Moving is a stressful time, but by choosing the right moving company you can reduce everyone’s stress levels considerably. Every move is different, and like most things, preparation is the key. Here are my top five moving tips to get you into your new home a little easier.
1. Find a mover through referral
When selecting a moving company, don’t solely rely on online reviews because they’re not always credible. Ask friends, family, your realtor, and others for referrals. The first thing you should do is check with the Better Business Bureau to see if they’re members are in good standing
2. Get more than one estimate
Get at least two written in-home estimates from a moving company that represents a reputable company. Call them to find out if they’re willing to come and assess your home in order to provide a formal estimate. In-person is so important! It’s not acceptable for someone to give rates and estimates over the phone unless you like surprises! That consultant is there to provide an accurate, written estimate. They’re also a huge resource for advice on packing and storage, your responsibilities, insurance requirements and they will discuss any concerns they see before the truck and crew arrives. The in-home estimate is a free and relatively quick process. The consultant should know exactly what to look for when it comes to pricing. A good company will work closely with you to make sure you’re properly prepared, especially if they want your referral business afterward.
3. Fully pack all boxes
If you’re doing your own packing, ensure that the boxes are packed fully and as tightly as you can get them! Mark the sides of the box, not the tops with the room you’d like it delivered to in your new home. Often, people have more boxes than necessary because they’re packed too lightly. This creates too much bulk in the truck and the boxes risk crushing each other. Don’t worry about the weight of the boxes, movers are skilled in moving even the heaviest items. Fewer boxes mean less time, and that means cheaper for you.
4. Understand your insurance
It’s important that you get a full understanding of transit protection insurance, which is often the biggest problem for the inexperienced, which is often the biggest problem for those inexperienced. There is always a certain risk when transporting household goods, and there are options to protect your goods. Knowing what is covered or not covered will eliminate many issues during and after the move. Your mover will go over this with you. Some items are not covered unless they pack or crate them, such as flat-screen TVs. Your responsibilities include proper dismantling and preparation of appliances and electronics.
5. Make sure you are ready on moving day
On moving day, make sure the elevators are booked, the driveway and walkway are cleared, and you’re completely packed. Some of these points may seem obvious, but delays are caused by unforeseen circumstances like ice, broken elevators, etc. Believe it or not, not everyone has finished packing by the time the movers arrive. Our team will also help you provide short and long-term storage solutions in Ottawa in case dates don’t line up. Focus, don’t panic, and always plan ahead. Be prepared to bring some things such as aerosols, alcohol, fire extinguishers, and cleaning chemicals in your vehicle as they’re not permitted in the moving truck. I always recommend that you take sensitive items, such as plants, pictures, lampshades, and flat screen TVs in your own vehicle if you can.
