How to Prepare for a Move in Escanaba, MI

Moving can be a stressful task, especially if you have never planned one before. Some might not even know how to plan a move. There is no need to worry. Our professional movers know what it takes to plan and execute a move not only to Escanaba but anywhere in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

We want to help alleviate your concern with planning a move. Follow these guidelines on how to prepare for your journey and you will be confident on moving day knowing that everything is in order for your move to Escanaba, MI.

Inventory All Your Belongings

Create a moving checklist of everything you plan on transporting.

The first step for preparing a move to Escanaba is to inventory everything that you plan on transporting. Taking note of everything that you will be moving will allow you to help the moving company you choose to provide you with an accurate moving estimate.

During the inventory process, take note of the condition of your possessions as well. If anything is damaged during transportation it is best to have proof in order to file a claims report. We suggest photographing more valuable items.

Declutter Your Home of Unnecessary Items

Recycle, dispose of, donate or sell any items you don’t wish to transport with you to your new home.

During the inventory process, it is also a good idea to purge your home of any unwanted possessions. Doing this gives you the chance for a fresh start at your new home. Not only will decluttering your home save you time during packing and unpacking, but reducing the number of possessions you have will also reduce the overall costs.

Decluttering your household will help alleviate some of your stress and help you save money.

Calculate Your Moving Costs

Set a budget to determine how much you are willing to spend.

Most Escanaba moving companies consider two factors when quoting your move. One is the distance traveled and the other is the total amount of weight of your possessions. That also doesn’t count any specialty moving services you may require.

Contact professional moving companies and ask for a quote. A reputable mover will provide you with a free estimate of the overall cost. Take note if their services are within your budget. It is recommended to get a few quotes from a variety of moving companies. Remember, just because they are the cheapest moving company doesn’t mean they are the best. Don’t be blinded by low costs, you could be jeopardizing the whole experience.

Choose an Escanaba Moving Company

Find a professional Escanaba moving company 2-3 months prior to your move date.

Choose a full-service company that is able to handle every aspect of your moving process. For local moves, it is best to find a company that is familiar with the area. They will be able to provide you with the personal touch you want from local moving companies.

Choose a company with experience organizing and providing moving services in the Escanaba area. Take the extra time to get to know the company you are considering. Read reviews, ask questions about their service and see if they are the right fit for you! Moving companies can make or break the whole experience.

Gather Packing Supplies

Don’t be afraid to splurge on better packing supplies.

Packing supplies still play an important role in this process. Having the right supplies will help you stay organized and will keep your items protected during transportation. If it is within your budget, purchase durable cardboard boxes, proper labels, packing paper, bubble wrap and other supplies that will help you pack. Don’t settle for cheap supplies just because you are trying to save money. Any damage that occurs to your possessions because of cheap material could end up costing you more in the long-run.

Most movers will have packing supplies you can purchase directly from them at an extra cost. This is good for when you don’t have the time to gather the supplies yourself or if you want the best products.

Begin Organizing Your Belongings

Organization is key to your success!

During preparation begin organizing each room individually. Start packing one area of your house (i.e. a closet) at a time and begin putting items in designated boxes. Start with areas of your house that have items you don’t use all that often and work your way down.

Be sure to have some form of an organizational system when packing. Methods as easy as color coding or labeling will spare you the headache when it comes to unloading the moving truck.

Finish Packing

Finish packing at least 1-2 weeks prior to your set date.

Everything that you don’t plan on using the next couple of days should be in packed boxes and ready for transportation. Item’s that you plan on using the last week should be the only things not packed during this time period.

Now is also the time to begin organizing any important documents you have lying around the house including passports, birth certificates, medical records, etc.

Change Household Services

Update any services you have to your new address as well as any billing information.

Before moving to Escanaba, make sure your new home is properly set up with all necessary services. This includes any utilities, cable, internet or any other subscriptions you may have. You don’t want to show up at your new home and realize you don’t have running water.

This is also the time to cancel or update any services that you had at your previous residence. Don’t get caught having to pay an extra bill because you forgot to cancel it previously.

Clean Out Your Old Home

Walk through and clean your home one last time.

The last step in the process, is to conduct a final walkthrough before leaving your old home. Before the movers show up, take the time to clean your home. Vacuum, dust, check drawers, counters, closets, etc. Not only will you be leaving the house nice, clean and ready for the market, but this also gives you the opportunity to make sure you didn’t miss a single thing.