Erik Braunitzer of Douglas Elliman Real Estate Company, agents for Bronx Rentals
Make a Smooth Move with These Moving Tips
Organization is the key to having a smooth moving experience. This can be accomplished even if you have limited resources. There are plenty of ways that your household move can become less stressful and more peaceful. Even if you’re planning on getting some moving and storage taken care of at a self storage center it is still important to stay organized. Following these tips and suggestions can keep your life and possessions together.
Gather Moving Supplies:
You will need more boxes than you think, so be sure to collect plenty. Keep an additional 10 boxes on hand to pack last minute items such as bedding and cleaning supplies on the day of the move. You could get free boxes from the local grocery or retail stores. Most moving and storage companies supply boxes and will issue a refund for unused boxes. You could also purchase boxes from a self-moving company.
In addition to boxes, you will also need heavy duty packing tape to secure the boxes. Collect old newspapers to wrap fragile items. Packing paper, polystyrene peanuts and bubble wrap are also good to provide a cushion. The more supplies you have for your moving & storage now means the less you’ll need to worry about later.
Other supplies to collect include markers, packing labels, bags, and box cutters. You will also need dollies, if you are not using a moving company.
If you plan to put anything in a self storage facility, buy some air fresheners and moth balls. There are a number of different secure storage units available to accommodate different storage needs.
Create a Checklist:
Make a list and check it twice to ensure everything is labeled correctly – especially if you decide to use a moving company. Most companies will only insure damages to items included on the list you provide. Even if you plan on storing your goods with storage buildings in DFW you should still label your boxes. The next time you come back to visit your self storage unit you will easily forget the contents of each box if they’re not.
Develop a simple record keeping system before you begin packing. Give a copy of the list to the moving company and keep one for yourself. If you number the items, you can use the same to coincide with the packed box.
Creating a list is time-consuming, but is a valuable tool in the long-term.
Label Boxes:
Labeling every box will save a lot of time when you know where everything is – and where it needs to go. Typically, you want to classify the contents of the box, for example, toiletries, shoes or electronics. The label should also indicate the room where the box will go. It should be noted on the box which items are fragile so movers will handle with care. Not only will this keep your rooms or self storage space more organized but you’ll be able to take care of your business and get in and out quicker.
Get Quotes from Moving Companies:
You may want to compare rates from at least three moving companies. Comparison quotes should be based on your contents and the distance between your current home and the new one. The moving company will determine the number of movers and trucks needed to successfully complete the move. The same comparison should go for self storage facilities. Different locations may have different rates and specials going on and it’s important to know which self storage center works best for your situation.
If you have family and friends who can help, using a self-moving company could be a more economical choice. Either way, begin this process as early as possible to secure the best rates. Keep in mind that rates are generally higher for weekend moves than during the week.
Safeguard Valuables:
Keep valuable items such as antiques and silverware with you, if possible. This also includes important documents such as bank statements, insurance policies and birth certificates. Trusting moving companies storage isn’t always the best policy when it comes to your important documents and valuables.
Verify whether your current homeowner’s insurance policy covers losses during a move. If not, you may need to purchase insurance from the moving company. At the same time, determine what type of information is required to submit a claim if a loss occurs.
Knowing what you have and what to do ahead of time can alleviate the stress of moving. This will keep your possessions and family intact. Following these moving tips can help make you moving experience a positive one.