Remarkable Moving Tips from Reliable
We asked our team members for their tips and tricks when it comes to moving. Here is a quick list of the best ones!
- Set up a Moving/Packing Station – help keep yourself organized with a special place for supplies: markers, tape, labels, packing paper, bubble wrap.
- Important Documents – dedicate one or two boxes for important documents or valuables that will travel with you and not go with movers
- Electronics – Get a photo of how electronics are currently connected, easy set-up after delivery
- 1st night in your new home – keep sheets/bedding, a set of pajamas, pillow(s) and curtains in each dresser for easy access once delivered
- Easy Delivery – label rooms at destination so movers can easily place items in specified rooms
- Don’t go hungry – Pre-make or plan simple meals for move in/out days. Pack a cooler with disposable/plastic cups, utensils, and plates. You can also contact a local restaurant in advance to have food delivered if/when you’d like
- Essentials Box – items you’ll want or need right away: toilet paper, paper towels or wash rag, hand soap, electronics chargers, remotes & batteries, coffee maker/kettle, comfort items for children, change of clothes, etc.
- Refrigerators & Freezers – make sure they’re empty & dry before movers arrive. Add a couple of socks or fine-mesh bags of baking soda to each door; it’ll help reduce moisture & keep things smelling fresh for your new home
- Plan for parking – check access and parking rules for your home by connecting with Local Municipality, Parking Authority or your Building’s Management about what could be required for a moving truck
- Check your inventory – furniture & boxes should be clearly labeled with what room item came from &/or is going to. If packing yourself, have general count of box/bin totals and if different from your contract
Packed By Owner Tips
Moving can be stressful and overwhelming; Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. Here at Reliable Van & Storage we believe customers should feel comfortable with the company and people they are trusting to move their lives. We are happy to help in any way we can!
Kitchen
- Pack glassware standing up.. NEVER lay glass on its side
- Nestle pots & pans inside each other with packing paper in between
- Tighten tops to liquids before wrapping & placing upright then mark the top of the box
Living Room
- Delicate items are best packed in a smaller box
- Place lampshades in separate boxes
- Wardrobe box for large artificial plants
Bedroom
- Pack shoes & purses individually
- Don't over-pack large boxes with heavy items
Bathroom
- Transport all medications yourself, not with moving company
- Have a " Move In Day" box: first aid, 1 roll toilet paper, wipes, soap, shampoo
General
- If something is small enough to fit in a box, it should be packed.
- NO hazardous items may be packed
- During summer it's best to start packing the Garage and or the Attic in the morning while still cool
More Moving Tips: Questions and Answers
When is the best time to move?
Take all factors into consideration when deciding on the best time for you to move. Keep in mind, however, that the summer months (mid-May to mid-September) and the beginning and end of each month (regardless of the season) are particularly busy for moving companies and may require more flexibility and advanced scheduling.
How do I determine which moving companies to contact?
Ask your neighbors, friends, coworkers and family members if they can make recommendations. Investigate each of the movers you select with the Better Business Bureau. Good service is the best measure of a good mover.
When should I contact moving companies for estimates?
Try to provide moving companies with as much notice as possible, especially if you are moving during the summer months. We recommend at least four to six weeks before your desired moving date. This will increase your likelihood of securing the pickup and delivery dates you desire.
What happens when a relocation consultant comes to my home?
The relocation consultant will arrive at your home to perform a visual survey of your items. The consultant must be able to clearly see what is being moved in order to provide you with an accurate estimate. If you know of items that are out of view or will be eliminated, be certain to point them out to the consultant. Once the visual survey is completed, the consultant will calculate the weight, packing cost and any other charges related to your move. Our Relocation consultant will also review all valuation coverage options, and answer all your questions to insure you have all the information you need to make a sound decision.
Household Moving Tips
Preparing For The Move
- Have a garage sale. Get rid of everything you don't need before you move.
- Get organized now. Don't wait until the last minute. Make list of things you need to do and when.
- Make sure you are ready for the packers and movers. Don't forget to do the laundry, wash the dishes, pack your suitcases, disconnect computers, stereos and VCRs.
- Set aside those items that you will be taking with you and clearly mark them as Do Not Pack.
- Arrange to close your accounts at your local bank and open accounts in your new hometown.
- Obtain a change-of-address kit from your post office or go to https://moversguide.usps.com
- Drain the gas and oil from all your power equipment (lawnmower, edger, etc.)
- Schedule house cleaning and other home services for the day after loading.
- Have your utilities shut off the day after loading (gas, electric, telephone, etc)
- Make your travel arrangements for the day after loading. In case of weather delays or other unforeseen problems, you wouldn't want to miss a flight or other travel related appointment.
- Before the moving truck leaves for your destination, give the driver your phone numbers where you can be reached. It is also a good idea to get the driver's cell phone number.
- Be aware of items that can't be moved with the mover. These items include:
- Flammable Items
- Combustible Items
- Aerosol cans
- Hazardous Materials
- Gasoline
- Plants
- Paints
- Ammunitions and Explosives
- Jewelry
- Legal Documents (wills, financial papers, insurance documents, etc.)
- When using a mover, remember that you are the customer and the boss. If you have any concerns at all, contact your move coordinator immediately.
