Planning a move can be a trying experience. Especially if you plan to go the DIY route, it can bring out the crazy in everyone involved, or draw everyone closer together. It’s a wonder any of us ever move anywhere!
We here at Cummings Moving Company want to make it easy for you to move. Whether moving yourself or hiring professionals, we know that when you are informed, you are bound to have a much better time of it. That is why we have this extended series of moving tips to use when planning a move.
Here in Part 3 of the series, we look at a few more things you will need to tend to before your move. Let’s get started.
When Planning a Move Decide How to Pack
Are you planning a move DIY style or will you have your home packed by movers… perhaps a little of both? If DIY, make sure to leave enough time, and see if you can buy boxes and packing materials from your mover. Cummings Moving Company has plenty of boxes and often has ones that have been gently used. You can generally get a better price on boxes and packing supplies from your mover because they buy in bulk. One thing to remember, you cannot compare their box prices to cheap, light-weight boxes. Moving companies are more likely to use quality boxes for the job. Good boxes can help reduce damage in transit!
One last thought on packing: Remember, the last 10% of the packing can seem like 90% of the job! Be careful and do not underestimate how much time packing will take. If DIY, figure out your “worst case” time scenario… and add another 30%. It may even take you longer than that! If you have the option, pay a professional and make your life easier. Once you try it, you will see what we mean!
Change of Address and Give Notice to Utility Companies
These days there are all sorts of pre-printed and DIY “We’re Moving” cards that can be found online. As you notify your friends, relatives and others of your pending move, make sure to fill out the change of address form at your post office and for goodness sake, make arrangements to turn off your utilities before you move!
You Must Prepare the Refrigerator if Planning a Move
Please refer to your owners manual when preparing refrigerators and freezers for a move. They typically need to be unplugged well in advance of a move. They need time to both cool down, and warm up. Make sure they are unplugged, wiped out and completely empty and dry BEFORE your movers arrive. If you have kids, please be EXTRA CAUTIOUS. Empty fridges and freezers can seem like fun hiding places to little ones. It may help to tape something to the inside edge of the door so the door cannot be completely closed. When they are ready to go, the movers can easily remove the prop. In the meantime your kids will be safe.
Check back on Tuesday, September 30th when we will begin to take this show on the road… Right after we give you some tips on packing your electronics and specialty items!
Cummings Moving Company | Residential & Small Business Moving & Storage | San Francisco Movers
Cummings Moving Company is a family owned and operated moving & storage company proud of its well-established reputation in San Francisco and throughout the region – reflected in their extended residential, small business and Realtor referrals. The company is a female, minority, and veteran-owned and operated moving company with over 45 years of exceptional client service – spanning the entire country and beyond. For more information about quality, stress-free moving, in San Francisco please call 415-387-4000 or from the Peninsula call 650-629-3000. Request a Free Moving Quote HERE or continue to explore our website and San Francisco Blog.
The advice on our website and blog is provided as a courtesy and is intended for informational purposes only. It is offered as-is with no warranty expressed or implied. We hope it provides you with helpful information that you can use.
Photo Credit – A special note of appreciation to Lee Abel for her wonderful photos.
