The best approach to take when shipping household goods is to make a checklist. This way, you can inventory what you have, throw out the things you don’t want, and ultimately streamline your moving experience. If you don’t use this approach, then you can become rather frustrated if not downright confused, whether you are moving locally or across the globe.
How to Make Moving Easier
When you have a checklist, the idea is to simplify your life. The list is a tool you use to make moving less laborious or complex. About two months before a move, you want to sort through your items and purge the items you do not want. Consider what items may need special packing or require additional insurance coverage.
Next, you want to research your moving company and shipping firm options. Do not rely only on a phone quote. Instead, obtain an estimate in writing from the logistics company you plan to use. To support your efforts, create a moving and shipping notebook and binder to track everything associated with your move – estimates, receipts and your household inventory.
About six weeks before a move, you should order moving supplies, including bubble wrap, tape, permanent markers, containers and boxes. Check the dimensions of your new residence. Make sure the larger furniture pieces can be eased through the doors.
Start Packing
About a month before you move, confirm the moving date and related costs and details with your mover or shipper. Make sure the shipping of household goods is scheduled, and start packing and labeling boxes. Separate your valuables and visit your local post office to fill out a change-of-address form. You can also go online to take care of the change. Notify banks, brokerage companies, your creditors and insurance company about your impending move.
About two weeks before your scheduled move, reconfirm any arrangement for shipping household goods and furniture. Also reconfirm the moving company’s arrival time or your shipper’s pick-up time before your move date. Make sure you have the directions to your new home correct. Include your contact information in case your mover or shipper has any questions in the interim.
