Without proper planning, moving to a new home can be an overwhelming process. To begin, we suggest first figuring out your overall moving budget. This alone can be a determining factor when it comes to how exactly you’re going to move smoothly. Next, begin researching your moving options. A few moving options to consider include hiring full-service movers, using a portable moving container, renting a truck and hiring moving day labor. Finally, gather your packing supplies and start packing! The sooner you begin the packing process the better.
Moving Out of State
Find a moving company that is licensed and insured. Before hiring an interstate moving company, be sure to double check their credentials. All long-distance movers should be licensed with the U.S. DOT and should have a U.S. DOT number. To find their complaint history, simply enter the moving company’s number into the S. DOT database.
Put all important documents in a safe place
When moving to a new state, you’re going to need important documents such as a social security card to obtain a new ID/driver’s license. So, make sure that all important papers are stored in a safe place during the move.
Moving Locally
Ask friends to help with a move in advance. If you’re planning a DIY move, now’s the time to ask friends and family for help. By asking well in advance, you should be able to find someone willing and able to help. If not, you can always hire loading and unloading help from HireAHelper.
Check local moving company credentials
Hiring full-service movers? Unfortunately, local movers aren’t required to register with the U.S. DOT. They are, however, required to register with your state’s transportation department. Requirements vary from state to state, so be sure to check your state’s specifics when hiring a local moving company.
Size up when booking a truck rental
The last thing you want to do is rent a moving truck that can’t fit all of your belongings. This will only mean having to make multiple trips back and forth between homes. To avoid this, be sure to book a truck rental large enough to hold your things.
Let friends and family know you’ve moved
When you’re moving within the same city, it’s easy for friends and family to forget. So be sure to send loved ones your new address as soon as possible.
Downsizing
Call local non-profits to pick up extra furniture. Need to get rid of old clothes and bulky, heavy furniture? Try calling your local Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity or Goodwill to schedule a pick-up, free of charge.
Rent a self-storage unit
Downsizing often means having to purge your belongings. If you’re not quite ready to get rid of your things, we suggest renting a self-storage unit. These storage units are available for temporary, month-to-month storage, as well as for long-term use.
Measure current furniture
Before bringing items with you, make sure that they’ll fit in your new, smaller home. Measure all current furniture and decide what to bring and what to toss.
Use a floor plan to figure out furniture placement
Obtain a blueprint of the new home’s floor plan drawn to scale. This will make it easier to plan where furniture and decor will be placed inside the new home.
Host a garage sale
Hosting a garage sale is an excellent way to get rid of excess belongings, while also making a few bucks before the move. For advice on hosting a winning garage sale, check here.
