Moving

For millions of Americans, summer is the best time to move - the kids are out of school, the weather is nice, and the home buying season is at its peak. In fact, 11 to 13 percent of all moves occur during summer months as compared to eight percent or less during the other months of the year¹ .

4 weeks from move date: Get organized and start notifying the right people and companies that you’ll be moving soon and give them a date to forward or terminate service. Start looking for licensed and professional moving companies, moving guides and relevant coupons.

Tip: If using a professional mover, get quotes from multiple moving companies to get the best deal that is right for you and your needs. Ask plenty of questions like whether or not they give binding quotes and what kind of insurance is included. Be sure to talk with them about the different options available with full-service moves such as packing and unpacking services and providing boxes and packing supplies.

Tip: Important documents such as your child’s school records may need to be accessible during your transition. Make sure to put these items aside and make copies of any records for yourself, in case you forget what box they’re packed in.

Tip: Fill out change of address forms for creditors, doctors and personal providers. Schedule account closings for trash removal, gardeners, pest control, etc., and transfer utilities or other services that’ll go with you.

3 weeks from move date: Once you’ve selected a mover, begin by taking inventory of your belongings and their worth and decide what will be coming with you to your next home.

Tip: Start cleaning out closets, drawers and storage areas of your home and divide things into categories: "pack", "recycle" and "give to friend." You can always have a garage sale or donate old items to charity. This will make packing day a lot easier and you may reduce the total weight you’ll be paying for to move.

Tip: If you’re moving yourself or contracting for a self-service move, pack the items you know you won’t need until 30 days after the move. It will feel great to get started early.

Tip: If possible, take pictures of rooms and areas inside the home or apartment you’ll be moving into so you can start thinking about placement of furniture, artwork and other items. This will help save time, headaches…and money…on moving day.

2 weeks from move date: If you choose not to take advantage of full service mover packing services, or are planning to do it yourself and rent a truck, Start packing things into boxes. Figure out the logistics of the move, travel plans and if other specialized plans need to be made.

Tip: If you are using a professional mover find out what items are on their "non-allowables" list and discard those items or find a way to transport them separately.

Tip: Instead of stacking plates, pack them vertically; they will travel safer this way.

Tip: If you are moving long distance, remember travel arrangements for your pets. There are pet-exclusive airlines available such as Pet Airways but regular airlines have travel options for pets as well.

Tip: If you have young children, you may want to make childcare arrangements so you can be 100% focused on moving day and your little ones remain safe and busy with fun activities.

Tip: Schedule "move out" cleaning service, carpet cleaners and heavy appliance disposal if necessary for once you’ll be out of the home you’re vacating. Even if you’re selling your current home, it’s a nice welcome for the buyers to move into a clean and tidy home.

1 week from move date: Set aside valuable items and keep those with you. Clean before moving and leave your house or apartment as clean as it was when you moved in.

Tip: Make sure the details for paying the moving company are taken care of. Some will require money orders or cashier’s checks upon delivery; know their policy in advance to avoid stress on moving day.

Tip: Start eating all the frozen foods you have, or give them to a neighbor or friend. This way you won’t have to throw them away on moving day, or worry about packing an ice chest.

Tip: Also think about necessities for managing moving day like confining your pets and anticipating the amount of time you will need.

Tip: Place necessities such as toiletries, toilet paper, rags, "must-have" cooking supplies and organize them in boxes marked "open first" so it’s easy to find the initial items you’ll want handy on those first few days of being in your next home. Don’t forget the flashlight!

Tip: If possible, take one last tour of the new location and identify water and gas shut off locations, as well as the electrical breaker box just in case something happens in the first few days so you’re prepared. Might be smart to drop off a fresh box of light bulbs too!

Moving day and beyond: Take one last walk through and make sure nothing has been forgotten or overlooked. Also, make sure all doors and windows are locked and switches turned off, then you are on your way to your new house or apartment.

Tip: Go back to the photos you took when you began to pack up. Now you can show the movers or those helping you unpack exactly where everything goes with photos.

Tip: Unpack one room at a time according to basic needs starting with the kitchen and at least one bathroom…and don’t forget to make a bed as early in the day as possible if you’ll be sleeping in your home that evening! Remember, you don’t have to unpack everything in one day, or even in one week.

Tip: After you’ve settled in a bit, introduce yourself to some neighbors, ask for advice on the best places to eat, grocery shop, etc. This way you will feel like part of the community and can get some great local tips.

