Cartwright International Moving Blog

Plan Ahead

Summer time is the busiest time of the year for movers. In addition, the beginning and end of each month are traditionally busier than mid-month, regardless of the season. If you are planning to move during one of the times, plan well in advance so your mover's schedule will fit yours.

Now it is time to contact the movers on your list. Inform them of your destination and the timing of your move. Ask movers to provide you with a written estimate, and have them explain the services listed in the estimate in detail. Carefully compare each estimate to see which company best suits your needs and budget.

Packing

Proper packing by a trained packer using specially designed cartons and materials is crucial to a good move. Schedule packing with the mover a day or two before the moving van is loaded. If you are packing yourself, it is never too soon to start. While packing yourself can save money, movers will not usually accept liability for damage to items packed by owners.

Be present when your goods are packed. An inventory of your goods will be made and it is important to resolve any disagreements prior to signing the inventory. Make sure all copies are legible and all items are numbered. Have valuable items listed separately. Some appliances may require servicing prior to the move. Your mover can schedule these services for you.

There are several options for insuring your goods. All household goods shipments move under limited liability. However, you may purchase additional liability coverage from your mover.

Planning Your Moving Day

Your mover may ask you to select several consecutive days during which your goods can be loaded and a second series of dates during which your goods can be delivered to your new home. A spread of days gives you and your mover the flexibility needed to keep your move on schedule. Remember that summer months are the busiest, and some movers offer lower prices between the months of October and April.

Moving Day

• Be on hand when the movers arrive

• Discuss the delivery arrangements fully with your mover.

• Have beds stripped and ready to be packed.

• Save your energy - let the moving crew disassemble goods.

• Read the Bill of Lading before you sign it.

• Tell your mover how to reach you at your destination.

• Keep in contact with the mover's agent at your destination while you are in transit.

Delivery

Generally, your belongings will be transported in a van along with those of other families in the same general direction. This helps to keep your costs down. Delivery is made on any of the several consecutive days agreed upon before the move began. Make sure the mover knows how to contact you to schedule actual delivery. If you cannot be reached at destination, the mover may place your shipment in storage to avoid delaying other shipments. This can mean additional charges for storage and handling.

Upon delivery, check your goods for damage. Do not sign the inventory until you have inspected your furniture and the exterior of the cartons.

Claims

If any of your household goods are damaged or lost, report the facts promptly and in detail on the van driver's copy (original) of the inventory sheet before you sign it. If you notice damage after unpacking, a claim must be filed within nine months after delivery. However, it is to your advantage to report damage as soon as possible. The mover must acknowledge receipt of your claim within 30 days and must deny or make an offer within 120 days of receipt of your claim. When making a claim or considering a settlement offer, keep in mind the amount of liability that you declared on your shipment. For example, if the value declared on your shipment was $5,000, the mover's maximum liability for loss or damage to the articles in your shipment is $5,000. Claims for more than this amount will be declined because they are in excess of the mover's liability that you declared on your shipment.

Below are typical start-up costs to consider when moving to Hawaii.

Keep in mind, deposits and connection fee structures vary for each island.

All deposits are required prior to commencement of utility services.

All costs listed are subject to change.

Water:
Deposit: $50.00-$85.00. Deposit refunded after 12 consecutive months of service. A reinstallation fee of approximately $60.00 may be assessed.

Gas:
Connection fee: $25.00-$45.00. Deposit: $75.00-$100.00. Deposit usually refunded after 12 consecutive months of service. Start-up fee structure is pending.

Electricity:
Service fee: $15.00-$30.00 required to open a new account. Deposit: $50.00-$100.00. Deposit usually refunded after 12 consecutive months of on time payment or termination of account.

Phone:
No deposit required. Assessment for services dependent upon existing connections.

Sewage:
O`ahu: Included in water bill.

Neighbor Islands: $25.00-$40.00/month, billed every other month.

Annoying as it might be to have to move all of your belongings, and basically your life, across town, don't be fooled into thinking that this will be an easier move than if you were moving across the country. Many have remarked that a short distance move is actually harder than a long distance one because people underestimate the amount of work. Be sure to consult this checklist to make sure that you aren't missing something.

Moving Your Stuff

Moving Company/Rental Truck: Decide whether or not you are going to be doing this move yourself, and if so, will you do several small trips or one big one. If you are going to hire a moving company or reserve a rental truck, do so first thing. These services can easily get booked up and leave you stranded. The sooner the better.

Locating Boxes: Bars and liquor stores always have the best boxes. Their boxes are designed to be able to hold large amounts of weight. However, if you have a friend or neighbor who has moved recently, ask them if you can take some boxes off their hands.

Make Moving Painless: Pack a little bit every night. One box can make a big difference. Make a trip to a thrift store to give away what you couldn't sell. Remember to get receipts and write-off forms for the value of what was donated.

Small Loads: If you are taking several small loads, don't waste any amount of space on any trip. If you make sure to pack your car full on each trip, you might eliminate 4-5 trips over the course of the move.

What to Pack First: On the small trips, begin with items you are not currently using, which might include seasonal clothing, sports equipment, books, guest bedroom sets, etc.

Heavy Boxes: Sit all boxes of books and heavy stuff on the floor so that lighter boxes can go on top.

Stacking Breakables: Find a place on the floor for breakables so that they can't fall off of anything.

Transporting Food: Try to move all the food products in the same load. Too often some things can get separated and forgotten about, then they get spoiled, attract ants, etc.

Packing Bikes: Visit a bike shop for a box to pack your bike(s).

Moving In: If you have items that will just go into storage in your new home, such as in the basement or in a closet, be sure to take these boxes straight there. Don't just drop off boxes right inside the door because it's easy. Take them where they need to go because you will end up stepping over them throughout the move.

Gas up the Truck: Be sure to take the rental truck back with a full tank of gas, as they will charge you an extraordinary amount per gallon if they have to fill it.

Change Locks: As soon as you have access to the house, change the locks just to be on the safe side.

If You Are Renting a Truck…

Double Check on Your Rentals: Call again to make sure that your truck will indeed be ready just to be on the safe side.

Renting the Truck: There will be a walkaround by you and one of the rental company employees. You will be held accountable for any damage that is not written on this sheet. So be sure to note every little flaw.

Drive the Route First: Make sure that you drive the route to your new home to make sure there won't be any clearance issues. Also, determine if you will be able to make all the turns with a big load with traffic. You might decide if another route might be better or easier with a big truck.

Loading a Rental Truck: Pack the heavy stuff toward the front of the truck, i.e. the part of the truck closest to the cab. Washers and Dryers should go on first, followed by pianos, furniture, and anything big and heavy.

Truck Ramps: Often rental trucks have a pullout ramp for loading and unloading. This ramp is narrow and typically made of aluminum. Be careful that you don't fall off either side when carrying heavy objects. Also, these ramps can become very slick if they even get a little bit wet. Carpet scraps and rags are great to minimize slipping.

Consider Unloading: If you can, pack such that what you want to come off first is put on last. Mainly items that will be going upstairs or toward the back of the house should be loaded last, so they can come off first.

Crowns in the Road: All roads are crowned in the middle so that water won't stand. This crown will feel severe in a big truck. Try to stack the driver's side of the truck with more of the heavy stuff so that the truck rides even.

One Extra Day: It is a smart idea to compare the pricing difference if you kept the truck one extra day. People often underestimate how draining the whole moving process can be, and if you are hurrying all day so that you can return the truck by five, you will most likely make extra work on yourself by not moving the right things to the right room. Find out what it would be worth to you to be able to take breaks, work at a nice pace, and take the truck back the next day. It could be such a small amount that it would be worth paying for the extra time and have the option to be tired and work smartly.

Moving Related Stuff

Appraisal of Current Needs: Before you even think about moving things that you don't even want anymore, consider if you have anything that needs to be replaced. Why move an old mattress when you could have a brand new one waiting in your new home? Think about other large items that will be difficult and expensive to transport and consider buying the item new for your new home.

Appraise Valuables: Standard insurance plans cover general possessions up to a certain dollar amount, but if you have some more expensive items like a big screen TV that you need to insure, now is the best time to have your possessions appraised before you take them on the road.

Garage Sale: A garage sale is a smart way to reduce some of your possessions and maybe even make a little gas money for the move.

