We are just about ready to move – let’s review a few items that may have been overlooked during the preparation for the big day.
Moving is a stressful time, so it is not wonder that so many things are left behind or neglected. If you are not properly prepared or organized, you may fall victim to leaving behind some important things or simply not remembering them. Before moving, think back to any buried treasures you may have around the house. Collect them before moving and store them in a safe deposit box instead of packing them in the moving van. Many people leave phonebooks behind thinking they will not need them. Having the phonebook from your former area will allow you to have numbers on hand. Carry a copy of your new address in your wallet and purse. This will ensure that you don’t forget it in the rush of moving. Acquire copies of your family’s medical records before moving. Also, get copies of you pet’s records from the veterinarian. If you have children, don’t forget to get a copy of their permanent school record. These will be required when enrolling your child into a new school. Keep these items in mind when moving, so you don’t get caught up in the moment and forget any of them.
One of the biggest tasks you have to do before moving is preparing household things. There are certain regulations and helpful hints that will make this process much easier. Although it may be tempting to clean upholstered furniture before a move, refrain! The moisture can cause mold if the furniture is sent to storage first. If you have any antiques in your home, it might be a good idea to obtain a written appraisal to confirm worth. Before a move, don’t wax or use product on wood items because it will soften the wood. This makes is more impressionable to furniture pads or breaking. You can have rugs and draperies cleaned. When they are returned from the cleaners, leave them wrapped. Coordinate a date to have your utilities disconnected. It is ideal to have them left on through moving day. If you are taking your appliances, contact an authorized person to prepare them for moving. If you have any propane tanks, properly dispose of them. Finally, federal law mandates that you get rid of flammables like fireworks, matches, acids, chemistry sets, aerosol cans, poisons such as weed killer, and ammunition. Fuels should be drained from mowers or other machinery. Partly used cans of paint, thinner, bleach, oil, or any other flammable or combustible product should be discarded.
The day before moving can be stressful, but there are some things you can do to eliminate much of the stress. If you are working with packers, you should be on hand to answer questions and direct them. Alert them to extra-fragile items that need to be special attention. Also, clearly mark items you do not want packed or moved. Also, mark the boxes you will want first at your new home. You should unplug all electronic equipment 24 hours prior to moving, except plasma TVs. If you are packing your own items, make sure everything is ready to go before moving day. If a van is coming to pick up your stuff, the driver will check to see if the boxes have been properly packed. If you want certain things packed together, place them in groups.
There are some last minute details that need to be taken care of before the big day. Make sure that all mechanical and electrical equipment has been properly serviced for moving before the moving van arrives. When the service representative comes to prepare your appliances for shipment, you should be there. Also, check cabinets, storage lockers, and closets for any items you may have overlooked.
We have covered a lot – hopefully most of the above preparation was done weeks ago. But just to make sure, use the above as a check list. The more that needs to be moved, the more complex the process. May you have lots of extra hands to help with the process.
