33 TIPS for a Smooth Move

1. When interviewing moving companies, make sure to ask if they are insured and bonded and check their rating with the Better Business Bureau. Remember to ask about any "hidden charges" and their cancellation policy.
2. Avoid used boxes. You never know what little critter is hiding -or if the box will be strong enough to support your possessions. Professional moving boxes and supplies are avaiiable on this website -with FREE delivery the next business day!
3. Use only small boxes for books. They get very heavy, very fast. Remember: the heavier the item, the smaller the box.
4. Always stack dishes upwards when packing.
5. Never use printed newsprint to wrap fine china.
6. Use custom-designed boxes when packing fine china and clothing.
7. Never use duct tape on boxes - use packing tape.
8. Clearly label all boxes on top and side.
9. Only use boxes with tops. No tops make it impossible to stack them properly in the truck.
10. Pack important documents separately to be easily accessible including: children's health records, passports, family records, insurance information and photo albums.
11. Don't try to get rid of your children's favorite things before the move even if it makes it easier. Kids sometimes have a hard time dealing with the change of the move itself.
12. For large appliances be sure to check your owner's manual to see if there are any special instructions for moving the item.
13. lf you take apart furniture and other items make sure to tape all parts to the main base.
14. Use wardrobe boxes to make closets easier to pack. Each wardrobe box holds about 2 feet of hanging clothes. After the move ... use them to store your summer/winter clothes to free up space in your closet!
15. Clothes in drawers can be placed in suitcases, boxes or bags. If using bags, be sure to label them so they are not mistaken for "trash."
16. Try to pack all electronic equipment, like stereos in their original boxes, if possible. Otherwise use bubble wrap when packing these items.
17. Start packing items you will not need ahead of time.
18. Clean out closets, the attic, and the garage as soon as you decide it's time to move.
19. By law, a moving company can't transport hazardous materials such as gasoline, bottled gases and other flammables, ammunition or explosives.
20. Avoid mixing items from different rooms in the same box.
21. Pack a box of essential items that you will need immediately after the move and make sure it's the last thing added to the truck.
22. Always pack and unpack breakables over a padded surface.
23. Always tape the top of boxes shut. Don't interlock the tops.
24. Two weeks before the move don't forget to arrange to transfer school records.
25. Make a "survival closet" of things for the last cleanup before you move out -broom, dust cloth, dust pan, mop.
26. Remember to get snacks for move day.
27. Schedule disconnect times for about a week before your move day you don't want to have to pay for cable, phone or utilities when you aren't even there!
28. Cancel newspapers, lawn services, etc. about a week before the move.
29. Mail in your change of address forms about week before your move date.
30. Clean your stove before you move out.
31. The day before your move, defrost the fridge.
32. Make sure to get enough cash to get you through move day.
33. Take time to say goodbye to friends and neighbors before your busy move day.