Thrift Store: Make a trip to a thrift store to give away what you couldn't sell. Remember to get receipts and write-off forms for the value of what was donated.

Moving Banks: If your bank does not have a branch where you are moving, close that account and open another in your area.

Shut Off Utilities: Set up a time to shut off your utilities, phone, cable, and internet.

Clean Before You Arrive: Have the carpets cleaned before you get there. It's also smart to have the ducts cleaned. The idea is to move into a completely clean, safe home.

Safety Deposit Box: This is the best time to withdraw your safety deposit box so that you valuables are only unprotected for a limited amount of time.

Change of Address: File a change of address form with the post office. Also change your address with the DMV, credit cards, memberships, magazines, newspaper, Netflix, etc. Cancel your newspaper subscription if you are leaving the area.

Return Borrowed Items: You will have new neighbors now, and while some people keep in touch with their old neighbors, it is a good practice to return anything you borrowed from them and ask for what they borrowed from you.

Voting: Change your voter registration.

Apartment Walk-Through: Make sure that you make note of all the problems in your apartment when you move in so that you aren't held accountable for them when you move out.

Changing Neighborhoods

Discover the Area: Drive around the area to discover what you are close to: restaurants, convenience stores, dry cleaners, parks, grocery stores, theatres, video stores, etc.

Friends & Neighbors: Notify your friends and neighbors of your new address and phone number, even email if that is going to change. A good way to do this is with "We've Moved" cards.

Homeowner's Association: If you have a homeowners association, get a copy of all of the covenants, especially exterior paint colors.

Emergency Services: Find out what emergency services are close to you: hospital, police station, fire station, pizza delivery place, ice cream shop.

Recycling Program: Find out if you have a municipal recycling program. If not, locate some recycling centers in your area.

Moving an aging parent is not something anyone wants to ever have to think about, let alone have to do. In most cases, you will have to take on many items of furniture that you and other family members either have to find a home for or bring into your own homes. Sometimes these items can have tremendous value, which can add even more pressure to this situation. As difficult as this process can be emotionally, we have put together a list of items that might alleviate some of the physical and mental stress of moving.

At ServiceMagic, we assume that you know what is best for your aging parent as far as housing, health care and the like. This list is only to expedite the moving process, and not help find elder care facilities.

This list is divided into two different types of moves for aging parents. One is for moving parents within the same area. The other is for moving parents into an entirely different area, thus making a substantial move.

Most Important Items

Moving Antiques: Hire professional movers for antiques. These items have been in your family for years. The older they are, the more they are worth, and the more difficult it is to take care of them during a move. Let the professionals handle this so that they can be insured, protected, and safe.

Storage: You might have to store much of your parent's furniture and belongings. This is a place where you don't want to choose just any storage facility. Make sure you are storing your parents' belongings in a place that specifically handles antiques or anything that you do not want to get damaged from being stored.

Ideas on Storage: It might be a better use of your time and space to move some of your own things into storage to make room for your parents' things. Your things are likely to be newer and have less nostalgic value, plus they will require less care and maintenance. Be careful though, having too many things that are fragile or delicate in your house might change the mood of your home, especially if you have young children.

Items for Any Move

Appraise Valuables: Standard insurance plans cover general possessions up to a certain dollar amount. In the case of most parents, it might have been years since the last appraisal. If your parent(s) have more expensive items like antiques and jewelry that you need to insure, now is the perfect time to have your parents' possessions appraised before you take them on the road.

Garage Sale: A garage sale is a smart way to reduce some of your possessions and maybe even make a little gas money for the move.

Thrift Store: Make a trip to a thrift store to give away what you couldn't sell. Remember to get receipts and write-off forms for the value of what was donated.

Locating Boxes: Bars and liquor stores always have the best boxes. Their boxes are designed to be able to hold large amounts of weight. However, if you have a friend or neighbor who has moved recently, ask them if you can take some boxes off their hands.

Local Accounts: Settle any accounts that your parent(s) have with local merchants.

Address Change: File a change of address form for who you are moving with the post office.

Update Address: Change address with any magazines, newspapers, memberships, etc. so that your parent can receive his or her mail in their new place.

Medical Records: Grab medical records if your parent(s) do not have already have them on file. Make copies while you have them and a file where they can be stored.

Transfer Prescriptions

Safety Deposit Box: Don't forget to withdraw any safety deposit boxes.

Find Home for Plants: Most plants cannot handle the extreme environments they are placed in during a move. If you really care about your plants, find them a good home.

Heavy Boxes: Sit all boxes of books and heavy stuff on the floor so that lighter boxes can go on top.

Stacking Breakables: Find a place on the floor for breakables so that they can't fall off of anything.

Notify Friends: Send neighbors and friends cards or an email telling them of your parent's' new address.

Utilities: Set up a time to shut off your utilities, phone, cable, etc.

Moving Your Parent a Short Distance

Moving Company/Rental Truck: Hire a moving company or reserve a rental truck first thing. These services can easily get booked up and leave you without much choice. The sooner the better.

Bank Accounts: If your parent will carry a functioning bank account, decide whether or not you need to close the current one and open a new one that is either close to where you are or where your parent is.

Double-Check: If you are renting a truck, call again to make sure that there will indeed be a truck reserved, just to be on the safe side.

Renting the Truck: There will be a walkaround by you and one of the rental company employees. You will be held accountable for any damage that is not written on this sheet. So be sure to note every little flaw.

Loading a Rental Truck: Pack the heavy stuff toward the front of the truck, i.e. the part of the truck closest to the cab. Washers and Dryers should go on first, followed by pianos, furniture, and anything big and heavy.

Truck Ramps: Often rental trucks have a pullout ramp for loading and unloading. This ramp is narrow and typically made of aluminum. Be careful that you don't fall off either side when carrying heavy objects. Also, these ramps can become very slick if they even get a little bit wet. Carpet scraps and rags are great to minimize slipping.

Gas up the Truck: Be sure to take the rental truck back with a full tank of gas, as they will charge you an extraordinary amount per gallon if they have to fill it.

Moving Your Parent a Long Distance

Moving Company/Rental Truck: Hire a moving company or reserve a rental truck first thing. These services can easily get booked up and leave you without much choice. The sooner the better.

Prepare Your Car for the Road: If you are using a professional mover, have your own vehicle serviced (oil change, rotate tires, etc.). Do this as early as you can in case the mechanics find something that will require you to come back for a second visit.

Double Check on Your Rentals: If you are renting a truck, call again to make sure that your truck will indeed be ready just to be on the safe side.

Road Trip Items: Make a list of things that you want to have in the car with you. Buy some of your own windshield wiper fluid, anti-freeze or coolant, and oil. This truck will be pulling a heavy load and it might need more than just gas to get there.

Rental Truck Emergency Kit: Buy some windshield wiper fluid, anti-freeze or coolant, and motor oil. This truck will be pulling a heavy load and it might need more than just gas to get there.

Buy a Lock: Buy a lock so that you can secure the back door to your truck.

Road Construction: Call/search the web to find out if there will be construction on the roads you will be traveling.

Always Double-Check: Double-check reservations at campgrounds, hotels, motels, Aunt Jane's just to be on the safe side.

Road Supplies: Make a list of things that you want to have in the car with you, either to eat, drink, or occupy your mind.

Road Trip Essentials: Many moving trucks are only equipped with the barest essentials, often without a tape deck or CD player, sometimes even without FM radio. Check your particular truck and decide if you can travel that far without some good tunes or talk radio. Buying a small radio might be a good investment.

Tip for Efficient Travel: If you are moving a parent yourself, pack foods that have high-water content like grapes, oranges, apples, etc. These foods will keep you hydrated so that you don't have to drink so many liquids. This will reduce the number of times you will have to stop for restroom breaks and will keep you on the road.

Renting the Truck: There will be a walkaround by you and one of the rental company employees. You will be held accountable for any damage that is not written on this sheet. So be sure to note every little flaw.

Loading a Rental Truck: Pack the heavy stuff toward the front of the truck, i.e. the part of the truck closest to the cab. Washers and Dryers should go on first, followed by pianos, furniture, and anything big and heavy.

