Preparing For Moving Day | Go back
Before You Move Checklist
by Realty Times Staff
It's said that Rome wasn't built in a day. Many strokes topple mighty oaks. You can eat an elephant a bite at time. If you are facing a move, old axioms like these can offer some encouragement, but how about some practical advice? What you really need are step-by-step tips that will help you chip away at the daunting task of packing, moving and settling in.
- Checklist
- Moving Tips - Don't Stress
- Packing Tips
- Moving Day Etiquette
- Moving Your Pet
- Preparing Your Child to Move
- Choosing a Mover
Courtesy of North American Van Lines, here is a checklist of things to do to prepare to move:
Two-Three Weeks
- Fill and transfer prescriptions for family and pets. Pack them to travel with you.
- Arrange for shipment of plants and pets. Get immunization records for pets.
- Dispose of or give away all flammables.
One Week
- Defrost refrigerator and freezer, plus allow thorough air-drying to prevent mildew. Dispose of perishables.
- Transfer checking and savings accounts.
- Drain fuel and oil from lawnmowers and other power equipment. Drain water hoses.
- Pack items to be carried in the car, and label "Do Not Move."
- Gather valuables from safe deposit box, drawers, jewelry cases as well as personal records. Pack them safely to take with you.
- Send clothing, draperies, curtains, rugs out for cleaning and leave in wrapping.
- Take down curtain rods, shelves, and TV antenna.
- Have the car serviced for the trip and have proof of insurance in car.
Moving Day
- Remember to pack a box of basics you'll need on move-in day (tools, paper products, all-purpose household cleaners, etc.). Be sure to have it loaded last so that it will be first off at your new home.
- Pack suitcases for trip.
- Remove all bed linens.
- Be available to check items on inventory sheet.
- Conduct a last minute walk through with your van operator. Make sure windows are closed, closets empty, lights out and doors locked.
Dos & Don'ts
- Do keep your copy of inventory, Bill of Lading, Order for Service, Estimate, household booklet, numbers to call, etc. with you at all times when moving begins. Don't pack these items with the shipment.
- Do carefully wrap liquids, cleansers, and shampoos in plastic wrap or liners.
- Don't pack paint, bottles of bleach, gas cans, or other inflammables. It is against federal law for movers to transport flammables and combustibles.
- Do back up your PC with copies of all your files. Put in a scratch diskette to park your hard drive. Try to pack the PC in its original carton. Remove CD's from your player before packing and put the discs back in their cases. Wrap multi-play cartridges separately.
- Do moisten plants before placing them in cartons. Know that professional movers are prohibited from moving plants unless delivery is scheduled within 24 hours or is less than 150 miles away.
- Do have your appliance motors bolted to ensure safe arrival.
Stuff you’ll need List
There were way too many times during the move where I wiped my sweaty forehead and said: "OH! I forgot the stupid [pick from the list below]!" More than likely, you already have 80% of the following list and you can borrow the rest. Print it out, cross off what you already have, start a pile and go get the rest:
- 2-4 big, black permanent markers
- several rolls of wide masking tape
- scissors
- tissues
- toilet paper
- paper towels and/or cleaning rags
- old toothbrush
- hand soap
- body soap
- shampoo
- bottled water
- Soft Drinks
- food for everyone helping
- sealable baggies
- trash bags (get a roll of 50)
- cabinet liner o scrubbing brush
- sponges with one side that scrubs
- rubber gloves
- broom/dust pan
- mop
- vacuum cleaner
- bleach
- bathroom cleaner/all purpose cleaner
- dust cleaner (Endust, Pledge,)
- carpet cleaner
- glass cleaner
- dishwashing detergent
- laundry detergent
- tile floor cleaner
- small jam box
Moving Tips - Don't Stress
Moving does not have to be stressful, just follow the tips and enjoy your new home.
- Arrange early for your moving needs - movers (get estimates before hiring), trucks, friends, insurance etc.
- Take only what you really want and need, you can sell the rest.
