Move Under your own Steam

Moving under your own steam is the option you pick. Today we are going to look at the steps of moving yourself.

Mental Pressure is one of the main factors when moving house

When moving house, anxiety can be a big determinant in everything you do. Some people seem to handle it with grace and a happy expression. Although it's not a case of personality and constitution

Simple steps to help make the move less exasperating:

1. Take Advantage of Moving Equipment when having to move innumerable of items, it is not such a bad idea to invest in few inexpensive moving supplies that can help manage your move more easily. As soon as you know you will be moving, start picking up clean boxes, unprinted newsprints (printed newsprints stain!), hoard up on bubble wrap or buy heavy duty cartons.

2. Pack Ahead of Time: a do-it-yourself move needs a lot of your time and energy. Packing the evening before the move is definitely not a good idea. It's a great idea to make sure all the packing is done at least 24 hours before you move, this allows you time to pack all those last minute belongings. The sooner you start the better, pack things like CDs or DVDs ahead of time since you won't need them till you get to your new house. The faster you start and the more you pack, means less anxiety as moving day gets here.

3. Moving house is a brilliant way to have a clear out of all those items that never get used. Out-dated magazines, clothing, bits and bobs and ornaments which are stuck in the cupboard can be disposed of so you have a mess free home. Charities appreciate donations so you could consider giving them away, or even do a garage sale.

4. A list - make sure you write a list and stick it somewhere conspicuous, lists are very valuable. Have lots of lists that include new items to be bought, things you are giving away, things you are taking with you; even list the items that need delicate handling. Lists are a strong stress reliever on moving day.

Preparation for Moving Day

Friends, family, colleagues can be asked to help you fill your vehicle at your old house and unload it when you get to your new house. You will be very shocked how much more speedily the moving goes with few extra hands. When the moving day turns up, arrange a party and offer sandwiches or pizza and drinks to anyone who decides to come and work. This way, your friends will be enjoying the day in a restful way and the job will get done quickly and pain-free. A separate concern of yours should be your children. Daycare, whether its a family member or a day care resource should be arranged so the kids are looked after. To stop your kids getting tense, let them watch their personal space being packed, that way they know you are not throwing away their favourite toys. Make arrangements for your family animal to go to kennels or stay with a neighbour while you move your belongings. When moving pets, take preventative measures to avoid the pet from getting sick in the car. Anything you may need for your pet, such as water and feeding bowls, need to be packed in a bag marked 'Pet' and easy accessible when you arrive. When you are moving make sure your pet is never left alone. Allow frequent breaks so your pet can relieve themselves and make sure they are always on a tether.

Make sure you find a fair Truck Rental for Moving

To transfer all your possessions, you will probably need to hire a truck, as most of us will find our cars are just not spacious enough. The venture you have with your moving vehicle rental is mainly dependent on you. When hiring a vehicle make sure you take note of the next couple of pointers:

1. First make sure you choose the correct size vehicle needed to move your possessions. Take your all your belongings into account then allow about 15% more room. This is called 'playing it safe and sound' and allows for space for those last minute possession you forgot about. If you don't have enough room then your stress levels are going to be great while you scrabble around trying to find extra vehicles.

2. Don't be mislead into thinking all costs are the same, with so many businesses out there you would think they would be, wouldn't you? But, you will find, that isn't the situation. Look on the net for the best rates, make a few phone calls and compare prices from different companies

3. Hiring a moving vehicle is very similar to hiring a car. Rather than ending up with a vehicle that doesn't suit your needs, makes sure you book the truck in plenty of time. By organizing ahead your vehicle will be ready and accessible for you on moving day.

4. Look at getting insurance on your hired vehicle. You may be skilled in driving a small car, but driving a larger van is very different. If you haven't bought insurance, one error can cost you a pretty penny. A few extra minutes finding the insurance and few more dollars will guarantee you a stress-free move.

5 Try to organize ahead on how long you think you'll be needing your rental vehicle and always make sure you have some time to spare. The reason for doing this is that you don't want to return it after the cut off time. The premiums for doing so are very large.

Taking a Car

If you possess more than one vehicle, decide on how to move it to your new destination. Shipping, towing or putting it on a trailer are just a few ways of moving a second vehicle. Another alternative worth thinking about is selling it, storing it or giving it to a relative. Make sure you know how to tow the second car safely if that is your option, and make sure the vehicle that is doing the towing is capable. Boats, trailers, motorbikes, four wheelers, etc. may need specialized provisions to be towed. Contact the dealer who sold you the item if you are unsure on the correct procedures or search the net.

Written by Jay Banks, Vancouver real estate agent and BC Moving Handbook creator