Moving Tips

Moving is one of the most difficult times in an individual and a family's life. Here we hope you will find a few ideas to make your move and your life a little less difficult.

1. Make lists!
   • of quotes and estimates from moving companies in your area.
   • of supplies you will need
   • of things you need to do ie. cancel utilities, have a garage
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   • of boxes you have packed
2. Label Label Label!
   • Label and number EVERY box. Be specific.
3. Supplies.
   • various sizes and lots of boxes
   • black and/or coloured markers
   • packing tape and wide masking tape for labeling
   • newspaper/wrapping paper/bubble wrap/cardboard/padding
   • scissors/pocket knife and small tool kit for disassembling
   • sandwich bags (to hold appliance/furniture hardware)
   • garbage bags and containers
4. Plan Ahead!
   • Start calling moving companies up to two months in advance. Clear up clutter and pack items you won't need.
   • Make arrangements for your pets (and children!) on moving day.
5. Packing Tips.
   • Pack as much as you can into boxes and don't skimp on packing supplies. They are far cheaper than broken or damaged belongings.
   • Don't stack dishes. Pad and pack dishes upright like bookends. Reinforce the bottom of all boxes with tape.
   • Keep the weight of each box down to a manageable level ie. pack heavy items, such as books, in smaller boxes.
   • Pack bulky, lightweight items such as stuffed animals and pillows in large garbage bags and tape closed.
   • Leave lightweight linens and clothing in their drawers. Do not use tape directly on wood or painted surfaces.
   • Disassemble any items you can. Place wing nuts or screws in envelopes or plastic bags taped to the item they belong to.
   • Wrap large mirrors or pictures by covering both sides with blankets or bubble wrap and heavy cardboard, then bind with tape.
   • Original shipping boxes are best for electronic items.
   • Immobilize moving parts and remove all detachable cables and wires.
   • Tape electrical cords to back of appliance and wrap each piece with bubble wrap.
   • Drain all fuel and oil from lawn mowers, weed eaters, BBQs, chain saws and other equipment and disconnect all batteries.
   • Strap long garden tools together into a bundle.
   • Poisonous, flammable and corrosive items cannot be shipped.
6. Be There.
   • Plan to attend your move! Movers will not enter premises if the owner is not present. Have an open schedule on the day of your move.
7. Access.
   • If there are stairs, narrow bits, elevator or parking restrictions etc., let the company know when obtaining an estimate. Let landlords and neighbors know what you will be doing. Clear clutter and assure steps and walkways are solid and not slippery.
8. Delays.
   • Delays do occur. Having your schedule open and your preparations complete will help. Stay in contact with your moving company and trust that they are doing everything on their end to solve any issues and attend to your move.
9. Bumps and Bruises.
   • Pad things well, clear the way and hire a professional! For expensive items, electronics, pool tables, pianos, glass, marble, antiques etc. consider purchasing extra insurance or see about having it included in your homeowners' plan.
10. Payment.
    • Check beforehand for the payment methods your company accepts and be prepared to pay before unloading. Many companies require cash or a pre-authourized credit card number. Request an invoice, a copy of the contract and of the companies terms and conditions.