Moving may seem simple until the time comes and you look around wondering where all these extra items have come from. I have moved every year for the past 4 years, at this point I should be an expert.
Each year I have moved I have accumulated more and more possessions. When I moved to Charlotte from Mobile in 2014 I was able to move all my belongings in just a SUV.
Of course the longer we stay in one place the more items we gather and most times we tend to hold onto things that we no longer use or no longer need. I would suggest going through closets, clothes and possessions to asses what things you actually use or need. Before moving from Mobile I held a garage sale and sold clothes, shoes, electronics, pretty much anything I didn’t want the hassle of moving or knew I no longer needed. As years have gone on I have done the same things each time. I’ve visited my local Buffalo Exchange or Plato’s Closet in order to sell clothes and shoes that I am not longer wearing. If they decide not to purchase items I’ve donated them to donations boxes.
I worked at The Home Depot for 5 years so I am very familiar with their return policy as well as Lowe’s (direct competitor). Both stores pretty much accept any and everything back. When I move from one local apartment to another I purchase storage container, use them to move and them return them. I do not agree with purchasing 20+ cardboard boxes only to throw them away after moving. RUN ME MY MONEY. Along with purchasing storage containers I also purchase an office cart. Purchasing this office cart is amazing. Essentially I am “renting” these items and then returning them once finished. Of course I do try to be gentle and I have returned all items with all parts and packaging included. If you feel bad doing this yourself have a friend of yours return the items once finished. (LOL) Also my past three apartments have all had elevators which is perfect for moving, because who it interested in going up and down flights of stairs all day long?
In order to move my hanging clothes in my closet I rubber band about 5-7 hangers together and cover the clothes with a large garbage bag. I cut or tear a hole in the middle of the bottom of the bag, in order to place hangers, creating a garment bag. I purchase cheap ones since these can’t typically be reused.
I was able to use my car a Chev Malibu to complete about 3 trips and one trip with a small U-HAUL.
Renting from U-HAUL: Upon reserving my U-HAUL I noticed that they also offered a service that could connect you to local moving assistance organizations. These were far cheaper than the college mover services I contacted previously as well. I chose the smallest truck, which does not come with a ramp. In addition I rented a dolly. Upon receiving your truck check gas gage, sometimes you’ll get lucky and the previous person will add more gas than necessary. Be sure to be detailed when doing your walk around before leaving. U-HAUL places “x” stickers on damages currently on the vehicle. If there are additional marks ensure that you communicate this to your representative.
Returning U-HAUL: Ensure that the gas gage is where it should be to be returned, don’t be lazy, you’ll pay more later. If for some reason you create a mess, make sure you clean it up. Sweep bed if necessary.
These are some of the most important tips and tricks that I use when moving. I hope these suggestion may make your next move a little easier and maybe even save you some money.
Any other questions on moving suggestion feel free to contact me!
Moving Tips Moving may seem simple until the time comes and you look around wondering where all these extra items have come from.