Do It Yourself Moving

Do It Yourself Moving

Moving on your own takes careful preparation to make sure everything is ready on moving day to avoid over expenditures and stress.  Start as early as possible in sorting through your items.  Pare down your possessions by having a garage sale, donate items to charity and throw away items no longer useful. 

Next take an inventory of your possessions in order to see how many small, medium, large and x-large boxes you will need to pack your belongings.  Most box kits come with standard size boxes and some include wardrobe boxes but you will need to count how many wardrobe boxes, lamp boxes, picture boxes, mirror boxes, appliance boxes, and electronics boxes you will need.  Another good item to order is furniture covers for mattresses, sofa, and chairs to keep out the dust and dirt during your move.  You may use blanket covers for your wooden furniture for added protection.  Be sure to pack your moving boxes so that your breakables will not shift during transit.  There are many types of packaging supplies such as bubble wrap, tissue paper, packing peanuts and foam.  There are also different types of tape such as clear tape, masking tape, tan tape, and duct tape to seal your moving boxes.  Choose your tape according to the contents of each box.  The heavier the items the stronger the tape you will need to seal the moving boxes.    

Decide whether you are going to be using a POD, moving truck or van.  You may find discounts if you shop ahead of time.  Once you find the service you are seeking get estimates in writing to decide on your final pick and then reserve your method of choice to assist you in your move. Be sure to get a reservation confirmation number.  The company of choice should be able to help you choose the size of a POD or moving truck you will need according your inventory of moving boxes and furniture.  If you are moving heavier items and renting a truck look for one with an automatic lift.  Check your home and auto insurance policies to see if your possessions are covered while moving.  If renting a truck see if your auto insurance policy will insure the truck so you do not have to purchase additional insurance. 

Plan on giving advance notice to family and friends who will help you move so you can organize who will handle moving boxes, furniture, and other items.  Keep moving boxes to 40 lbs. for easier handling.  Stack boxes according to size so they are easier to load on a dolly or hand-cart.  Remember heavier items should be loaded in the back and lighter items toward the front.  This is important for someone to organize the items getting loaded onto the truck so you may maximize your space. 

Keep your moving expenses organized due they may be tax deductible.  You may seek the advise of a tax professional or IRS to get details if they are deductible.