If you are moving in the near future, there are some general moving tips that will make your move go much smoother than you could imagine. 123Movers.com has created a list of tips that will be useful before, during, and after your move.

Check the Calendar

  • Certain times of the year are busier moving times. It's wise to plan ahead and make sure there is availability on the day you want to move. Give yourself at least a month to get things in order.
  • It is important to book your moving services well ahead to secure your ideal moving date.
  • Remember that time is important on moving day. If you know you need time to disassemble furniture, do it well advance. Consider doing certain tasks the night before save the moving company time.

Don't Make Avoidable Mistakes

  • Make sure to get several free moving quotes to help you better estimate the price of your move. Waiting until the last minute will force you to pick a mover that you may regret.
  • When looking for properties, don't forget to measure the space for your refrigerator and other kitchen or laundry appliances. It's a good idea to compare measurements of the doorways and hallways in your new home.
  • Find out if your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy covers your belongings in transit. If not, possibly looking it getting third party moving insurance.
  • Avoid packing combustible or flammable items. Movers are not allowed to transport items that are considered hazardous.

Don't Forget the Bills and Expenses

  • It is important to arrange finances for quick cash to cover unexpected or emergency moving-related expenses.
  • Make sure that direct debit and billing links to your bank accounts are organized to handle any changes resulting from your move.
  • Be sure to settle all bills that may be overlooked in the move a few days before moving day. You could incur billing charges for overlooked bills.
  • Budget wisely for forgotten items you may need once you move in to your new home. For example, does your new home come with a hose?

Keep it or Part with it?

  • A general rule of thumb is if something hasn't been used in over 12 months; consider selling or donating it to charity. Keeping items you don't use, can add to the cost of the move.
  • For must-keep items that will be stored in a garage, storage facility, or shed after the move should be packed in stackable containers.

Take Care of your Food

  • Just moved in? You are probably too tired to cook or even haven't had time to go grocery shopping. Be prepared to order take-out food or eat out on the first couple of nights in your new home. Be patient and get settled in to your new home.
  • Make sure you use up your frozen foods or dispose of ones you have not used. Never let them thaw and try to refreeze them again. Not only will be there be less to transport, but you will also avoid the risk of food spoilage.

How do People Come out of Moves Alive, Happy, and with Most of their Belongings in Tact?

  • Use colorful tags to indicate each destination if your furniture and household items are being delivered to different locations.
  • If you are using a long distance moving company or a local mover, understand the different laws that are associated with the specified mover. Laws are different for interstate and intrastate moving companies.
  • Read the booklet, Know Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Mover. This booklet should be provided to you by the moving company. You can also find the publication on FMCSA's website www.protectyourmove.gov.
  • A close friend or relative can help out on moving day by acting as a message center for you if you don't have a mobile phone.
  • Don't forget to be environmentally friendly. Flatten all your moving boxes for recycling. Recycle companies and even moving companies will pick them up after your move.
  • Fun music will create a positive mood when it's time to start packing and unpacking. Turning the TV on may be too distracting.