There
are many ways to reduce the time and cost required to complete your
move. No single item will greatly lower your costs, but any combination
of the following could produce significant savings.
Start
the move as early as possible. Late starts, particularly on large
moves, can have a psychological as well as physical effect on both
the crew and you. Overtime can become a factor as well.
Be
ready when the movers arrive. Make certain that all small items, including
lamps, pictures, small mirrors, lampshades, dishes, books, etc., are
packed prior to the arrival of the movers. Use cartons that can be
sealed. Follow your 'Packing Tips' carefully. Your mover can supply
you with all the materials necessary to ensure a proper packing job.
Keep
in mind that the costs of these materials may be outweighed by the
extra cost of the move, should it take longer due to improper packing.
Mark the cartons clearly to ensure proper placement in your new residence.
Discard
unwanted items prior to the move. Have a garage sale for items that
you no longer consider useful. Don't pay to
move what you don't need.
Have
the cars out of the driveway. Otherwise the moving van may block them
in. If the truck has to load off the street, try to ensure that there
is a parking spot specifically reserved for the movers.
If
you are moving from an apartment, have the elevator on service and
meet the crew when they arrive in the moving room.
In
the winter, make sure the driveways and walkways are clear and salted
to prevent slipping.
Remove
all items that you are moving yourself prior to the arrival of the
movers, so they won't be in the way during the move.
Move
small plants yourself. The movers will move large plants at the customer's
risk, if desired.
Disconnect
all appliances and remove hoses completely from the washer and the
dryer to prevent scratching and soiling of walls and floors. Place
the hoses inside the washer to ensure that you will find them later.
Bring
garden tools, lawn mower, patio furniture, etc. from the backyard
to the front.
Bring
small items and cartons up from the basement and put them in the garage
for quicker access.
Disassemble
swing sets and other large items. If you're moving in winter, plan
ahead to prevent them from freezing in the ground.
Disassemble
all beds. Movers assume that waterbeds will be drained completely
and disassembled prior to their arrival.
Take
mirrors off the dressers. Wrap the screws and tape them into the top
right-hand drawer of the dresser.
Take
the legs off large tables and handle carefully to avoid damage.
Remove
screen door plungers and any doors that had to be removed when you
moved in.
Walk
through the house when the crew first arrives and point out the things
that are not to go, as well as items you are especially concerned
about.
Make
yourself available at all times in case of questions.
Try
to keep children from getting in the way of the movers. Remember this
is a big day for them, and try to be as patient as possible.
Assist
in carrying small items, boxes, etc. Do not attempt to carry heavy
items requiring two people. The movers are experienced at working
together.
Check
the house thoroughly prior to the departure of the crew. The driver
is instructed not to leave until you are satisfied that they have
loaded everything that is to go.
Be
organized at the new house. Have someone at the door to direct the
movers. This will eliminate confusion about where to place items.
Pack
and unpack the clothing wardrobe cartons you rented, or which the
movers supplied on the day of the move, while the movers load and
unload the truck. Make sure they're one of the last things to go onto
the truck. This way, you can unpack the wardrobe cartons quickly and
the movers can take them when they leave, thus avoiding additional
rental costs.
Reassemble
items on your own where possible to save time and the cost of having
the movers do it.
Pick
a closing date that is unique and not end of the month.
Think
about where your moving from. (i.e. elevator to large building may
be busy)
The
items listed above are just some of the money-saving tips you can
try. The most important suggestion we can make is to be organized.
Your move should be an enjoyable event, and a little planning will
ensure you and your family have a great move.
Allan
Todd REALTOR®
Remax Professionals Inc., Brokerage
416-640-0734
905-270-8840
