5 Tips for Packing Up and Hitting the Road
Moving can be stressful. But with proper planning and organizing, moving to a new home can be easier than you think.
With promise of great weather, garage sale season at its peak and families trying to transition before the new school year starts, it's no surprise that summer is the busiest time of the year to move. Although moving at any time can be stressful, we've got 5 tips that will help moving seem like a breeze.
1. Find a reliable and efficient moving company
Moving is stressful and doing it by yourself can be even more so. That's why it makes sense to hire a moving company. Take time to do some research online a while in advance before you move in order to find the best company that fits your needs. It is best to find at least two to three moving companies that can answer the following questions to make sure you're getting the best.
Find out if they…
- Can provide you a referral
- Have an insurance policy
- Have background information of their employees
- Can provide a pricing quote
2. Get an accurate estimate
Moving companies are very busy especially during late July, so have them make an estimate and hire them as soon as possible to save stress down the road. Before the moving company comes for the estimate, sort out all of the things you are planning on moving so that the movers can make an easy and accurate estimate. If the movers give you an estimate in cubic feet do not use them.
Do not forget to ask your moving company if they have special offers or discounts. After you have worked out the best plan for you, hire them.
3. Pack and sort your items
Don't wait till the last minute to start packing your belongings. Depending on how much stuff you have, it is good to start packing at least a month before the move. If your moving company is not going to be helping you, don't be afraid to ask friends to help. Having other people help will make the entire process faster and less stressful. Make sure you have the essentials. Packing tape, boxes, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, sharpies and sticky notes help make packing easy and organized.
Helpful Tip – Label each box with what items are in it and what room it should be in. This makes the unpacking process so much easier.
4. Plan your route
Whether you're moving across town or to another state, prepare a safe route to take. Talk to your moving company about the travel plan, especially if you are moving far away. Have a backup plan and print out at least two other routes, just in case. It is important to take a route that doesn't have any detours and can accommodate a big moving truck. This will ensure your belongings arrive to your new home safely.
5. Hit the road
Finally, you can begin your journey to your new home. Before leaving, make sure that all of your belongings are packed and your house is cleared of everything. Bring an overnight bag including money, your important documents, maps, clothes and bathroom essentials. Make sure that you're wearing comfortable clothes especially if you are going to be driving for a while. If you're going to be traveling a long distance, book a hotel room before hand so that you don't have to drive through the night.
For more information on moving and hiring a professional moving company, check out Roadway Moving's website, or call them at 212-812-5240.
