A successful move starts with planning and organizing. Following is a checklist of items to consider two weeks prior to moving.
Two Weeks Prior to Moving
* Arrange for help with your children and pets on your moving day.
* Confirm any travel reservations.
* Reserve an elevator if moving from an apartment.
* Have your appliances serviced for moving.
* Clean rugs and clothing and have them wrapped for moving.
* Plan ahead for special needs of infants.
* Close bank accounts and have your funds wired to your new bank. Make sure there are no outstanding checks or automatic payments that haven’t been processed yet.
* Make copies of any important documents before mailing or hand carry them to your new address.
* Check with your insurance agent to ensure you'll be covered through your homeowner's or renter's policy during the move.
* Defrost the freezer and refrigerator. Place deodorizer inside to control odors.
* Give a close friend or relative your travel route and schedule so you may be reached if needed.
* Arrange for disposal of anything not sold at your moving sale.
* Take your car in for servicing in preparation for the move. Let the service technician know if you are moving to a different climate so your car will be properly prepared.
* Return any borrowed items, such as library books.
* Notify creditors of your move.
* Cancel any newspaper deliveries.
* Make sure you have an adequate supply of medications on hand and transfer prescriptions.
* Mail change-of-address cards to family and friends.
* Pick up dry cleaning, anything you may have loaned to friends, empty safe deposit boxes, etc.
* File your change of address form at the post office.
* Pack a travel bag with critical items, such as your checkbook, credit cards, phone numbers and contact information, toiletries, travel alarm clock, medications, first aid supplies, games and toys for the kids, etc.
One Day Prior to Moving
* Take pets to your veterinarian for immunizations, if necessary.
* Find new homes for plants that will not be moved.
* Have the movers pack you belongings (unless you’ve handled your own packing).
* Make sure you have cash or travelers checks for the trip.
* Call the moving company to confirm their arrival time.
* If moving yourself, dismantle beds and other large furniture.
On Moving Day
* Double check closets, drawers and shelves to make sure they are empty.
* Check rooms, attic, garage and yard to make sure nothing is left behind.
* Carry important documents, currency and jewelry yourself, or use registered mail.
* Note all utility meter readings.
* Read your bill of lading and inventory carefully (provided by the moving company) before signing. Keep paperwork in a safe place.
* Turn off the water heater and lower the thermostat.
* Get the name of the driver of the moving truck and give him your contact information. Review directions to the new house.
* Have the final payment for the movers and tip money.
Delivery Day
* Check your belongings carefully and note any damaged items on the inventory paperwork.
* Prepare to pay the driver before your possessions are unloaded via cash, a certified check, or travelers checks, unless other arrangements have been made in advance.
* Supervise the unloading and unpacking.
After Arriving At New Home
* Renew your driver's license, auto registration and tags.
* Shop around for new insurance policies, especially auto coverage.
* Revise your will and other legal papers to avoid longer probate and higher legal fees.
* Locate the hospitals, police stations, veterinarian and fire stations near your home.
* Change the locks on all doors in your new home.
http://www.myguidesusa.com/movingandrelocation/moving/moving-checklists/two-weeks-prior-to-moving/
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Avoiding Moving Scams
Protect yourself from moving company crimes and moving scams. Following are some precautions to consider when researching moving companies:
* Don’t use Internet databases to find moving companies. The people who operate the databases act on commission and have their own best interests in mind. You won’t be able to hold them responsible if a moving company they endorse turns out to be a scam artist.
* Make sure any estimates and quotes received are inclusive of all items that you are moving, all packing, and includes the desired insurance. To avoid charges for additional services, be sure to tell your estimator of any exceptional situations about your destination such as elevators or stairs.
* Never work with a mover who contacts you first. Do your own research then contact a mover whose business practices you trust.
* Be especially careful if dealing with movers in Florida or New York. A tremendous amount of complaints have been filed against movers in these areas.
* Request that the movers provide you with references and check those references.
* Ask your mover for the estimated weight of your items. Compare weight estimates from different moving companies. Ask for a copy of the survey showing the estimated weight.
