Find a Reputable Mover. Check on whether the moving company is a member of the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) and has agreed to independent arbitration of any claims. See if the Better Business Bureau or state consumer protection agency has a record of complaints on this firm. Ask if the company has been in business a long time. Find out what movers the corporate relocation companies rely on. Some states require moving companies to register before doing business, so check with state licensing agencies, too.
Getting Estimates. You will want to get estimates from 3-5 companies. Have a walk-through with the company representative to point out exactly what you want transported and what you want packed. You can get an estimate over the phone but be sure it is backed up in writing as to whether it is a binding estimate or nonbinding. A binding estimate is guaranteed, while a nonbinding estimate may be lower but can drastically increase at the end of the move. The lowest bid may not be the best choice if the mover has intentionally given you a low estimate to get your business but may later hike the final price. Always get the itemized estimate in writing.
Understanding the Costs. Moving charges are a combination of weight, distance, and services. Check to see if your bid includes extra charges for person-hours, packing materials, travel time, or waiting time. Be sure to find out what methods of payment the mover will accept-check, credit card, or money order.
Purchasing Insurance. The mover probably provides minimal insurance at no extra charge, but this may not be enough. This insurance is based on the weight, not the value, of an item. Thus, you might get only $30 for a damaged television console. Other insurance options should be available from the mover as an extra expense that may give you more protection. Before selecting any insurance option, understand whether you will be reimbursed based on the extent of the damage and the item's depreciated value, or on your cost to replace the item. Check your homeowner's insurance for any moving damage coverage.
One Month Before Moving:
Fill out Change of Address from Post Office
Fill out IRS change of Address Form
Make arrangements with moving company or reserve moving truck
Make travel arrangements, if necessary, with airlines, buses,
car rental agencies and hotels
Transfer memberships in churches, clubs and civic organizations
Obtain medical and dental records, e-rays and prescription histories. Ask doctor and dentist for referrals and transfer prescriptions.
Set up bank account in new city
Check into the laws and requirements of your new city regarding home-based business, professional tests, business licenses and any special laws that might pertain to you.
Take inventory of your belongings before they're packed, in the event you need to file an insurance claim later. If possible, take pictures or video tape your belongings. Record serial numbers of electronic equipment.
Make arrangements for transporting pets
Start using-up food items, so that there is less to pack and possibly spoil
One to Two Weeks Before Moving:
Switch utility services to new address. Inform electric, disposal, water, newspaper, magazine subscription, telephone and cable companies of your move.
Arrange for help on moving day
Confirm travel reservations
Reserve elevator if moving from condo
Have appliances serviced for moving
Clean rugs and clothing and have them wrapped for moving
Plan ahead for special needs of infants
Close bank accounts and have your funds wired to your new bank. Before closing be sure there are no outstanding checks or automatic payments that haven't been processed.
Collect valuables from safe-deposit box. Make copies of any important documents before mailing or hand carry them to your new address.
Check with your insurance agent to ensure you'll be covered through your homeowner's or renter's policy during the move.
Defrost freezer and refrigerator. Place deodorizer inside to control odors.
Give a close friend or relative your travel route and schedule so you may be reached if needed.
On Moving Day:
Double check closets, drawers, shelves, attic and garage to be sure they are empty
Carry important documents, currency and jewelry yourself, or use registered mail.
Arriving at your New Home:
Renew your driver's license, auto registration and tags
Shop around for new insurance polices, especially auto coverage.
Revise your will and other legal papers to avoid longer probate and higher legal fees
Locate the hospitals, police stations, veterinarian and fire stations near your home.
Appliances: Wrap small appliances in inkless newsprint or your kitchen towels or linens. Tape the bottom of a medium box securely and put down a layer inkless newsprint for padding. For large appliances, make sure you check your owner's manual for any special instructions before you start to pack. Tape down any parts that could come loose -- the burners on your stove, the electrical cords, etc. Wrap the appliance with furniture pads and tie securely.
Art and Collectibles: Put Corrugated Corners on and wrap each piece in bubble wrap. Pad the bottom of a large box with crumpled inkless newsprint. Give the items plenty of space, and make sure you add lots of packing material on the sides, between items and on top. Remember to label the box "fragile." Books Use only small boxes for books -- they get very heavy, very fast. You can use small paperbacks to fill the sides of the box if there is extra space.
Clothing: This is where wardrobe boxes come in handy. You can move clothing on hangers straight from your closet to the wardrobe boxes. Clothing in drawers should be packed in suitcases or boxes.
