Moving Checklist
There is a lot to remember when you are packing up and moving. Forgetting something can turn what is already a stressful experience into a major league headache.
So we've put together a checklist of things you'll need before you start the big move, along with questions you can ask your movers that will save you both time and money.
Before the Move
- Find out when you have to be out of your current place and when you can move into your new one
- If you can't move in on the same day, you'll have to look at storage options
- If you are moving to or from an apartment building with an elevator, book with the building manager to ensure the elevator is reserved for your use
- Book your movers as soon as you know your date. The end of the month is a very busy time for movers, so booking early ensures you get their help
Supplies
Aside from essentials like boxes, tape, bubble wrap and pizza, there are some other things that will go far in making the move a lot smoother.
- dollies or carts
- shrink wrap (to protect and hold drawers in place)
- blankets (to protect furniture during transport)
- larger Tupperware containers
- newspapers (for wrapping fragile items)
- doorstops
- bungee chords
Questions to Ask Your Movers
Knowing what to ask your movers before you hire them can save you time and money - something we all want more of.
- Ask about their availability on your preferred moving date
- Ask them about crew sizes and pricing. If it is a small move, you'll only need a two person crew, while bigger, house-to-house moves might require three or more
- Find out about travel time - some companies charge for the time it takes to get to and from the job
- Ask if they are insured. Some of the smaller, ma & pa movers aren't and this could impact you in a big way
- Payment options - not all companies take credit cards or cheques
- Redistribution of unwanted goods - some companies will help you dispose of furniture and other items that don't fit into your life after the move. Ask if they will assist with cosigning to auctions, donating to charity or disposing of the items at the landfill
You'll also want to have some information ready for the movers when you call.
- Estimate the size of your current residence and the destination (e.g densely packed one-bedroom apartment, sparsely furnished condo, large three-bedroom home)
- Know the specifics on both the current residence and the destination (e.g. basement suite with a flight of stairs, three-storey walk up, high-rise with an elevator etc.)
- Inform them of any heavy or oversized items (pianos, overstuffed couches etc.)
