Ask the Expert: Tips for a Successful Move
Today's expert post comes to you from Jessy Howe of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® International. She has some great moving tips! Bookmark this one if you're planning a move.
It’s no secret, moving an entire household can be stressful. As the largest franchised moving company in the United States, with more than 30 years of experience, we at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® International love sharing tips and tricks to help make your move a smooth transition!
Arranging your move
Book your move early.
Book your move two to four weeks in advance. As the peak busy season for moving is quickly approaching, the earlier the better!
Schedule disconnect times.
Call one week prior to moving out to schedule any disconnect times necessary. You will also want to cancel or transfer services you may have including newspapers, pest control, or lawn services. You don’t want to end up paying for services after you no longer live there!
Utilities.
Be sure to schedule utilities to be turned off the day after you move out. In addition, schedule for them to be turned on at your new location the day before you move in. You will not want to be without these when you arrive!
Change of address.
Now, this seems like an obvious tip, but with the excitement of getting into your new home, it can easily be forgotten. Make time to complete your change of address one week prior to moving.
It’s all about preparation
Packing like a pro.
In an effort to stay organized in your packing process, clearly label each box on the top and side. Avoid mixing items from different rooms in the same box, never wrap fine china with newspaper, and choose packing tape over duct tape.
Round up the essentials.
Pack a box of essential items you will need immediately after the move. Don’t forget toilet paper, a change of clothes, any medications, towels, and toothbrushes. This box should be loaded on the truck last so it’s the first box brought off.
Donate, declutter and save money.
Donate any items you no longer need prior to moving. Not only will you be free of clutter, but if your movers charge by weight, this can also save you money! If you need help determining what is deemed unneeded, ask yourself if you love it. Have you used or worn the item in the last six months? Does it have sentimental value?
Prohibited items.
Find out ahead of time what your movers will not move. Many times movers will not pack or haul food items or transport living things such as pets and plants.
Federal law bans moving companies from the transportation of any hazardous materials including propane, paint, antifreeze, or ammunition to name a few. This means items that have gas in them such as lawnmowers and grills are also prohibited and the customer must transport these in their own vehicle.
Moving forward
Business moves.
For those making a business move, notify your customers in advance so they are aware. In addition, arrange for the move to take place over the weekend to minimize any business disruption.
Hire moving muscle.
Hiring a moving company can take much of the pressure off of you and allow you to enjoy your new home even sooner! Remember, it’s important to do your homework before hiring movers. At TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® we are proud to have a 96% referral rate and our uniformed movers and drivers are committed to exceeding expectations and ensuring your move is completed with care and efficiency. We realize moving needs are unique for every customer, so we’re ready to customize a plan to provide the best moving experience possible!
Jessy Howe is a social media marketing gal based in Michigan and currently works as the Media Relations Specialist at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®/International., Inc. She enjoys the ever-changing digital world and exploring new ways to engage audiences through creative content.