Moving Do's and Don'ts

Summer is "peak" moving season. If you can be flexible about when you move, don’t wait until the summer. Also keep in mind that the first and last weeks of the month are extra-busy for all movers.

Specify the exact date you want to move and when it will be convenient for an agent to visually survey your household and prepare an estimate.

Tour your house before the agent arrives. Check from attic to basement, and determine what will be moved and what will be discarded. Show your agent everything you will be moving.

If you plan to do the packing yourself, start collecting suitable containers and packing materials.Set packing goals and deadlines. Have all packing complete by moving day.

If you are being relocated at your company’s request, find out what portion of your moving expenses will be paid by the company. If your company has a written moving policy, ask for a copy.

Dispose of all flammables such as cleaning fluids, aerosol cans, fireworks and matches. Drain the fuel from your power mower and other machinery. Discard partly used containers of any substance that may leak. Empty the water from your steam iron.

Obtain a written appraisal of antique items to verify their value. Don’t wax or oil wood furniture before moving, because some products may soften the wood, making it vulnerable to imprinting from furniture pads.

Unplug all electronic equipment such as television sets, home computers, stereos, etc., 24 hours in advance of a move so they will be at room temperature on moving day. Moving a TV set and other electronic equipment in which heat is still retained could cause internal damage.

Be on hand at unloading and have a plan for placement of your furniture.

Don't pack flammables.

Drain all gasoline powered equipment.

To protect clocks, secure or remove pendulums, chimes and weights.

Keep all valuables such as jewelry, coin or stamp collections, currency, etc. with you.

Don’t forget to insure!