The National Moving Month: Stay Safe and Sane with a Professional Moving Company

By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group

For many people, May brings the unofficial start of summer with the school year finishing up and the warmer, longer days. May also happens to be the start of peak season for moving, which is the busiest moving season of the year. And the month of May is National Moving Month. Many Americans are packing up and preparing to move to new locations both locally and cross-country around this time of the year. While moving can be a thrilling process, it can also be one of the most stressful and overwhelming life events for many.

According to the US Census Bureau, about 8.4% or 27.1 million, moved in 2023. This year, the percentage is expected to increase even more. Hence, if you are planning to move this busy season, start planning immediately, if you haven’t already.

To celebrate National Moving Month, we've compiled useful tips for a sane and stress-free move.

Plan and hire trusted, licensed, and insured professional movers ahead of time

The first item on your moving checklist should be to search for a reliable and professional moving company that will be sure to show up during this busiest time. Make sure to work with reputable and licensed movers with a proven track record. Check to see if the moving company is registered under the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) database. FMCSA is an organization that regulates all moving companies' operating hours and safety standards.

Get quotes and ask questions

Get more than one estimate and ask questions if there is something on the quote or in the fine print that you don’t understand. Go with the moving company that gives you the best deals and quality services. Make sure their estimates are in writing, then follow up with a written contract. This will help prevent lame stories about late delivery and surprise charges before and after the move.

Plan for your move

The next step is to plan for what you need to do before your moving day. Note the tasks that need to be done and create a list. Considering how much time you have left, organize the tasks into those that need urgent attention, those that can wait, and those that must be done in the days leading up to the move. For example, what you will get rid of, selling old items, labeling your items, and maybe organizing a garage sale. A checklist guides you through the move and reduces the stress and anxiety of a last-minute move.

Start packing your belongings

If you plan to move during the summer, you must deal with procrastination. Start packing your belongings and items several weeks or days before the move. Packing beforehand helps you to complete necessary tasks on time and avoid rushing around in the blazing hot weather.

However, when packing, avoid common mistakes like packing without a good plan, packing old or unwanted items, leaving empty spaces in the moving boxes, overfilling your moving boxes, and not using quality packing supplies. These mistakes can affect your next move. If you feel like it's too stressful, you can hire professional movers to help you pack on the day of the move. A-1 Freeman Moving Group can provide you with professional packing services for a hassle-free move.

Involve the kids, friends, and family

Moving during the busiest season is a huge task, even for your kids. It is okay to ask your kids, family members, and friends to help you out. Allow the kids to pack their items and label their belongings. This gets them all excited about the move, no matter how stressful it looks.

Prep your pets for the move

Moving is not only hectic for you but your pets, too. This is especially true during moving day, when strangers may be moving around the home and removing your pooch's favorite chair. Prepare your pets for the move by finding a pet-sitter for the day, discussing possible anti-anxiety steps with your vet, and maybe exploring the new neighborhood with your pet beforehand.

Stay cool and hydrated

You will be out in the heat for long hours and working hard when directing the professional movers. Ensure you have plenty of water for yourself and the movers, so everyone can beat the harsh heat and stay hydrated. Additionally, have a go-bag and a cooler ready. Fill the bag with essentials like a change of clothes, emergency information, first aid, and medications. Fill the cooler with snacks and beverages to keep everyone fueled.

Moves in any season benefit more from plenty of preparation. At A-1 Freeman Moving Group, we are committed to providing you with premium moving services, logistics, and storage. Contact us today for a free quote and extra tips for prepping for your safe and successful move.

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