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Ultimate Moving Checklist

10 Easy Steps to Prepare for a Move

Use The Ultimate Moving Checklist to help you prepare to move, organize yourself for moving, and keep your move on track.

I think you’ll agree when I say: Moving is stressful.

Studies show that moving is more stressful than weddings, divorce, or even the death of a loved one.

But does moving have to be stressful?

Well, it turns out you can greatly reduce the amount of stress you experience when moving and even dramatically improve your moving experience by taking some simple steps in preparation and planning in advance of your move.

And in today’s post, I’m going to show how to improve your chances of hiring a great moving company, with great movers, and having a great moving day experience.

 

Here’s what you’ll learn with our Ultimate Moving Checklist

  •  Steps to Take to Plan the Perfect Move
  •  Questions to Ask Moving Companies Near Me
  •  How to Choose a Moving Company
  •  When to Schedule Your Move
  •  How to Get a Free Moving Estimate
  •  Best Ways to Find the Right Moving Company for your Needs
  •  Common Moving Expenses that Effect Moving Company Prices
  •  Pre-Moving Tips
  •  Packing Tips
  •  Moving Day Advice

 

So let’s get started……..

Do you want to know the SECRETS to plan a perfect move?

Most people just go through the motions when moving.

But, if you go through these 10 steps, you can have a stress-free move that goes smoothly. The perfect move requires advanced planning and effort.

When you utilize these moving secrets, you’ll be surprised about how prepared you feel about your upcoming move.

 

Moving Secret #1:  Create a plan for your move

The first step to planning anything is to have a PLAN. Take a few extra minutes to plan and organize the details of your move. It helps you make the best use of your time BEFORE the move. Here are some basic guidelines on How to Plan a Move.

 

Moving Secret #2:  Set your moving budget

Work within the parameters of your budget. It makes your move less stressful and helps guide you in your decision-making process.

When you hire a moving company there are some moving fees and costs you should consider adding to your moving budget.

  • Moving Company Fee
  • Valuation Coverage Options / Moving Insurance (optional)
  • Extra Moving Service Charges (see the section on Extra Moving Services that can affect your move price, below)
  • Professional Packing
  • Transportation/Lodging (depending on how far you are moving)
  • Packing and Storage Fees
  • Supplies for Packing  (see the section on supplies for moving and types of packing materials below)
  • Tips (optional, but recommended for a great moving experience)

 

Moving Secret #3:  Set a date for your move

Once the date is set, create a timeline in which you need to get everything done. Working backward from the move date to set your goals is often helpful. If you are buying a new home you should take into account that your closing date may change as the closing gets closer. So, it makes sense to allow some overlap in timing when planning your move.

 

Moving Secret #4:  Decide if you are using a moving company

If you need help with the decision about whether to use a moving company or not, see our tips on how to Pick the Right Moving Company for your needs. If you decide not to use a moving company, remember that you have to pack, load, drive, and unload. So, be sure to allocate plenty of time, get as much help as you can, and be ready for some heavy lifting.

 

Moving Secret #5:  Make copies of your important documents

Knowing where your important documents are during a move assures that they are safe and do not get lost. Having this security helps to reduce your stress during a move. It is also a good idea to keep electronic copies of important documents and have them saved on a secure device. It is a best practice to pre-pack small items, valuables, and important documents yourself and to clearly label the box, so you can easily identify and find them. Important documents should be kept with you, moved by you, and not moved with the rest of your household goods.

Most important documents to secure when moving:

  • Bank statements
  • Passports
  • Identification Cards
  • Medical Information
  • Insurance Cards
  • School Records (both new school and old school)
  • Address Books
  • Items you Consider Valuable (or sentimental)

 

Moving Secret #6:  De-clutter and simplify your home

Everything you move takes time and money to move. To make your move more efficient and less costly, you should focus on moving less. Consider donating items, having a tag sale, or selling items online. Declutter your home and only move what you truly need. In the end, you will be happy to have less clutter in your new home.

 

Moving Secret #7:  Take inventory

Taking inventory of the items you are moving helps you to know exactly what you are moving. An inventory item list is also necessary to provide to the moving estimator. It allows you to get an accurate moving quote. It also proves helpful in confirming that all of your items arrive at your new location.

