We all dread the thought of moving. It’s stressful, time consuming, and always seems to be more work than we bargained for. Fortunately there are methods to make moving a bit less undesirable and dare I say it, rewarding!
A good move always starts with sufficient time for planning out the move. Try to give yourself at least two months to ensure a smooth move (if you’ll be moving long distance, possibly longer).
Diligently Plan Your Home Move
This can be done on sticky notes, apps or a spreadsheet. Scheduling a move allows you to input all of the critical events to ensure you’re prepared and ready for moving day!
Following are some key points to consider when planning for your move. Moving can be overwhelming to say the least, but a well laid out plan with key events, tasks, and due dates will ensure you’re attacking what you need to, in the timeline that is required for a successful move day.
Check out this free Google Sheets checklist and move schedule I created for our most recent move.
Update Address and Mail Forwarding
Contact the US Post Office to update your address and set up mail forwarding to your new address. You can do this at the post office or online here.
Update Subscription Delivery Services
For any subscription delivery services (such as boxed meals, stitchfix.com, etc) be sure to update your address on their website or talk to a company rep. This is also a great time to consider cancelling or modifying your service if you’re not fully utilizing or completely satisfied with it.
Utilities Shutoff and Other Notifications For the Move
Be sure to contact your Utility companies to set up a shutoff date to correspond with your move out date. If you’ll be moving out of the area, this is also a great time to notify professionals of your move. This may include Doctors, Dentists, Lawyers, Financial Advisors, Yard Care team, House Cleaners, etc.
Changing Schools Due To a Move
If you have school age children and they’ll be changing schools, be sure to contact their current school to notify the administration of your upcoming move and request they prepare records for the school transfer.
If you haven’t already, determine the new school(s) your children will be attending and determine what school records and immunization records they’ll need. This will ensure your child can begin on day one of classes. Also consider providing the new school with a copy of your child’s current coursework. This can help the new school place them in the optimal class or level.
You or Pros?
A key decision to make up front that will dictate the amount of time and money to dedicate toward the move is whether you’ll be moving yourself (with the help of friends and family) or using a professional moving company. Of course there’s a cost associated with using professional movers (will depend on the service level you choose), but it should reduce the time you must devote to moving, and extra help you’ll need.
The following points examine things to consider whether moving yourself or hiring a moving company.
Estimate Moving Truck Size Needed
If you will be conducting your own move, reserve a truck as far in advance as possible. However, before doing so, it’s important to know the truck size needed.
You don’t want a truck that’s too small (can’t fit all your stuff - Ugh!) and you definitely don’t want too big (higher cost and more difficult to drive and maneuver). You want that “Goldilocks” truck – just the right size.
This article from U-Haul can help determine the optimal truck size for you: How to Choose the Right Size Moving Truck Rental.
Also consider talking to whatever company you decide to rent from and discuss your situation and confirm you’re choosing that “goldilocks” truck size.
U-Haul: 1-800-468-4285
Budget: 1-800-462-8343
Reserve Your Moving Truck
Depending on the time of year, it may be a challenge to reserve a moving truck that meets your specific needs, so reserve as far in advance as possible. Peak moving season is approximately April through August.
U-Haul and Budget trucks are a popular and convenient option. They’re great for one way moves over larger distances. They’re also available for pickup and drop-off at many locations across the US.
Reserve a U-Haul truck here: Rent a U-Haul truck
Reserve a Budget truck here: Rent a Budget truck
In addition to the big names truck rental companies, there are many other options depending upon where you live. In the Seattle metro and Snohomish County areas, the following are a few options. If possible, try to get estimates from two or three different companies to get the best cost and a truck that’s the right size and date(s) needed.
Don’t Forget Tools of the Trade
While renting your truck, also rent a hand truck (sometimes referred to as an appliance dolly). If you’ll be moving larger appliances you’ll need one. They’re also great for larger and/or heavy boxes, safes, and even some furniture. Most truck rental companies will have as an add-on option when you rent a truck. Also consider moving blankets to protect your furniture and valuables when packed into the moving truck.
Another option is to borrow or buy a hand truck and blankets. This may not be a bad idea if you might need again in the near future. Harbor Freight is a great place to buy hand trucks and inexpensive moving blankets. Mover dollies are also very handy when moving. I’ve used mine several times for moves and to easily move stuff around the house (repositioning furniture, moving shelves, etc).
Lastly, appliance straps can also be used for appliances and heavy furniture. I have used these for a larger dresser and they worked well. I’ve also watched quite a few professional movers use them. You can find at Harbor Freight and Amazon.
Boxes and Packing Stuff For Your Move
If you’re moving, you will definitely need boxes, lots of boxes! The size of your move and the amount of packable stuff will dictate how many boxes and other moving paraphernalia you’ll need.
