Tips For Taking The Stress Out Of Moving Long Distance
by Gerry Danza
http://www.ubmoving.com
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.
Ocean hoppers and bi-coastal dwellers understand first-hand
how tough it can be to make a well-organized move. From
these experiences, many people can learn to make a
successful move less the horrors. A few tips are listed
below:
1. Research moving companies and get at least three quotes
before you sign any contracts. Just because a moving
company is licensed with The U.S. Department of
Transportation, this is not a guarantee that the moving
company has a great performance record. Not every moving
company is equipped to handle long distance moves or is
competent to handle every international customs 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.
Check out some online moving directories like Movers.com,
Getamover.com, or 123movers.com. Examples of international
movers include FIDI (Federation Internationale des
Demenatgeurs Internationaux), BAR (British Association of
Removers) and Allied.
2. Why pack your valuables when the mover's guarantee their
safe delivery? Many movers won't guarantee the condition of
breakables and other valuables unless they pack and move it
themselves. Consider the cost to replace these items
yourself compared to the cost to have the packers do the
work before you try to cut corners in your budget. The way
moving companies estimate the cost to move your belongings
is based on the weight of your belongings and number of
boxes. A moving company manager usually visits your home,
takes a quick estimation of your stuff and offers a quote.
If you don't plan to move big items, let the manager know
this while he is surveying. The manager also will give you
useful budget saving tips such as items you could pack
instead of paying the movers to do so. If you pack items
yourself, most movers prefer you to use their high quality
stock boxes. Each mover also has a list of specific items
it will not move such as chemical cleaners or items that
aren't going to be permitted past customs.
Some items worth packing yourself include:
* Books (in small boxes)
* Lamp shades
* Hanging clothes (in boxes with hanging bars)
3. Make a backup plan in case your mover doesn't arrive on
time. Also, pack your personals and important papers a few
days before the move. You want to use your moving day to
supervise the packers and movers. During the move, take
advantage of the company's tracking system to call in or log
on to find out your belonging's whereabouts. While the
movers are unpacking, go over your inventory list carefully
and check off each box as it's unloaded.
A little planned rest and relaxation is very helpful to
relieve stress and also help you prepare for the changes
you're about to face. Hopefully, should Murphy's Law not
strike, you might encounter only a few scrapes and bruises
during this highly charged period.
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