 

Moving Secret #8:  Pack early

Packing always takes more time than you think. So, start packing early! Be sure to have quality packing materials on hand. The moving boxes and moving materials need to be strong enough to hold your items safely. Plus, they need to be sturdy enough to get loaded onto a moving truck and to be stacked upon one another.

 

Moving Secret #9:  Clean your new home before you move into it

Your home may be new to you, but that doesn’t mean the previous owners left it clean for you. Whether you are moving into new construction or a place where someone lived previously, there may still be some dust or clutter. Take care of it before you move in. Some moving companies in New Haven CT, like Collegian Movers, provide free cleaning products with the delivery of your household goods. This moving perk is to assure you have a clean fresh start in your new location. It also makes your new location feel more like home.

 

Moving Secret #10:  Create a floor plan and furniture layout

Plan and create a furniture map to show where you would like your furniture to be placed upon arrival in the new home. This is a great communication tool to help the movers know in advance where your furniture belongs.  It saves you time and money by allowing the movers to work efficiently. Plus, it frees up more of your time, so you can focus on other details, and improve your chances for a perfect move.

 

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Are you still contemplating whether to hire a moving company or to do it yourself?

Well:

Here’s the deal… hiring a Professional Movers is a Smart Move!

 

Just look at the benefits……

Convenient – You can choose for your movers to do everything for you from packing to moving, and unpacking. All you need to do is set the date and let them know what needs to go and where you want it delivered. If your new location is not ready, local movers can provide you with overnight, short-term or long-term storage facility options.

Reliable – Unlike your friends who you asked to help move you and who never showed up, professional movers show up on time, ready to work and to get your job done - the way you want it done.

Knowledgeable – Professional movers are trained and know how to pack boxes and furniture, rig hard to move items securely, and safely move your items out of one location and into another. They arrive prepared and armed with moving supplies and moving equipment to transport your belongings safely and securely. Professional Movers use the right and best equipment to move your stuff quickly and safely.

Efficient – Professional moving companies give you moving times and dates that you can count on. Their moving experience allows them to move bulky items and heavy boxes more efficiently than you could possibly do on your own. Most importantly, their service free’s up your time on move day, to focus on other things like setting up your cable or utilities or directing the movers to where your items should be arranged in your new location.

 

Next:

Once you’ve planned your move and you understand why hiring a professional moving company is a smart move, it’s time to find the right Moving Company for your needs.

 

You may be wondering:

How do I pick the right moving company? Taking the right steps to find a moving company can save you time, money, and aggravation. Here are some important guidelines and questions to consider when choosing the right moving company for your upcoming move including credentials, reviews, estimates, and more.

 

Moving Company Interview Questions

  • Are you a moving company or a broker for moving companies?
  • How long have you been in business?
  • Can you provide me with testimonials, licenses, and insurance certificates?
  • What makes your company different?
  • Is the written estimate a binding contract, or could the final bill be a different amount?
  • Do you offer packing and unpacking services?
  • When do my items arrive at my new location?

 

How to Choose a Moving Company

  • Years of Proven Reputation
  • Fully Licensed & Insured
  • “A+” Rating from the BBB
  • Great Reviews
  • Great Rates
  • Free Moving Estimates

 

Bottom Line:

When you are looking for local movers in Connecticut or long-distance movers moving to CT or moving from CT, Collegian Movers is your top choice.

Here is why Collegian Movers is your best choice for movers in CT.

 

Why Choose Collegian Movers?

  •       Professional Moving Company Since 1989
  •       Licensed and Insured
  •       BBB Accredited Since 2009 | A+ Rating
  •       Great Moving and Storage Reviews
  •       Customer Satisfaction
  •       Reliable, Free Moving Quotes
  •       Fair and Reasonable Pricing
  •       Professional Trained, Efficient, and Courteous Moving Crews

 

How Far in Advance to Schedule Movers?

Have you ever wondered?

“How soon before the move, you are supposed to schedule the movers?” If so, you are in the right place.

Collegian Movers recommends that you should generally start planning your CT move 2 to 3 months in advance of your move date. This gives you enough time to execute your move plan, put your important documents in a safe place for transporting, de-clutter your home, create an inventory of what exactly needs to be moved, and to start packing.

If you start planning your move a bit closer to your move date, it might make sense to hire professional packers to pack up your belongings. Hiring professional movers and packers speeds up the moving process, as they do not have the same emotional attachment to your possessions that you may have, and they are focused on getting the job done, rather than reflecting on the memories from each item being packed.