Consider Unloading: If you can, pack such that what you want to come off first is put on last. Mainly items that will be going upstairs or toward the back of the house should be loaded last, so they can come off first.

Truck Ramps: Often rental trucks have a pullout ramp for loading and unloading. This ramp is narrow and typically made of aluminum. Be careful that you don't fall off either side when carrying heavy objects. Also, these ramps can become very slick if they even get a little bit wet. Carpet scraps and rags are great to minimize slipping.

Crowns in the Road: All roads are crowned in the middle so that water won't stand. This crown will feel severe in a big truck. Try to stack the driver's side of the truck with more of the heavy stuff so that the truck rides even.

Towing a Vehicle: If you are towing a vehicle behind your rental truck, make sure the trailer has a working tow package. This means that the brake lights, tail lights, blinkers, and trailer brakes are all in working order.

Parking Your Rental Truck: If you are traveling on multiple nights, make sure to park your truck smartly. Find a wall or a tree or some otherwise immovable place where you can back the truck right up close. This way, if someone happens to break into your truck, they won't be able to get many items out.

Lodging reservations: If you will be stopping in an area with many lodging choices, it is best to grab a room when you arrive to get the best price. But if you don't want to drive around looking for places, then reserve a room in advance. If you are camping in a state park, it is best to reserve a space before you leave.

Gas up the Truck: Be sure to take the rental truck back with a full tank of gas, as they will charge you an extraordinary amount per gallon if they have to fill it.

One Extra Day: It is a smart idea to compare the pricing difference if you kept the truck one extra day. People often underestimate how draining the whole moving process can be, and if you are hurrying all day so that you can return the truck by five, you will most likely make extra work on yourself by not moving the right things to the right room. Find out what it would be worth to you to be able to take breaks, work at a nice pace, and take the truck back the next day. It could be such a small amount that it will be worth it to pay for the extra time and have the option to be tired and work smartly.

Moving is hard on all family members and sometimes it can be especially hard on children who may not understand why you are moving and don’t want to leave their friends. Even if you are transplanting to a bigger house in a nicer neighborhood, adjusting is difficult.

Small children rely on predictability and their sense of security is closely tied to familiar faces, places and activities. Older children are likely to feel the social impact of a move most. They will miss old friends they have known and worry about making new ones. For pre-teens and teens, having to re-establish themselves in a new and possibly very different social environment can be a scary prospect.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to make the move easier on your kids. Try some of these tried-and-true methods, geared to different age groups:

1. For all children, but especially pre-schoolers and kids in primary school, follow established home routines faithfully for the first few months after you move. This means having dinner at the same time, serving familiar foods, watching favorite TV shows, going to bed at the same time and observing the same bedtime rituals on a day-to-day basis. You should also try to observe special occasions like birthdays and holidays the same way as always.

2. For all children, consult with your child about the décor of his or her new room. Let your child pick the paint color, the fabric for curtains and bedspread and choose posters for the walls. Younger children typically resist change of any kind. If this is the case with your child, it may help to replicate the d?cor and furniture arrangement of his or her old room as closely as possible.

3. For school-age children, help your child keep up with old friends. Encourage him or her to write and exchange photos; arrange phone calls, visits and sleepovers on a regular basis. Kids who are struggling to make new friends find it very relaxing and comforting to be with old buddies they don't have to impress.

4. For school-age children, make it easy for your child to make new friends by opening your home to other kids after school and encouraging your child to invite new acquaintances along on special outings.

5. For school-age children, reinforce your child's confidence by enabling him or her to participate in extracurricular activities. Whether it's soccer or music lessons, continuing a favorite activity or starting a new one gives your child feelings of competence and self-esteem that don't depend on how well he or she is fitting into the social order at the new school.

6. For school-age children, particularly pre-teens and teens, give your child a head start at the new school by doing some advance scouting. Contact the principal, the head of the PTA, the guidance counselor and the new home-room teacher to find out everything you can about the school:

• Official and unofficial dress codes

• Activities, sports and clubs

• Academic strengths and weaknesses

• Problems such as drugs, gangs or bullying

7. For school-age children, stay abreast of how your child is fitting into his or her new environment. Ask your child how he or she is doing and feeling in school and the new social milieu. Stay in touch with school officials and teachers to get objective information.

Many people find their first jobs right after undergrad. Most move to a new city, find an apartment, and begin their working lives. While it's usually easy to find friends and family to help you move to college, often you are on our own when moving out. This is a big time in your life, a stressful one at that, and completing this list of things will alleviate the stress of this crazy time.

Moving Out of Your College Town

Moving Company/Rental Truck: Hire a moving company or reserve a rental truck first thing, especially in a college town. You and everybody else are looking for a truck to rent. Make sure you get one first.

Cleaning Your Apartment: With finals, graduation, your new job, and your lease running out, it will likely be the case that you will be packing all your things in a couple days, maybe even less. But don't neglect your apartment, dorm, or student housing. They will have no problems fining you for an unkempt apartment. While it is hard to fully clean a place you will never see again, it was part of the lease agreement, and there is no point throwing away good money when all you need to do is a couple hours of cleaning.

College Furniture: If you have furniture, consider how closely you are tied to it. You are a professional now, and it might be time to jettison that old college furniture. Also, it will be cheaper and easier to move to your new city without having to rent a bigger truck for all of your old furniture.

Carpet Cleaning: If your carpet is a mess, and it is up to you to make it right, hire a carpet cleaning service to remedy all the spills and stains in your carpet.

Light Bulbs: Remember to replace all the light bulbs that have burnt out. This is part of most leases, so be sure to do this.

Locating Boxes: If you are looking to locate some cheap boxes, bars and liquor stores always have the best ones. Because of the weight of what is going in their boxes is so heavy, they are built to be sturdy. So don't worry about books or other heavy objects breaking them.

*Most Important Thing* Find a sticker for your car that shows that you are an alum. This is a great way to meet people, and also might help if another alum spots you having car trouble.

Packing for the Road

Packing Bikes: Visit a bike shop for a box to pack your bike.

Heavy Boxes: Sit all boxes of books and heavy stuff on the floor so that lighter boxes can go on top.

Stacking Breakables: Find a place on the floor for breakables so that they can't fall off of anything.

Rental Truck Emergency Kit: Buy some windshield wiper fluid, anti-freeze or coolant, and motor oil. This truck will be pulling a heavy load and it might need more than just gas to get there.

Buy a Lock: Buy a lock so that you can secure the back door to your truck.

Road Supplies: Make a list of things that you want to have in the car with you, either to eat, drink, or occupy your mind.

Lodging Reservations: If you will be stopping in an area with many lodging choices, it is best to grab a room when you arrive to get the best price. But if you don't want to drive around looking for places, then reserve a room in advance. If you are camping in a state park, it is best to reserve a space before you leave.

Always Double-Check: Double-check reservations at campgrounds, hotels, motels, Aunt Jane's just to be on the safe side.

Road Trip Essentials: If you are renting a moving trucks, know that they are only equipped with the barest essentials, often without a tape deck or CD player, sometimes even without FM radio. Check your particular truck and decide if you can travel that far without some good tunes. Buying a small radio or MP3 player might be a good investment.

Consider Unloading: If you can, pack such that what you want to come off first is put on last. Mainly items that will be going upstairs or toward the back of the house should be loaded last, so they can come off first.

Towing a Vehicle: If you are towing a vehicle behind your rental truck, make sure the trailer has a working tow package. This means that the brake lights, tail lights, blinkers, and trailer brakes are all in working order.

Parking Your Rental Truck: If you are traveling on multiple nights, make sure to park your truck smartly. Find a wall or a tree or some otherwise immovable place where you can back the truck right up close. This way, if someone happens to break into your truck, they won't be able to get many items out.

Moving In: If you have items that will just go into storage in your new home, such as in the basement or in a closet, be sure to take these boxes straight there. Don't just drop off boxes right inside the door because it's easy. Take them where they need to go because you will end up stepping over them throughout moving day.

One Extra Day: It is a smart idea to compare the pricing difference if you kept the truck one extra day. People often underestimate how draining the whole moving process can be, and if you are hurrying all day so that you can return the truck by five, you will most likely make extra work on yourself by not moving the right things to the right room. Find out what it would be worth to you to be able to take breaks, work at a nice pace, and take the truck back the next day. It could be such a small amount that it will be worth it to pay for the extra time and have the option to be tired and work smartly.

