Moving can be a huge chore, but it’s also a good opportunity to declutter your house and get rid of unwanted items. If you have some items that you just don’t want to part with, but don’t have the space for them in your new home, consider donating them to a charity. You can even hire a junk removal service to pick up your clutter and donate it to a local non-profit, or have the company recycle the materials for you.
Professional movers have the training and experience to safely and efficiently handle the logistics of a move, which can save you time and hassle and ensure that your belongings are protected throughout the transition. They’ll know how to properly pack a box, secure delicate antiques and disassemble large furniture pieces for transport, as well as navigate flights of stairs and narrow doorways. They can also take inventory of your items during a visit and provide a written estimate for the move that takes into account the size of your house, distance traveled and any special services you’ll need.
When choosing a moving company, make sure to read reviews and ask about licensing requirements. Both local movers and interstate movers must comply with state-level registration (often regulated by the Department of Transportation) or have U.S. Department of Transportation and motor carrier operating authority numbers, which you can find on the FMCSA website. A lack of licensing or insurance should be a red flag.
Once you’ve selected a few potential movers, ask about their rates and services. Compare quotes carefully, and be aware of any hidden fees or additional charges. Some movers charge by the hour, while others may offer flat-rate or fixed-price options. A full-service mover will handle packing, unpacking, loading and transporting all of your items, while partial service movers offer only the transport and loading services.
You should also ask movers about their policies regarding loss or damage claims. If you encounter any issues with your belongings during the move, notify the company in writing as soon as possible to start the process of resolving the claim. If the mover denies your claim or doesn’t resolve it to your satisfaction within 120 days, you can pursue a resolution through Small Claims Court.
Before your movers arrive, you’ll need to prepare your home for them by clearing out the driveway or garage, and making sure there is plenty of room for the truck to park. You should also check that the staircase leading up to your home is clear of obstructions, and that there’s enough room for the movers to maneuver your belongings into and out of the truck. If you need to store any boxes, clear out a safe storage area. Finally, don’t forget to set aside a box for essential items that you’ll need access to during the move, such as cleaning supplies and tools, pet food, water, medication and important documents. Having these items in one place will help keep everything organized and easy to find.