by Erica Beiser

Well this is a matter of opinion! Here in the Northern Midwest, you would assume the summer is the best time: no snow and sunny days. Wrong! The summer months, which we call Peak Season, are about May to August. Seventy percent of all moving is done during these months. The rates tend to be higher, the lead time on a move is much much longer, and moving van space is prime real estate!!

Moving in the winter might seem harder, but we’re experienced at all kinds of weather. It does not stop us, we just take extra precautions. Floor protection and rug runners become our movers’ best friends!!!

Spring and fall tend to be more preferrable for moving due to the weather, but if you need to move January 10th we will be there! Don’t let the time of year deter your moving venture because you are concerned about the movers. They are professionals, and have seen far worse weather than what any Midwest winter or humid summer can provide.

In most cases we ask for a minimun of four weeks notice on a move. This will allow enough time to provide you an estimate, schedule dates, and assign a driver and moving van to your move. If you do not have four weeks, don’t worry — Barrett Moving and Storage will not turn you away. In fact, we will do what ever we possiblly can to meet your moving needs.

To inquire further about moving during a specific time of year, please contact a move coordinator for further assistance. Smile and Happy Moving!!

by Erica Beiser

So much to do in so little time, you say? There is a laundry list of items that have to be taken care of before you can move. I find the easiest way to keep it all under control is make a list. There’s nothing like the satisfaction of checking items off a list – especially when they are part of a big project like moving.

Six to eight weeks before your move date, contact movers you are interested in working with to learn about their services and get moving estimates. This will give you plenty of time to choose your mover, check references, and make all the arrangements you need. Choosing is a mover is more than picking a price – it’s being sure that they’ll be there when they say they will, do what they promise, and treat your household goods the same way you would. (Or maybe even better!)

At the same time, start sorting and packing. This will help you determine how much you want to move, plan for a garage sale or donations, and make arrangements to get rid of things you won’t keep or donate. There’s nothing like packing to make you realize how much you have.

Look for packing tips on our website at www.barrettmoving.com or ask your mover for publications to help you get started.

Next time: More tips on getting ready for your move.

by Eliza Freiday

Often, when a customer is moving for the first time–whether it’s locally or long distance–they become overwhelmed by how much needs to be taken done for the upcoming move. Here are a few tips I’ve found helpful to help prepare–to ease the process for as you get your move organized.

Six to Eight weeks before move day: Prepare your family. Explain why you’re moving, and talk about what you can look forward to at the new location. Collect your personal records – including prescriptions, school and medical records, and other information you’ll need to get started in your new location.

Notify your utility company, professional services like your doctor and dentist, and your insurance agencies. Let your friends and family know what your new address will be and how to contact you during the move.

Two to Three Weeks before move day: Start getting your househld items organized for the move. Dispose of flammables, drain the fuel from your mower, or motorcycle. Have rugs and draperies cleaned — you can leave them wrapped to protect them during transit.

The day before move day: Check closets, cabinets and storage areas to make sure all your personal items have been taken care of.

Packing and moving days: Be sure to set aside an area in your home where you can work, make phone calls, and keep items you don’t want packed or loaded by the movers. This will make things easier for you on the move day.

Throughout the move process: Ask your move coordinator for answers to your questions. Barrett’s move coordinators are trained to help you keep your move on track and make is as easy as possible. It’s our job – and we like helping our customers!