The day has finally arrived, moving day. Today you’re going to use the past few weeks of planning and organizational items you prepared and are going to execute the perfect move. With all of the pre-planning done, today you’re going to focus on the following:
- “Work” with the movers and be on hand when the movers arrive. If you are not able to be present while the movers are there, designate a friend or family member to help out and make decisions in your absence. Let the mover agent know to whom you have given the authority. Be sure that your chosen representative knows exactly what to do and which valuation liability program and amount you have selected. This person may be asked to sign documents obligating you to charges.
- Hand over keys, alarm codes and garage door remote controls to the new owner or real estate agent.
- Provide the new phone number and all other phone numbers where you can be reached while shipment is in transit. Make sure to take along the destination agent’s name, address and telephone number.
- Provide the driver with clear directions to your new home
- Review all paper work and details when the van operator arrives. Accompany the driver as he or she inspects each piece of furniture with tags of identifying number. These numbers along with a detailed description of your goods at the time of loading will appear on the inventory.
- Stay home until the last item is packed. Make a final inspection before the van operator leaves. Check the mover’s inventory and make sure you agree with any notations about the condition of your furnishings. Take pictures if necessary. It is your responsibility to see all of your goods are loaded. Leave your phone connected throughout moving day. After the movers leave, pack your phone in one of your suitcases for easy access when you arrive to your new home.
- Clean your house as much as you can before the moving van arrives. Search every room, closet and around the house before the moving van arrives.
- The driver will contact you or the destination agent at least 24 hours prior to expected arrival time. This allows enough time to locate you and begin preparation for unloading. It is your responsibility to contact the destination agent if you cannot be reached.
- Review your floor plan so you can tell the movers where to place your furniture and appliances. Make yourself available for the movers for instructions on where to place your furniture while unloading. Stay there in case there are any questions.
- If you cannot be at your home while the van is being unloaded be sure to authorize a representative to accept delivery and pay the charges for you.
- Inform the destination agent of your representative’s name. Your representative will be asked to note any change in the condition of your goods noted on the inventory at the time of loading, and to note any missing items at the time of delivery.
- By signing the inventory sheet, you are acknowledging the receipt of all items listed. Document any loss or damage on the inventory sheet and report this to the mover agent at destination, immediately.
- Make sure you have your reference number when calling the mover agent for questions or concerns. You will also be asked to sign the bill of lading and pack/unpack certificate.
- Get a baby sitter for your kids during the loading and unloading process.
- Put your pets in a room where they will not be in the way of the loading and unloading process.
- If you wish to have your goods unpacked you need to order this service in advance. Limited unpacking and removal of cartons may be requested on move in day.
Do not use your stereos, computers, televisions, other electronic devices and appliances for 24 hours after delivery to prevent possible damage. Allow them to adjust to room temperature.- Payment is required upon delivery in cash, traveler’s checks, money order or cashier’s check. Personal checks are not accepted. Unless other arrangements were made in advance you are required by federal regulation to pay upon delivery for interstate moves.
- Verify that all utilities have been disconnected in your old home and connected in your new home.
- Have your phone connected a day before move-in day.
That’s it. See, moving isn’t so hard now, is it? Of course we’re only kidding, we’re fully aware of how much moving can stink of not properly planned. However, planning doesn’t have to be hard, or tedious, which is why we put this guide together for you in the first place.
Do you have other tips and tricks you’d like to share from your moving experience? We’d love to hear them, leave them in the comments below.