- Make a list of special items that you want to move with extra caution and get them insured.
- Anything that needs to be repaired or cleaned outside your existing home, or any new items to be bought, should be timed so that delivery is to your new home.
- Involve all family members. Not only does it lessen the workload, but it involves them and gives them input into their new life. A simple thing as taking their input into decorating the new home can make them feel better about the move.
- Notify all those that need to be notified and update your records - post-office, doctor, school etc.
- Start packing and label everything clearly on the boxes. Also, make a complete list to hold on to.
- Mark down the boxes on your complete list as they go into the moving truck. Don’t forget to do a final check on your old home before leaving.
- Two boxes should go with you - overnight supplies and valuable - this will alleviate concern of the items missing and searching for necessities.
- Check your new home for existing damage before the movers enter. And when they arrive, mark down the boxes on your complete list as they are taken off and put into your new home. Get the movers to put all items into the rooms that they are supposed to be in.
Packing Tips
by Kate Kemp
This weekend, I moved from an old apartment into a new, bigger, WONDERFUL town home. Just like any move, this one wasn't very fun. No matter how many times I do it, there are always an infinite number of sentences beginning with "I wish I'd...." or "It would've helped so much if we'd...."
This move, I realized that the moving process needed to be organized like a scientific experiment. There are materials you need, there's a procedure to follow. The result? You finish moving, and can settle comfortably and un-stressed into your new home. Today we'll look at the first stage of moving:
STAGE 1: Packing
Materials needed: several good, big, black permanent markers; lots of paper to wrap your breakables in; masking tape; friends or people who owe you favors; boxes; boxes; boxes; boxes; more boxes.
Procedure:
- Buy the markers from your grocery store and get everything your going to need for the move in one trip.
- Get your boxes: After you shop for your moving supplies, check behind the store. Most stores will have a plethora of great boxes (unless someone's beaten you to them). If you're moving around the beginning of the school year, you might make a call to a nearby school. Every year, teachers get in new book shipments, so they usually have tons of extra boxes.
- Get packing paper: If you're living in an apartment, there's usually a "paper only" recycle bin next to the mail boxes. Raid this first, and then gather up old newspapers.
- Convince your friends (or those who you've helped move in the past) to come over and help you. The more people you have, the faster things will get done.
A few tips before you start filling boxes:
Get everything on your after the move list and put it in the bath tub of your new place. Why the bath tub? Because it's just about the only place you won't be shoving boxes into, and it's usually already clean. Do not pack things in trash bags.... especially if you have a lot of people helping you move. Someone will throw the bags away. Don't just mark boxes KITCHEN, or BEDROOM. Break things down into sub-categories. It's easy to do and makes unpacking a breeze. For example you might have KITCHEN - Dishes and Silverware; BEDROOM - Sheets and Comforter, etc. When you move boxes, you'll be stacking them, so don't just write the contents on the top of boxes, write them on every side. Wait as long as you can to pack your stereo or T.V. You'll want entertainment while you're packing. To protect glasses from breaking, wad up paper to shove inside and then wrap the glasses in several sheets of newspaper. Don't forget to wad up paper to shove between breakables. Pack 'til you can't pack any more! Hopefully, these little tidbits will help you pack for your next move.
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Moving Day Etiquette
by Courtney Ronan
Moving day stinks. There's no two ways about it. You've spent hours packing up and preparing for the arrival of your movers. Then you hold your breath as they begin the arduous process of transporting all of your worldly possessions from one place to another. You hope your furniture survives the journey and that your new home survives the move-in process unscathed. Few of us are able to claim that our homes or furniture didn't suffer a single scratch, that a mirror didn't break or that at least one item wasn't mysteriously lost in transport.
Amidst all of the stress, we often overlook a few details of varying importance. You can't clone yourself or your family on moving day, but you can create a checklist of reminders. In fact, even if you're not a habitual list-maker, it's high time you started. Because a list is probably the only way you're going to get through your move without overlooking something you shouldn't. What could possibly require your attention, aside from guiding Manny the Mover down the hallway as he creeps backward with your priceless and extremely breakable possessions?