Gas up the Truck: Be sure to take the rental truck back with a full tank of gas, as they will charge you an extraordinary amount per gallon if they have to fill it.

Odds & Ends

Thrift Store: Make a trip to a thrift store to give away clothes and shoes that you don?t wear anymore. Remember to get receipts and write-off forms for the value of what was donated.

Find Home for Plants: Most plants cannot handle the extreme environments they are placed in during a move. If you really care about your plants, find them a good home.

Shut Off Utilities: Set up a time to shut off your utilities, phone, cable, and internet.

Cell Phone: Have your cell phone number changed to the appropriate city.

Close Bank Accounts: If you bank with a national bank, it might be the case that you won't need to close down your current one. You can just change the account to your new city.

Dry Cleaning: Don't forget to pick up your dry cleaning.

Tip for Efficient Travel: If you are moving yourself, pack foods that have high-water content like grapes, oranges, apples, etc. These foods will keep you hydrated so that you don't have to drink so many liquids. This will reduce the number of times you will have to stop for restroom breaks and will keep you on the road.

Change of Address: File a change of address form with the post office. Also change your address with credit cards, memberships, magazines, netflix, etc. Cancel your newspaper subscription if you are moving out of the area.

Moving in

Reserve the Elevator: If you are moving into a high-rise apartment, reserve use of an elevator (where possible) so that you are not constantly waiting on each load.

Apartment Walk-Through: Make sure that you make note of all the problems in your apartment when you move in so that you aren't held accountable for them when you move out.

Moving Related Items

Set Up Utilities: Call to have your utilities turned on the day before you arrive at your new place. Don't forget cable and internet.

Appraisal of Current Needs: Before you even think about moving things that you don't even want anymore, consider if you have anything that needs to be replaced. Why move an old mattress when you could have a brand new one waiting in your new home? Think about other large items that will be difficult to transport and consider buying the item new in your new city.

Medical Records: Grab medical records from your school, if you have any.

Transfer Prescriptions

Open Bank Accounts: Some banks have a painless transfer of accounts, although with others it can be a complete mess. Be prepared for the mess, and be pleasantly surprised if one doesn't happen.

Return Library Books/Rented Videos: If you happen to leave town without taking care of this, you most likely will forget once you are in a new place. This is an annoying task, but not as annoying as the fine that will accrue if you don't take care of this before you go.

Prepare Your Car for the Road: Have your vehicle serviced (oil change, rotate tires, etc.). Do this as early as you can in case the mechanics find something that will require you to come back for a second visit.

No More Groceries: Don't go to the grocery store for anything other than essentials. The idea is to begin paring down your food supply so that you have less to move and less to throw away.

Music Scene: Search for the music scene in your new location to find out if there are concerts you want to see soon after you arrive.

*All the Things You Will Miss* Visit all the restaurants, parks, theaters, shops, and anything else that you will not have access to once you move. End your time in this town and on this campus on the best note possible. Do the things you enjoy.

If you moved due to a change in your job or business location, or because you started a new job or business, you may be able to deduct your moving expenses. To qualify for the moving expense deduction, you must satisfy two tests. Under the first test, the "distance test", your new job must be at least 50 miles farther from your old home than your old job location was from your old home. If you had no previous workplace, your new job must be at least 50 miles from your old home.

The second test is the "time test". If you are an employee, you must work full-time for at least 39 weeks during the first 12 months right after you arrive in the general area of your new job. If you are self-employed, you must work full time for at least 39 weeks during the first 12 months and for a total of at least 78 weeks during the first 24 months after you arrive in the general area of your new work location. There are exceptions to the time test in case of death, disability and involuntary separation, among other things.

If you are a member of the armed forces and your move was due to a permanent change of station, you do not have to satisfy the "distance or time tests".

Moving expenses are figured on Form 3903 (PDF) and deducted as an adjustment to income on Form 1040 (PDF). You cannot deduct any moving expenses that were reimbursed by your employer.

For more information on deductible moving expenses, please refer to Publication 521, Moving Expenses.

You have rights and responsibilities for every move. At Allied, we want you to be acutely aware of these rights and responsibilities when we manage your move. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's consumer protection regulations dictate the rules regarding the interstate transportation of goods.

Moving Resources: Knowing Your Rights and Responsibilities

We value our customers more than any other van line. That being said, we also value your belongings when they are in our hands. It is imperative that you are educated regarding your rights and responsibilities when entrusting Allied with your valued belongings.

Moving Education: Knowing Your Rights and Responsibilities

At Allied, we want you to be fully educated on your rights and responsibilities when you move with us. We believe that the most successful moves happen when you are educated about many things, most importantly your rights and responsibilities. We have provided two links to review the FMCSA publications below. Please take the time to understand your rights and responsibilities when working with a professional mover like Allied.

Many homeowners don't realize that there are movers available to them who specialize in the transportation and storage of pianos. A piano is a delicate instrument and not something you want to take risks with. By trusting this major job to a piano mover, you can rest easy knowing that one of the most valuable items in your home is being transported with the care it deserves.

But It Weighs 1500 Pounds. How Delicate Can It Be?

This is exactly where many homeowners go wrong. Sure, that piano in your living room is heavy enough to throw out the backs of four or five of your best buddies as you wrestle it out the door and up into the truck, but don't let that fool you. Despite its bulky appearance, it is also a precision musical instrument with over 1000 moving parts and 200 finely-tuned strings, any number of which can be damaged and require repair if your piano isn't handled properly in a move.

Your Piano Mover Understands Pianos

These intricate inner workings of a piano are exactly why hiring an expert in piano moving is so important. These professionals understand pianos and moving them, from the safest way to lift and twist a standard upright piano to get it out the door, to how to properly disassemble a grand piano and transport it without causing any damage. And even more importantly, a piano mover understands that when your piano is delivered to your new home, you expect to be able to sit down and play it right away. It's why many piano movers keep tuners and repairmen on staff, and why the rest will have a trusted list of professionals available on request if you need it.

Want to protect that piano? Use this link to hire a local

Piano Mover

Store Pianos with Piano Movers

Thanks to their considerable bulk, sometimes it becomes important to not just move your piano, but to find it a temporary home for a while as well. Not all places you move into can accommodate a piano, and many home remodeling and renovation projects require major furniture be vacated from the premises. In those cases, calling a piano mover about storage is an excellent solution. Again, your piano will be moved by someone who knows the instrument, but just as importantly it will be stored by someone who cares about how intricate your piano is, too. Extreme temperatures, high and low humidity, and poorly weatherized storage facilities can all wreak havoc on your piano, so it's worth paying a little extra to have your piano stored by someone who you can trust to treat it right.

As has already been mentioned, your piano is one of the most valuable and delicate items in your home. Don't trust its moving and storage to just anyone. Talk to a piano mover so you can sleep well knowing your piano is being handled by professionals who know how to baby these beautiful musical instruments.

If you are reading this, we don't have much time. You are leaving soon, most likely in the next couple weeks, and you need a brief, comprehensive list of things that need to be done. This list will help you reduce the stress of this quick move. Remember there are two basic components to moving: the act of moving your possessions (packing boxes, giving away plants) and the act of moving your life (closing bank accounts, getting medical records). This list of items should make this process as painless as possible.

Moving Your Stuff

We typically encourage a timeline of moving items. But you are in a hurry, so here is a quick and dirty list of what needs to be done.

As Soon as Possible

Moving Company/Rental Truck: Hire a moving company or reserve a rental truck first thing. These services can easily get booked up and leave you stranded. The sooner the better.

Trip to the Thrift Store: Do you really have time for a garage sale?

Locating Boxes: Bars and liquor stores always have the best boxes. Their boxes are designed to be able to hold large amounts of weight. However, if you have a friend or neighbor who has moved recently, ask them if you can take some boxes off their hands.

No More Groceries: Don't go to the grocery store for anything other than essentials. The idea is to begin paring down your home food supply so that you have less to move and less to throw away.

Make Moving Painless: Pack a little bit every night. One box can make a big difference. Sit all boxes of books and heavy stuff on the floor so that lighter boxes can go on top.

Breakables: Find a place on the floor for breakables so that they can't fall off of anything.

