A move from one place to another can be stressful. It can also be frustrating if there is damage left behind after the move, like scuffs on floors, nicks on walls, and broken furniture.
But there are steps you can take to keep your property safe during a move. With the right movers helping do the job and proper precautions being taken, you can ensure that your property is protected during a move. Here are some tips to consider.
Preparation Matters
The first thing you can do to ensure your property is protected during a move is to prepare properly. You can reduce the number of items you need to move by getting rid of whatever you no longer use or need. This will limit the number of items required to be moved, and thus reduce the number of opportunities to create damage.
It is also important to ensure you hire good movers to help you. Even if you plan to handle the majority of the move yourself, experienced and professional movers can take care of the bigger items. These items are more vulnerable to damage during a move and to creating damage. That is why it is so important to hire good movers with experience. Expect to pay less than $1,000, as the average cost of an in-state move is about $980.
Measure the Space
You can avoid damaging property during a move by knowing what size of the area you are dealing with on moving day. Measure your large furniture and also measure your door openings and stairways. This will give you an idea of what entries may require more caution and what pieces will require greater care. You do not want to be in a situation where you are trying to move a heavy sofa down a stairwell that is too small. It is better to know this before moving day.
Protect Your Property
Take advantage of pads and protectors during your move. For furniture, make sure it is wrapped with pads or blankets that will protect it against nicks and scratches. For mirrors, TVs, and framed pictures, use corner protectors that will guard against damage during the move. Give yourself plenty of time to wrap and prepare everything so you are not rushed. You should also use pads and blankets to protect your door jams from being nicked or knocked by furniture.
For your most valuable and delicate pieces, consider moving those on a different day when it is not so hectic and you can focus on carefully moving them. You may find as you prepare your art for the move that it has been neglected. Conservation treatment is a good option to care for art that is not regularly examined and maintained.
Choose the Right Boxes
When you are packing, sometimes you think it is best to put as much in one box as possible. But this is a common way items are damaged. They are crammed into a box that is too heavy and the box is dropped or damaged. Choose the right size box for your items. Each box should be easily lifted by one person without straining. Also, make sure the empty space inside a box is filled with paper or packing peanuts to equalize the contents.
Protect Floors and Stairs
You should also make sure your floors and stairs are protected. There will be plenty of people going through your home that day, so make sure to use nonslip runners to cover the floor and stairs. This will prevent scratches and scuffs on your floors and protect carpeted areas from dirt and markings.
Coverings will also protect your floors in the event of unexpected damage during the move to water pipes and fixtures. Each day, 14,000 people in the U.S. suffer a water damage emergency at home or work.