 

In short response:

You should book a moving company as early as possible or as soon as you know where and when you are moving to CT. Scheduling your move in advance gives you more choices and flexibility on moving dates, services, and pricing. Most moving companies, including Collegian Movers, offer last-minute moving and same-day moving options.

 

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How to Get a Free Moving Estimate

The first step to scheduling a moving company is to request a moving quote.

This step allows you to compare the prices and the availability of your local moving companies. Depending on the size of your home and the number of items you are moving you may choose to fill out an online moving estimate form or have an on-site moving quote evaluation.

For bigger moves or larger home moves and long-distance moves - On-site estimates are recommended.

For smaller moves, smaller home moves, or Apartment moves – Online estimates can be fairly accurate, as long as your item list includes all of the items you plan to move on moving day.

 

Simply put:

Online moving quotes are free and easy to use. Getting price quotes for moves online saves you valuable time and money.

It is highly recommended to fill out the online estimate form ahead of speaking with a moving consultant.

The details you include provide the moving consultant with the information they need to give YOU the best pricing and date availability for your upcoming move.

 

Five Simple Steps to Get Your FREE Instant Moving Estimate:

Click the FREE QUOTE button

Fill out your name, email, and the city/state or zip codes from and to the locations you are moving.

Next, add the items you plan to move, room by room, item by item. You are able to alter this list at any time prior to the move. You are able to add any items you may have forgotten and to remove items that you are no longer moving.

Click Send

Then, you receive an instant moving quote email sent right to your inbox.

If you prefer an IN-HOME ESTIMATE FOR YOUR MOVE, please call the office at +1(800) 966-6838. Our moving specialists set up an appointment and come to your home to determine your local moving, long-distance moving, and storage needs.

 

Result:

Now that you know how to get a moving estimate, you may be wondering….

 

What Factors are Involved in the Pricing of a Move?

In fact, there are many aspects that go into creating an estimate.

To answer your question, we have created a list of the top moving services and moving add-ons, plus some additional things that can affect the way your move estimate.

When you are moving and trying to stay within a realistic budget, it is important to know what factors go into the final pricing of a move and what expenses to consider when moving.

To help you to financially plan for your upcoming move, we have put together a list of common moving expenses that may affect the final price of your move.

Be sure to ask questions about the potential costs of moving when getting a moving quote.

 

Moving Services and Add-Ons That May Affect the Price of Your Move: Black piano professionally moved to a living room. 3d rendering

  • The distance you are moving
  • Size of your home
  • The number of boxes and other packing materials used
  • Full or partial packing, unpacking, and or other required moving services
  • Staircases for walkups, long distances from truck to the home
  • The inclusion of hard to move or extra-large items (pianos,  refrigerators, safes)
  • Storage needs - long-term storage, short-term storage, overnight or hold-over storage
  • Moving Insurance options
  • Crating of marble, fine art, and antiques
  • Furniture disassembly and re-assembly
  • Exclusive use of moving vehicles
  • Multiple deliveries or pick up locations
  • Poor access to pick up / delivery locations, requiring a shuttle fee
  • Hoisting items that do not fit through doors or narrow hallways
  • Time and season of your move (summer months are peak season for moving companies)

 

Now:

You may be wondering about the next steps to take, once you’ve chosen a moving company and booked the date of your move?

The next steps to take when preparing for your move include preparing yourself and your home to be moved and to start packing.

Again, you should create a PLAN and start prioritizing what needs to get done before your move date. Then, set a schedule to assure it all gets done on time.

 

So:

You’ve scheduled your move!  Congratulations.  Here is a “quick” packing and moving checklist, and some handy moving tips to assure you are ready for your scheduled upcoming move.

 

Use These Moving and Packing Tips Before You Move!

Moving Tip #1

Before you move, you should consider the options of buying moving Insurance and the moving company coverage options and decide if you want to purchase full value coverage or just go with the basic coverage. If you have questions along the way, a moving consultant can walk you through all of the insurance and coverage options their moving company offers.

Moving Tip #2

The American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) states that over 30% of moves experience some type of damage! Under Federal law, basic moving valuation limits a moving company’s liability to only $0.60 per pound.

Moving Tip #3

Get a written confirmation of your moving estimate, including the date, time, and addresses of the move. Most moving trucks now have GPS installed in them, and the moving company dispatcher should be able to provide you with a fairly accurate time of arrival if you call the office on the day of the move.

