The key to a stress free move !
| Published: 26th May 2007 15:13 |
Top Ten Tips
They say moving house is one of the most stressful events you can undertake in your life. However, by thinking ahead and planning early it doesn't have to be. Andrew Scholey, founder of www.helpiammoving.com gives some advice on how to achieve a stress free move.
1) Don't move on a Friday. Even though the weekend gives you time to settle in to your new pad, in reality it is the worst day of the week to move house. Not only do some removal companies charge extra to move you on this day but if you experience problems or delays such as transaction of monies, you will have to wait until Monday to sort the problems out and in the meantime incur all sorts of charges.
2) Choose your removal company wisely do not be swayed purely on price, after all these will be people dealing with your prize possessions. Choose a removal company that suits your circumstance and your requirements and always ask for references.
3) Always get at least three quotes. Ensure your removal company visits your property so you can show them exactly what needs to be moved. Don't just rely on email or telephone. Meeting your removal crew face to face prior to the big day is essential as you will be able to sort out any questions or issues before hand.
4) Check with your household policy before you buy extra insurance as some policies will already cover you for moving.
5) Organise yourself with lists of everything you need to do. This takes away some of the stress as you will be able to check off everything you do and then see what is left. Use our printable checklists below to help you.
6) Pack as soon as you can, don't wait until the last minute. A good place to start is in the loft with things that you don't often use and work your way down the house.
7) Choose your boxes carefully, only use ‘double walled' boxes, they need to be strong enough for larger weight. NEVER make the boxes so heavy that they cannot be lifted safely, the worst offender is books so use smaller boxes. If they are becoming heavy while you are packing them, try filling the rest of the box with light bulky items such as linen, towels, pillows, cushions or soft toys. Our visitors get a 5% discount from www.helpineedboxes.co.uk by simply entering the code ‘about9' in the promotion code box. The offer next working day, nationwide coverage on all packing materials.
8) Always use strong tape and fasten the bottom and the top of all your boxes along each side to strengthen them. DO NOT just fold in a criss-cross pattern, because as soon as this box is picked up with any weight inside, the flaps will unfold and everything could fall out.
9) Clearly label each box with the name of the room it should be placed in - such as the lounge or bedroom. It is best to write on the tape as if you are using professional packing boxes from a removal company, they will require them back in a good condition. If your items are going into storage then it is really helpful to attach a piece of paper to the side of each box with a list of contents, this way you can find items quickly and can save you a lot of hassle.
10) Always pack the kettle last, so it is the first thing unloaded. Moving house is thirsty work for everyone involved.
Countdown to Moving Day
4-2 weeks before moving day
• If you are packing yourself you need to start packaging at least two weeks before your move.
• Contact at least 3 removal companies to ask for a quote. Book early so you can get the removal company of your choice. A good removal company can be booked up months in advance.
• Start de-cluttering. Don't waste money paying to have stuff you never use moved to your new property. This is the time to throw out any thing that you have never used.
• Notify all the relevant companies and services of your new change of address. Helpiammoving.com has a free change of address service in association with the Royal Mail.
http://www.helpiammoving.com/moving_house/change_of_address_solutions.php Remember if you are not going to be using
The same internet service provider then you will need to give at least a months notice or you may get billed for a month you are not using.
• Check your household insurance will cover you from the day you move in.
• Have your car(s) serviced, particularly if you are moving long distance.
• If you have any parking restrictions at either address, contact the local authorities to arrange parking suspensions. A removal van can be the same size as a double decker bus and needs extra space for manoeuvring into position.
• Arrange for someone to look after children and pets
• If you are moving long distance and need a hotel for the night book early especially in the summer months.
• Redirect your mail, you can get the post office to redirect your mail to your new property but they need at least 10 day so do this as early as possible.
1 week to go
• Confirm arrival time with your removal company
• Cancel milk, newspapers and window cleaner ad pay any outstanding bills
• Arrange for the professional disconnection of gas cookers, washing machines or any other appliances you are taking with you.
• Start dismantling any flat pack furniture
3 days to go
• Do last minute laundry
• Any spare keys should be clearly labeled and left where they will be seen on moving day
• Make up a box of refreshments and essential items for your first few days - such as toilet roll, light bulbs, tea making equipment, scissors, toiletries, pen and paper, torch, first aid kit, a few pieces of basic cutlery, crockery, corkscrew and of course a bottle of champagne!
2 days to go
• Defrost and dry out your fridge / freezer.
• Throw out items in the kitchen that are out of date.
• Pack valuables and documents and put them in a safe place.
1 day to go
• Aim to finish the packing today, apart from a few essentials in the kitchen and bathroom.
• Charge your mobile phone, as you will need it tomorrow
• Make a list of contact details i.e. Solicitors, Estate Agent, Mortgage Broker
Moving Day
• Drop the children off or organise a corner of the lounge with some of their toys and a few treats. Older children may want specific tasks such as packing up their own personal box.
• Check your house thoroughly before you leave.
• Lock all windows and doors and leave any information which may be useful to the new occupier i.e. where is the stopcock, electric/ gas meter, fuse box
At your new house
• Make sure all services - electric, water and gas - are working.
• Put the kettle on for your removal team when they arrive. Moving is thirsty business!
• When your removal team have finished. Check the inside of the van thoroughly; it is your responsibility to make sure all of your belongings are removed.
• Don't try and unpack everything today.
• Order in a takeaway, enjoy a glass of champagne and relax
For more hints and tips please visit www.helpiammoving.com
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