Planning ahead can alleviate chaos on moving day, especially if that plan was initiated two months before. Hiring the right company is key to both ensuring the security of your belongings and a great customer experience.

Because of their overall success in providing quality relocation services, hire an agency that received the United Van Lines stamp of approval as many of its affiliates offer valuable packages and options for both moving and storage. Jackson yields a large number of moving companies that are members of the Better Business Bureau, the American Moving and Storage Association, as well as members of local chambers of commerce that have been recognized by United Van Lines for Customer Choice and Fleet Safety awards.

Tips for a Successful Move
Once you’ve hired a qualified agency and locked in your official moving date, it is time to get to work. Some moving and storage agencies help smooth the transition by offering tips and tricks for a successful move. They often provide check lists that provide information on the customer’s rights and responsibilities when entering into a contract, how to submit a change of address and update your information, and how to determine what to pack and what to leave behind.

Pack Like a Pro
Don’t wait until last minute to begin packing. Professional moving companies recommend their customers start by going through each room to determine what goes and what stays at least six weeks prior to moving day. Once you’ve gone through everything, it’s time to get out the boxes and packaging supplies. When making a shopping list, make sure to buy both small and large moving boxes, as well as boxes designed to safely transport electronics, dishes and fragile items.

To prevent any unnecessary damage, buy a large roll of bubble wrap and unprinted news wrap to ensure your items make it to their destination in one piece. Once a box is packed, label it with a permanent marker and include any warnings or special instructions for the movers. One tip is to put heavier items in smaller boxes to make them easier to carry and put large lightweight items in larger boxes.

Too Much Stuff?
For families looking to relocate to a new residence that offer a floor plan with reduced square footage, ask if that agency provides customers with secure storage options in addition to helping with the initial move. It is best to go with an agency that takes extra precautions to ensure your belongings stay secure, which includes a storage facility with an alarm system, an after hours security team, proper ventilation and a fire suppression system has been installed and verified.