Moving tips

Moving can be stressful, and there are going to be a lot of things on your mind as the big day approaches. Here is a comprehensive list of all the little things that are easy to overlook with all the hustle and bustle of moving. Ensuring these items are addressed will help your move go smoothly and quickly.

• As you pack, make sure all boxes are taped shut. Folding the flaps in is not secure and does not allow boxes to be stacked properly.
• Use smaller boxes for heavier items to prevent boxes from becoming overloaded and breaking under the weight.
• Label the content of boxes on all sides and the top, so that no matter how they are stacked, the labels are always visible. Put “Fragile” and “This side up” warnings on all sides of the boxes as well.
• Stacked boxes can end up blocking your larger items in. Make sure you stack boxes out of the way of furniture and clear from the hallways. If you have a garage, move all boxes and small items to the garage.
• Disconnect all large appliances, such as the refrigerator, washer, dryer, and all gas connections. If you have a front-loading washer or dryer, make sure you secure the drum.
• Make sure that you have removed belongings from under the beds, and remove all bedding. We will break down the beds at pick up and assemble beds at delivery.
• Check doorways for width to make sure futniture can fit through. Remove any doors that may be necessary.
• Take down pictures and photos and make sure they are protected through the move. Pictures that are still hanging can be easily bumped when furniture is being moved.
• Take out loose shelves from bookcases, entertainment centers, china and buffet cabinets etc. Also remove the tray from the microwave.
• Make arrangements for pet or child care on the day of the move. Pets and children can get underfoot, and propped-open doors may allow pets to escape.
• Let your movers know if you have any damaged furniture or furniture with loose pieces that will require special care during the move.
• Pack cash, coin, jewelry, and small valuables separately and keep them with you during the move. You should also keep remote controls, cabinet keys, or any other small items that could easily be lost with you during the move.
• Empty all drawers in the house – don’t forget dressers, night tables, buffets, wall units, desks, and the drawer under the stove. Every drawer in the house should be empty.
• If you have the original boxes for any electronics equipment, please use them.
• Plan your route. Provide a map to your movers so they can easily find the delivery address, and let them know about any specific parking or delivery instructions.
• Leave your freezer plugged while you pack your frozen goods in boxes or bags, and then place them back inside the freezer. The movers will unplug the freezer, remove the frozen goods and move the empty freezer. It is a good idea to buy insulated bags or ice packs to help ensure the food stays frozen, and to make sure nothing gets misplaced, number these packed boxes or bags as follows: 1 of 6, 2 of 6, etc.
• Always let the freezer sit for at least 1 hour before plugging it in. When a freezer is moved it will cause the fluids (oil, freon) to become unsettled. MOST IMPORTANT: this delay means it is the customer’s responsibility to ensure the freezer is plugged back in.
• If you are moving in or out of an apartment, arrange ahead to have the elevator put on SERVICE for the movers.
• Use tape to bundle together skies, garden tools, floor mops and brooms, etc. If you are worried about damaging the finish on any items, use plastic wrap instead.
• Move furniture and items from the basement or crawl space to a more convenient loading area.
• Filing cabinets must be completely emptied and contents packed.
• At the delivery location, you or your agent should stand near front door and instruct the movers where to place each piece of furniture. When the movers leave, all furniture should be in its proper spot. You should only need to unpack your boxes.
• After the move, do not plug in cold electronics. If it is cold or damp outside during your move, allow all audio/video equipment and computers to warm to room temperature before plugging in. We recommend 48hrs.

Here are some other helpful things to keep in mind:

• The more prepared you are for your move, the cheaper it will be. We base our rates on how many men your job will require, and how many hours it will take them. We are very experienced in gauging the right number of men for your job. Sometimes an extra man is not needed and would only add to the expense, but, in some cases, an extra man will save time and end up costing less.
• Charges start when the movers leave our office/depot.
• Unless formal credit arrangements have been made all customers are to pay the driver Debit, Visa, MasterCard, Cash at the end of the job/day.
• HST applies on all methods of payments. You will always be provided with an official receipt, which states our HST number. Be wary of any company that offers to waive the tax if you pay cash, as this means they are not only breaking the law, but operating off-the-books. This will mean that all of the protection that you should be entitled to as a client will not apply either, such as liability in the case of damages to physical property or worker injury.
• All moving day start times are approximate. Some clients will not be as well prepared as others, which causes delays in our schedule. Please be curteous to others and ensure you are well prepared for your move.
• We do not move pool tables. Movers do not take liquids, fuel, flammables, paint, propane tanks or matches. No lawnmowers, or snow blowers unless gas tanks are emptied.
• We accept Debit, Cash and major Credit Cards. You will be charged at the end of your move and your crew chief will take payment and provide you with a receipt. A formal invoice will later be mailed or emailed to you for your records.
• Some companies charge premium rates to move on weekends. Our rates do not change, regardless of the day you would like to move.
• We offer discounts for students and seniors, so please let us know if this applies to you!
• There doesn’t have to be just one pick-up or drop-off location – your move can be customized to fit your needs
• If you intend to pack your belongings yourself, please note that packing your own items limits the liability of the carrier. If you are going to spend money on additional coverage you may wish to have us pack your items. You may want us to pack only delicate and breakable items. We would be happy to discuss your options with you to help you make the best choice for your move.
• Augusta takes great care with your belongings, and we pride ourselves in our track record. However, for your peace of mind, all moves with Augusta are insured. Your move includes a small amount of basic insurance coverage. Generally it is $0.60 per pound per article. Additional coverage is available at an extra cost. Please contact us to discuss your options.
• We do ask for a booking deposit on all local (within the GTA) and long distance moves. No representative of Augusta Movers will ask for any money until your move is complete and you are provided with a receipt.