Packing Bikes: Visit a bike shop for a box to pack bikes in.

Heavy Boxes: Sit all boxes of books and heavy stuff on the floor so that lighter boxes can go on top.

Stacking Breakables: Find a place on the floor for breakables so that they can't fall off of anything.

Reserve the Elevator: If you are moving into a high-rise apartment, reserve use of an elevator (where possible) so that you are not constantly waiting on each load.

A Few Days Before You Move

Double Check on Your Rentals: If you are renting a truck, call again to make sure that your truck will indeed be ready just to be on the safe side.

Rental Truck Emergency Kit: Buy some windshield wiper fluid, anti-freeze or coolant, and motor oil. This truck will be pulling a heavy load and it might need more than just gas to get there.

Buy a Lock: Buy a lock so that you can secure the back door to your truck.

Road Supplies: Make a list of things that you want to have in the car with you, either to eat, drink, or occupy your mind.

Lodging Reservations: If you will be stopping in an area with many lodging choices, it is best to grab a room when you arrive to get the best price. But if you don't want to drive around looking for places, then reserve a room in advance. If you are camping in a state park, it is best to reserve a space before you leave.

Always Double-Check: Double-check reservations at campgrounds, hotels, motels, Aunt Jane's just to be on the safe side.

Travel Entertainment: Bring games in the car for the kids to entertain themselves.

Road Trip Essentials: Many moving trucks are only equipped with the barest essentials, often without a tape deck or CD player, sometimes even without FM radio. Check your particular truck and decide if you can travel that far without some good tunes or talk radio. Buying a small radio might be a good investment.

Moving Day

Renting the Truck: There will be a walkaround by you and one of the rental company employees. You will be held accountable for any damage that is not written on this sheet. So be sure to note every little flaw.

Think about Overpasses: Before you pull out of the driveway, get your mind ready to be thinking about overpasses. This is a common problem with rental trucks as people are not used to looking for low clearance. If you go under a low clearance bridge that you will not clear, it will destroy the truck. And you will be left holding the bill.

Loading a Rental Truck: Pack the heavy stuff toward the front of the truck, i.e. the part of the truck closest to the cab. Washers and Dryers should go on first, followed by pianos, furniture, and anything big and heavy.

Truck Ramps: Often rental trucks have a pullout ramp for loading and unloading. This ramp is narrow and typically made of aluminum. Be careful that you don't fall off either side when carrying heavy objects. Also, these ramps can become very slick if they even get a little bit wet. Carpet scraps and rags are great to minimize slipping.

Consider Unloading: If you can, pack such that what you want to come off first is put on last. Mainly items that will be going upstairs or toward the back of the house should be loaded last, so they can come off first.

Towing a Vehicle: If you are towing a vehicle behind your rental truck, make sure the trailer has a working tow package. This means that the brake lights, tail lights, blinkers, and trailer brakes are all in working order.

Crowns in the Road: All roads are crowned in the middle so that water won't stand. This crown will feel severe in a big truck. Try to stack the driver's side of the truck with more of the heavy stuff so that the truck rides even.

Parking Your Rental Truck: If you are traveling on multiple nights, make sure to park your truck smartly. Find a wall or a tree or some otherwise immovable place where you can back the truck right up close. This way, if someone happens to break into your truck, they won't be able to get many items out.

Moving In: If you have items that will just go into storage in your new home, such as in the basement or in a closet, be sure to take these boxes straight there. Don't just drop off boxes right inside the door because it's easy. Take them where they need to go because you will end up stepping over them throughout moving day.

One Extra Day: It is a smart idea to compare the pricing difference if you kept the truck one extra day. People often underestimate how draining the whole moving process can be, and if you are hurrying all day so that you can return the truck by five, you will most likely make extra work on yourself by not moving the right things to the right room. Find out what it would be worth to you to be able to take breaks, work at a nice pace, and take the truck back the next day. It could be such a small amount that it will be worth it to pay for the extra time and have the option to be tired and work smartly.

Gas up the Truck: Be sure to take the rental truck back with a full tank of gas, as they will charge you an extraordinary amount per gallon if they have to fill it.

Moving Your Life

There is more to moving than just loading everything you own onto a truck and housing it somewhere else. You have rooted yourself into this place and it will take more than a flick of the wrist to undo everything. Actually, most of the stress of moving comes from closing down your inhabitance and opening it back up again in a new location. This list is here to help identify the obvious and not so obvious things that bind you to your city. Each individual will have different responsibilities, but hopefully this will do the trick.

First Things

Medical Records: Grab medical records not only for your whole family but also for your pets. Make copies while you have them and a file where they can be stored until you find another physician and veterinarian.

Transfer Prescriptions

Return Borrowed Items: You will have new neighbors now, and while some people keep in touch with their old neighbors, it is a good practice to return anything you have borrowed and ask for what they borrowed from you.

Update Memberships: Update your auto club membership or if you don?t have one, get one. This is also a good time to update other memberships like with your video rental provider so that you can get movies those first few days in your new home.

Open Bank Accounts: Some banks have a painless transfer of accounts, although with others it can be a complete mess. Be prepared for the mess, and be pleasantly surprised if one doesn't happen.

All the Things You Will Miss: Visit all the restaurants, parks, theaters, shops, and anything else that you will not have access to once you move. End your time in this area on the best note possible. Do the things you enjoy.

Prepare Your Car for the Road: Have your vehicle serviced (oil change, rotate tires, etc.). Do this as early as you can in case the mechanics find something that will require you to come back for a second visit.

Change of Address: File a change of address form with the post office. Also change your address with credit cards, memberships, magazines, netflix, etc. Cancel your newspaper subscription if you are moving out of the area.

Friends & Neighbors: Notify your friends and neighbors of your new address and phone number, even email if that is going to change. A good way to do this is with "We've Moved" cards.

Shut Off Utilities: Set up a time to shut off your utilities, phone, cable, and internet.

Clean Before You Arrive: Have the carpets cleaned before you get there. It's also smart to have the ducts cleaned. The idea is to move into a completely clean, safe home.

Pay Your Bills: Settle accounts at local merchants, and make certain that credit cards are paid down in case you need some extra cash on the road.

Return Library Books/Rented Videos: If you happen to leave town without taking care of this, you most likely will forget once you are in a new place. This is an annoying task, but not as annoying as the fine that will accrue if you don't take care of this before you go.

Gym Membership: Transfer your gym membership. If you are with a gym that cannot be transferred to your new city, figure out if you can get out of the membership early or transfer the difference to a friend or family member.

Find Home for Plants: Most plants cannot handle the extreme environments they are placed in during a move. If you really care about your plants, find them a good home.

Last Minute Things

Car Stuff: Make a list of things that you want to have in the car with you.

Safety Deposit Box: This is the best time to withdraw your safety deposit box so that your valuables are only unprotected for a limited amount of time.

Cell Phone: Have your cell phone number changed to the appropriate city.

Close Bank Accounts: If you bank with a national bank, it might be the case that you won't need to close down your current one. You can just change the account to your new city.

Set Up Utilities: Call to have your utilities turned on the day before you arrive at your new place. Don't forget cable and internet.

Dry Cleaning: Don't forget to pick up your dry cleaning.

Tip for Efficient Travel: If you are moving yourself, pack foods that have high-water content like grapes, oranges, apples, etc. These foods will keep you hydrated so that you don't have to drink so many liquids. This will reduce the number of times you will have to stop for restroom breaks and will keep you on the road.

Double-Check: Call again and again to make sure that your movers are still going to show when they say they will. If you are renting a truck, call again to make sure that there will indeed be a truck reserved just to be on the safe side.

Odds & Ends

There are many things that you could and should accomplish before you pull out of town, but due to your time constraints, they might not all be possible. These items can wait if you can't find the time, but it is best do get them done before hand.

Carpets: Have the carpets cleaned in your new place.

Lawn Care: Have the lawn mowed the day before you arrive.

Cell Phone: Have your cell phone number changed to the appropriate city.

Credit Report: If you have purchased a new home, chances are that a credit report has already been completed. However, checking your credit a couple times a year is a great idea just to make sure than no errors appear.

