Moving Advice
Usually the reason for moving is a happy one, such as a new home or job promotion. The excitement this generates hopefully compensates for the inconvenience of packing up and relocating. Whether you're moving across the street or across the country, moving is stressful. Moving is considered one of the top five most stressful situations. It is always tough on families, pets included.
Moving is going to cost you, regardless of how you choose to do it. After estimating the cost of wear and tear on your vehicle, the cost of renting a moving van, and the cost of gasoline you may find that moving yourself is more expensive than you thought. Packing materials and moving boxes can be a substantial part of your moving costs. In addition to doing all the work yourself, you will also need to figure in broken items and unexpected trips. A solution that many people use to take advantage of the professional mover's packing expertise and yet not spend too much money, is to pack books, clothes and most of the unbreakable items on their own. One thing to note is that you can deduct the costs associated with packing up and physically moving your stuff from here to there including truck rentals, moving companies, boxes and so on at tax time.
If using a mover, obtain estimates from at least three professional moving companies as well as recommendations from friends before making your selection. Choose companies that have been around for at least ten years. Any reputable mover will provide you with a written estimate of moving expenses and services. One way to ensure pleasant and stress free moving experience is getting one flat price that will not change when the movers show up. You should have picked your final choice of moving company at least one to two months in advance. Let the mover know how much packing you will be doing. Of course the more flexible you are, the less expensive it will be. Once you've picked a mover, be sure to confirm the move dates and details. Remember that the mover's maximum liability is the amount of liability you declared. Before selecting a mover, know and understand your rights. Ask the mover how they can be contacted before the move, during the move, and after the move.
Here are a few moving tips to help you out. On moving day you should be at home when the movers arrive to supervise their work. Pack an "essentials" box for arrival, with toiletries, paper plates, etc. Last minute decisions must be made by you so do not leave until after the movers have gone. Draw up a floor plan of where you think your furniture should be placed. Don't forget to get pet records from your veterinarian. While the boxes are being loaded onto the moving van you may want pets and very small children to stay with relatives or a babysitter for the day. If your pets are micro-chipped, be sure to call and update your address and phone number. Get valuables out of your safe deposit box. Check personal insurance policies to see whether moving is covered.
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