Why plan your move before moving out? Last minute planning and packing usually results in forgotten essentials, a more costly move and a stressful moving day. That's why we recommend creating a plan before you move out. These steps should help you get prepared for the big day!

Get Organized

Start by creating a moving file. This is a great place to store important documents like moving quotes, contracts, notes, receipts and other important information related to your move. Don't forget that many of your moving expenses are tax deductible, so it's imperative that you hang on to receipts and know where they are when tax-time rolls around. It's also a good idea to carry your moving file with you as you travel to your new home.

Get Quotes

We think you'll agree that choosing the right moving company is one of the most important things you can do when you're preparing to move. Starting research early is a great way to ensure you get what you need when it comes to price, safety, service options and transit time. We recommend that you begin requesting moving quotes at least 30-60 days before moving out. This should give you plenty of time to ask questions, research and make an educated decision.

Get rid of what you don't need

The right time to pair down is before you move. You'll find that it saves both money and time. With U-Pack you pay only for the space you use in the moving trailer, so less stuff means less to pack and a lower price.

To figure out what to keep and what to leave behind, survey each room and ask:

If the answer to any of these questions is "no", consider leaving it behind. You can plan a garage sale, post it on an online auction site or donate it—all great ways to earn extra cash or get a tax deduction.

Keep in mind there are several items that can't be moved in a moving truck. You'll either want to take these items in your personal vehicle or plan on using them before moving. These items include flammable or hazardous chemicals (anything in an aerosol can, cleaning and lighting fluids, paint, matches and ammunition); perishable foods or foods stored in glass jars; and live plants. For a more inclusive list, see U-Pack's Do Not Ship List.

Get an Inventory List

Once you've decided what stays and what goes, begin making an inventory list. Although U-Pack doesn't require an inventory, it's a great idea to have one for insurance company purposes. Your inventory should include a list of each item with replacement values. Keep in mind that items that are difficult to replace should be carried with you or shipped by insured or certified mail. These items might include:

Get Moving Supplies

Ordering moving supplies is much easier once you know what you're actually moving. So after you've paired down and compiled an inventory, go ahead and order moving boxes and supplies. U-Pack's box estimator can help you determine how many boxes to order. The boxes are delivered right to your door, so we recommend ordering them at least 30 days in advance. Start packing your non-essentials early to make moving day a little easier. It's also a good idea to review U-Pack packing tips before you start putting things in boxes.

Get an essentials box

You'll likely arrive at your new location before your moving truck arrives. If that's the case, it's important to pack the essentials you'll need to get by until your items arrive. Of course you'll need things like clothing, toiletries, medications and your moving file, but you might consider adding these items to an essentials box that you carry along in your vehicle:

Get informed

Before you move, start researching your new community—online or take a road trip. Whether you start with a visit to your new city's website, call the Chamber of Commerce to request a relocation packet, or take a road trip to check out the local scene, you'll find that getting informed before you move pays off. It's also a good idea to request a copy of the local phone book, city map and newspaper. Most companies and news services will send a complimentary issue to prospective newcomers.

Simply thinking about THE day can be a two-aspirin event! But there is no getting around it, so you might as well be prepared. Here are a few tips to help you survive your moving day intact.

Be Prepared

By this time you should have everything packed and ready to go. Make a point to get lots of sleep the night before your move and start your day with an energizing breakfast.

You should also, by this time, have coordinated the delivery of your trailer with your local ABF terminal. If at all possible, plan on receiving your trailer personally. You will be asked to sign for the trailer and to clarify where you want it parked. It's critical to have planned ahead for this.

Keep in mind ABF's trailers are 28 x 8 x 9 feet. The trailers require a 14 foot overhead clearance and a firm, level footing for parking. Make sure you are legally parking the trailer and have obtained permission from all interested parties. You'll want to be sure the local authorities or property managers understand that you'll need your reserved space for up to three business days.

It's a good idea to keep all utilities connected through your move date. This allows you to stay in touch with your local ABF dispatcher and make last minute phone calls. It also ensures you have power and water to do final cleaning.

Load Up!

