SELLERS INFORMATION

The deal has been signed and the financing has been approved. You're ecstatic about the home you've just purchased. Now all you have left to do is move. Don't panic! Before the idea of packing up your life and hauling it away begins to overwhelm you, here are a few tips to help you make moving a little more bearable.

Start Early

Whether you decide to move yourself or hire professional movers, plan ahead. Most good moving companies, in terms of both trucks and staff, are booked six weeks in advance. This is especially the case during the summer months, which tends to be the busiest moving time of the year. If possible, avoid the end of the month and weekends for moving; weekdays are always less hectic and companies generally offer more economical rates during this down period.

Organization is the key to a stress-free move. Begin the packing process at least three weeks prior to moving day. Your first step is to evaluate your possessions and determine which items you no longer use or have forgotten. Don't move your gently-used junk! Consider having a garage sale or donating items to charity rather than moving them to your new home. Be brave: discard those possessions that are no longer useful.

Next, scour the local supermarket and liquor store for free packing boxes. You can also purchase boxes from your moving company or a moving store. You can never have enough boxes, so remember to pick-up a few every time you're out shopping.

Now, you're ready to start packing! Remember, there is more to packing than simply tossing items in a box. By spending the time to organize your household goods during this process, unpacking is guaranteed to be faster and much more efficient. Pack one area of the house at a time and consider starting with those belongings you are not currently using, such as out-of-season clothes, tools, sporting goods, pictures and old books.

Next, move to the more active areas of your home. Again, pack contents of each room in separate boxes and clearly label them, by room and general contents. This will help to eliminate any confusion once you reach your destination. Try to use unprinted newsprint (which will help avoid soiling your items), dish towels, sheets and pillow cases to wrap valuables. It is very important not to over-pack a box. A box that is too heavy may break or simply be too heavy or awkward to carry.

Pack a special box of necessities to be kept with you throughout your move. Include items such as scissors, utility knife, disposable cups, plates and cutlery, soft drinks, snacks, paper towels, toilet paper, pencil, paper, trash bags, flashlight and aspirin. This will eliminate the frustration of rummaging through your packed belongings to locate basic items.

Professional Movers

If you choose to hire professional movers, get estimates from at least three qualified moving companies. Check with local consumer groups, such as the Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce, who keep records of complaints that are filed against a business. Make sure you get a written estimate, based on a visual inspection. Costs vary depending on actual weight of items and extra services, such as appliance hook-ups. Remember that estimates are not always binding, so be sure to clarify any hidden or extra costs.

Let the movers pack your antiques and breakables. They have special packing containers for unique items. For insurance reasons, if they don't pack an item and it breaks during the move, you will be liable. Jewelry and similar valuables, as well as plants, should be taken with you.

Always review your inventory before it is packed. Work with your mover to itemize valuable belongings on an inventory sheet. Discuss the list with your mover, and be sure the company agrees to be responsible for the items listed. The inventory is one of the most important documents you have during a move. At your destination you will be asked to sign the list after inspecting your goods for damage or loss. Review your homeowners insurance to determine if it covers your possessions during a move. If not, you can purchase insurance from your moving company.

Finally, recognize that moving day will always be emotional and that's natural. Consider preparing an easy one-dish meal, such as a casserole or stew that is simple to reheat, or order in and have an indoor picnic in your new home so you can relax and enjoy your new surroundings. Moving day is always an adventure, but with some practical pre-planning, your day can be made a little easier.