Electronic Equipment: Ideally, you should pack electronic equipment such as stereos, TVs and computers in their original boxes with their original packing material. If this is unavailable, wrap the equipment in plastic bags. Wrap each piece in bubble pack and pack in our heavy duty TV Box (25" x 25" x 25" DW).
Furniture: If you can take your furniture apart in any way to make it easier to move, make sure you put all nuts, bolts and screws in a small zip-lock bag and tape the bag to the furniture. Tape drawers shut where necessary. Wrap exposed legs (on tables and chairs) in bubble wrap or inkless newsprint. Wrap in furniture pads and tie securely.
Kitchenware: Wrap breakable items in bubble wrap or inkless newsprint. Put layers of bubble wrap between each plate or bowl. Fill the top bowl with crumpled inkless newsprint. Make sure you put the heavier items on the bottom of the box. Wrap nonbreakable items in inkless newsprint before packing in a box. Use cell packs to separate delicate items. Make sure you pack all the items you'll need for your first few days in you new home in one box, and label it prominently. You can only eat take-out for so long.
Mirrors and Framed Art: Tape an X of masking tape across mirrors and paintings framed with glass. Wrap each item in bubble wrap. You can use our shipping cartons for these pieces. Make sure you label everything fragile.
MOVING WITH CHILDREN
How to Make it Easier For Them by Katharine Canfield
Moving can be as challenging as it is exciting. Sometimes more so. Moving is as hard for kids as it is for adults. They, too, are leaving behind familiar places and important friends. They, too, are starting over: seeking new friends and adjusting to a new home, neighborhood, and school. But because they're still learning how to socialize and how to effectively get their needs met, children need caring adults to listen and help them adjust to their new home, now more than ever.
If you're a parent contemplating a move, this article's for you. By considering a move in three stages - before, during, and after - and thinking about your children's needs during each stage, you can make a big difference in how your kids feel about the move and how they adjust afterwards.
BEFORE THE MOVE: Preparing
Tell your children about the move as soon as you can. The more time they have to think about and prepare for the move, the easier it will be for them.
Give your children a chance to express their feelings, and try to be honest about your own feelings. Most children will feel some anger, sadness, or worry about the move. These responses are natural, and kids who have a chance to express them will work through their doubts more easily. Gently tell your children about any sadness you may feel about leaving or uncertainty about a new home, job, or city. This will reassure them that they aren't alone in having worries or concerns. Help older children prepare a list of phone numbers and addresses of close friends, relatives, and other important people in their lives. Knowing they can stay in touch with these people is an important part of a successful move. If your kids are old enough, let them participate in decision making. Have the kids keep a notebook of potential new homes with the positives and the negatives listed.
If you are able to, before you move take your children to your new home and explore the new neighborhood and town or city together. If this isn't possible, take pictures of your new home, the schools your kids will attend, a nearby park, and anything else that would be interesting to them.
Make a scrapbook containing pictures of your pre-move home, friends, and other mementos of your life together.
Call the principal of your children's schools, and try to set up a meeting with their teachers or, if they're in junior high or high school, guidance counselor. The new school may even be able to give you names of students in your child's class who live near your new home. If so, you may want to drop by to meet them and their families before you move in.
Try to line up some activities in which your child can participate after the move: a sports team, music lessons, art classes, a scouting troop. Not only will activities like these keep your children involved; they'll also help them to feel like part of a group - an important aspect of settling in. Try to sign up for more than one activity in case one falls through or doesn't go well.
If you can, try to meet families in your new neighborhood before you move. Being familiar with people when you move in will help your children feel more at home.
DURING THE MOVE: Remembering What's Important
Throughout the move, stay as upbeat and calm as you can; a good plan makes this possible. Your own mood will impact other family members, especially babies, who are particularly sensitive to their mother's feelings. With older children, it's important to be honest about some of the uncertainties you have, but also to be generally optimistic about the move and the positive ways it will affect the family. Involve your kids in the packing. Older kids can put their own belongings in boxes, and kids of all ages will enjoy decorating the boxes containing their things. Doing so will also make finding your children's things easier once you're at the new house! Try to stick to your routines. Have meals at the same times as always. If your kids nap, encourage them to lie down at the usual time. Keep to the normal bedtimes. Don't pack things that your children treasure. Take special blankets, beloved stuffed animals, favorite books, and other prized items in a separate bag or box that you can bring with you in the car or on the plane when you go to your new home. Help your children say good bye to the important people in their lives. For their friends, a pizza or make-your-own sundae party is a fun way to celebrate the friendship. An album or poster with photos of good times together will add to the celebration. If your children are comfortable, encourage hugs at the end of the party. With neighbors or other special adults, you may want to set up a time to stop by and say good bye as a family. Expect the unexpected: few moves go smoothly, anticipate trouble (predict it!) and have a positive, "can do" attitude.
