Moving doesn’t have to be a drag! There are plenty of things you can do to make things easier. This guide will have everything you need to know so your move can go seamlessly. Local moving may seem easy enough but staying organized and knowing what to do can be extremely helpful if any bumps in the road occur. The following local move tips are from a Northern Virginia local moving company with over 50 years of experience in the moving and storage industry.
The Cost of a Local Move
One of the first things you’ll want to know before your move is cost. It’s important to remember that paying your moving company for moving your belongings may not be the only cost you need to consider. Will you be needing packing services too? Will you need to purchase boxes and other packing materials? You will also need to ask yourself if you need storage services at any time, and if so, whether this storage will be short-term or long-term. After you determine what moving and/or storage services you may need, it’s now time to find a moving company.
How to Find a Reliable Local Northern Virginia Mover
Finding a reputable mover is the first step in ensuring your move goes according to plan, as you will avoid delayed delivery, having your goods held host hostage or having your belongings damaged. Trusted local movers will be on time, will safely pack your items to avoid damage during transit, will be licensed and insured and will provide an affordable price.
- Research the Moving Company – Ask your friends and family about local Virginia moving companies in that they have moved with. You can also check reviews online, the National Consumer Complaint database, and the Better Business Bureau.
- In-Person and Free Estimate – Getting an in-person estimate is the best way to ensure that the estimate is as accurate as possible. This estimate should also be FREE. If a moving company wants to charge you for an estimate, move on to the next one. When the moving agent arrives at your home for your estimate, make it a priority to show him everything. This includes all of the things you have stuffed in the back of your closet. You’ll get the most accurate estimate that way. Additionally, you’ll want to know if this is a binding or nonbinding estimate. Binding means that the estimate they give you is what they will charge you. Nonbinding means they can charge you about 10% more than the estimate depending on the weight of your items.
- Ask Questions – To find out if this moving company is a good fit for you, ask a few questions. If you need additional items moved, such as a hot tub or a piano, ask them if they offer specialty local moving services. And make sure you check if there are extra fees involved and know how the moving company calculates their estimates. Lastly, do they offer insurance and if so, what insurance is included?
Local Moving Checklist and Timeline
Keeping a checklist and timeline will help ensure that you get everything done that you need on time.
Two Months Before Your Move
- Go through your belongings and get rid of, donate or sell unwanted items. This will save moving costs if you’re not moving as many things.
- Time to start getting those moving estimates!
- Create a moving binder or folder. Keep moving estimates and all moving paperwork here.
- Determine any businesses you need to contact to change your address.
Six Weeks Before Your Move
- Start packing. Seasonal items such as certain clothing and most things stored in the basement or attic are great places to start.
- Use up food in the refrigerator, pantry, and freezer, and avoid buying a lot of food or in bulk.
- Order moving supplies such as boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, etc. if needed.
- If you’re transporting large furniture, go to your new place and ensure your old furniture will fit through the doors and in your new home.
- Determine what labeling system for your boxes to use. Color-coding your labels by room is a great way to keep your boxes organized.
One Month Before Your Move
- Fill out a change-of-address form with the U.S. Post Office.
- Confirm paperwork with your Virginia local moving company and ensure the right insurance is in place.
- Note any existing damage on furniture. Photograph or video valuable items.
- Keep packing! It will be much less overwhelming if you pack little by little each day as opposed to waiting until the last few days to pack up your whole home.
- If major appliances such a freezer or stove are being moved, ensure that they are clean and unplugged. You may need a professional to aid with this.
- Have enough cash on hand to tip movers, and you should plan to have either cash or a credit card to pay for unanticipated costs.
- Determine what items you’ll be moving yourself, such as medical files, car keys, fine jewelry, and photo albums.
One Week Before Your Move
- Stay calm, the move will be over soon!
- Dispose of items that the mover cannot move such as flammables or perishables.
- Turn off utilities one-day before the move out date.
- Pack a bag with enough clothes and toiletries for a few days. Contact the movers to reconfirm the arrangements, such as arrival time.
Moving Day
- Make sure you have all your valuables that you are transporting yourself ready to go.
- Take final inventory of your belongings and pack your moving truck and vehicle.
Local Moves Mastered
Moving, even local ones, can be a lot of work. Whether you’re moving from Fairfax to Arlington or from Alexandria to Manassas, if you follow these moving tips your move should be a piece of cake. Congratulations on your new Virginia home and on completing your local move!
