How To

How to Move Yourself

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By eHow Contributing Writer
(26 Ratings)

Moving your goods yourself can save you a great deal of money; here are ways to save on moving hassles as well.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Take an inventory of your possessions. Use this list to determine the number of boxes and the size of the truck you will need for your move.

  2. Step 2

    Interview prospective truck rental companies, and ask what kinds of services and insurance coverage they offer. Be sure to check the quality of the company's rental vehicles as well.

  3. Step 3

    Rent the appropriate size vehicle (trailer, truck or van). Most rental companies provide free guides to choosing a vehicle size.

  4. Step 4

    Ask about the rental vehicle's pick-up and drop-off points; arrange the drop-off point to be as close to your destination as possible.

  5. Step 5

    Make necessary travel arrangements, such as hotel reservations for a move that will take longer than a day, or separate plane or car arrangements if any family members will be traveling separately.

  6. Step 6

    Rent or purchase appropriate moving aids, such as pry bars and appliance dollies for heavier furniture and appliances.

  7. Step 7

    Sell or donate unwanted items - this will reduce your load and help make the moving process much easier.

  8. Step 8

    Arrange to have family members or friends help you load your belongings at your old home and unload once you reach your destination.

Tips & Warnings
  • Good packing materials and equipment are worth paying for.
  • Think carefully about what you really need to take with you and what might be cheaper to replace or rent.
  • Find help! Friends and family are an invaluable resource during this hectic time.
  • Consider your health - don't take on more than you can handle.

Comments  

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jsscouter said

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on 4/16/2009 Great advice. I have done this several times and saved lots of money.

jodiv said

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on 2/5/2009 There is a great book called the "Slick Move Guide" that has a ton of moving tips, advice and a very detailed 10 page time line. Check it out on www.slickmove.net.

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on 1/1/2007 I always pack a bag as though we are going on vacation. One weeks worth of clothes and toiletries for every member of my family. Then, I don't have to open the bathroom boxes to get shampoo or hurry to unpack anything. Who knows how many delays there will be. There's nothing worse than being dead tired, behind schedule, and still having to unpack necesities. Also, have a NEW movie for your kids to watch, NEW coloring books and books to read. The old favorites won't work when there's a new environment to explore, and make mischief in.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 7/31/2006 Regardless of the mileage of your move, you will still need the same things almost the instant you arrive at your new home. Make sure when the truck is packed that the first things you will need are the last to go on. Parents who have moved can attest to this: make sure there is one large box filled with stuff for the kids-craft items, paint with water books, crayons, videos, etc. so they are entertained while you attend to the remainder. It also helps to number or one box per family member with their most cherished mementos, a clean change of clothes, pictures for each of their rooms. This can help make the first night in a new place much easier for everyone.

One more thing: hopefully you plan on ordering in the first night or two, but you will still need the basic items in your kitchen - pack an essentials box with a few key items (pizza cutter, baby utensils, pitcher for water or juice, etc. For heaven's sake, find a local dollar store and buy paper products to use until you get settled. There's nothing less appealing after a full day of unpacking than facing a kitchen full of dirty dishes! Good luck!

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 When packing stuff from a particular room (such as the kitchen), label your boxes (K) for kitchen, followed by a number. For example, make "K1" the stuff you use and need the most. When you arrive at your new home or apartment, you can place all the number 1's in the most convenient places. Less important stuff would get a higher number.

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