Appraise Valuables: Standard insurance plans cover general possessions up to a certain dollar amount, but if you have some more expensive items like a big screen TV that you need to insure, now is the best time to have your possessions appraised before you take them on the road.

Tax-Deductible Moving Expenses: Do some research with your accountant or an accountant who specializes in tax-deductible moving expenses, to see what is tax-deductible for your particular move.

Moving? There are some things you should know about protecting your goods during your move.

If something were to happen to your goods during the moving process, you should know what you can do to replace or fix your damaged or lost belongings.

Here are the options available for you by your movers:

Option A: Full Value Protection:

Under this option, which is not considered to be insurance, articles that are lost, damaged or destroyed will be (at the mover's option) either repaired, replaced with like items, or a cash settlement will be made for the cost of the repair, or for the current market replacement value. No depreciation applies to this option. The exact cost for full value protection, as well as the settlement amount, in case of a claim, is determined by the moving company.

However, under this option, movers can limit their liability for loss or damage to articles of extraordinary value, unless these articles are specifically listed on the shipping documents. An article of extraordinary value is any item whose value exceeds $100 per pound. Ask your mover for a complete explanation of this limitation before your move.

Option B: Released Value:

This is the least expensive protection option available and is not considered to be insurance and provides minimal protection. Under this option, the mover assumes liability for no more than 30 or 60 cents per pound, per article. Loss or damage claims are settled based on the weight of the article multiplied by 30-60 cents. For example, if a 10-pound stereo component, valued at $1000 were lost or destroyed, the mover would be liable for no more than $6.00 (10 pounds x $.60). There is no extra charge for this protection, but of course, it provides very minimal compensation.

Here is the option offered by your Homeowners insurance policy:

Most homeowners' insurance policies do not provide coverage for your household goods for moving purposes. However, you may check with your own insurance agent to see if your existing homeowner/renters' policy covers your goods while in transit. Often, you will find that your goods are covered against damages while the movers are in your home packing, but not while the goods are in the movers' possession.

To be sure that your goods are protected each step of the way, including if your belongings need to go into storage, you must purchase an actual moving insurance policy. MovingInsurance.com offers two main policy types:

Full Replacement Value - Valued Inventory—is offered for Interstate (moving from state to state), Intrastate (moving within the same state) and International shipments. It provides coverage based on an itemized and valued inventory prepared by the assured (the customer buying the policy) prior to the shipment date. Please note that the value assigned to the articles should be the cost of replacement at your new destination. Any settlement based on this type of coverage would be the lesser of repair costs or the amount declared on the valued inventory.

Example: You have purchased a sofa in 1999 for $400. The current replacement value to purchase a like/kind sofa is $900. You should list the sofa's value at $900. If you list the value at the $400 purchase price, and the sofa is damaged or destroyed during the move, you would be limited to a maximum repair or replacement settlement at the amount you declared on the high value inventory.

This option is the most comprehensive and is the best coverage available, as it does not reduce the settlement amount for depreciation or a co-insurance penalty. This completed inventory could also act as a base for your Homeowners' or Renters' insurance policy at the new location.

Full Replacement Value - Lump Sum—is offered for Interstate (from one state to another) and International shipments only. This option provides coverage based on the total declared value/lump sum of the shipment. To avoid being under insured, it is required you declare a value equal to at least $8.00 times the total weight of your shipment and that high value items be specifically declared and valued. In other words, if your shipment weighs 3,000 pounds, you need to insure it for a minimum of $24,000 and indicate the individual value of your high value items.

With this option, items valued at less than $500.00 per item do not need to be specifically declared and listed on the inventory list, however, to be sure that these items are covered, you MUST include their value in your total Declared Value.

It is important to understand how rental truck insurance works, and what you can expect to pay for it.

Never assume you’re insured without checking first.  Ask your auto insurance provider this question:  “Does my personal auto insurance coverage extend to rental trucks with a gross vehicle weight that exceeds 9,000 lbs.?”  Likely it will not.

If it doesn’t, it’s wise to add it through the rental truck company.  If the unexpected happens (and we all know it occasionally does), the cost to repair or replace a rental truck can be significant.  In fact, U-Haul says it would cost around $38,000 to replace a 26’ rental truck!  OUCH!

According to U-Haul’s website, they offer two levels of coverage for rental truck customers:  Safemove® and Super Safemove®.  Both of these provide protection if the rental truck is damaged while in your possession. Including this coverage adds from $75 to $135 to your rental truck price.

According to Budget’s website, they offer four plans:  Plan 1 - Damage Waivers; Plan 2 - Supplemental Liability Insurance; Plan 3 – Personal; Plan 4 - Cargo and Auto Tow Protection.  The rates for these service plans vary state to state, so only the local agent can tell you how much your price will increase by adding this coverage—something else to add to your “to do” list.

If you have decided to hire professionals to move you and your family, recommendations are a great way to find a moving company. Probably the best way is through a company that prescreens all movers and guarantees that they have the appropriate licensing and insurance. While there are many companies to choose from, there are a few things to keep in mind as you are looking for prospective moving companies. Here are some of them. However, if you are planning to move yourself, or at least pack yourself, click this link to learn how to pack a room.

•  Only deal with licensed companies. Ask the representative to demonstrate that it carries worker's compensation insurance to protect the moving company and its customers.

•  Ask about the firm's experience and client list.Call a few clients to verify references.

•  Ask the movers if they are members of any local or national moving trade associations. If so, contact the associations for further information if you really need it. This is a little over the top and probably not worth investigating, but this is just an option in case you want to be extra careful.

•  Check out the companies through the Better Business Bureau and the American Moving and Storage Association to see if they have information on them. Again, a little much, but well within your rights if you want to know.

•  Get a written estimate and determine whether it's binding or non-binding. The most accurate way to estimate your moving costs is to get an in-home, visual assessment from the mover. Decide whether you want full service (they pack, unpack and move everything) or self-service (you pack and unpack everything and they move it).

•  Insist on a guaranteed price in writing that includes gauranteed pick-up and delivery dates when you are ready to sign the contract. The contract should include a guarantee of how many hours the job will take, allowing an overrun of no more than 10 percent.

Click this link if you want to hire a moving company.

Moving Companies

Moving has been ranked by many people as being as one of the most stressful events a family can go through. A good moving company is aware of this stress and can make the whole process much less painful than it has to be.

Pool table movers do a lot more than simply offer the man power to move your pool table. Almost all residential pool tables must be disassembled and reassembled in order to be moved. Even if you have the clearance to move the pool table in one piece, there's a good chance moving the table in this manner will cause severe damage, including splitting the rails, cracking the slate, or popping the joints. Pool table installation is not a simple DIY project. Pool table movers have the specific expertise to take a pool table apart and reassemble it with the necessary care to maintain the original integrity of the table.

New Pool Table Installation

New pool tables sound like an unnecessary expense, but purchasing a new table does have some advantages. The cost of the pool table installation is almost always included in the price, and many pool table companies will offer a warranty on their products—although don't expect them to repair your pool table for free if your buddy puts his cue through the felt.

New pool tables offer a beautiful look and resilient performance. The elegance of a new table can bring its own sense of décor. Of course, you can probably find a more than suitable used pool table for less money, but you'll need to do your homework to ensure your used table will remain in good condition for years to come.

Used Pool Table Installation

Most homeowners try to find a used pool table to install in their home. Decent used pool tables generally cost somewhere in the neighborhood of $500-$1,000. This can be compared to a new table that may cost closer to $2,000 or up to nearly $10,000 for a high-end table with all the accessories. Keep in mind that the felt will have to be removed and re-stretched. Older felt may not be up for this kind of treatment and may tear. Some of the best used table buys may very well involve finding a table than has suffered superficial damage that can be easily repaired during reassembly.

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Hire a Mover

Pool Table Movers

Finding a pool table mover is often trickier than finding a used pool table itself. The cost of hiring a pool table mover depends on the size and design of the table and the distance of the move among other things. Plan on spending several hundred dollars, unless you're in an uncommonly easy or difficult situation. Just like any home improvement contractor, you should take the time to get estimates from multiple movers. During this process, don't just look for the cheapest quote. Different pool table movers may offer different levels of service. More than simply moving your pool table, a mover may be able to improve the setup of the table, including not just leveling and re-felting but new rubber rails that conform to OEM specs.