This box and packaging moving calculator from the Home Depot is quite helpful. Based on the number of rooms and certain items it will estimate the size and count of boxes needed as well as moving blankets, cushion/bubble wrap, stretch wrap, and mattress bags. You can adjust the quantities and add or remove items to best meet your needs.
The calculator did not include a tape gun and extra tape, which from my moving experience are quite helpful to securely tape boxes, especially for heavier and/or fragile items.
I’d recommend a couple thick tipped permanent markers also. If you don’t want to write on the box directly (perhaps you want to reuse, sell, or give away the boxes later), then buy painters tape to apply to the boxes which you can write on and then easily peel off later.
Another great option to get moving boxes is check local grocery stores, Facebook, Nextdoor, or Craigslist. We’ve found and given boxes away on these platforms.
Hazardous & Other Items Moving Companies May Not Touch
Be sure to properly discard (or donate, giveaway, or sell) items that a moving company will not move and you may not want to move yourself. This includes such items as fuel, propane tanks (for bbq’s), paints, bleach, ammunition, fireworks, lawn fertilizers, etc. The list will vary by company and possibly the distance to be moved. Be sure to check with the moving company you’ll be using for their list and restrictions. Truck rental companies may also have similar policies.
Other items movers may not transport are perishable food, valuables (fine jewelry, watches, collections, antiques, cash), living plants, and pets. Here's a more detailed list of items from Moversville.com
Lastly, don’t forget to prepare yard equipment with engines for the move by draining gas and oil into proper containers and disposing per your county’s guidelines.
The following links are for Snohomish and King County hazardous waste disposal sites options.
Temporary Storage Options
If you’ll need temporary storage, don’t forget to arrange it when you’re reserving your truck.
A quick online search will provide many available options for the area you need.
PODS Moving and Storage is a great on site option. They can also transport their pod containers to where you need, whether a new residence or a temporary or longer term storage facility. There are other options to PODS such as ZippyShell.com and 1-800-Pack-Rat.
Home Clean-Outs Make Moving Easier and Cheaper
Moving is the perfect time to conduct a home clean-out to help reduce your moving and storage needs for items that you no longer need or use. Try to allocate some extra time as you begin pulling items out to organize and pack to create a “no longer needed pile”. Within this pile separate the items into groups of “sell”, “donate to charity”, “give away” and last resort, “throwaway”. Label the grouped items and with blue painters tape and a black marker to indicate the removal plan for each.
Depending upon your move schedule and the time available, consider a garage sale, donating (Goodwill, Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity) or posting items for sale or free on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, or OfferUp.
I rarely go to the dump or throwaway items that can’t be donated or sold. You’ll be amazed what you can post for free online and people will jump to come get from you (and quickly!). I’ve posted items from old house paint to a few pieces of extra laminate flooring to even an old broken toilet! People are very creative these days.
If you donate any items to charity, don’t forget to get a tax receipt to deduct the estimated value of the goods from your next year’s income taxes!
If you ultimately freed yourself from larger items such as furniture, appliances, and/or multiple boxes worth of items, circle back with your moving company to determine if the truck or moving team you reserved is still appropriately sized. Also reevaluate your storage needs as you may no longer need, or will only require something a fraction of the size.
Vehicle Transport
How will you get your vehicle(s) to your new home? If a local move, likely not a problem. However, if you are moving long-distance, plan ahead. If planning to drive, be sure the vehicle(s) are ready for the journey. The last thing you need are car troubles!
Have vehicles serviced prior to your trip. Most local tire stores will do a free tire and brake inspection. Many “quick lube” spots will check your oil, filter, and vital fluids for free. They’ll change or top off if needed. You can also take the car to your local dealer and have them check everything at once.
If planning to have your vehicle(s) transported, definitely plan in advance. The moving company you’re using for your long-distance move may be able to transport your vehicle, and if not, should refer you to a reputable company that can. Here are some things to consider if shipping your vehicles.
Lastly, don’t forget to set up a rental vehicle based on your car transport schedule.
Precious Furry Friends
If moving long distance, get prepared to travel with your pet, or reserve a professional and reputable service that will transport them for you. Believe it or not, there are several organizations that will handle moving your beloved fur-baby.
Be sure your pet is healthy and ready for the move. A veterinarian checkup is always a great idea, and a good time to also confirm they’re up to date on all of their required shots and that you have the veterinarian health certificate that proves such. If they’re on medication, have a sufficient amount for the move, and if not, have the vet refill.
If you’ll be transporting your pet with you in a moving truck or vehicle, have plenty of food, water (and bowls), medication, and a comfortable and safe way to secure your pet. This article from the American Humane provides additional thoughts on safely moving your pet.
Pet Relocation Services:
Calling All Friends and Family!
If you don’t plan to use a professional moving company, then it’s time to round up friends and family for moving day!
Entice them with whatever it takes - donuts, coffee, pizza, beer, wine… you name it!
Provide plenty of advanced notice so they can clear their calendars and be fully committed to your cause and the big moving day (without them there won’t be much moving)!
