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Moving is a highly stressful period that ranks close behind death and divorce. A long distance or international move is especially stressful. Many people are seeking ways to make this period as successful as possible. As decisions pile up and the date draws nearer, many people appreciate any pointers that help make this move go as smooth as possible.
Bi-coastal dwellers and bi-ocean hoppers have first-hand experience on how to make these moves proceed smoothly. From their success and horror stories, others who have to make these long moves can learn valuable lessons, such as listed below:
1. Get three quotes or more from moving companies that you've well researched. Then, consider which contract is worth signing. A licensed mover doesn't guarantee that the moving company has a great reputation. Look for a mover that has the means to move your belongings cross-country or understands your destination's custom regulations.
Every moving company's contract is different. Hence, guarantees and insurance coverage vary. Look to see if insurance will replace or pay for lost or damaged goods. Also, carefully read what the contract says about arrival dates. Some contracts allow a grace period of one or two days beyond the designated date before the mover will reimburse you for inconveniences.
Online moving directories are abundant. Check out Getamover.com, Mover.com, or 123movers.com. For international movers, check out Allied, British Association of Removers, or FIDI.
2. Let the mover's packing pros do the packing or make sure you carefully follow the mover's self-packing instructions. Many long distance movers will not be liable for your belongings unless they pack those items themselves. If you consider the cost to replace these items versus your savings if you pack it yourself, it makes sense to let the packers do your valuables and breakables. Moving companies send out a moving manager to review the company's procedures and take a general inventory of your belongings. From the manager's estimation of your belongings' weight and how much boxing the packers will do for you, a quote is derived. If you don't plan to move certain stuff like a big backyard play set or a riding lawn mower, let the manager during the initial meeting. Most managers will offer tips on how to cut costs if you pack certain belongings yourself. However, many of these items should be packed in the company's sturdy boxes and containers. Don't try to pack items that the mover clearly refuses to move like chemical cleaner or don't comply with international regulations.
Some belongings are better packed by you rather paying the mover to do so:
~ Separate lamp shades
~ Books (packed in small to medium boxes)
~ Closet hanging clothes (in tall boxes with hanging bars)
3. What's your backup plan in case the movers arrive late?
Pack your important papers and personals before the packers arrive. Use moving day to supervise packing and to say goodbye to friends. While the move is taking place, use the mover's tracking system to call in or log onto their site to know the whereabouts of your belongings. As the packers unload, personally check off from the inventory list the box or item and note condition.
ven the smoothest move taxes your mind and body. Planning R&R helps you to rejuvenate and transition into a new period full of initial changes. Remember, Murphy's Law does affect everyone's move, hopefully yours will be a slightly less than other's experiences.
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