The following tips will help you save time, money, and most importantly, reduce stress when preparing for your move.
Packing takes time. Start early.
Proper moving boxes are recommended but not required. Any good strong box that can be properly closed and sealed will work fine. Do not use open-top boxes unless absolutely necessary. Check our Order Boxes page for information on box sizes and recommended loads.
Tape all boxes top and bottom with strong tape. Use a black felt marker to label your boxes. Mark the room and the box contents clearly to ease unpacking at your new home.
Do not pack unnecessary liquids! Pack all liquids in one or two boxes, and clearly label them LIQUIDS, and THIS WAY UP to avoid spillage.
Use towels and linens as packing materials for fragile items. Pack plates on edge, not flat. Mark FRAGILE boxes clearly.
Whenever possible, pack boxes at waist level to avoid back strain.
Always pack lampshades in boxes. Remove light-bulbs from all lamps.
Start several weeks before your move by deciding what you are going to take. Go through your garage and your storage areas, and get rid of unnecessary junk. If you have boxes you haven't opened in years, then you probably don't really need what's inside them. Go through your closets and dressers, and get rid of clothing and footwear that you no longer use. Sell used magazines and paperbacks.
Don't throw stuff away!
Have a garage sale, then call your local Salvation Army or it's equivalent in your area. Your unwanted goods may be just what a struggling family needs.
Please be aware that we cannot transport the following goods;
- Propane Tanks - BBQ, Camping Gear
- Aerosols - Cleaners, Paints, Air Fresheners
- Flammable Liquids - Gasoline, Diesel, Oil
- Paint - Spray or Liquid, Varnishes
- Hazardous Materials - Ammunition, Explosives
- Live Animals - Sorry, No Pets or Children!
Use our Moving Checklist to ensure all necessary address and utility changes have been made and prepared.
Arrange transportation for pets and motor vehicles.
Reserve elevator and parking if necessary.
Don't forget to collect your lent-out goods from friends and neighbours!
Pack from least-to-most important.
Make sure to leave hand tools and cleaning supplies for last.
- Tape long items like garden tools or hockey sticks in bundles of 5.
- Remove propane tank and charcoal from barbeque.
- Drain fuel and oil from all motorized tools. Leave fuel cap off till moving day.
- Remove curtains and blinds that will be moved. Wash walls.
- Have grandfather clocks and appliances serviced for moving.
- Roll up and tape or tie rugs and carpets to be moved.
- Remove mirrors from dressers.
- Use mirror boxes or bulk cardboard to pack all pictures and mirrors.
It is not necessary to pack up your dresser drawers! Remove all loose items (change, papers, jewelry, etc.) and fill your drawers with clothing, pillows and linens. Remember that it may be necessary to put your dresser on end.
Pack necessary clothing and toiletry in suitcases.
Defrost and clean your fridges and freezers.
Try to eat or give away as much frozen food as possible, especially if you are moving long-distance. Pack all frozen food in boxes beforehand, then place the boxes back inside your freezer. Leave freezers plugged in as long as possible.
Freezers will retain frozen food for 24-48 hours, depending on the season.
Pack all dishes, leave out only what you will need for the last night. It's a good idea and a nice break to go out for dinner on the last night before moving.
Disconnect computers and stereo systems. Labeling the wires with masking tape will make reconnection easier at your new home.
Water your plants. They should be moist but not wet for moving day. If you are moving long-distance, it is best to give away live plants. They do not travel well. Ship plants in open top boxes or wardrobe containers.
Break down furniture if possible. Remove legs from tables and sofas. Remove all shelves from cabinets. Secure drawers and cabinet doors.
Keep all fasteners and small parts separately.
Do not box televisions or computer monitors unless you have original boxes.
Moving Day
Make sure the movers will have truck parking as close as possible to your door.
Get elevator key from your building manager if applicable.
Disassemble beds and collapse bed-frames.
Disconnect appliances which will be moved.
Pack the goods you will need FIRST, LAST. Mark these boxes OPEN FIRST.
Stuff you will need immediately includes;
- Hand Tools
- Cleaning Supplies
- Shower Curtain and Towels
- Toilet Paper and Toiletries
- Favourite Toys
- Alarm Clock
- Coffee Maker
- Telephone
- Remote Controls
Make sure that the movers will have a clear path to all furniture throughout your house. Stack boxes against the walls, not on top of furniture. Make sure that any items which you will be taking yourself are clearly marked and put aside.
If possible, send pets and young children to friends or neighbours so they will not be underfoot.
In most cases, it is not necessary for you to remain at your home during the entire move. Please inform the movers if you will be leaving early.
You are always welcome to help move your belongings. For your own safety and insurance reasons, please;
- Let the movers move all furniture.
- Bring items to loading area (lawn or driveway) only.
- Do not enter the moving van after moving has begun.
If possible, send pets and young children to friends or neighbours so they will not be underfoot.
Place large room labels beside the doors at your new home. If you label your boxes with the same names, the movers will be able to easily distribute your goods to the proper rooms.
Make sure you know BEFOREHAND where large or heavy furniture is going to be placed. It is really no fun to move the same piece many times.
If several boxes will be going to one room (i.e. kitchen or office), set aside an area to stack them. Try to leave cupboards and surfaces bare to make unpacking easier.
Remember, refrigerators and freezers will need to remain unplugged for a minimum of one hour after they have been moved.
Unpack as necessary, and take your time. Moving is stressful. Don't burn yourself out trying to do it all in one day.
You will most likely find that you need to adjust furniture and cupboards several times before finding the perfect lighting, access and comfort.
Most importantly,
relax and enjoy your new home!
Two Small Men with Big Hearts Moving Company
"Across the Street or Coast to Coast we care about you the most"
FOR LONG DISTANCE MOVING QUOTES CALL 1-888-784-3278
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