* Make sure your initial deposit is credited to your bill.
* Movers must offer "full value protection" or "full replacement value" insurance at an additional charge. This holds the mover responsible for damaged or lost goods. If you have any articles that are of extraordinary value, such as those with values exceeding $100 per pound, make sure the care of this item is listed specifically on a high-value inventory receipt. If you do not elect to have additional insurance, the mover's maximum liability is 60 cents per pound per article.
* Ask the mover to put down the date or time period of pickup and delivery.
* If the mover fails to pick up and deliver your shipment on the dates entered on the bill and you have incurred direct out-of-pocket expenses you otherwise wouldn’t have had, you may be able to recover those expenses from the mover. This is an inconvenience or "delay” claim.
* After the complete shipment is unloaded, the driver will request that you sign the driver's copy of the inventory to show you received the items listed. Do not sign until you have assured yourself that it is accurate and that proper notations have been entered regarding any missing or damaged items.
* Avoid “rogue” movers, or movers that offer low estimates then demand more money than originally agreed upon. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) offers information regarding rogue movers on their web site at www.protectyourmove.gov.
* Make sure your mover complies with Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) regulations. Some movers work with the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) regulations, making it easier for them to slip in extra charges. Have the mover promise in writing that they will comply with ICC regulations.
* Keep a record of every contact you make with movers. As an extra precaution, videotape them as they load items into their truck.
* After your move, the mover will ask you to sign an Addendum. Don’t sign anything unless you are fully satisfied with their services.
http://www.myguidesusa.com/movingandrelocation/moving/moving-tips/avoiding-moving-scams/
* Don’t use Internet databases to find moving companies. The people who operate the databases act on commission and have their own best interests in mind. You won’t be able to hold them responsible if a moving company they endorse turns out to be a scam artist.
* Make sure any estimates and quotes received are inclusive of all items that you are moving, all packing, and includes the desired insurance. To avoid charges for additional services, be sure to tell your estimator of any exceptional situations about your destination such as elevators or stairs.
* Never work with a mover who contacts you first. Do your own research then contact a mover whose business practices you trust.
* Be especially careful if dealing with movers in Florida or New York. A tremendous amount of complaints have been filed against movers in these areas.
* Request that the movers provide you with references and check those references.
* Ask your mover for the estimated weight of your items. Compare weight estimates from different moving companies. Ask for a copy of the survey showing the estimated weight.
* Make sure your initial deposit is credited to your bill.
* Movers must offer "full value protection" or "full replacement value" insurance at an additional charge. This holds the mover responsible for damaged or lost goods. If you have any articles that are of extraordinary value, such as those with values exceeding $100 per pound, make sure the care of this item is listed specifically on a high-value inventory receipt. If you do not elect to have additional insurance, the mover's maximum liability is 60 cents per pound per article.
* Ask the mover to put down the date or time period of pickup and delivery.
* If the mover fails to pick up and deliver your shipment on the dates entered on the bill and you have incurred direct out-of-pocket expenses you otherwise wouldn’t have had, you may be able to recover those expenses from the mover. This is an inconvenience or "delay” claim.
* After the complete shipment is unloaded, the driver will request that you sign the driver's copy of the inventory to show you received the items listed. Do not sign until you have assured yourself that it is accurate and that proper notations have been entered regarding any missing or damaged items.
* Avoid “rogue” movers, or movers that offer low estimates then demand more money than originally agreed upon. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) offers information regarding rogue movers on their web site at www.protectyourmove.gov.
* Make sure your mover complies with Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) regulations. Some movers work with the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) regulations, making it easier for them to slip in extra charges. Have the mover promise in writing that they will comply with ICC regulations.
* Keep a record of every contact you make with movers. As an extra precaution, videotape them as they load items into their truck.
* After your move, the mover will ask you to sign an Addendum. Don’t sign anything unless you are fully satisfied with their services.
http://www.myguidesusa.com/movingandrelocation/moving/moving-tips/avoiding-moving-scams/
Moving the Family
Following are moving tips to help your family have the smoothest move possible.
* Make a plan for packing, such as which rooms will get packed first. Try to pack young children’s belongings last to minimize any disruption for them.
