Moving Tips

We know as well, if not better than most, how stressful moving can be.

With over 32 years of experience, we’ve seen it all, and have put together a handy checklist for you below to make your move as stress-free as it can possibly be.

Remember, preparation is key. It’s not difficult, but there is a process you can follow to ensure a smooth move.

  • Get estimate from moving companies and arrange method of payment.
  • Sell, give away, discard unnecessary belongings.
  • Notify post office and send out change of address cards to companies to inform of move.
  • Get school records for transfer to new school.
  • Check and clear tax assessments on your current property.
  • Collect and send out all items to be cleaned and repaired.
  • Return all items borrowed, collect all items loaned.
  • Arrange for connection and shutting off all utilities.
  • Dispose of flammable items.
  • Defrost and clean refrigerator one day before move; clean stove
  • Have meters read.
  • Use up perishable food.
  • Arrange to transport plants, pets, fish and perishables.
  • Clean rugs and drapes.
  • Arrange for work that has to be done at new home.
  • Cancel cleaning person, pool maintenance, window cleaners, snow removal, etc.
  • Assure you have adequate insurance for goods in transit.

  • Get packing paper, pad for inventory, marking pens.
  • Boxes or containers for packing, heavy twine or masking tape.
  • Empty gasoline from lawnmowers, outboard motors, etc.
  • Remove batteries from toys, and appliances.
  • Mark cartons or boxes clearly as to contents and room to be put in.
  • Set aside things you will carry in car in carton marked “Do Not Load”.
  • Mark clearly cartons you want loaded last, unloaded first.
  • Take a telephone book with you.
  • Tie or tape mops, brooms, curtain rods in bundles.
  • Point out and mark especially fragile or delicate items.
  • Carry currency, jewelry and valuable papers yourself.
  • Pack books, phonograph records on edge in small boxes.
  • Large mirrors, glass table tops and valuable pictures should be crated.
  • Carton weight should not exceed 60 pounds.
  • All boxes should be tied securely.
  • Be careful when using newspaper to pack because the ink rubs off.
  • Do not pack cleaning products in the same box as food.
  • Place heavy china items at bottom of box; all flat pieces should be placed on edge.
  • Move clothes and drapes in wardrobe, supplied by movers.
  • Do not roll mattresses or rugs; leave for mover using special cartons.
  • Take down any fixtures fastened to wall.

  • Have children and pets elsewhere, if possible.
  • Check off numbered boxes.
  • Check each carton for damage or loss.
  • Pay movers.
  • Get appliances hooked up.
  • Get utilities turned on, or meters read.
  • Get kitchen and bedrooms setup first.
  • Finally, pour yourself a glass of wine, or an ice cold beer.  Celebrate!  You’ve moved!