Moving is an exciting life change, but it does come with its own unique set of stressors. You could be moving cross-country or cross-town and the fact remains: moving requires a lot of you. Without help, you are required to handle the planning, budgeting, equipment rental/purchasing, problem-solving, packing, insurance, storage arrangements, transportation, and logistics.
A professional moving company can be a BIG help.
ABS Movers & Storage wants to make life easier on you during one of the most exciting—and stressful—life changes. Whether you have made the decision to use a professional moving company in Oakville, Ontario for your next move or not, there are some very basic rules-of-thumb to getting you and your home ready. These 5 Tips to Prepare for the Big Move should help you out:
- Know what is and is not going with you
What you intend to bring with you should be made clear. Also, some items cannot be moved with all moving companies, so be sure to ask about restrictions/added fees. If you have any of the following, be forthcoming about these and find out what details and restrictions may apply:
- Some household chemicals
- Paints and other liquids
- Cash
- Pets
- Important papers
- Photographs
- Food
- Medicine
- Who’s going to pack?
Determine early on whether or not you intend to pack your belongings or if you prefer to have the professionals do this. If you decide to handle this portion of the moving process yourself, that’s perfectly fine! Just be sure you’re ready BEFORE the movers arrive (so as to avoid added fees) and be sure you employ the following:
- Pad EVERYTHING with newspapers, bubble wrap, or blankets
- Label each box according to the moving company’s instructions (this may include a description, room association, labels such as “heavy” or “fragile,” or your name)
- Keep heavy boxes grouped together—this helps the movers in planning how to load the truck
- Financially protect your belongings
Use either the moving company’s insurance (if you feel confident and comfortable with it) and/or contact your insurance company to add or review the protection you have on your possessions prior to packing and moving. This is too important. Do not skip seeking coverage for your things! - Prepare your personal “go-bag” and first-night necessities
Are you moving far away? Plan what you need in your personal vehicle to sustain you for your trip and first night in the new home! We suggest a small cooler with easy-to-eat-while-mobile goods:
- Bottle water
- Soda or sports drinks
- Sandwiches
- Apples or grapes
- Energy bars
- Keep track of your stuff
We suggest you make an itemized list of your possessions—including the type of item and quantity. Most moving companies will provide you a list to fill out. In addition, we have had clients who take pictures of their most important items to keep a record of the condition (in the case of family heirlooms and irreplaceable keepsakes)—this helps for insurance purposes.
We would love to alleviate your pre- and post- moving stressors! Give ABS Movers & Storage a call today!
ABS Movers & Storage | 17 Dora Ave Toronto, ON M6H 1J5 | (416) 588-1499
