Tips For A Successful Move As Moving Season Gets Underway

As April ends and May begins, renters and homeowners around the country will be switching residences. According to New Jersey's News Transcript, over 52 percent of moves occur from May 1 to Sept. 30, making this time period peak moving season. John Bisney, director of public relations at American Moving and Storage Association, told News Transcript why movers should begin planning moves months in advance. Movers will help lower stress and worries, while also saving money by booking trucks or moving companies earlier, rather than later.

Renters and homeowners should also have renters or homeowners insurance. Movers will be relieved to know that moving to a new location will have minimal effect on policies. Better yet, policies will cover renters' belongings in the event they are damaged during the move.

As moving season gets underway, there are some important tips to ensure the move, no matter how long or short, is as smooth as possible.

Plan early

Moves can be expensive, even if the new location is not far away. As soon as a new lease is signed, or new home is bought, movers should begin planning for that big day. They need to contact moving companies to compare quotes, begin packing and get financials in order. Allstate also recommends movers keep a notebook full of notes and receipts of moving-related materials. Copies of receipts may be helpful to dispute unwarranted charges.

Planning ahead can also avoid timing issues. The longer movers wait, the higher the chance some unknown moving companies will have to be hired. Not scheduling early also poses a financial risk, as movers will have to pay more if trying to book a moving company at the last minute and close to the moving date. Movers need to know when peak moving times are, such as the weekends. Bob Wesson, vice president of the retail store operation at U-Haul, told News Transcript he recommended movers schedule a mid-week move to avoid high costs and ensure companies are available. Movers may also want to plan early so they can get the necessary days off work for a potential mid-week move.

Don't get caught off guard

Part of planning ahead means researching just about everything. This is especially important when looking at moving companies. The Better Business Bureau said throughout 2014, the agency received 63,200 inquiries about moving companies. Furthermore, the agency reported 141 complaints, ranging from high-than-expected bills and broken or stolen items to late deliveries. Researching ahead of time and checking with the BBB will ensure movers book the most reliable moving companies.

If movers are looking to do the heavy-lifting themselves, it is advised they book a moving truck months in advance as well. By booking the truck ahead of time, movers are guaranteed it will be available the day, or days, it is requested for. This also helps movers find the right sized truck, as different vehicles have different dimensions. Movers do not want to be stuck with having to play Tetris because furniture cannot properly fit inside the truck.

Pack well

Renters and homeowners should prioritize packing valuables and other important items first, to protect against them being damaged or lost. It will also help lead to prioritization of items. Items, including junk, are collected over time. By preparing for the move ahead of time, such unnecessary items can be pushed aside or sold. The lighter the packing, the more space, money and time will be saved.

If homeowners and renters plan months in advance, moving day can go relatively smoothly. Procrastination could potentially lead to an even more stressful day.

Renters and homeowners wanting to compare renters insurance and home insurance policies should head to CoverHound to do so.