Here are some ideas…
Consider donuts and coffee to start and pizza and adult beverages to finish at your final destination.
If the weather will be warm, have plenty of cold bottled water and/or a Gatorade type drink.
Play music that everyone enjoys!
Create T-shirts for moving day so everyone feels like a team!
Give small thank you gifts or take everyone out to a dinner or host at your new place at a later date.
Friends Are Great, But If You Can, Hire Professional Movers!
For our first two moves we did it ourselves with the help of friends and family. However during our last move we hired paid movers with a truck.
We did all the packing and boxing ourselves and moved quite a few smaller items before moving day to help minimize the time we would need paid movers.
The price we paid for the moving service was well worth it to us. It was so nice to have movers handle all the large boxes as well as mattresses, appliances, and furniture. They were quick, efficient, and did a quality job.
Hired movers were well worth the cost in our eyes. Even if you don’t think you want or need to use a moving company, consider at least searching online or calling to get a two or three estimates. It may be much more reasonable than you think, and the benefit gained of less stress, body strains, and not having to rely on friends and family might be good for everyone!
If you are interested in hiring movers or you just want an idea on services provided and costs, the following is a list of some Snohomish County and Seattle metro area professional moving companies within Washington State. These “local” moving companies may also be capable of long distance moves as well.
Remember that moving companies offer multiple service levels, so be prepared to select what level of service you want. For example, you can request they move only your furniture and appliances, or that they move everything. Many will even pack and securely box and move all your belongings – local or cross country.
This is only a partial list of many great moving companies serving Snohomish County and beyond. For additional options, conduct an online search to find other companies that will best meet your moving needs.
Snohomish County and Seattle Metro Movers:
Before choosing a moving company, consider getting at least three estimates and search online reviews from the Better Business Bureau (bbb.org), Google.com, Facebook.com, Yelp.com, etc.
Confirm that the company you choose is licensed, insured, and bonded. Sometimes this is listed prominently on their website, but if not, you can contact them for details.
Your Protection, Their Liability
Understanding your level of protection is crucial, especially if a moving company will be handling and transporting items of higher monetary and/or sentimental value.
In many cases moving companies are only required to carry insurance that will cover a portion of the repair or replacement value. Many facets of your move and actions can dictate the coverage and a mover’s liability. If moving within state, you can review your state’s moving association website for further details on coverage and liability: By State Mover Associations. For Washington State: Washington State Movers Association
Additional information can be found on the US Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website.
If you have a problem with your movers, this section from the FMSCA can help with the steps to pursue: What if there are problems?
Finally, the FMCSA’s Consumer Rights and Responsibilities resources can be helpful in your quest to find movers as well as working with them from start to finish. You can find the Rights and Responsibilities Handbook, the Ready to Move Brochure, and a Moving Checklist here.
To further protect yourself and your items, consider getting high-value items professionally appraised before the move. Here’s what to look for when choosing an appraiser. Also, strongly consider having specific move professionals handle moving fine art, antiques, collector vehicles, etc. Ultimately this may be the only way you can move such items (unless moving yourself).
Appreciate and Enjoy It!
I understand there’s a whole lot to this moving thing, but hopefully you’re moving due to an event that is, or will ultimately be a positive for you and/your family. Strive to maintain good perspective and be grateful for everything in your life (and yes, even this move!).
Here’s an article from HGTV on how to make moving easier and fun!
Moving Check Lists and Apps
To hopefully make your life during the move a bit easier, consider using a checklist with key tasks to help you stay on track and successfully complete everything before the big moving day. There are many moving great checklists available online, yet I couldn’t find one with the level of detail I wanted, so I created my own that you can find here. You can download as Google Sheets or MS Excel, or even print it. This is the checklist I used for our last move, and have also shared with several real estate clients that have found it helpful.
If you love your mobile device and want to manage the move from your phone, there are several apps to choose from. This article from JuneHomes.com summarizes several apps that can help your move – from move checklists and organizing your belongings to hiring movers.
Now Get Moving!
There is a TON that goes into a successful house, apartment, or condo move. Remember, time is your friend. The more you have to plan, schedule, and act, the better. Try to give yourself at least two months prior to move day to plan and act for your move.
If you want a move checklist to help guide you on what tasks to do, and by when, download my house move checklist with key tasks and dates.
Remember, the first key decision is whether to hire professional movers, and if so, what service level you need. If using movers, your life likely just got easier (assuming of course they’re a reputable moving company with many positive reviews).
If you won’t be using paid movers, then be sure to reserve the right sized truck as early as possible and reach out to friends and family so you have committed help on moving day (remember to entice with whatever it takes!). And of course make moving day as enjoyable as possible for your amazing helpers!
Regardless of how much time you have, and how well you plan, there’s no getting around the fact that moving is a lot of hard work, and there will be a few hiccups along the way (such is life!). In the end however, it will all be worth it!
Comments