Moving Tips

The key to a good move is preparation and planning. Get ready for your move by beginning packing at least 2-4 weeks before schedule. Pack one room at a time. Doing this will serve as an excellent organizational tool.

Other general packing tips:

• The heavier the item, the smaller the carton.
• Keep your cartons within the range of 50lbs.
• Pack heavier items at the bottom of the container.
• Items should be packed tightly to prevent sliding or breaking.
• Place tape on both the top and the bottom of the box.
• All drawers should be cleared unless approved by a certified moving expert.
• Valuables and jewelry should never leave your possession.

Remember that the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) regulations protect consumers on interstate moves and define the rights and responsibilities of consumers and household goods carriers (movers). To view all your rights during a move, visit: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/factsfigs/rights.htm

What about those hard to pack or fragile objects? We've got you covered:

• Packing Dish-ware

  • Select a medium-sized carton (or mover provided dishpack) and line the bottom of the carton with crumpled packing paper.
  • With packing paper stacked neatly in place on a work table, center one plate on the paper.
  • Grasp a corner on several sheets of packing paper and pull the paper over the plate until sheets completely cover the plate. Stack a second plate on and, moving clockwise, grasp a second corner and pull sheets over the second plate.
  • Stack a third plate. Grasp remaining two corners, folding two sheets of each corner (one at a time) over the plate.
  • Turn your wrapped stack of plates upside down onto your packing paper.
  • Re-wrap the entire bundle: start with one corner of packing paper and pull two sheets over the bundle, cover bundle with next corner, then the third corner; and finally, the fourth.
  • Seal the bundle with packing tape.
  • Place the bundle of dish-ware in a medium-size box so that the plates are standing on edge. Use this process on all saucers, bread and butter dishes, and other dishware. When packing smaller dishes, you may choose to stack in greater quantity.

• Packing Cups

  • With packing paper in place on the work table, position one cup six to eight inches from one of the corners.
  • Now pull the near corner of the paper up and over the cup.
  • Nest a second cup directly on top, with handle to left (second cup should "nest" itself in packing paper folded over the bottom cups).
  • Pull the two side corners up and over, one at a time, and tuck corners inside the top cup.
  • Hold the bottom and top cup in position and roll cups to the remaining corner. Fragile mixing bowls may be rolled in the same manner.
  • Delicate cups, like china, should be wrapped one at a time. Antique glass or china should be stuffed with crumpled tissue and wrapped one at a time.

• Packing Glasses and Stemware

  • Stuff glasses and stemware with crumpled tissue or packing paper before wrapping.
  • Lay on the corner of packing paper and roll it one or two full rotations (depending on size); pull sides of packing paper up and over glass/stemware and continue rolling to the far corner. Corrugated paper rolls or cellular boxes may be used for added protection.
  • Place glasses and stemware toward the top of your box. Heavier items (dish-ware, pitchers,etc.) should be placed toward the bottom of the box.
  • Delicate glassware and stemware should be placed in an upright position, not on its side.
  • No matter what you're packing, you should use crumpled packing paper in between each layer to assure a snug fit wherever there's a gap. All boxes with "fragile" items should be marked accordingly.
  • As you prepare for your move, you should plan on preliminary preparation for your pet so they too can be well prepared. There are many things you can to do make the move less stressful for your pet. This guide will help make your pet's transition into a new home much easier.

• Moving with Pets

  • Once you've made the decision to move to a new home, you will need to do some research. Certain localities may have stringent requirements or restrictions regarding pet ownership. You may need permits or registrations.
  • Don't forget to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Your pet should have a check-up before moving. Be sure to attain your pet's veterinary records so that they can be forwarded to your new veterinarian.

  A Short Move

  • For local moves, it probably makes the most sense to transport your pet in the car with you on moving day.
  • Remember to make sure that your pet is safe. Keep your pet in an unused room, or perhaps even outside. And of course, as always, your pet should have plenty of fresh water, and enough toys to occupy their time.

  Moving Pets by Car

  • Many dogs and cats may find car travel extremely distressing. Some may even get car sick. You will have to be ready to make many stops along the way. Several small pets (such as birds, guinea pigs, birds, etc.) can be easily transported via automobile. A good, simple way of keeping them calm and quiet is to cover their cage with a cloth.
  • Long distance moves may required an overnight stop. Remember to call hotels in advance to make sure that they will allow your pet to stay in the hotel.

  Moving Fish

  • It's wise to visit your local Aquarium or Pet Shop and ask for special fish containers to safely transport your fish. They should be able to offer suggestions on what's best for different types of fish.

  Creating A Pet Pack

  If you're moving your pet by car, there are several things you should plan on taking with you on moving day:

  • An old bed sheet or blanket will protect your car upholstery.
  • A favorite toy or two, and an old T-shirt or rag with your scent on it.
  • Two plastic containers - one should have fresh water, the other should have food and treats.
  • Medications that your pet may need.
  • A leash for when you make rest stops with your pet.
  • Even if your pet doesn't typically get car sick, it is better to be safe than sorry�bring paper towels, a sponge, and plenty of plastic bags.

  Pet Transport

  Depending on the temperament and size of your pet, as well as the distance you're moving, it may be make sense to enlist the help of a pet transporter. Reputable pet transporters can organize every aspect of moving your pet from beginning to end. Services provided may include the following:

  • Sensible advice on preparing your pet for the trip
  • Specific details about requirements or restrictions on pet ownership in your new locality
  • Collecting your pet at the airport
  • Boarding your pet until you arrive
  • Delivery of your pet to your new home.

  If you will be transporting your dog or cat by air, you must have the following details in order:

  • A recent health certificate provided by your veterinarian
  • A pet carrier that complies with airline regulations
  • Don't forget to confirm rules and regulations with your pet transporter so that you can purchase any pet products that may be needed.
  • Always take your dog for a long walk before the trip.
  • Remember to advise your pet transporter of any specific requirements for your pet.
  • You should keep your cat indoors for at least 24 hours at your new home.
  • Never feed your pet too much before the trip.
  • Unless it is absolutely necessary, it is best not to sedate your pet.

  Other Bits and Pieces to Consider

  • If your new home will be rented, prepare a pet resume for prospective landlords. Your vet may agree to write a referral letter.
  • Always remember to get a new pet ID tag with your new address and contact phone numbers.