Take, for instance, the last impression you make upon your neighbors as you move out of your house. Blocking your neighbors' access to their own street and/or driveways, causing them to be tardy for work, is likely to cause some resentment - particularly if the movers aren't outside when the neighbors discover that they can't back out of their driveways and into the street.
By the same token, watch that your movers don't block your neighbors' driveways and the street with your furniture. If the move-out process is going to consume the better part of an afternoon - and it often does - keep an eye on the crew as they make their way into and out of your home. Some movers have been known to take a shortcut through the neighbors' front yards, or worse, their flower beds, which could very well cause World War III.
If you have a choice of what time of day to move, opt for between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. on a weekday, if possible. Your neighbors have already arrived at work by this time (unless they work at home), giving you the ability to move without cramping anyone's style. Avoid having the movers arrive too early or too late in the day, or on a weekend. Advise music-loving movers to cut the loud music blaring from their moving van radios; noise pollution won't win them - or you - any friends.
As you conclude the move-out process, remember to pick up any debris that has fallen outside your home and along the sidewalks, driveway and street. This rule is particularly critical in your new neighborhood. You're probably going to have a lot of trash during all stages of the move, but especially after you unpack your boxes. Don't pile it outside and wait for the next trash pick-up. Haul it to the dump yourself.
Don't neglect the inside of your old house. Vacated homes always look awful; that's inevitable. From furniture leg indentations to dust to scuffs and various debris, it won't be a pretty sight after the movers have finished their job. Now it's your job to vacuum, dust and leave your old home in presentable condition. You may even want to hire a local maid service to clean the house before its new owners arrive. Sure, it's money out of your pocket, but it's a generous and extremely considerate act. With any luck, the previous owners of your new home have shown you the same regard.
Before moving day arrives, you should have asked yourself for whom you made duplicate copies of your house key. With any luck, the new owners will change the locks and have new keys made for safety reasons. But if they don't, and your teenage son gave his buddy a spare key that was never returned, the new owners could have a problem - particularly if the house is left vacant for any period before the new owners take possession.
A word to all pet owners: During your move, you'll need to keep Fido and Fluffy confined to a separate room away from the commotion. Better yet, find a trusted friend or family member with whom your beloved pet can bunk until you're ready to have him join you in your new residence. Even if your pets are typically well-behaved, they could easily escape during the move; or they could be easily frightened by the unusual level of activity and presence of strangers. Dogs that are usually friendly could turn on your movers.
And speaking of your movers, you'd be wise to have some basic refreshments ready for your trusty crew. We're not talking lobster and champagne (although if you went this route, you wouldn't be met with protest) - soda and ice water are very much appreciated, especially during this time of year, when movers have to withstand blistering summertime temperatures.
If you're moving during the winter months, keep a thermos of hot coffee and some paper cups on hand. I happen to know a very nice customer who picked up hamburgers for her moving crew, but that's going above and beyond. If your movers showed up on time and have done a terrific job, however, there's nothing wrong with showing a little gratitude beyond your standard tip, which averages about $25 per crew member.
If you were lucky enough to convince your friends or family members to help you move without the aid of bribery, you should express your gratitude on moving day by treating them to a nice dinner, or at the very least, digging into your own pocket to spring for a pizza. Once again, a little benevolence goes a long way, and should you assist them in their own moves someday, you'll hope they'll do the same.
Moving Your Pet
by Courtney Ronan
Getting through the emotional stress of moving is difficult enough for adults and children. But what about pets, a species with whom we can't even level? Pet owners are often baffled by their pets' behavior during and after a move. Sometimes it's a personality change, a regression in housebreaking habits or a sudden unexplained illness. Even if you don't notice something that dramatic, there's no question that your faithful companion is feeling stress. How do you move your pet and keep the strain to an absolute minimum - both to yourself and your beloved pet?
