ON THE MOVE...
By Mary Pepitone

Get a move on. Forty-two million Americans did just that when they changed their home address in 2003, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data. No matter the circumstances surrounding a move, it’s stressful, according to MaryScott Tuck, spokesperson for the American Moving and Storage Association. “Murphy’s Law is always in effect when you move - no matter how much you plan,” Tuck said. “The process can become a lot less stressful and easier the farther you can plan ahead.”

Tuck says that summer is the busiest season for movers. Also, the beginning and end of each month are busier than mid-month, so, if you can, plan well in advance - especially if you’re using a moving company’s services.

If you’re hiring professional movers, local movers usually charge by the hour - while interstate and intrastate movers charge by weight. Get at least three in-home estimates and make sure prospective movers provide you with a written estimate, and an explanation of their services.

For a list of qualified movers, follow the link “How to Choose a Mover” at www.moving.org.

Being flexible is the name of the game on moving day, says Tuck. “The best piece of advice I can give those who are moving is to get a goodnight’s sleep the night before,” she said. “It will just help you handle an extremely stressful and disruptive day better.

A CAVEAT: I read in Blueprint Magazine (#5, 2007, page 20) that "the majority of moving victims who file compaints found their haulers online, so start your search by asking real-estate brokers and recent relocators for recommendations."

More information...

• Countdown to Moving Day
• Packing it Up