There are many ways to reduce the time and cost required to complete your
move. No single item will greatly lower your costs, but any combination
of the following can produce significant savings.
1. Start the move as early as possible. Late starts, particularly on
large moves, can have a psychological as well as physical effect on both
the crew and you. Overtime can become a factor as well.
2. Be ready when the movers arrive. Make certain that all small items,
including lamps, pictures, small mirrors, lampshades, dishes, books, etc.,
are packed prior to the arrival of the movers. Use cartons that can be
sealed. Follow our 'Packing Tips' carefully. We can supply you with all
the materials necessary to ensure a proper packing job. Keep in mind that
the costs of these materials may be outweighed by the extra cost of the
move, should it take longer due to improper packing. Mark the cartons
clearly to ensure proper placement in your new residence.
3. Discard unwanted items prior to the move. Have a garage sale for items
that you no longer consider useful. Don't pay to move what you don't need.
4. Have the cars out of the driveway. Otherwise the moving van may block
them in. If the truck has to load off the street, try to ensure that there
is a parking spot specifically reserved for the movers.
5. If you are moving from an apartment, have the elevator on service and
meet the crew when they arrive in the moving room.
6. In the winter, make sure the driveways and walkways are clear and salted
to prevent slipping.
7. Remove all items that you are moving yourself prior to the arrival of
the movers, so they won't be in the way during the move.
8. Move small plants yourself. The movers will move large plants at the
customer's risk, if desired.
9. Disconnect all appliances and remove hoses completely from the washer
and the dryer to prevent scratching and soiling of walls and floors. Place
the hoses inside the washer to ensure that you will find them later.
10. Bring garden tools, lawn mower, patio furniture, etc. from the
backyard
to the front.
11. Bring small items and cartons up from the basement and put them in the
garage for quicker access.
12. Disassemble swing sets and other large items. If you're moving in
winter, plan ahead to prevent them from freezing in the ground.
13. Disassemble all beds. Movers assume that waterbeds will be drained
completely and disassembled prior to their arrival.
14. Take mirrors off the dressers. Wrap the screws and tape them into
the top right-hand drawer of the dresser.
15. Take the legs off large tables and handle carefully to avoid damage.
16. Remove screen door plungers and any doors that had to be removed
when you moved in.
17. Walk through the house when the crew first arrives and point out the
things that are not to go, as well as items you are especially concerned
about.
18. Make yourself available at all times in case of questions.
19. Try to keep children from getting in the way of the movers. Remember
this is a big day for them, and try to be as patient as possible.
20. Assist in carrying small items, boxes, etc. Do not attempt to carry
heavy items requiring two people. The movers are experienced at working
together.
21. Check the house thoroughly prior to the departure of the crew. The
driver is instructed not to leave until you are satisfied that they have
loaded everything that is to go.
22. Be organized at the new house. Have someone at the door to direct the
movers. This will eliminate confusion about where to place items.
23. Pack and unpack the clothing wardrobe cartons you rented, or which the
movers supplied on the day of the move, while the movers load and unload
the truck. Make sure they're one of the last things to go onto the truck.
This way, you can unpack the wardrobe cartons quickly and the movers can
take them when they leave, thus avoiding additional rental costs.
24. Reassemble items on your own where possible to save time and the cost
of having the movers do it.
25. Pick a closing date that is unique and not end of the month.
26. Think about where your moving from. (i.e. elevator to large building
may be busy)
The items listed above are just some of the money-saving tips you can try.
The most important suggestion we can make is to be organized. Your move
should be an enjoyable event, and a little planning will ensure you and
your family have a great move.
