Making Moving Easier

Are you ready to move into your first apartment on your own? Whether you're a new college grad, chose to live off-campus this year, or you can finally afford your own solo rental, take a look at the apartment moving tips to follow.

Call a Professional

Before you ask your friends to help you haul boxes, bins, bags, and furniture, contact a professional. A moving contractor has the knowledge and experience necessary to efficiently move everything you have from point A to point B. If you're not sure why you should choose a professional mover over your college pals or family, consider:

• Your time-frame. Do you need to move on a specific date? While volunteer friends and family helpers can cut your overall move-related costs, you can't expect these for-free workers to stick to your schedule. Professional movers will book an appointment and make sure you move on a set day.

• The transportation. Do your friends have a truck big enough to move everything into your new apartment? Even though your former college roommate may have a minivan, it's likely you'll need a larger vehicle. A professional will have the type of truck you need for your move.

• The insurance. Do you have insurance that covers the costs of move-related damage? If not, talk to a professional. A licensed moving company should have insurance that covers costs against some types of claims.

If you're not sure how to find the right mover, ask for referrals. Even though it's preferable to choose a pro, your friends and family can provide you with the names and contact information of movers they've worked with in the past.

Get a Quote in Writing

Avoid apartment moving quotes done over the phone or in-person verbal estimates. A quality professional moving contractor will give the customer an estimate in writing (or electronically via email). There are three primary types of moving estimates. These include binding, nonbinding, and binding not-to-exceed. Ask the movers to explain what type of estimate they provide and what types of costs you can expect. 

Choose the Right Time to Move

When should you schedule your moving appointment? The day your new lease starts is an obvious choice. But it's not the only option. Make sure you'll have enough time to pack and organize your belongings before the movers arrive. If you've already prepped and packed, think about other factors. These could include your work or school schedule or your preferred time of day. If you're not a morning person, the moving company may have an afternoon (or later) time slot available.