You may want to match the services of your pool table mover to the quality of the table you're purchasing. You probably don't want to spend a bunch of money on movers for an inferior table. On the other hand, if you're going to invest the money for a quality used pool table, hiring professional movers that can ensure a like-new pool table upon reassembly is probably worth it. Regardless, you'll want to choose a mover capable of installing your table without damaging it. When you hire the mover, sign a contract that guarantees the condition of the table once it's moved

If you are reading this, you are either seriously considering using a professional mover or you have already chosen one to move you. If you have a family of more than three people and a houseful of things to move, a professional mover is most likely the best option for you. However, a professional move is much different than moving yourself. Use this checklist to prepare yourself for this upcoming event.

Preparing for the Physical Move

Hire a Moving Company: Hire a moving company first thing. These services can easily get booked up and leave you stranded. The sooner the better.

What to Pack: Pack all of your food, cleaning supplies, chemicals, soaps, and shampoos. Moving companies will not take food, chemicals, or cleaning supplies. Don't worry with packing things yourself. Moving companies need to pack everything so that they can stand behind the packing job. If something breaks, they have to know with certainty that it was their fault.

Garage Sale: A garage sale is a smart way to reduce some of your possessions and maybe even make a little gas money for the move.

Thrift Store: Make a trip to a thrift store to give away what you couldn't sell. Remember to get receipts and write-off forms for the value of what was donated.

Road Supplies: Make a list of things that you want to have in the car with you, either to eat, drink, or occupy your mind.

Lodging Reservations: If you will be stopping in an area with many lodging choices, it is best to grab a room when you arrive to get the best price. But if you don't want to drive around looking for places, then reserve a room in advance. If you are camping in a state park, it is best to reserve a space before you leave.

Always Double-Check: Double-check reservations at campgrounds, hotels, motels, Aunt Jane's just to be on the safe side.

Travel Entertainment: Bring games in the car for the kids to entertain themselves.

Moving Day

Be Available: Depending on the moving company and how they pack, someone needs to be at your new home who can direct traffic for the movers. What box goes in what room, what bedroom set goes in which bedroom, and someone to keep the children out of the way.

Tipping Your Mover: It is customary to tip your movers, after all they have successfully moved all of your things into another home without breaking anything and made your life that much easier. The amount is completely up to you, and is certainly contingent upon how easy they were to work with, if anything was broken, timeliness, etc.

Closing Down Shop: Moving Related Items

Since you are using professional movers, really all you are left to do is unseat yourself from your neighborhood and city. You have made a life there, full of friends, banks, hospitals, leagues, and tons of other things. Because of this, you have many things to pull together that aren't necessarily going in the moving truck, and this list is your best guide for what to do and when.

4 Weeks Out

Appraisal of Current Needs: Before you even think about moving things that you don't even want anymore, consider if you have anything that needs to be replaced. Why move an old mattress when you could have a brand new one waiting in your new home? Think about other large items that will be expensive to transport and consider buying the item new in your new city.

Credit Report: If you have purchased a new home, chances are that a credit report has already been completed. However, checking your credit a couple times a year is a great idea just to make sure than no errors appear.

Appraise Valuables: Standard insurance plans cover general possessions up to a certain dollar amount, but if you have some more expensive items like a big screen TV that you need to insure, now is the best time to have your possessions appraised before you take them on the road.

Tax-Deductible Moving Expenses: Do some research with your accountant or an accountant who specializes in tax-deductible moving expenses, to see what is tax-deductible for your particular move.

3 Weeks Out

Medical Records: Grab medical records not only for your whole family but also for your pets. Make copies while you have them and a file where they can be stored until you find another physician and veterinarian.

Transfer Prescriptions

Return Borrowed Items: You will have new neighbors now, and while some people keep in touch with their old neighbors, it is a good practice to return anything you have borrowed and ask for what they borrowed from you.

Update Memberships: Update your auto club membership or if you don't have one, get one. This is also a good time to update other memberships like with your video rental provider so that you can get movies those first few days in your new home.

Open Bank Accounts: Some banks have a painless transfer of accounts, although with others it can be a complete mess. Be prepared for the mess, and be pleasantly surprised if one doesn't happen.

2 Weeks Out

Pay Your Bills: Settle accounts at local merchants, and make certain that credit cards are paid down in case you need some extra cash on the road.

Return Library Books/Rented Videos: If you happen to leave town without taking care of this, you most likely will forget once you are in a new place. This is an annoying task, but not as annoying as the fine that will accrue if you don't take care of this before you go.

Change of Address: File a change of address form with the post office. Also change your address with credit cards, memberships, magazines, Netflix, etc. Cancel your newspaper subscription if you are moving out of the area.

Gym Membership: Transfer your gym membership. If you are with a gym that cannot be transferred to your new city, figure out if you can get out of the membership early or transfer the difference to a friend or family member.

Find Home for Plants: Most plants cannot handle the extreme environments they are placed in during a move. If you really care about your plants, find them a good home.

Lawn Care: Have the lawn mowed the day before you arrive.

Music Scene: Search for the music scene in your new location to find out if there are concerts you want to see soon after you arrive.

1 Week

All the Things You Will Miss: Visit all the restaurants, parks, theaters, shops, and anything else that you will not have access to once you move. End your time in this area on the best note possible. Do the things you enjoy.

Prepare Your Car for the Road: Have your vehicle serviced (oil change, rotate tires, etc.). Do this as early as you can in case the mechanics find something that will require you to come back for a second visit.

Friends & Neighbors: Notify your friends and neighbors of your new address and phone number, even email if that is going to change. A good way to do this is with "We've Moved" cards.

Shut Off Utilities: Set up a time to shut off your utilities, phone, cable, and internet.

Clean Before You Arrive: Have the carpets cleaned before you get there. It's also smart to have the ducts cleaned. The idea is to move into a completely clean, safe home.

No More Groceries: Don't go to the grocery store for anything other than essentials. The idea is to begin paring down your home food supply so that you have less to move and less to throw away.

Few Days Before

Safety Deposit Box: This is the best time to withdraw your safety deposit box so that your valuables are only unprotected for a limited amount of time.

Cell Phone: Have your cell phone number changed to the appropriate city.

Close Bank Accounts: If you bank with a national bank, it might be the case that you won't need to close down your current one. You can just change the account to your new city.

Set Up Utilities: Call to have your utilities turned on the day before you arrive at your new place. Don't forget cable and internet.

Dry Cleaning: Remember to pick up your dry cleaning.

Tip for Efficient Travel: Pack foods that have high-water content like grapes, oranges, apples, etc. These foods will keep you hydrated so that you don't have to drink so many liquids. This will reduce the number of times you will have to stop for restroom breaks and will keep you on the road. Of course if you are not under a tight time schedule, pack whatever you like and stop as often as you want.

You can literally rent anything. Think of a thing you need but can't afford. Something you can afford but don't want. Something you want but don't need. If everything is for sale, then everything can be rented as well. Consider what you already rent everyday: cars at the airport, DVDs at the store, your apartment or house. For weddings you rent time by the hour: photographers, DJ's, and caterers. You can even rent people for routine check-ups: maids, landscapers, and plumbers. Renting is the philosophy behind all transactions, so the same method applies when you need the right tools for a job. When it comes to home improvement projects, contacting the right rental service could be the one thing that makes or breaks your plans.

Get a Move On
The most popular rental service is relocation companies. When moving from one residence to another, there are tons of things to plan around. This is why, aside from a job search, moving is consistently the number one stressor in America. Since it's so nerve-racking, why not reduce the anxiety and hire professionals to get the job done. You could, of course, rent a moving company to load, transfer, and unpack your possessions. They cost more, but it's the most efficient way to get from one place to the next. But if you want to do it yourself, you have a few options. You could rent a truck for bigger projects, but for in-town moves you may want to rent a trailer. They come in open or closed styles and are available in any size depending on the layout of your house (one room, two rooms, etc.). Plus they come with options: hitches for cars tows, dollies for heavy appliances, and all the attachments you may need (ropes, pads, boxes, packing materials, etc). Just reserve early and make sure the company guarantees the unit for pick up so you won't be inconvenienced on moving day.