Moving Tip #4

File an official change of address at your local post office. You can alternatively do this online at usps.gov. It is a good idea to keep track of which vendor’s mail items to your current address. Track your mail for a few months prior to assure you haven’t missed anything.

Companies you should notify of your address change include, but are not limited to include:

  • Banks
  • Employers
  • Social Security
  • Pensions
  • Credit Cards
  • Insurance
  • Utility
  • Internet
  • Cable

Moving Tip #5

Send an updated address card to friends and family. This is especially good practice if you are moving right before the holidays.

Moving Tip #6

Make arrangements for payment of the move on the day of the move.  Often times moving crews are instructed not to unload a truck to the final destination until final payment has been made. Additionally, if you feel your movers did a great job for you, it is customary to tip 10 to 15% of the total fee.

Moving Tip #7:

Reserve cargo elevators in advance when applicable and assure your property manager is aware of and has approved your moving date.  Some buildings require a certificate of insurance which moving companies generally need 48 hours to obtain.

Moving Tip #8

Purge your stuff, get rid of any items you do not need or use. Essentially you are paying for every item that gets moved and the time required to move them. To cut costs and clutter consider giving away items to charities, having a tag sale, or throwing away unused items.  Your efforts pay off in the end. Plus, you see the benefit when your new home is roomier and less cluttered.

Moving Tip #9

Moving with children can be a challenge. Be sure to hire a sitter for the day of the move or to arrange for someone to watch your children outside of the home on the day of the move. There is a lot of activity and movement of heavy items on the day of the move. So, be sure to keep your children out of harm’s way.

Moving Tip #10:

Order your moving supplies so you can start packing early. Be sure you have enough supplies to get the job done.  At a minimum, the items you need are boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and permanent markers. Speak to your moving specialist about the types of boxes that best complement your needs. For your closet items, you may want to use wardrobe boxes. Below, see our list of supplies for moving and the most common types of packing materials and boxes used by the most reputable moving companies.

 

Supplies for Moving and Types of Packing Materials

Moving Supplies

  • Moving Boxes and Supplies (moving boxes small, moving boxes large, moving boxes medium)
  • Wardrobe Moving Boxes (a wardrobe box with a metal hanger bar for clothes stored in your closet)
  • Dish Pack moving boxes (good for fragile items like dishes, glasses, lamps, and fragile items)
  • Book Boxes Moving (good for books and magazines and other small items)
  • Mirror/Picture Boxes for Moving (specially made box to keep mirrors and pictures safe)
  • Tape Rolls with Dispenser / Packing Tape Gun (every box needs to be sealed to be put on the truck. We estimate one roll of clear moving tape should close approximately 15 to 20 boxes)

Packing Materials

  • Protection – Bubble Wrap for moving / Packing Peanuts
  • Paper – Paper Rolls / Packing Paper
  • Polythene – Shrink Wrap Roll
  • Blankets – (used to protect the furniture in a move)
  • Custom Crates

 

Start Packing for Your Upcoming Move with These Efficient Packing Tips

Use these efficient PACKING TIPS when you start packing for your move:

Packing Tip #1

Take time to get organized for your move, before you pack. The key to reducing stress during a move is organization.

Packing Tip #2

Be sure to label your boxes and keep an inventory of what is in each box.  Numbering your boxes is also a good idea. So, at the end of your move, you have a way to assure all of your items have arrived.  We like to use Collegian Mover's handy home moving labels for boxes to keep track of our items.

Packing Tip #3

Many self-movers think a large box is for big heavy stuff, but the opposite is true.
Pack heavy items in small boxes, light items in larger boxes.

Tip #4

Take pictures of your electronics while they are still plugged in. This serves as your roadmap when you are reassembling the wires. Visual reminders are helpful to remind you of which wires belong where. Additionally, it is a good idea to place all the wires and remotes in a plastic bag and attach it to the item. For example, tape the remote to your television to the back of the television, so it is easier to find once you are moved in.

Packing Tip #5

Take the time to properly package and label your fragile items. This tip can ensure your breakables arrive in one piece. You should take some time and decide if you are capable of packing these items by yourself or if you needed to hire professional packers.

Packing Tip #6:

Designate one drawer of a dresser for sheets and towels so that you won’t have to rummage through boxes for these essentials the first night in your new home.

