Moving Resources

Whether you are doing it yourself or hiring a moving company, moving is a daunting task. You can make it easier on yourself if you look for moving resources and help well before the big day. If you are hiring movers, start looking for a reputable moving company at least a month ahead of time if possible. You should always check references and the Better Business Bureau, and you should ensure that the company is bonded, insured and licensed with your state's Department of Transportation. If you are moving across state lines, the company must also have a license for interstate transport.

After you have either some friends with trucks or a moving company lined up, it is time to marshal your moving resources and start collecting and packing boxes. You can find free boxes at grocery and liquor stores, or you can check online at Craigslist or Freecycle. Pack up your least used items first. Out of season clothing and holiday decorations are a good place to start. This is also a good time to cull your belongings by getting rid of unwanted junk. Have a yard sale, donate or throw away things you have not used in more than a year.

On the big day, ensure that you have a plan to keep kids and pets safe and entertained during all the activity and get to work early. Moving always takes longer than estimated, so you want to make sure that you have plenty of time to get everything done. Moving is a big job, but it can be done with minimal stress with a lot of advance planning.