Moving Advice

Packing

• Obtain cartons of various sizes which can be taped shut and will be flat and stackable. Have packing tape, markers, paper and bubble wrap on hand. Cartons can often be purchased at truck rental stores, office supply stores, or a local moving company.
• Start with non-essential items. Label each box into categories and sub categories. For example label a box “Master Bedroom”, but also “Dad’s clothes”. This will help to identify where the box belongs and its contents.
• The heavier the items, the smaller the box should be. When you have filled a box, it should weigh no more than 50 lbs and should not rattle when moved. The sides of the box should not bulge; don’t hesitate to remove items if the box is too full. The top should close without caving in; use paper to fill in any empty spaces and prevent items from shifting during transport.
• Protect your breakable items. Don’t mix them with heavy items and be sure to cushion them well. Layer crumpled paper on the bottom of the box, then wrap or box each item individually before placing it in the carton. Label the box “Fragile” or “Handle with Care” to bring the contents to the movers attention.
• Mark a few boxes "NEW HOME SUPPLIES". Fill them with things you might need right away at your new home.  Below is a list of suggested items to help get you started. When you come upon an item for the box, put it in and mark it off your list. When the list is complete, remove everything and pack the boxes carefully. You will find your "NEW HOME" boxes to be the most useful ones you pack.

Things to put in the "NEW HOME" box:

1. Bedroom and Bath: sheets, pillows, blankets, shower curtain and hooks, lightweight curtains, tension rods, light bulbs, fuses, candles, alarm clock, towels.
2. Toiletries: bar soap, shampoo, toothbrushes and paste, toilet paper, First aid kit: aspirin, tweezers, adhesive bandages, antiseptics, prescriptions.
3. Household/Kitchen Supplies: bottle/can opener, paper/plastic cups, plates, utensils, trash bags, paper towels, dust pan, broom, all purpose spray cleaner, sponges, liquid soap, coffee maker, tea kettle.
4. Tools: flashlight, hammer, pliers, screwdriver, wrench, scissors, utility knife, thumbtacks, nails, screws.
5. Personal: change of clothes for everybody, baby things, pet supplies.

The movers are coming

• Separate items you will be transporting yourself, including suitcases or personal items. Be sure to indicate these items to the driver or head packer to ensure they do not get packed and loaded onto the truck.
• Confirm the movers have a valid number to contact you before, during and after the move.
• Arrange for small children to stay with a neighbor, friend or relative. This will allow you to focus on the move, and keep them out from underfoot of the movers.

Moving Day

• When the driver arrives, walk through the house together pointing out breakable or high value items. Also, identify those items you will be taking yourself.
• Turn on each electronic item, such as the television, VCR, DVD player, stereo, computer, etc. to show it is in working condition. The driver will then note this on his paperwork and you can disconnect each electronic device.
• Once everything is loaded, walk through the house with the driver one more time. Check drawers, closets, cabinets, etc. for items that may have been overlooked.
• Review the inventory with the driver then sign the paperwork indicating you are in agreement.
• Confirm the driver has your delivery address and a valid phone number at which to contact you.
• Request a phone number where you can reach the driver while your shipment is in transit.
• Ask the driver if he has an idea when your shipment will arrive at your new home. This is always subject to change, but knowing the driver’s schedule may help you be prepared.

Delivery

• Expect a call from the driver the day before he arrives. It is then he will try to confirm a time with you to begin unloading your shipment.
• Know where you would like each piece of furniture placed in your new home. The movers will put the furniture where you need it, but will not rearrange it once it is in place.
• Check off each item on your copy of the inventory as it is carried into the house. This will allow you to identify any missing items before the driver departs. Often, they are simply still on the truck, and this can be easily remedied while the movers are still at your home.
• Note any missing or damaged items on the paperwork before signing that everything was received. This will expedite any claim that is filed for these items.

What if there is damage?

• Note any missing or damaged items on the paperwork before signing that everything was received. This will expedite any claim that is filed for these items.
• Contact your Relocation Coordinator right away to get the claim process started.
• Look over everything before submitting your claim. Make a list as you go. 
• Once the claim is received, a claims adjuster will be in contact with you. They may send out an inspector to look over the items. An inspector can determine if an item can be repaired or will need to be replaced.
• Contact your Relocation Coordinator if you have any questions regarding your claim or if you have not had a response from your Claims Adjuster.