* Make travel arrangements well in advance and aim to make the trip as stress-free as possible. If flying to your new destination, book a direct flight. If driving, map out a route and determine a reasonable amount of time to devote to driving each day. Book hotel accommodations in advance.
* Pre-arrange for services prior to arriving at your new home, such as phone service, cable TV hookups, Internet access, etc.
* Assign family members with sorting, packing and moving day responsibilities to make things as efficient as possible and ensure that all family members feel involved in the moving process.
* Find babysitters to help out with children to give you some time to pack. Also, find help on moving day to keep the children away from those moving heavy furniture, to avoid tears as they watch their beloved toy chest being moved out of the house, etc.
* Board your pets for move day since the doors will be open. Ask your veterinarian for tips on moving with pets.
* Keep a record of essential information, such as birth certificates, medical records, dental records, school records, etc., in a secure folder that travels with you. Also consider carrying irreplaceable items, such as family photographs, with you.
* Pack a suitcase with the necessities you’ll need upon arriving at your new home, such as paper towels, toilet paper, soap, shampoo, towels, shower curtain, etc.
* Pack an “entertainment bag” for plane or car travel filled with a change of clothing, toys, snacks, books and toiletries.
* Create a contingency plan for sleeping in your new home the first few nights. If you arrive ahead of your furniture, you may consider packing (or purchasing upon arrival) sleeping bags, pillows, paper plates, plastic utensils, etc.
* Research children’s activities in your new location ahead of the move. Children will need a break from unpacking (as will the adults!). Or, perhaps one parent could entertain while the other one unpacks.
* Send a surprise gift, one that will be at the house when you arrive, such as a fun lawn game (a trampoline, volleyball net, crochet, etc.) to celebrate your big move.
http://www.myguidesusa.com/movingandrelocation/moving/moving-tips/moving-the-family/
* Make a plan for packing, such as which rooms will get packed first. Try to pack young children’s belongings last to minimize any disruption for them.
* Make travel arrangements well in advance and aim to make the trip as stress-free as possible. If flying to your new destination, book a direct flight. If driving, map out a route and determine a reasonable amount of time to devote to driving each day. Book hotel accommodations in advance.
* Pre-arrange for services prior to arriving at your new home, such as phone service, cable TV hookups, Internet access, etc.
* Assign family members with sorting, packing and moving day responsibilities to make things as efficient as possible and ensure that all family members feel involved in the moving process.
* Find babysitters to help out with children to give you some time to pack. Also, find help on moving day to keep the children away from those moving heavy furniture, to avoid tears as they watch their beloved toy chest being moved out of the house, etc.
* Board your pets for move day since the doors will be open. Ask your veterinarian for tips on moving with pets.
* Keep a record of essential information, such as birth certificates, medical records, dental records, school records, etc., in a secure folder that travels with you. Also consider carrying irreplaceable items, such as family photographs, with you.
* Pack a suitcase with the necessities you’ll need upon arriving at your new home, such as paper towels, toilet paper, soap, shampoo, towels, shower curtain, etc.
* Pack an “entertainment bag” for plane or car travel filled with a change of clothing, toys, snacks, books and toiletries.
* Create a contingency plan for sleeping in your new home the first few nights. If you arrive ahead of your furniture, you may consider packing (or purchasing upon arrival) sleeping bags, pillows, paper plates, plastic utensils, etc.
* Research children’s activities in your new location ahead of the move. Children will need a break from unpacking (as will the adults!). Or, perhaps one parent could entertain while the other one unpacks.
* Send a surprise gift, one that will be at the house when you arrive, such as a fun lawn game (a trampoline, volleyball net, crochet, etc.) to celebrate your big move.
http://www.myguidesusa.com/movingandrelocation/moving/moving-tips/moving-the-family/
Moving with Children
Following are tips to help your children adjust before, during and after a move:
* Tell your kids about the move as soon as possible. Experts say it’s best to tell children as soon as possible to give them time to get used to the idea of moving.
* Be available to answer their questions regarding the move. What they ask will give you an idea of how they’re feeling about the move, whether they’re excited or nervous.
