Hiring professional Calgary movers is a great way to reduce the stress of moving. Although professional movers can handle the majority of moving tasks for you, there are some things you can do to prepare yourself, and your home, to ensure your moving day goes quickly and smoothly.
Learn What Can’t Be Packed
Request a list of items that your movers cannot pack and transport. Many professional movers in Calgary will not transport certain items for safety reasons such as aerosol cans, paint, and other flammable substances. Consider giving these products to neighbours, family or friends or dispose of them before the movers arrive. If you decide to go ahead and bring any items on the restricted list, then you will have to pack them and transport them yourself.
If there are items that you would prefer to move yourself, such as your essentials box, make sure to clearly label them, and place them out of the way. Check with your Calgary movers to see what items are not covered under the moving company’s valuation protection plan, especially if you choose to pack some items yourself.
Clean and Organize
Clean all the items that will be packed in boxes and moved to your new home. Wipe down all surfaces, including tables and desks. Organize items in groups if your Calgary movers will be packing, or take the opportunity to organize as your pack yourself.
Prepare Appliances and Equipment
Get your appliances ready before the movers come. If you are moving large appliances, make sure to unplug, empty, and clean them thoroughly. Clean small appliances before packing them (such as throwing out coffee grinds and emptying the toaster tray). If there are any appliances you are unsure about, consult with your moving company to establish the best way to pack and transport those items.
Drain the fuel and oil from lawn mowers, snow blowers, and other fuel-powered tools or equipment. If you are moving from Calgary during the winter, you should also dry off any items that have been out in the snow, to ensure that they’re not wet and won’t rust during transport.
Prepare the House – Inside and Out
Before your Calgary movers arrive, clear entrances and pathways to help them maneuver your home with ease. Movers can work quickly and efficiently given that your house is not an obstacle course.
Protect floors and carpets with coverings such as cardboard, and place doormats to prevent dirt from getting on the floors. You’ll want to ensure both your new residence and the home that you are moving from are prepared as well as possible.
Leave the driveway clear of vehicles. Park your car in a neighbour’s driveway or on the street; the driveway will be needed for the moving truck, reducing the space between the front door and the vehicle. If you do not have a driveway, consult with your municipality to ensure that temporary street parking can be accommodated. The ability of the Calgary moving company’s truck to quickly and easily enter and exit the premises will greatly benefit the overall moving process.
Plan for Kids and Furry Family Members
Consider hiring a babysitter (or Grandma and Grandpa) to watch your children during the move. If your children are a bit older, ensure that they understand what is going on, and plan ways in which they can help.
When moving with pets, consider leaving them with a neighbour, family, or friend. If that isn’t possible, then isolate them from the action by placing them in an empty room or in a kennel. This will reduce stress for your pet, as well as keep them out of harm’s way during the hustle and bustle of the move.
Double and Triple Check
If packing your belongings by yourself, go through the entire house, including the attic and garage, to make sure nothing is missed before the Calgary movers come. Check every drawer, closet and cabinet. Before you and the movers leave, make sure that no furniture has been forgotten or hidden away. Take note of any damage that may have occurred, and ensure that the appropriate utilities are turned off.
Looking For Professional and Trustworthy Calgary Movers?
Matco Moving Solutions can help you with your local, long-distance or international move. We are a full-service moving company that is dedicated to delivering a stress-free and positive moving experience. We have locations in Calgary, Edmonton, Yellowknife, Whitehorse and Inuvik and over 55 years of moving experience and expertise.
Contact us today for a free moving quote and to learn how Matco can help you with your Calgary move.