If you're planning a cross-country move by air, call the airlines first - before you make any reservations - and find out which ones allow pets as "animal passengers." Approximately 750,000 pets make airline trips every year. Most of the major airlines, such as American, Delta, Continental and Northwest, will allow animal passengers provided outdoor temperatures are within a certain range. Pets may be brought on board with their owners as "carry-on baggage," or placed within the cargo section of plane as "checked baggage," weather permitting. Airlines also have established regulations regarding the number of pets permitted per flight, both on board and in the cargo section; as well as number of pets permitted per passenger; and size and weight limitations for carry on and checked baggage. If at all possible, book a direct flight to avoid the additional stress of plane changes.
If you're contemplating having your pet travel in the cargo section of the plane, you may want to consider first that because this area is in the belly of the plane, you won't have access to your pet at any time during the flight. While the cargo area is both heated and pressurized, this area isn't lit, so unless you tranquilize your pet first, the experience is likely to be traumatic. And you should note that the safety of some varieties of tranquilizers has been questioned. These substances can have a dramatically different effect upon your pet at high altitudes.
The federal Animal Welfare Act defines the guidelines for the transportation of animals by air, ground and water; however, as an added protection, some airline carriers take a particularly strict approach and require passengers to submit a certificate of acclimation form signed by their veterinarians, permitting the animal to be in temperatures below 45 degrees; as well as an interstate health certificate.
As your moving date approaches, try to maintain your pet's routine, including feeding, exercise and play times. When you begin to box up your belongings, and particularly when the movers arrive, you may want to consider recruiting a friend to pet-sit to avoid undue stress for your companion. Make sure your pet is wearing updated identification, and that you're carrying some kind of identification for your pet, including recent photos. If your pet escapes at any time during your move, you'll be prepared
Veterinarians also recommend that if you pack a water supply from the home you're leaving. Changing water sources could cause your pet stomach upset and ultimately, dehydration. Keep your pet's food as bland as possible; this isn't the time to experiment with new brands or varieties. Check with your vet for his or her recommendations. Bring your pet for a thorough physical exam prior to your move, and make sure you obtain your pet's updated records from your vet.
Preparing Your Child to Move
by Blanche Evans
Children respond to the general atmosphere set in the home by the attitudes of their parents. If you look at moving as an exciting adventure full of new possibilities, then chances are very good that you will infect your children with enthusiasm and anticipation. Many times we forget that making more money or moving to a larger home is not a change that children will understand. The younger the child, the less able they are to "see into the future" as you do. They tend to focus on losing the security they already know, along with missing friends and family. Your job is to turn the sadness and doubt into happiness. Ask yourself what advantages there are for the child in the move. For example, will the family be closer to Grandma, the ocean, or another favorite person, place, or activity?
One of the easiest ways to turn an unhappy frown into joy and excitement is to communicate frequently. Let your children know, step by step, what is happening and what is likely to happen next. Tell them what the move means to the family - how important it is that Mommy got a big promotion or that Daddy is opening a new office for his company, and how other aspects of the move will be good for the child.
Be ready for those "What about me?" questions by researching schools, churches, activities, and community amenities in advance, and offer your child choices and ways to participate where it is appropriate. Whenever possible, look up information on the Internet, or have your agent e-mail, fax, or mail vital information about the community so that you and your child can plan where to go and who to meet in order to help ease the transition into new activities and surroundings. Contact organizations with whom your child is already associated or with whom he or she has an interest, and ask for referrals to your new city. Knowing they won't have to give up favorite hobbies or sports goes a long way toward helping children adjust.
Making contacts with future friends, classmates, and fellow hobbyists can also go a long way toward helping your child's transition to a new home and environment. See if your agent, other transferees, or family can put you in touch with other children your child's age so that a chat room or e-mail friendship can begin.
Your Realtor should be able to show you your home either through e-mail or the local MLS service. Have your Realtor take pictures of your home and send them to you. Have fun by showing your child the new house plans, or draw them yourself and let your child cut out furniture and toys to place in the rooms. Show your child a typical day in the home as you go from room to room. Draw a map, and show how close Mommy and Daddy work, where schools are, where Aunt Bea lives, and other points of interest to help them orient themselves in their new surroundings.