* Maintain a positive attitude about the move. Your attitude will influence your children. Be enthusiastic and positive.
* Include the children in planning for the move by taking them to look at houses with you or having them help with packing. Let them know how helpful they are.
* Help your child learn about the new area.
* Play with dolls, boxes and a wagon with your child to help them understand the concept of moving.
* Let the children decide how their new rooms are to be arranged and decorated.
* Encourage children to exchange addresses and phone numbers with their friends.
* Prepare a package for each child containing snacks, clothing and a few favorite toys for the move.
* Take a "family break" as soon as the major unpacking is done. Don't try to do everything when you arrive.
* Follow progress in new schools. Accompanying your child to school the first few days may ease tension.
* Spend time after the move listening to each child about new schools and new friends.
* Report any lingering abnormalities, such as a loss of appetite, insomnia, constipation or diarrhea to your pediatrician.
* Educate your child about any new situations they may face if moving to a different environment, such as moving from a rural area to a suburban area or from a suburban area to a city.
http://www.myguidesusa.com/movingandrelocation/moving/moving-tips/moving-with-children/
* Tell your kids about the move as soon as possible. Experts say it’s best to tell children as soon as possible to give them time to get used to the idea of moving.
* Be available to answer their questions regarding the move. What they ask will give you an idea of how they’re feeling about the move, whether they’re excited or nervous.
* Maintain a positive attitude about the move. Your attitude will influence your children. Be enthusiastic and positive.
* Include the children in planning for the move by taking them to look at houses with you or having them help with packing. Let them know how helpful they are.
* Help your child learn about the new area.
* Play with dolls, boxes and a wagon with your child to help them understand the concept of moving.
* Let the children decide how their new rooms are to be arranged and decorated.
* Encourage children to exchange addresses and phone numbers with their friends.
* Prepare a package for each child containing snacks, clothing and a few favorite toys for the move.
* Take a "family break" as soon as the major unpacking is done. Don't try to do everything when you arrive.
* Follow progress in new schools. Accompanying your child to school the first few days may ease tension.
* Spend time after the move listening to each child about new schools and new friends.
* Report any lingering abnormalities, such as a loss of appetite, insomnia, constipation or diarrhea to your pediatrician.
* Educate your child about any new situations they may face if moving to a different environment, such as moving from a rural area to a suburban area or from a suburban area to a city.
http://www.myguidesusa.com/movingandrelocation/moving/moving-tips/moving-with-children/
Relocation tips, checklist, advice
Relocating to an unfamiliar area can be unsettling, so it's a good idea to work with a relocation specialist who offers relocation services. All the real estate agencies who participate in RELOHomeSearch have relocation specialists in the area you are moving to. When you get your RELOHomeSearch search results, click the Member Profile link, which will take you to a listing of relocation specialists for that company.
There are many special considerations when relocating, particularly if you are relocating with children . You should always work with a real estate agency that specializes in relocation and provides comprehensive relocation services. For a handy checklist to prepare you for your relocation, as well as getting you up to speed on relocation-specific topics, check out our moving check-list . Also, most real estate agencies who participate in RELOHomeSearch offer local relocation checklists, referrals to moving and storage companies and facilities, and other services to smooth your transition to your new home. Finally, remember you can always ask for a referral to a qualified relocation specialist within the agency handling your relocation, or to another such specialist at the other end of your move. Regardless, make sure you work with a licensed professional in good standing with his or her state's real estate licensing board.
If you are relocating, either by choice or by necessity, and want to find information on prospective communities, after your search results are displayed on RELOHomeSearch, click a city name, which will take you to a community profile of that city. In addition, you should also check out the local newspaper to learn about local issues..
http://www.relohomesearch.com/Article.aspx?ArticleID=21
There are many special considerations when relocating, particularly if you are relocating with children . You should always work with a real estate agency that specializes in relocation and provides comprehensive relocation services. For a handy checklist to prepare you for your relocation, as well as getting you up to speed on relocation-specific topics, check out our moving check-list . Also, most real estate agencies who participate in RELOHomeSearch offer local relocation checklists, referrals to moving and storage companies and facilities, and other services to smooth your transition to your new home. Finally, remember you can always ask for a referral to a qualified relocation specialist within the agency handling your relocation, or to another such specialist at the other end of your move. Regardless, make sure you work with a licensed professional in good standing with his or her state's real estate licensing board.
