Moving can feel overwhelming, whether you’re relocating across town or across the country.
Nelson Markesbery Moving & Storage gets it—shifting your whole life to a new place is no small feat. That’s why we’ve put together straightforward tips to help you navigate the process with ease.
Tips for Before You Move
A great moving company can educate you on the do’s and don’ts of moving, and accommodate services based on your needs. It’s part of the reason why Allied Moving and its affiliates, like Nelson Markesbery, are considered among the top national moving companies.
Related Post:Why Allied Moving Company and Its Affiliates are the Top National Movers
Have a Garage Sale
A garage sale offers a great way to get rid of everything you don’t need before you move. Plus, it gives you some extra cash to help you welcome yourself and your family to your new place. Consider toys your kids don’t play with anymore, collections of items that no longer have sentimental value, bulky furniture that won’t fit into your new place, and clothes that no one wears anymore.
Prepare for Packers & Movers
Make sure you are ready for the packers and movers on moving day! Don’t forget to do the laundry, wash the dishes, pack your suitcases, and disconnect computers, stereos, and other electronic devices.
Set aside those items that you will be taking with you and clearly mark them as Do Not Pack. This lets the movers know that you will take these items in your personal vehicles.
Drain the gas and oil from all your power equipment (lawnmower, edger, snowblower). Movers cannot transport hazardous materials, and both gas and oil are classified as such because they are flammable.
Stay in Contact
Before the moving truck leaves for your new home destination, give the driver your phone numbers where you can be reached. It is also a good idea to get the driver’s cell phone number. This way, there are two-way lines of communication in case there are questions.
Know What Movers Cannot Take With Them
Be aware of items that can’t be moved with the mover. You’ll have to take these in your personal vehicle or arrange for a different type of logistics company.
- Flammable Items
- Combustible Items
- Aerosol Cans
- Hazardous Materials
- Gasoline
- Plants
- Paints
- Ammunition & Explosives
- Jewelry
- Legal Documents (wills, financial papers, insurance documents, etc.)
Tips To Keep in Mind During Your Move
Expect the Unexpected
Moving days rarely go exactly as planned.
Traffic, weather changes, or unforeseen delays can easily throw off your schedule. It’s important to keep a flexible mindset and be ready to adapt as needed.
Weather can play a huge role in how your move goes, so it’s wise to keep a close eye on the forecast as your moving day approaches. If there’s a chance of rain, snow, or extreme heat, make sure to have the necessary supplies on hand, like tarps, plastic covers, or extra water to stay hydrated.
If you’re stuck in traffic or the weather isn’t cooperating, take a deep breath and remember that things won’t always go according to plan. Communicate with your movers and keep everyone in the loop about any changes.
Related Post: How to Move During Extreme Weather
Don’t Stop Decluttering
Even on moving day, there’s still time to declutter.
As you pack up the final items or do a last sweep through your home, you might find things you missed during your initial packing. Instead of just tossing them into a box, take a moment to assess whether you really need these items in your new space.
Set aside a “last-minute” box for those items you’re unsure about. This way, you can make quick decisions without slowing down the moving process. When you arrive at your new home, you can revisit this box and decide what stays and what goes.
Protect Your Floors and Carpets
On moving day, your floors and carpets are at risk of getting scratched, scuffed, or stained as furniture and boxes are shuffled in and out.
To keep them in good shape, take a few minutes to lay down protective coverings. Old sheets, blankets, or plastic tarps work great for this purpose.
Take Photos of Your New Space Before Unpacking
Before the movers start unloading, take a few minutes to snap photos of your new home.
Document the condition of each room, especially any existing scratches, dents, or damage. These photos can be a lifesaver if you need to reference them later or if any disputes arise with the moving company or your property manager (if you’re renting).
Related Post: A Checklist for Moving Into Your First Apartment
Remember to Rest
Moving is a marathon, not a sprint, so plan for breaks along the way. Schedule short, regular pauses for yourself and your movers to recharge and avoid burnout.
Moving can be physically demanding, and keeping everyone’s energy levels up is key to a smooth process. Stock up on water and easy-to-grab snacks like fruit, nuts, or granola bars. These will keep everyone hydrated and fueled, helping to maintain momentum throughout the day.
Make Your Move Easier With a Cincinnati Moving Company!
Following these simple practices can lead to a much smoother move in addition to all the hard work and effort our staff here at Nelson Markesbery Allied will be doing to ensure a great moving experience. Contact us or call (859) 371-8111 for more information or to get a quote.