If time and finances permit, take your child on a trip to visit your new city and home to get acquainted. If that's not possible, get on the Internet, and show him or her the city, neighborhood, and home where you'll be living. Most cities have Web sites available that offer a wide range of information, so you can plan activities for after your move, such as visits to the theater, a visit to the local zoo, or a trip to a local restaurant that serves your child's favorite food.
Allowing your children to participate as much as possible makes the time they spend anticipating the move pass more quickly. Keep them occupied by letting them plan and pack a box or two of their special things. Consider their input on new decor and the layout of their new rooms. Encourage them to take the time to exchange good-byes with friends and loved ones and get addresses, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers to stay in touch.
While you are preparing for the move, try to stick as closely to your normal routine as possible, and let your children know that, although they will soon live in a new house, the rules of the household will still be the same. Bedtime is still at 9 p.m., and homework must still be completed before TV time is allowed. And although Mom and Dad are a little busier and distracted with the move, they love their children very much and are giving the entire household a new opportunity to grow.
On moving day, have a bag packed of personal belongings for each member of the family, being careful to include medications, clothes, and personal items. Let your children choose what amusements and favorite they wish to take along, and reassure them they will see their other favorite toys when they arrive in their new home.
Your preparedness will go a long way in reassuring your children that their needs are being considered.
Choosing a Mover
by Blanche Evans
Relocation can be one of the most exciting endeavors you may experience in life. The challenge of pioneering your family to a new home, community, and job opportunity can be full of rewards if you take the time to make the moving process easier. It is not without reason that moving is cited as one of the most psychologically harrowing experiences, but it doesn't have to be. If you do some planning in advance, a little homework to find the best moving professionals, and learn about the process, you will find much of the tension of moving is relieved.
Finding the best mover for your particular needs and at the right price involves a simple evaluation of your needs. Like many service-oriented industries, the moving companies of today have expanded to offer a wide range of services in order to be competitive. From planning your move, to packing and unpacking, to decorating and organizing your belongings in your new home, you can choose the extent of services you will require and have them tailored to suit your moving budget. Choose your mover at least four to six weeks in advance of your moving date.
If you are being transferred, ask your relocation agent which moving companies their company recommends. Personal friends, family, and employees of your company who have preceded your relocation may also be able to suggest a reputable mover. Consumer organizations such as the Better Business Bureau can give you additional insights.
When you compare price and service estimates from several moving companies, you will find that estimates are based on the weight of your household items, the distance they will be moved, and the amount of packing and other services you will require. Be sure to show the estimator every single item that will be moved. Find out if your mover accepts credit cards, third-party payments from your company, and whether the mover operates by cash only.
If you are not sure how to estimate the value of your belongings for insurance purposes, Charles Zalkovsky, vice president of marketing for Central Moving Systems (an agent for North American Van Lines), suggests the following formula: $8,000 per room, or approximately one-half the value of your home plus items of special value such as heirlooms, paintings, or collectibles. In the event of damage to an item, he suggests that any claims be filed immediately. Be sure to save the packing materials to show to the adjuster, should there be any problems.
Negotiations with your mover should include a clear understanding of rates and charges that will apply, the mover's liability for your belongings, pick-up and delivery schedules, and claims protection. For example, if you decide to pack some of your own things, your mover will not be liable. If your estimate is binding, it will not cover non-itemized items. Non-binding estimates are not guaranteed rates.
If you are starting a new job right away and need to have your home unpacked and in working order immediately, you may want to take advantage of move-in specialists who can customize their services to your needs. These companies specialize in executive relocations in which they, instead of you, meet your arriving furnishings. Quickly and efficiently, they will clean, decorate, and organize your belongings. When you arrive, you will find your home live-in ready with lights and sound system on, cable TV wired and ready, computer booted, clothes hung, beds made, pillows fluffed, and all of the moving boxes and debris gone.
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