6 Tips For a Smooth Summer Move in DFW

When making plans to move to the Dallas/Fort Worth area this summer, remember that planning is key. This is especially important when moving in the summer, as this is the busiest time of year for families as well as movers. The kids are out of school and everyone wants to make the change in June, July or August so as to avoid the disruption during the school year. Statistically, the busiest months for moves is June through September.

You are likely very excited about moving to the Dallas or Fort Worth area, comprised of 11 counties and a population of 7.5 million. As the economic and cultural hub of North TX, the DFW Metroplex is the fourth largest metro area in the country with the highest population growth per year.

The economy in this region is strong in commerce, banking, technology, energy, healthcare, medical research, logistics and insurance. It’s actually home to 24 of the Fortune 500 companies, making it a good choice for moving here due to a job relocation. Did you know the DFW also has the highest concentration of colleges and universities in the state? Great news if you’re a college student or have a college student.

OK, back to the move to DFW. Let’s go over some tips for ensuring a smooth move here this summer.

1. Make a Packing/Unpacking Plan

Before you pack a thing, think about how you will unpack. This will make it much easier on you when you’re in the new place and you’re trying to figure out where everything is. Before packing up a room, for instance, consider the most vital and immediate items, then pack those items together. Be very detailed in your labeling. You will thank yourself later!

List all items in the box, then add which room the will be going into. This will help your movers determine the right rooms, saving you time in the end. Create an inventory of all items you are taking with you. Check them off as you pack them. It’s also wise to take photos of your valuable and fragile items in case something goes missing or is damaged.

2. Hire Movers Early On

As we said above, movers are busiest in summer, which means their schedules will be packed. As soon as you know your moving date, call a few movers to get some quotes and book one of them. The earlier you do this, the better chance you get of securing movers for your desired dates. Give your movers as much lead time as possible.

3. Start Planning Early

Even with a one-bedroom condo, packing can take many days. This is compounded with a multi-room home or an office. The more you can take care of now, the less stress you will feel in the days leading up to the move. Set yourself a goal every day, such as packing one room each day. Check off your goals as you go, to give yourself a sense of accomplishment and to ensure you don’t forget what you have already done.

Take the time to clear your schedule, request days off work, plan for child and pet care if need be, and generally avoid planning anything during that week. This will take the stress off your shoulders because you will have a plan in place to fall back on.

4. Decide What to Keep and What to Toss

Generally, you’ll want to throw out perishable foods and any open soaps, cleansers, detergents and condiments. You will also have to properly dispose of open paint cans, paint thinner, oil and the like. Your movers won’t take it for you. In addition to perishable foods and hazardous items, you should also go through your belongings in each room. Toss what is broken or worn, and donate what is still in good quality. From clothing to appliances, chances are there is a charity in your area that will take them off your hands.

It can be tough to hang onto items that you’ve always had, but part of moving is starting fresh. Consider what items are replaceable and toss what is weighing you down. But make sure you work the cost of replacement into your moving budget.

5. Protect Your Items

When packing flat screen TVs, laptops, glass, mirrors and antiques, you should take the time to properly pack them in the proper receptacles. If you don’t, you risk breaking those expensive items and you will kick yourself later! Pack them the right way to avoid heat, dust and electric shocks. Ask your movers to bring all the supplies and pack for you – they would be happy to do this for an extra fee. These supplies include anything from flat panel moving box kits to picture boxes.

6. Hire Your Help, Don’t Ask Friends

You may assume that a DIY move will save you money, but this isn’t always true. It can be a hassle renting your own truck and asking friends for help. No one wants to waste a whole day helping you move. Do yourself a favor and avoid all the detailed costs by bundling your costs into one with a professional mover. Plus, you won’t risk your back by hauling heavy items such as couches yourself. The medical bills alone would overrule any cost savings you made on a DIY move!

You can even customize your move, using only the services you need, such as moving labor, packing, storage, fine arts moving, antique moving and white glove service. You can proceed with your move with confidence when you know you have an experienced moving company powering your DFW move.