If you are relocating, either by choice or by necessity, and want to find information on prospective communities, after your search results are displayed on RELOHomeSearch, click a city name, which will take you to a community profile of that city. In addition, you should also check out the local newspaper to learn about local issues..
http://www.relohomesearch.com/Article.aspx?ArticleID=21
Friday, March 16, 2007
Taking a Motor Vehicle
The decision whether to take a motor vehicle to your country assignment will depend on many factors, including specifically, your destination country. Here are some general questions to keep in mind, while you are making your decision:
- Is a motor vehicle necessary in your destination country?
- Is it easy to transport it there?
- What are the customs or import restrictions and costs?
- Does your employer cover the cost of shipping your vehicle or will you have to bear the expense yourself?
- Will you be able to maintain it at a good standard?
- Will you be able to re-export it or sell it?
- Can you purchase a motor vehicle after you arrive? Would this be more or less expensive than shipping your vehicle from home?
- If you decide not to take you vehicle, should you sell it or store it?
Deciding What to Take
Preparing to pick up and move an entire household to another country is a daunting prospect. It requires some careful planning and as much time as you can give it, but it is not without its bright side. This may be the best opportunity you've ever had to clean house from top to bottom; take a critical look at what you have, and decide whether you really want to take it all with you.
You may be influenced by the cost of shipping large quantities. Some employers place restrictions on the size of household shipments, either by weight or volume, or by excluding certain larger items. Before deciding what to include in your household shipment, it is advisable to check with your employer whether any such restrictions will apply in your circumstances.
On the other hand, you do not want to strip away everything that you associate with home, or your new dwelling will not seem familiar and welcoming.
As with any decision-making, the more information you have the easier it becomes. If you are making a pre-assignment trip, this is a good opportunity to do some research:
There are some further general questions you can keep in mind as you sort out the essential items to take with you from those that can safely left behind or disposed of:
Remember, you want to make both the move and your life abroad as uncomplicated as possible. Try not to be overburdened by nonessential possessions, but keep in mind that you are creating a home away from home.
http://www.moving.com/International/Essentials/GettingReady/Decisions/
You may be influenced by the cost of shipping large quantities. Some employers place restrictions on the size of household shipments, either by weight or volume, or by excluding certain larger items. Before deciding what to include in your household shipment, it is advisable to check with your employer whether any such restrictions will apply in your circumstances.
On the other hand, you do not want to strip away everything that you associate with home, or your new dwelling will not seem familiar and welcoming.
As with any decision-making, the more information you have the easier it becomes. If you are making a pre-assignment trip, this is a good opportunity to do some research:
- What is the climate like? It may not be a good idea to take anything especially valuable or irreplaceable which could be sensitive to changes in climate. Humidity and temperature may not be friendly to fine furniture, books, and art. Antiques could disintegrate in arid locations.
- How big is your new home likely to be? Will your large furniture items and appliances fit?
- What is the electrical standard? Will your existing appliances work?
- Will you be able to purchase household and other items in your destination country? If not, is there anything you should purchase before you leave home and include in your shipment?
- If you know the length of your assignment and have some expectation of whether you will return home or move on to a new country, this will also help you decide whether you can manage without some things for a while, or whether you should take them with you.
There are some further general questions you can keep in mind as you sort out the essential items to take with you from those that can safely left behind or disposed of:
- Do you really need this to live comfortably abroad?
- Would it be better not to take this? If you don't take it, will it be safe in storage?
- Do you know where our next move will be? Will you need this in the future or when you return home?
Remember, you want to make both the move and your life abroad as uncomplicated as possible. Try not to be overburdened by nonessential possessions, but keep in mind that you are creating a home away from home.
http://www.moving.com/International/Essentials/GettingReady/Decisions/
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