — Overlooked items and tasks such as setting up bank accounts, utility connections, insurance providers and anything to do with government agencies at the new address.
Packing Tips
Packing for a move is a tedious and necessary part of a move. Proper packing to ensure there’s minimal damage risk to belongings is vital and requires specialized knowledge and materials. Here are some examples of popular packing tips that will help to improve the moving process.
- Computers and Electronics — Make backup copies of files on a data stick and transport separately.
- Glass — Never let glass touch other glass. Always separate glass with packing paper to prevent shattering.
- Books — Cull out old books and transport only the necessary ones. Pack books separate from other articles and use smaller, sturdy boxes to can be lifted safely. Reinforce book boxes with tape if necessary to prevent the box fro splitting.
- Mirrors — Use special flat boxes and wrap mirrors in padded fabrics to keep them safe.
- Lampshades — Remove the shade, bulb, and base. Pack each component separately in paper and place in the same box.
- Clothes — Use specialized wardrobe boxes and keep clothes on original hangers to make unpacking easier.
- Shoes — Do not throw shoes in one box unprotected. Wrap each shoe individual to avoid crushing and ruining them.
- Food — Discard perishable foods for long distance moves. Pack only dried and canned goods.
- Houseplants — To keep your plants upright, use support stalks and stems and pack each plant individually.
Moving Tips
Moving household goods is difficult and can be dangerous. Proper moving techniques prevent injury to individuals and damage to property like walls, floors, doors, and frames. Here are some examples of safe and efficient moving tips.
- Proper Equipment — Dollies, hand trucks, skids, straps, and padded blankets make the move safer and cheaper. They are also much more convenient and save a lot of time.
- Appliances — Ensure moving components are secured and the appliance is dry.
- Reservations — Give plenty of time to book materials, hired help, and transportation.
- Cash — Have enough cash on hand in case of emergencies.
- Receipts — Keep copies of receipts for tax and reimbursement purposes.
- Pets — Consider the special needs of pets such as vet records, food, water, and shipping crates.
- Furniture — Consider any disassembly and reassembly tools and expertise required.
- Assistance — Always consider what packing and help is needed well ahead of the move. This leaves ample to time to acquire moving assistance in time for the move.
- Alternate Plans — Consider what may go wrong and anticipate an alternate plan.
By using specialized checklists and researching the many tips available online, your packing and moving experience will be much easier, safer and more convenient.
