Is your family making a big move this Summer? Consider these 8 tips to beat the heat!​

PURGE BEFORE PACKING: 

Remember, in any residential move, your biggest expense will be the size of the move, so why not lighten the load?  Before you begin packing boxes, go through your home, room by room. First, donate items you no longer need, or throw out things that are no longer usable. Don’t spend the money to move belongings that you will inevitably get rid of once you arrive  at your new home. Next, be aware of things that may be dangerous or hazardous to move, like fireworks, chemicals, food, and plants. Make a plan to dispose of these items on your own or be prepared to move them yourself.

Have a garage or yard sale prior to moving day. Take advantage of the warm summer weather by holding a garage or yard sale to purge some of the items you won’t be taking to your new home. Whatever doesn’t sell can go immediately to charity or placed in storage so you have less to pack and move on moving day.

PACK EARLY: 

If you’re not hiring your moving crew to tackle your packing, packing will always take longer than you think. Remember, you’re not just packing a home, you’re packing everything on your property. Consider the items in your garage, basement, attic, or any outdoor areas. Begin by packing items that you don’t use daily and can live without for the next few weeks. Consider packing holiday or out-of-season items, winter clothes, and household decor first. Ensure your movers are aware of any  oversized items such as hot tubs, pianos, or safes that may require special handling during your move.

CONTACT THE POST OFFICE: 

At least 3-4 weeks before your move, visit the USPS website to arrange for a change of address. If you’re able, spend time checking your mail in the weeks and months leading up to your move to make a list of companies who have your address, go online, and change your address once you know your new address. You don’t want to miss anything important that may come in the mail, and those who purchase your current home will be grateful you did!

ESTABLISH POWER: 

Have the power at your new home set up and ready prior to your arrival. Turn on the utilities ahead of time at your new home so it will be cool, comfortable, and well-lit when you’re moving in. Plus, you’ll want the electricity working properly so the refrigerator is ready to go, too.

PICK A PRIME MOVING TIME: 

Beat the heat by starting your move early in the morning. This is when temperatures and humidity levels tend to be lowest during the summer months. We recommend starting as early as possible. In addition to beating the heat, you’re also more likely to beat the traffic by starting the move early. Aim to begin no later than 8am. If mornings are not a convenient time for you, then we recommend moving in the late afternoon or evening hours when temperatures cool down.

PROVIDE FOR YOUR PETS:

Remember, moving can be stressful – maybe even more so – for your furry friends. Make sure you have the right equipment to easily move your pets, or consider boarding your pets during your residential move to ease the stress on you, your pets, and your moving team. 

PREPARE FOR MOVING DAY: 

Keep the essentials with you. Depending on how far your move is, prepare everyday essentials for each member of the family – a change of clothes, a toothbrush, must-have stuffed animals or toys for the kids, medications, paperwork, etc. – into suitcases  you’ll keep with you when the movers arrive. You’ll appreciate having the essentials with you once you arrive at your new home, rather than searching for individual items packed in a multitude of moving boxes.

Ready to get moving? Contact us today for a free quote for local residential moves, long-distance residential moves, or commercial moves. Plus, why not save the packing for the professionals? We also offer storage solutions and packing services in addition to your move. Take a look around our website to learn more.