If you’re like a lot of people, you’ve made a pre-move list. That list probably includes getting a few moving estimates, changing your addresses, disconnecting and reconnecting your utilities, etc. There are some things, though, that never even occurred to you.
Make Arrangements for Children and Pets
Moving is traumatic enough for adult people, but if you have pets and small children, it’s nearly imperative that they stay safely out of the way. The doors will be open throughout much of the day, giving pets an opportunity to escape the chaos at home. Both children and pets can be injured as furniture is being lugged through the house. If you can, leave them with a sitter or a relative. If you can’t, supervise your children, and crate your pets. Trust me, they’ll be much happier.
Tell Your Neighbors About the Move
A common burglary tactic is to pull a moving truck up to a house, and load it up in broad daylight. That’s a lot harder to get away with, though, if your neighbors know you. The flip side of that is that if your neighbors don’t know you’re moving, they might call the police on the truck. You can avoid an embarrassing scene by letting your neighbors know you’re moving.
Contact the City About Your Move
In cities where parking is at a premium, you’ll want to contact the city and arrange for parking. Your city will likely charge a fee, but they’ll give you signs to reserve spaces in front of your home. We recommend at least three car lengths.
Get Your Appliances and Electronics Ready
Washers and dryers offer a bit of a challenge. Your washing machine drum requires delicate balance, which requires some prep. They also have water lines. Here are some tips for prepping a washer.
Electric appliances are relatively easy, but if you have a gas dryer, it’s best to have a pro disconnect it and prep it for the move. If you want to do it yourself, here are the steps you need to take. Please note that movers cannot disconnect gas lines.
Prepare your electronics by labeling each wire, cable and cord. Plastic bread ties and a sharpie should be all you need. If you have the original boxes for your electronics, perfect. Otherwise, we suggest either moving them in your car or letting the movers pack them for you.
Know What Can’t Be Moved
Movers are notoriously up for almost any challenge, but there are limits. There are some items movers simply cannot move. Those include small valuables, such as jewelry, cash, important documents, etc.
For safety purposes, we cannot move anything explosive, corrosive, or flammable. In other words, you’ll need to move your cleaning supplies, propane tanks, paints, etc. Make sure the tanks are empty on any gas-powered tools.
Measure
Before the move, measure your biggest pieces of furniture and your room, doorways, and hallways. We remember one customer who had a normal-sized sofa, but there was no way we could get it down the hallway. She had to switch to a futon and donate her sofa. If you aren’t sure whether something can fit, call your mover with the dimensions.
Featured image via Pxhere