The condition of your goods at destination is a direct result of how well you pack and load your belongings. Check out Moving Staffers for professional packing and loading help. See our Moving Related Services page for companies that offer supplies and labor. Remember to place cardboard or plastic sheeting on the floor of the trailer prior to loading to help protect your shipment. It is also recommended that you cover your shipment with plastic sheets or a tarp to protect your items from becoming dusty. This site includes helpful tips to ensure you can handle these tasks like a pro. Remember to keep your "essentials box" handy and make a point to keep "last load" items for the rear of your shipment. (Don't load the vacuum cleaner under tons of other stuff!)

Even if you are hiring outside labor or have volunteers to load your goods, it's important to personally supervise the loading process. Keep track of your inventory list and make sure you are satisfied your shipment is properly loaded and secured behind the bulkhead.

Stay in the Loop

Your personal involvement is important throughout the moving process. Ultimately you are responsible for how your goods are packed and loaded - as well as for understanding the terms of your Bill of Lading or BOL.

The BOL is an excellent candidate for your "moving file." ABF will mail, e-mail or fax a copy of your BOL prior to your move date, so that you'll have the opportunity to review it and be familiar with its terms. You should also receive a copy when you sign for your trailer. Make sure you understand all terms and contact your moving coordinator with questions or concerns. When your local ABF driver picks up your shipment you'll be asked to sign a copy of your BOL, so it's a good idea to study the document and know what you're signing.

Before signing verify the destination address and fill in your final footage results. Remember your final rate will be based on actual footage used within the trailer. You'll also want to make note of the "pro" or tracking number assigned to your shipment. This number can be used to track your shipment 24 hours a day, either online or by calling 1-800-FOR-ABFS.

Make Room for Relaxation

You are likely to arrive at your new home before your goods do. This gives you the opportunity to look things over and choose a "relaxation space."

Start by designating a room or area for relaxation. Plan on keeping this space cleared of clutter or boxes. You can even plan to bring out lamps and a few pieces of furniture for this area before unloading anything else.While tackling the monumental task of settling in, you'll appreciate having a place to "get away" from your work.

This is also a good time to look things over. Check appliances, utilities and heating/cooling systems to prevent unpleasant surprises. Make sure your mail is making it to your new address and that your phone service is connected. You might also take this time to meet your neighbors and drive around your new area.

Once you are ready to coordinate delivery of your goods, pull out your "moving file" and find your Bill of Lading.

Get Ready to Receive Your Trailer

Your BOL will include a contact number for your delivering ABF terminal. Call this number to find out how your shipment is progressing and when you should receive your trailer.

This is a good time to verify your charges. Unless you have arranged to pay by credit card, be prepared to pay upon delivery. Your driver will accept a money order or cashier's check. As at origin, you should plan on personally receiving your trailer and signing a delivery receipt. Be sure to keep this receipt, so that it will be on hand when you prepare your income tax return.

Unload and Settle In!

At this point you'll probably feel the urge to tackle everything at once. Take a deep breath and realize you don't have to unpack everything in one day - or even in one week.

Start by unloading your trailer and placing boxes and furniture in their designated rooms. You'll have up to three business days to unload. Once the trailer is empty of all goods and debris, call your delivering ABF terminal and let them know it is ready to be picked up.

Wonder where to start unpacking? Plan on taking things one room at a time, starting with the kitchen. Set up the microwave and coffeemaker and stock the fridge with easy-to-prepare meals. Remember to keep your trusty "essentials" box accessible. Once your basic kitchen items are in order, you can focus on other areas of the house knowing that you have somewhere to go for a cup of coffee or a quick snack.

Next focus on the bathrooms. Make toiletries and paper accessible and pull out a few towels. Once your new kitchen and baths are functioning, you can focus on the rest of the house at a more relaxed pace. Where you go from here is a matter of personal preference - take your time and make an adventure of it!

Moving can be unsettling, but it can also offer the opportunity for a fresh start.

Take it easy

Don't feel like you have to unpack right away. Focus on the essentials and take your time in addressing the less important stuff.

Have fun

Take the time to enjoy your new surroundings with your family and make exploring a fun event. Take walks and visit a local park, or check out local shopping, entertainment and restaurants.

Include everyone

As you settle into your new home, make a point to include all family members. Allow each member input in planning and decorating, and be tactful in making compromises. When all is done, each member should feel like they contributed to his or her "space."

Get involved

Be on the look-out for neighbors and introduce yourself to them. Ask them what organizations they recommend and see if you can find one that fits your needs. Involvement in a church group, athletic club or volunteer organization is likely to help you feel more like a part of your community.

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