The Little Things
It's always those little things that make a project go faster, but sometimes it's the smallest items that cost the most. So for minor projects, you may need to contact an equipment rental service. For instance, if you've already moved but still need to sell your house, it's a good idea to rent furniture. For open houses, buyers like to see the house furnished to grasp its full size and potential; plus, it just makes a space more inviting. So if your couches and chairs are in the new house, rent furnishings to stage your old home to allure strong offers.

Need to move something? Use this link to
Rent a Truck

Of course, more often than not, you'll be contacting an equipment rental service for power tools. Tools are expensive, and even if you're a habitual do-it-yourselfer, these appliances are often used once and then sit in your garage for years. So it's best to lease a power washer or buffer for cleaning jobs. If landscaping, temporarily rent a tamper. For bigger projects, never buy floor strippers, scaffolding, or air compressors unless you know you're going to use them in the future.

The Big Stuff
If you have a big project, like building an addition, grading a yard, or re-roofing your house, you'll need some big tools as well. Though often used for commercial purposes, some equipment rental companies offer tools to homeowners who have the proper experience and training for such large jobs. Trucks are the most popular item, including dump trucks, vans, flatbeds, half-tons, or pickups. Rent a dumpster for demolition work. A trencher or backhoe for landscaping projects. Maybe you need a Bobcat, skid loader, fork lift, or concrete mixer. And if you need attachments, these professionals can supply you with augers, buckets, and breakers. But be sure you're proficient enough to use such tools before investing.

Rental Services
Rental services not only hand out tools to make the job go quicker, they also rent out information to make the project a success. Even if you're handy around the house, these professionals can give tips and instructions about how to use the tools effectively. They relay safety advice to make sure you're protected (especially since you'll probably have to sign a waiver so they're not liable for accidents). If you're unsure about what to rent, once you explain your intentions and tell them when you want the gear, these experts can lead you in the right direction and suggest what tools you'll need and for how long.

If you want to get the best price possible when selling your home, it is very important to make sure that it is appealing to potential buyers. Fix-up the following areas for an easy, quick sale:

Repaint walls in rooms that have high visibility (kitchen, baths and living areas).

Choose a neutral paint color scheme.

Refinish wood floors.

Have carpet professionally cleaned or replaced with a neutral colored carpet.

Replace or repair loose cabinet hardware.

Fix leaks in ceilings and walls.

Put magazines in decorative baskets. Weed out those you don't need.

Keep bills and personal papers organized and out-of-sight.

Replace worn kitchen countertops with new, clean, neutral colored materials.

Replace worn or outdated vinyl flooring.

Clean ceramic tiles and re-grout if necessary.

Reduce the number of personal items and clutter (memorabilia, keepsakes, awards etc.) in each room, to make the house seem cleaner.

Keep children's toys organized and in one area.

Replace broken, dirty or outdated blinds and curtains.

Clean closets and put items in plastic storage containers.

Clean and organize basement.

Clean and organize attic and storage spaces.

Make sure all appliances are clean and in working order.

Replace all burned-out light bulbs.

Clean all light fixtures and ceiling fans.

We realize that moving is more than just taking all of your possessions and putting them somewhere else. In most cases, you have made a home not just of the house you are leaving, but your neighborhood and your city. The stressful part of moving comes not just from packing and unpacking, but leaving a place you have been calling home. You have a doctor, a veterinarian, a school, a bank, a gym, and these things cannot go in the moving truck with you. This checklist will help you to better organize and prioritize items that aren't going in the truck that must be completed before you move.

Few Days Before

Record Meter readings

Withdraw Safety Deposit Box

Change Cell Phone Number

Close Bank Accounts

Set a Time to Disconnect Phone/Utilities/Internet

1 Week

Car-related maintenance--Service Vehicles that we be on the road (oil changes, tune ups, etc)

Pick Up Dry Cleaning

Notify Friends & Neighbors of Your New Address/Phone?Move Cards

Visit all the restaurants, parks, theaters, shops, and anything else that you will not have access to once you move. End your time in this area on the best note possible. Do the things you enjoy.

2 Weeks

Salvation Army/Thrift Stores

Yard Sale

Settle Bills/Accounts with local merchants

Return Library books/rented videos

Cancel/Transfer Gym Membership

Find Home for Plants

3 Weeks

Change of address

Vet Records for Pets

Transfer Prescriptions

Return/Get Back Borrowed Items

Get Medical/Dental Records

Update Memberships

4 Weeks

Credit Report

Appraise Valuables

Research Tax-Deductible Moving Expenses

Appraisal of current needs (Is my mattress old enough that I can toss it out and buy a new one at my new home, etc.)

From moving.org

Plan Ahead

Summer time is the busiest time of the year for movers. In addition, the beginning and end of each month are traditionally busier than mid-month, regardless of the season. If you are planning to move during one of the times, plan well in advance so your mover's schedule will fit yours.

Now it is time to contact the movers on your list. Inform them of your destination and the timing of your move. Ask movers to provide you with a written estimate, and have them explain the services listed in the estimate in detail. Carefully compare each estimate to see which company best suits your needs and budget.

Check out our Moving Countdown Calendar planner, to be sure you don't forget anything.

Packing

Proper packing by a trained packer using specially designed cartons and materials is crucial to a good move. Schedule packing with the mover a day or two before the moving van is loaded. If you are packing yourself, it is never too soon to start. While packing yourself can save money, movers will not usually accept liability for damage to items packed by owners.

Be present when your goods are packed. An inventory of your goods will be made and it is important to resolve any disagreements prior to signing the inventory. Make sure all copies are legible and all items are numbered. Have valuable items listed separately. Some appliances may require servicing prior to the move. Your mover can schedule these services for you.

There are several options for insuring your goods. All household goods shipments move under limited liability. However, you may purchase additional liability coverage from your mover.

Planning Your Moving Day

Your mover may ask you to select several consecutive days during which your goods can be loaded and a second series of dates during which your goods can be delivered to your new home. A spread of days gives you and your mover the flexibility needed to keep your move on schedule. Remember that summer months are the busiest, and some movers offer lower prices between the months of October and April.

Moving Day

•Be on hand when the movers arrive

•Discuss the delivery arrangements fully with your mover.

•Have beds stripped and ready to be packed.

•Save your energy - let the moving crew disassemble goods.

•Read the Bill of Lading before you sign it.

•Tell your mover how to reach you at your destination.

•Keep in contact with the mover's agent at your destination while you are in transit.

Delivery

Generally, your belongings will be transported in a van along with those of other families in the same general direction. This helps to keep your costs down. Delivery is made on any of the several consecutive days agreed upon before the move began. Make sure the mover knows how to contact you to schedule actual delivery. If you cannot be reached at destination, the mover may place your shipment in storage to avoid delaying other shipments. This can mean additional charges for storage and handling.

Upon delivery, check your goods for damage. Do not sign the inventory until you have inspected your furniture and the exterior of the cartons.

Claims

If any of your household goods are damaged or lost, report the facts promptly and in detail on the van driver's copy (original) of the inventory sheet before you sign it. If you notice damage after unpacking, a claim must be filed within nine months after delivery. However, it is to your advantage to report damage as soon as possible. The mover must acknowledge receipt of your claim within 30 days and must deny or make an offer within 120 days of receipt of your claim. When making a claim or considering a settlement offer, keep in mind the amount of liability that you declared on your shipment. For example, if the value declared on your shipment was $5,000, the mover's maximum liability for loss or damage to the articles in your shipment is $5,000. Claims for more than this amount will be declined because they are in excess of the mover's liability that you declared on your shipment.

The one thing that most often gets neglected after a move is the home.

Below is a checklist of chores that are most common to the recently moved. Inspect your home with this list, and note all others, before you begin to ignore it and the problem worsens.

Home Inspection: Check off all of the problems on the home inspection.

Wood Floors: Check for squeaks and problems in your wood floors.

Plumbing: Check plumbing for drips, slow drains, odd noises.

Electrical: Note any light switches that don't go to anything and outlets that don't work.

Gutters: Check gutters to make sure they don't need any cleaning. Are they draining properly?

Grading: Check the landscaping grading. Does water drain away from the home when it rains? Does it need work?

Other things to consider

• Change the locks
• Have the windows cleaned
• Have the trees trimmed
• Hire professionals for your lawn care