AFTER THE MOVE: Getting Settled
Don't spend too much time unpacking - at least not right away! Sure, the essentials are important to unload and you want the house to feel settled. But wait on the less important stuff. In the first few days, take time to enjoy your new home with your family. Take walks. Check out local restaurants and take-out spots. Introduce yourselves to your new neighbors. Spend time at the park. Be on the look-out for neighborhood kids, and help introduce your children to them. If it's comfortable for you and your children, invite some of the neighborhood kids over for pizza or a video. Let your children have some input in planning on the new house, especially in choosing things to buy for their rooms. Even if you don't follow through on their ideas, it's important to listen to what they think. Be tactful if you choose another option, and let some decisions be entirely up to them - for example, the placement of their bed or the color of the rug or paint in their bedroom. Get involved: church groups, synagogues, YMCA and activity clubs, etc. enable socializing. If a couple of months have gone by and your child seems unusually troubled, ask a doctor, guidance counselor, or principal if you need a referral. Signs that your child may need help: unusual academic difficulty; ongoing irritability; trouble with peers; changes in sleep or eating habits; a generally despondent mood. Give them time, this behavior can last for 4-5 months for teens. Above all, listen. Try to be there when your kids get home after the first day at their new schools, even if it means having to leave work early that day. Regularly ask how things are going, and take time to listen. Sometimes kids have a hard time opening up; spending relaxed time together may help them to bring up whatever is on their minds. For children and adults, it takes time to feel at home. With your understanding and patience, your children will be reassured that, after a while, things will get easier; everything won't feel so new; and that home is, after all, wherever the family is. For more information on moving with children and moving in general, see the book Smart Moves: Your Guide through the Emotional Maze of Relocation by Nadia Jensen, Audrey McCollum, and Stuart Copans. Smith & Krauss. To order a copy for $16.95, call 1-800-895-4331. The ISBN is 1575250861.
MOVING WITH PETS
GENERAL GUIDELINES
Keep your pets' routines as regular as possible as you prepare to move. If you normally feed, exercise or play with them at a certain time, continue to do so. During the final crunch of moving, you may find it works best to keep your pet either at a friend's house or a kennel, reducing the chance of your pet getting upset and running away, or in the case of cats, hiding in a box about to be shipped.
Keep some form of identification on the pet at all times and be sure you have current pictures along with a written description available. This will reduce a lot of stress should your pet escape. If the length of the move requires the animal be provided with food and water, be sure the food is bland and easily digested and that the water comes from your home supply. Changing diet or water sources are common causes of diarrhea and vomiting from upset stomachs. If in doubt, check with your veterinarian for food recommendations.
Prior to moving, schedule a visit with your veterinarian for a thorough physical exam, making sure all vaccinations are current, especially the rabies vaccination. While at your veterinarian's office, get copies of your pets' records and check to see if he can recommend another veterinarian at your new location. You can also call the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) at (800) 883-6301 for the names of AAHA veterinarians near your new home.
If your pet is on any medication be sure to have an ample supply so you won't run out before getting settled in your new location. Also discuss with your veterinarian whether your pet should be tranquilized during the move. If so, get enough to try it out prior to the move to be sure the dosage works properly.
Since each state has different laws and regulations regarding the importation of animals and some counties and municipalities have their own ordinances, check with a veterinarian in the new area to be sure your pet complies. It is important to do this several weeks before your move to allow time for all paper work to be completed.
Temperature extremes should be avoided. In most cases, it's best to transport your animal in a sturdy, insulated carrier to help regulate the changing temperature. Never leave a pet in a hot car during the summer time or a cold car in the winter.
If you are transporting the pet by plane, try to book a direct flight to minimize the time the animal may be sitting outside the plane in inclement weather conditions. Some airlines provide counter-to-counter service so your pet will be carried on and off the plane by an airline employee. While this service costs a little more, it may be worth it for your peace of mind.
CATS
Cats are notorious for getting into trouble during the moving process since they are particularly sensitive to stress. "Stress for a cat involves three things," says animal behaviorist and psychologist, John Wright, author of Is Your Cat Crazy? "It involves reaction to novelty -- cats don't like novelty. They like sameness. It involves reaction to unpredictability -- cats don't like events to be unpredictable. The third thing is the degree of control-- cats don't like to be out of control. When you move, you have a high degree of all three, until things settle down."
