Moving house is a stressful experience for many people, but you can minimize the hassle by planning in advance. Whether you are relocating to another street or across the country, preparation is key to a stress-free move. Here are the biggest dos and don’ts to get you ready for the big day.
What to Do
Here is what you definitely need to do:
1. Do get a quote early
Choose your service provider well in advance. This is particularly important if you are planning to move during a busy period like school holidays. A trusted moving company Spokane will create a customized plan with a quote. Do not choose a company at random or based on price alone — pay attention to its reputation, licenses, and insurance.
2. Do start packing early
Pack your items starting from the least used rooms. Take your time and label all the boxes carefully, so you will not spend hours rummaging through them after arrival.
3. Do use plastic wrap
Cover all upholstered furniture in plastic wrap. Otherwise, your expensive sofa or armchairs may get soiled during transportation.
4. Do disconnect all electrical appliances
Before the moving team arrives, disconnect all TVs, fridges, and other household appliances. Take a photo of their back to know how to reconnect the leads. Defrost your freezer in advance, so it does not leak during transit.
Electronic equipment may not fit into standard boxes, but your provider may offer a crating service. Movers can also help you with disassembly and assembly.
5. Do use durable boxes
Pack your belongings into reliable boxes. Some eco-conscious consumers collect cardboard boxes from their friends or grocery stores, but this solution is not ideal. Avoid second-hand containers unless they are made of double-wall corrugated board cartons. Single-wall items can fall apart mid-transit.
Your moving company may offer packing as a separate service. The team will use the latest moving materials and methods, and pay special attention to fragile items.
What Not to Do
- Don’t move heavy items yourself: You may get seriously injured if you try moving furniture or heavy boxes. Do your back a favor and leave this job to professionals.
- Don’t pack everything too early: Prepare a special survival kit for your first days in the new home. It must include essentials like medications, toiletries, phone chargers, and all important documents. Leave some basic cleaning supplies on hand until the last moment in case an emergency arises.
- Don’t forget about insurance: Make sure the company has all necessary insurance policies and licenses. The insurance coverage must include liability and workers’ compensation.
- Don’t leave anything behind: Even if you think all the boxes have been loaded, do a final walk-through. Check and double-check every room.
- Don’t worry: People make irrational decisions when they are nervous. Do not get worked up over small issues you cannot control. Moving house is daunting, but do your best to stay calm!
Local movers will pick up and deliver your household goods. You usually have to pay a certain amount of money for their service.