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The Move |
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What to Expect on Moving Day Saying good-bye to one neighbourhood and discovering a new one is an exciting adventure. But let's face it, at the end of your home-buying process you may find yourself exhausted. After all, the other obligations in your life have not paused. What's more, now there's another cost -- moving. Whether you hire professionals or strong-arm friends into helping, be prepared for the cost of the move. Here are some suggestions on how to reduce the cost of your move, but let's first look at how to prepare for the big day. You will have noticed that your possessions expand to fill the space allotted. Guess what, if you're moving into a larger home, you'll be gathering more stuff, so start out right.
Get Packing You'll want to ensure that each item you own is well packed to minimize damage during travel. Whether you're moving around the corner, across town or across the country, the moving process is always the same. To Hire Movers or Not to Hire Movers? During the move, you'll want to make sure you're insured while your belongings are in transition. Many moving companies also offer additional insurance. On moving day, go through the house with the crew supervisor and have him take note of any special instructions. If there are items you will need first in your new home (like a crib) make sure they put it in the moving van last. The movers will also make note of the condition of your goods on a master list. It is your responsibility to make sure it's accurate. After the van is unloaded and your goods are unpacked, inspect everything and make note of any damage. While movers do unpack, they don't put dishes or linens away. If you are undertaking the packing process by yourself, it will take time. Pack well in advance, and take note of what you can really live without. You'll have items that need special attention and other items that need to be disassembled. Label each box in detail and, if you know where it will go in your new home, put the destination on the box.
Ways to Reduce the Cost of a Move There are many ways to reduce the time and cost required to complete your move. No single item will greatly lower your costs, but any combination of the following can produce significant savings. 1. Start the move as early as possible. Late starts, particularly on large moves, can have a psychological as well as physical effect on both the crew and you. Overtime can become a factor as well. 2. Be ready when the movers arrive. Make certain that all small items, including lamps, pictures, small mirrors, lampshades, dishes, books, etc., are packed prior to the arrival of the movers. Use cartons that can be sealed. Follow our 'Packing Tips' carefully. We can supply you with all the materials necessary to ensure a proper packing job. Keep in mind that the costs of these materials may be outweighed by the extra cost of the move, should it take longer due to improper packing. Mark the cartons clearly to ensure proper placement in your new residence. 3. Discard unwanted items prior to the move. Have a garage sale for items that you no longer consider useful. Don't pay to move what you don't need. 4. Have the cars out of the driveway. Otherwise the moving van may block them in. If the truck has to load off the street, try to ensure that there is a parking spot specifically reserved for the movers. 5. If you are moving from an apartment, have the elevator on service and meet the crew when they arrive in the moving room. 6. In the winter, make sure the driveways and walkways are clear and salted to prevent slipping. 7. Remove all items that you are moving yourself prior to the arrival of the movers, so they won't be in the way during the move. 8. Move small plants yourself. The movers will move large plants at the customer's risk, if desired. 9. Disconnect all appliances and remove hoses completely from the washer and the dryer to prevent scratching and soiling of walls and floors. Place the hoses inside the washer to ensure that you will find them later. 10. Bring garden tools, lawn mower, patio furniture, etc. from the backyard to the front. 11. Bring small items and cartons up from the basement and put them in the garage for quicker access. 12. Disassemble swing sets and other large items. If you're moving in winter, plan ahead to prevent them from freezing in the ground. 13. Disassemble all beds. Movers assume that waterbeds will be drained completely and disassembled prior to their arrival. 14. Take mirrors off the dressers. Wrap the screws and tape them into the top right-hand drawer of the dresser. 15. Take the legs off large tables and handle carefully to avoid damage. 16. Remove screen door plungers and any doors that had to be removed when you moved in. 17. Walk through the house when the crew first arrives and point out the things that are not to go, as well as items you are especially concerned about. 18. Make yourself available at all times in case of questions. 19. Try to keep children from getting in the way of the movers. Remember this is a big day for them, and try to be as patient as possible. 20. Assist in carrying small items, boxes, etc. Do not attempt to carry heavy items requiring two people. The movers are experienced at working together. 21. Check the house thoroughly prior to the departure of the crew. The driver is instructed not to leave until you are satisfied that they have loaded everything that is to go. 22. Be organized at the new house. Have someone at the door to direct the movers. This will eliminate confusion about where to place items. 23. Pack and unpack the clothing wardrobe cartons you rented, or which the movers supplied on the day of the move, while the movers load and unload the truck. Make sure they're one of the last things to go onto the truck. This way, you can unpack the wardrobe cartons quickly and the movers can take them when they leave, thus avoiding additional rental costs. 24. Reassemble items on your own where possible to save time and the cost of having the movers do it. 25. Pick a closing date that is unique and not end of the month. 26. Think about where your moving from. (i.e. elevator to large building may be busy) The items listed above are just some of the money-saving tips you can try. The most important suggestion we can make is to be organized. Your move should be an enjoyable event, and a little planning will ensure you and your family have a great move. Moving Checklist 1. Book the Movers 2. If You Own Your Present Home
Give necessary written notice to your landlord and make arrangements for the return of any money you have on deposit. 4. At Your New Home 5. General
Change of Address There are many people you'll want to inform about your new location. Use this worksheet as a guide.
Moving Calendar Moving can be an overwhelming experience. You may already be cringing at the thought just looking around at your current home. Use the following chart to help you plan a successful, stress-free move. Two Months Before Your Move
Six Weeks Before Your Move
One Month Before Your Move
One Week Before Your Move
On Moving Day
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