For these reasons it is particularly important to maintain your cat's normal routine. During the move itself, keep your cat confined to one room with food, water, a litter pan, some favorite toys, and the carrier you plan to use so your cat can get used to it. The door should be locked or have a large, "Do Not Open" sign on it, so the movers won't inadvertently let the "cat out of the bag."
Transport your cat in a well constructed cat carrier large enough to have room for food, water and a small litter box. Upon arrival at your destination, place the cat and carrier in one secure room with at least two doors between the cat and the outside. Open the door of the carrier and let the cat decide when to come out. Allow your cat to become acclimated to the one room before releasing him to the rest of the house. If the cat scurries for cover when you open the door, wait a day or two longer, then try again. Let the cat explore other rooms of the house when it meets you at the door.
If your cat is accustomed to going outdoors, wait several days after arriving at your new home before letting the cat out, placing him on a leash or harness for short exploratory trips. After 2 or 3 days of these trips, you can begin to let your cat out on its own.
DOGS
Dogs are generally easier to move than cats since they aren't as affected by the stress. A few special considerations to keep in mind include being prepared to clean up after your dog at rest stops. Carry a roll of paper towels and disposable plastic bags. Place a piece of paper towel over the solid matter, and your hand in one of the plastic bags. Pick up the towel and solid matter and pull the bag down over your hand and towel, turning it inside out. Then, twist, seal and dispose.
If you have a small dog and plan on flying to your new home, he may be able to fly with you in the passenger compartment if he is small enough to fit into a carry-on bag that will fit under the seat. Check with the airlines for details. If you are transporting a larger dog by plane, try to book a direct flight to prevent your pet from having to spend long periods in a distant airport, and have someone scheduled to pick up your dog at the other end.
Never leave any pet in the car for more than a few minutes. This is especially important during warm weather. If you are carrying your dog with you in the car and plan to stop overnight, be sure to call ahead to find a hotel that accepts pets.
BIRDS
Birds need a health certificate to enter most states and depending on the species may be required to have tests done for certain diseases. Since these regulations can change, it is important that your present veterinarian verify these requirements well in advance of your moving.
If you will be taking your bird in the car, maintain a warm, constant temperature since birds are particularly sensitive to temperature changes. It is possible to carry the bird in its cage as long as you have a cover for it to prevent drafts and keep the bird in a darkened setting to reduce the bird's anxiety. If you have an excitable bird, it may be necessary to cushion the cage or crate with a soft material to reduce self-inflicted trauma.
Place slices of apple, grapes or other fruit in the cage to supplement the bird's water supply and be sure they have adequate places to perch.
FISH
If you have a small number of fish and are moving only a short distance, you can move them to their new location by using plastic bags half filled with water and the other half with air. Place the bags in an insulated container such as an ice chest or Styrofoam container to help maintain a steady temperature.
For a larger number of fish or for transporting over a greater distance, 5-10 gallon plastic containers can be used. First, fill them with water (either salt or fresh water, depending on the type of fish) and change the water often to remove any toxins that might leach from the plastic. On moving day fill the containers half full with water and place the fish in the water, about 1-2 fish per gallon.
If your trip is going to take more than a couple of days, it's best to invest in some portable aerators to keep the water well oxygenated. Do not keep the containers in the car overnight since the drop in temperature is likely to be too severe.
REPTILES
If you are going to ship a venomous snake, it must be placed inside two sturdy boxes or a box inside a wooden crate. With non-venomous ones only one box is needed. Be sure the containers are well insulated and contain air holes for ventilation and are clearly marked with both the common and scientific name of the species.
If you are transporting your snake in your car, be sure not to leave it in the car overnight. Take it into the hotel room (be sure they allow pets), and let it soak for about an hour in the tub. (You will have to take turns.)
The easiest pet to move is a turtle, which can be overnight expressed in a well cushioned, insulated box with air holes.
American Tortoise Rescue (http://www.tortoise.com), a nonprofit organization founded to provide for the rescue of turtles and tortoises, recommends using overnight mail. Be sure to write "Fragile, Live Cargo" and "this side up" on the outside of the box to increase the chances of a softer ride. You can also place leaves or grass inside the container for added cushion and to give the box a more homey environment.
Remember to keep the surroundings of all reptiles moist but not wet. Dampening a cloth and placing it inside the container is the best approach.
