Please enjoy this expert insight from a premier move manager in the Bay Area that we have had the pleasure of working with numerous times.
- Decide when you want or need to move before you schedule movers. If possible, be flexible as summer, the end of the month and weekends tend to be the busiest for movers.
- Get mover recommendations from friends, neighbors, and other professionals you know.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask your preferred move estimator when he/she arrives to do an estimate.
- Decide what you are moving before the estimator comes to your home and if possible label items that are not part of the move ahead of time.
- Clear out all the clutter from your home, especially from basements, garages, attics, sheds and patios prior to move day.
- Be prepared to provide all your contact information, including all phone numbers and an email address, if you have one.
- Be available on pack and move day or hire a Professional Move Manager to make sure everything gets done, according to your wishes, and nothing gets left behind.
- Take the crew through every part of your home when they arrive including outside patio and storage areas so they know what to expect and can property safeguard your home ahead of time.
- Learn the names of your moving crew or at least the name of the lead so you can communicate with them as needed on move day.
- Be prepared for your move! If your home is not 75% packed within a week of your move, consider getting packing help from your movers to help you get ready.
- Have items clearly labeled in large letters on items that require special handling.
- Know your area’s parking regulations ahead of your move. If parking is difficult on your street, contact your local transportation office to secure temporary parking permits. Otherwise, you may be liable for parking tickets.
- Stay out of your mover’s way for your safety and theirs. They are moving quickly and sometimes carrying large loads at one time.
- Don’t remove framed items from your walls. Let your movers do this for you and there will be less chance of damage.
- Don’t pack your hanging clothing. Your movers will provide wardrobe boxes and pack them for you.
- Have a floor plan ready for your new home so you can direct your movers to place your furniture, as you want it. Rearranging of furniture after it’s been moved may cost you extra.
- Do not water your plants for three days prior to your move.
- Don’t expect your movers to transport liquids, firearms, and hazardous or flammable items such as propane tanks or household chemicals.
- Do a final walk through of your old home and your new home before the movers leave to ensure everything is done. Check hard to reach places like high shelves and attics. Don’t sign off on any paperwork until you’re satisfied.
- If you are completely satisfied with your movers, tipping them is a great way to show your appreciation. In general, tip at a rate of $3-$4 per hour worked.
Lisbeth “Lis” McKinley, M.A., Move Manager, Certified Professional Organizer® and Owner of LET’S MAKE ROOM, LLC, writes about moving, organizing and other ways to find room in your life for what matters. She lives and works in Oakland, CA and has moved 13 times in her life, including 3 times across country. For more of her tips on moving and home organization, visit www.LETSMAKEROOM.com
