Check out moving companies
More often than not, moving companies will indicate or say if they are in possession a DOT license. It is imperative to make sure that they have this license or you may need to contact the Department Of Transportation before you decide on the moving company you wish to hire. If there’s no sign or evidence of a DOT license in their business, that means they probably don’t have one and you should not hire them to be your chosen moving company. You might also want to see if they are listed with the BBB (Better Business Bureau). In addition, confirm if your moving company has any insurance covering your precious belongings for the duration of the move prior to your relocation date.

Planning
If you want to achieve a smooth and hassle-free relocation experience, timing, planning, and lists are all essential. Inform and send mail notifications to banks, healthcare providers, utility companies, employees, schools, etc., of your new address and other details. Plus, you can make up a list of loans or other numerous regular payments that need to be taken care of and maintained. Make sure that you do this for both your previous and current locations. Do not forget to call the moving company to set up a reservation for your relocation.

Packing
Collect plenty of moving supplies you’re going to need before your relocation date. Most all moving companies will have the following items available for your purchase: durable boxes, strong packing tape, packing peanuts, plastic bags, bubble wrap, and newspapers. If the moving companies don’t have these items available, you can always go to a nearby store and pick some up. Thoroughly clean out all of your storage rooms and closets, deciding before your move which items you want to keep, discard, sell, or donate. This will save you unimaginable time and money. While packing, place your hefty items on the bottom of the packing boxes and the lighter items on top if them. If you decide on utilizing the wardrobe boxes provided by most moving companies, be sure to pack your clothes tightly do they won’t shift around on the hangers during the move. Doing this will save you much needed time when unpacking and putting away your clothing.

Non-permitted items
Federal law prohibits moving companies from transporting certain types of items that include: fertilizers, fireworks, ammunition, weapons, poison, pesticides, acids, fuels, liquids and laundry additives (bleach and ammonia), flammables, explosives and corrosives, and household and car batteries. Also, it is illegal to transport plants across state lines and therefore, moving companies will not move any of them.

Your most valuable items
Set aside a special area for your most valuable items. Some of these items might include deeds, school and medical records, financial documents, small expensive electronics, a list of important medical information about each family member and pet in the family, prescription drugs, jewelry, media with special memories, etc. Make sure that you transport these items yourself. Not the mover. Ask your mover to help you when packing your more valuable, sizable objects that need to be handled with extra care.