Moving Advice You Must KnowMoving Advice You Must Know

Moving isn't something anyone usually looks forward to, in terms of the packing and hauling from one location to another, but what most people fail to do is plan accordingly, then execute that plan with maximum efficiency. You, on the other hand, are going to make this move a success. Here's how you're going to do it while using moving truck rental services:

1. Compare Prices And Services

Looking for a local service may be your best option; however, depending on your specific needs, something a little further away or even closer to your new home could work out better. Make a list of the services you're interested in, such as the distance of the move, packing help and temporary storage, then seek out a moving company that looks like it fits the bill.

2. Ask Plenty Of Questions

Because you want to minimize the number of surprises you have to deal with on moving day, make sure everything is clear with the company you choose to rent a truck with. For example, how is truck mileage figured into the bill? Maybe the company offers unlimited mileage, but charges in another area that doesn't seem obvious to you, the renter, so specifically asking if there are any other possible charges, including those associated with unavoidable circumstances like weather cancellations, is a good idea. Make certain the quote the company gives you is for the size truck you need and that there will be availability on the day you move and find out everything that's included in your rental, including the all-important dolly.

3. Prepare Everything In Your House For The Arrival Of That Mighty Moving Truck

To make the most of your moving rental truck, you need to be completely ready for the move on the day you have the truck in your possession. That means a lot of preparation on the days leading up to the big move, such as boxing, labeling and cleaning, then having everything ready to go as the truck backs in:

• Since appliances and other large items go in the truck first, you'll need a clear path to them in the house and an exit/carrying strategy to get them into the truck.
• If you have any long items, such as floor lamps and bed frames, plan on placing them along the side of the truck's interior, to maximize the remaining space.
• The rest of your furniture is loaded next, meaning it should all be lined up and ready to go, including moving all things to the first floor and/or main room closest to the exit you'll be using.
• At this point in packing, you should make sure all items are protected and secure, from placing blankets over nice furniture to tying down items that could lodge loose during the trip.
• Boxes should follow all furniture and they should be as uniform as possible, to allow for efficient stacking, and they should be packed firmly and full.
• Once the truck is loaded, you should check the fuel gauge and traffic reports, to ensure a smooth and problem-free voyage.

Since all of this is much easier said than done, make a strategic operation out of the entire moving event, by delegating responsibilities like a boss, assigning the oversight of key elements to people you know can handle them. Make as many lists as you need, from individual jobs to the items to be moved to a checklist of all the things you need to take care of before signing off on your old residence. The moving company should have a brochure or spreadsheet you can plan your successful move with. The keys to a low-stress move are planning and preparation; hence, the more you handle this like a military operation or professional work project, the better it will go.

4. Return The Moving Truck On Time And In Good Condition

Although it may be difficult to stick to a schedule, it's important that you return the moving truck to its designated place at the appropriate time. Doing otherwise may result in additional fees and that's the last thing you want to have to worry about as you unpack and acclimate to the new home. You also need to make sure the truck has the right amount of fuel in the tank, if refilling what you use is part of your contract. Additionally, see that the truck is clean both in the driving cab and cargo area for two reasons: (1), you don't want to incur a cleaning fee on your final bill and (2), you don't want any of your belongings inadvertently left behind. Pull a quick check on both areas, picking up food wrappers and other miscellaneous trash, and scanning for your own property, including anything that may have fallen out of a bag or box.

A good plan can get through just about anything and when moving is concerned, it's an absolute necessity. Don't be left with so many loose ends on moving day that you're totally tied up and the experience is a complete disaster. Moving doesn't have to be as hard as most people make it out to be, especially when the rental truck is used for maximum efficiency.