Packing Tip #7:

After you’ve thoroughly cleaned and dried the inside of your refrigerator, put a handful of fresh coffee, baking soda, or charcoal in a sock or nylon stocking and place it inside to keep the interior smelling fresh.

Packing Tip #8:

Pack your current phone book to take with you. You may need to make calls to residents or businesses back in your former hometown

Packing Tip #9:

Place pictures in boxes between sheets and blankets to give them added protection.

Packing Tip #10:

Plates and record albums should be packed on end vertically, rather than placed flat and stacked.

Packing Tip #11:

Remove all bulbs before packing your lamps and pack lampshades in a separate box.

Packing Tip #12:

Before packing medicine and toiletry items, make sure that their caps and lids have been tightly secured.  Be sure to include essentials you may need upon arrival at your new home; including but not limited to toilet paper, telephone, toothpaste, brushes, snacks, coffee and coffee pot, soap, flashlight, screwdriver, pliers, can opener, paper plates, cups and utensils, a couple of pans, and paper towels.

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Efficient Packing Tips

Here is a quick summary to refer to when you begin packing for a move.

  • Get rid of your clutter, unused clothing, or furniture (you are paying for each item you move. The less you have, the less you move.)
  • Plan a tag sale or plan a garage sale
  • Sell things On-line
  • Give items away to friends, family, or a charity.
  • Order moving boxes and supplies weeks before you move to give you a head start in the process.
  • Label your packed boxes by room, so they end up where you want them at the end of the move.
  • Pack an overnight bag with items you may need the night of the move or that next morning including medications, toiletries, bedding, and clothing.
  • Secure your valuables and important documents somewhere safe and transport them yourself.

 

Moving Day Advice - Tips for the Day of Your Move

Moving Advice #1:

Be sure to be home on move day and available, as questions do come up that only you can answer.

Moving Advice #2:

Be sure to keep track of important documents during your move or keep them with you.  These personal documents include your driver’s license, social security cards, passports, and birth certificates. These items are important and you DO NOT want to accidentally have them packed into an unmarked box.

Moving Advice #3:

Pack an overnight bag packed containing essentials to get you through the night and the next day?  With moving often comes a bit of confusion and exhaustion.  You don’t want to be spending the last hour before you go to bed searching through boxes for your toothbrush or clean bedsheets.  Bring this with you on the day of the move.

Moving Advice #4:

Finally, the movers in CT have arrived.  It is your job to tell them what you need for them to do.  They are under your direction.  If you want something packed or moved a certain way or in a certain order, you must be direct with them and assure they understand your needs.

Moving Advice #5:

When the movers arrive, they are basing their job on the items described in the estimate that was provided to you. If you plan to move more than what is described in the estimate, expect to pay more for your move.

Moving Advice #6:

At the destination, you might consider having the TV and VCR hooked up first to occupy the kids while the rest of the van is being unloaded.

Moving Advice #7:

Keep your pet calm and away from all activity on moving day by arranging for a friend to watch your pet at their house.

Moving Advice #8:

Pack a box of necessary items and ask your foreman to load it on the moving truck last. This assures your box is the first item unloaded at your new home.

Moving Advice #9:

Upon arrival at your new home, let your electronic devices “acclimate” themselves to room temperature before plugging it in.

Moving Advice #10:

If you have lived in your home for a very long time, you may wish to keep your home phone number. To do this you can port your landline phone number to a cell phone and bring it with you. This way when friends and family try to reach you, they can still dial your old number! The whole process can take 1-2 weeks, so plan to call your cell phone carrier about 2 weeks before your move date. Be sure not to cancel the service with your current carrier until the number is completely moved over to the new device.

 

Most Important:

Best Advice for Moving Day

Leave the moving to the professionals, sit back and relax, and look forward to the new opportunities, new friends, new experiences, etc., that are part of any move.

 

Now it’s your turn

You’ve read the Ultimate Moving checklist and learned about the 10 easy steps to take when preparing to move.

Now it’s time to implement them.

 

The first step?

Click here to receive your FREE MOVING QUOTE from Collegian Movers.

Speak directly with one of our Moving Specialists +1 (203) 283-5044.

 

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Let us know which Moving Tip, on our Moving checklist, you found to be the most helpful!

And best of luck, from Collegian Movers with your upcoming move!!