Planning a residential move is a big project, but if you take the process one step at a time it's much easier to handle. At George Moving & Storage, Inc., we've put together a few answers to the top moving questions you may have and some expert tips to help you get started.
Beginning a Residential Move with the Right Team
You may be thinking about hiring a professional moving and storage company for an upcoming move. With a reliable and trusted team on the job, you'll save time and reduce stress. However, you'll have to find the right residential mover to work with during your relocation.
What should I look for when hiring a moving company?
To find a dependable moving company, check out their licensing and certifications. If you are searching for a long-distance moving company, you'll want to see if they have U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensing for interstate moves. You may also want to check if they are locally licensed, depending on the requirements of your state.
Certifications and memberships can also show that a company cares about their customers and that they want to offer top-quality services. For instance, a mover may become ProMover certified with the American Trucking Associations' Moving and Storage Conference. This organization requires moving companies to be established and to meet high standards in order to display their logo.
You can also check to see if a moving company is an agent with a larger transportation carrier. For instance, George Moving is an interstate agent for North American Van Lines. We have access to their worldwide network of moving and storage experts to complete long-distance and international moves.
Quick Tips for Planning Your Residential Move
Of course, finding a good mover isn't the only part of the process. You may want to keep these additional moving tips in mind when planning your relocation:
- Start looking for a mover several months in advance to ensure you get the best moving dates.
- Ask about full-valuation insurance for valuable belongings as standard moving insurance only pays a set amount based on the weight of your shipment.
- Get the fragile-only packing option for valuables, ceramics, and fragile items in your home, even if you plan on packing your own belongings.
- Properly label all of your moving boxes and consider creating an inventory of items as you pack for easy unpacking later.
- Ask your movers if there is anything they can't transport, like plants, chemicals, and pets.
Last-Minute Preparations for Your Move
As moving day gets closer, you'll have a few final responsibilities and certainly, questions, about how to prepare. Wondering how you can be ready for the movers? Here are some tips for preparing your home and your family:
- Make sure to remove all garbage and trash from your home so it is clear for the movers.
- Finish packing, if DIY packing your household, before moving day for a seamless experience.
- Arrange for pet-sitting and childcare, if possible, so you and the movers don't have to worry about little ones being underfoot.
- Pack your personal items and a 'first-day box' to take with you during your trip to the new home. Consider storing these things in your vehicle on moving day.
Remember, you need to be present on moving day for the entire time the movers are at your home. While most household moves go smoothly, it's important to be able to answer the movers' questions and deal with any unexpected concerns that may pop up regarding moving your belongings out of the home.
If you have any last-minute changes to your moving plan, give your assigned move coordinator a call right away. Let your residential movers know about your changes. They'll do their best to add or remove services, but it may be more difficult to re-schedule moving dates. So, call as soon as you can about any changes.
Find Out More About Our Free Moving Quotes
If you are ready to begin planning your residential move in Pittsburgh, PA, Eastern Ohio, and Northwestern Virginia, contact George Moving & Storage, Inc. We'll provide a free moving consultation and quote for you. Our team can also provide a virtual quote.
We're residential and commercial movers, able to help you with local, long-distance, and international relocations. Our experts work with companies and organizations on logistics and warehousing. George Moving also offers commercial and household storage solutions, so your belongings will be safe for as long as you require.
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