Since there are some governmental regulations regarding the shipment of reptiles, consult with A Fieldguide to Reptiles and the Law by J. P. Levell. (published by Serpent's Tale)
SMALL MAMMALS
The best way to move small mammals such as mice, gerbils, guinea pigs and hamsters are to keep them in the car with you and in their normal container. Take their water bottle out to avoid it leaking and soaking the bedding. At rest stops, check the animal and place the bottle back in the cage so it can drink.
Be sure to maintain a comfortable, steady temperature even if it means parking your car away from the rest rooms to get it under the shade of a tree. These little critters are comfortable at about the same temperatures people are so if you are cold or hot, they are too.
PET ROCKS
Probably the only pet easier to move than a turtle. Be careful to not let your pet rock out of its box while you are driving the car. It's simply too easy for them to cause an accident by slipping under your gas or brake pedal.
GORILLAS (How NOT to Move One)
On October 16, 1996, travel plans for the people on Delta Flight 709 were delayed when one of the passengers became upset during a stopover in Salt Lake City. The passenger, a 490-pound gorilla, named Vip, had been traveling for over 12 hours in the cargo hold. Having endured a stopover in Cincinnati and a change of planes in Salt Lake City on his way from Boston to his new home in Seattle, Vip expressed his exasperation by rattling his reinforced aluminum cage, resulting in a "rather loud" noise. "It just turned into a long day," said Brian Rutledge of Boston's Franklin Park Zoo, where Vip had lived. "And when you weigh 490 pounds, you can let people know you've had enough." He was unloaded in Salt Lake City where he spent the night in Hogle Zoo before continuing on to Seattle on the ground.
THE END
Cats and Dogs-If you take your pets in your car remember to take along Food, Water, A leash for letting your pet out of the car, and Newspaper or sheets to keep your car clean. Animals can get car-sick and will require frequent stops along the way. Also, check ahead to see if the hotel where you are staying allows pets. Depending on the animal's temperament and size, it might be better to have it shipped by air. Be sure to check if your destination has any local requirements or restrictions on animals.
To have your pet shipped by air, make sure someone can meet your pet at the destination airport and take care of it until you arrive. A kennel can do this for you and keep your pet until you have completed your move, if necessary. If you are flying to your new destination, your cat or dog can ride in the baggage compartment. You may need a Health certificate which can be obtained from your veterinarian. A pet container and tranquilizers to be given to your pet immediately before going to the airport. Your pet can be comforted by having a piece of cloth with your scent on it.
DON'T FORGET!
The 10 Most Forgotten Items In A Move
While more than 43 million Americans are planning to move this year, even the most organized person will probably not be able to remember every detail of the move - or every item. Mayflower suggests adding these 10 points to the top of your moving preparation list:
For The Record - Obtaining copies of your medical records including your dentist, veterinarian and vaccine/immunization information can often be overlooked. In some cases, a notarized letter is required to receive the official documentation; you may need to contact the American Medical Records Association to determine your new state's procedure.
For The Record II - Your child's permanent school record cannot follow him or her through life if it's left behind. In addition, school records are usually required when registering your child at a new school. Often, copies will not be sufficient, and records with a raised seal will be necessary.
Old Phone Numbers - Pack phone books from your old town. You may think you'll remember the numbers you frequently call now but, more likely, you'll spend a small fortune on directory assistance charges to contact old friends or tie up loose ends.
Taken To The Cleaners - Remember to complete transactions with local businesses (for example, picking up your dry cleaning).
Where You're Moving To - In the flurry of preparing for the move, you may often forget your forwarding address - important information when forwarding periodicals and credit card bills, as well as keeping in touch with old friends. Always keep your new address handy in your wallet or purse.
Spic And Span - Although your focus will be on your new home or apartment, you can't forget about preparing the old residence for your exit. Remember to leave out cleaning supplies for the final "once-over" before closing the door for good, or make arrangements in advance for a service to clean it for you.
The Opener - Many people often forget to take the electric garage door opener out of their car before leaving. Remember to leave the opener for the new tenants or owners.
Remember Rover - In most cases, moving companies cannot transport animals or plants. Remember to make arrangements for their transfer.
Bank On It - Many people forget to retrieve important documents from their safe deposit box. It is also wise to establish a checking account in your new town about a month prior to your move so that you have immediate access to your account.
Keys To Success - The collection of spare house keys can often be forgotten. Whether it means getting them from neighbors who kept them, or retrieving them from under the rock next to the front door, don't forget to gather all sets before you depart.
Mayflower Transit, one of the nation's leading transportation service companies, specializes in the worldwide movement of household goods, electronics/high-value products, trade show exhibits and general commodities. With headquarters in Suburban St. Louis, MO, Mayflower Transit is represented by more than 750 agents around the globe.
