 |
Finish
last-minute cleaning. |
|
Take
the garbage out. |
|
Turn
off the water heater and set the thermostat to 55 degrees. |
|
Plan
ahead for what you'll need the first day after your move. Packing a separate
bag with your toiletries, a change of clothes, etc. will avoid unnecessary
scrambling or a run to the local store. |
|
Finish
all last-minute packing. |
|
Notify
a close friend or relative of your itinerary in case of emergency. |
|
Meet
with the apartment manager or landlord and do a final walk-through of the
apartment. Get a copy of the apartment inspection and damage report for
your records. |
|
Keep
a flashlight handy in case you arrive at your new place after dark. |
| |
| Moving
yourself |
|
Pick
up the truck bright and early (or even the day before). |
|
Make
sure it has a full tank of gas. |
|
Do
an inspection of the vehicle in order to not any body damage prior to your
rental. |
|
Get
contact information for the rental business-you never know what might happen
during your move. |
|
Buy
any last minute furniture covers, pads, boxes, bubble wrap, etc. |
|
Buy
a padlock to secure the door of the truck (if it does not have another lock). |
|
Buy
a map or get directions to your new home. |
|
Make
an inventory list of what items are in which boxes. This is accomplished
by numbering the boxes and labeling which room the items belong in. |
|
When
packing the truck, make sure the items you'll need first are loaded in last
(ie. kids toys, kitchen items, telephone and radio) to make access easier.
|
|
Use
common sense when loading your truck by keeping in mind the size, sturdiness,
and weight of your boxes. |
|
Return
the truck with the same amount of gas as it had when you rented it. |
|
Do
another inspection to insure you will not be charged for any damage that
you did not cause. |
| |
| Using
professional movers |
|
Check
the mover's inventory to be sure that you agree with the mover's judgment
on the condition of your household goods. Take photographs if there is a
dispute. |
|
Make
sure you get a copy of the inventory. |
|
Load
items you are taking with you on the trip, including luggage. |
|
Search
every room before the van leaves. |
|
Check
the Bill of Lading for completeness before you sign it. Retain a copy for
your records. |
|
Record
the van driver's name and give him contact numbers at the destination. Confirm
directions to the new residence with your driver. |
|
Check
the condition of each carton and household item as it is unloaded. List
all missing or damaged items on the inventory form. |
|
Since
you will probably do some unpacking after the movers leave, make a note
on the inventory form "subject to inspection for loss or concealed damage".
|
|
Get
to your new home before the movers. There could be a waiting charge if you
are late. |
