The moving industry in Fairfax, Virginia, is one of the most vibrant in the entire state. According to historical census data, Fairfax County records tens of thousands of people moving in and out of the state annually.
Moving homes is undoubtedly one of the most adventure-filled experiences. However, it can also be fraught with hidden challenges. Enlisting professional assistance is the best way to ace the process.
Fortunately, there’s no shortage of experienced movers in Fairfax County. Some research is all it takes to find the right company for your needs.
This post outlines a series of steps to take when preparing for your next move with Fairfax movers.
Identify The Right mover
A simple online search for “Fairfax movers” will turn up dozens of moving companies operating throughout the county. But how do you hone in on the right mover?
First, invest in online reviews. Testimonials from a mover’s previous clients can guide you on the expected services.
It’s also best to prioritize Fairfax VA movers who are duly licensed and insured. Proof of state-issued license ensures you’re dealing with a legal entity, while insurance provides peace of mind knowing you’ll be compensated for any property damage or theft in transit.
The range of services provided is another critical aspect while scouting for a Fairfax mover. Consider companies that handle all the packing, disassembling, loading, transportation, offloading, and reassembling.
Create a Comprehensive Moving Plan
Moving homes is seldom a spur-of-the-moment decision. In most cases, you’ll know you’re moving ahead of time.
To have a stress-free exercise, draft a preliminary moving plan that details what must be done in your current and new home. For instance, you may need to declutter your home or undertake certain renovations.
The plan should also include a moving budget estimate and (as explained above) procedure for hiring the right mover.
Start Early
While there’s no hard and fast rule on how soon to start planning a move in Fairfax, Virginia, a good practice is to begin some eight weeks earlier.
Starting early offers ample time to compare moving companies and pick the right provider. Besides, it lets you complete all essential activities in your current home.
To ease the planning process, designate a day for each critical task. Determine when it’s best to book a mover, undertake renovation work, notify important parties, and start packing.
Set Aside a Moving Budget
According to conservative estimates, moving companies in Virginia charge an average of $2,000 – $8,000 per move.
The actual moving fees will depend on factors like the volume of your belongings, distance, and any personalized services offered.
Note that these estimates only cover mover fees. Your budget may include other components, such as home renovation, moving boxes, and storage units (where applicable).
Notify Important Parties
Inform your family, friends, and coworkers of your intended move and share your new address with trusted individuals.
Notify your utility companies, too. These include your bank, the post office, and landline-based telephone or internet service providers.
Declutter and Downsize
The volume of items to move is a major determinant of moving fees. Therefore, it makes sense to declutter and downsize ahead of your next Fairfax move.
Rummage through every room in your current home for items you no longer need. You can donate what’s in good condition and trash what’s utterly worthless.
Besides, you may sell some of your belongings in a garage sale or have them picked up by recycling firms for quick bucks.
Renovate Your Current Home
If you own your current home and would prefer to sell it, it’s prudent to undertake minor renovations. This helps elevate the property’s curb appeal and possibly attract high-value buyers.
Common renovations you may perform include repainting, fixing damaged plumbing and electrical fixtures, and landscaping.
Gather Packing Supplies
It’s challenging to have a successful move without packing boxes, plastic bins, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers. In some instances, you may also require a storage unit.
Storage units help you stay organized while moving homes. They also protect your packing boxes from theft in transit while providing climate-controlled rooms for storing temperature-sensitive items.
To avoid needless spending, inquire from your moving company if they avail these packing supplies before purchasing them.
Label All Containers
Proper labeling lets you track your belongings at every stage of the move. Therefore, pack items in boxes or plastic bins and label each container.
Using clear plastic bags might also help track the whereabouts of every item.
Remember To Make Plans for Pets and Plants
Moving can be stressful for our furry friends. So, plan to have them cared for during the move.
On the moving day, arrange special transportation for your pets and plants. You could have them whisked to the new home a few hours earlier and designate a trusted carer.
The Bottom Line
Relating to a new home can bring thrill and anxiety in equal measure. Early preparation is critical in ensuring the success of each trip.
While some DIY aficionados prefer to plan every move themselves (ostensibly to save on a few extra bucks), you’ll have better luck by engaging a professional moving company.
Read online reviews and pick a Fairfax mover who enjoys impressive positive ratings from previous clients. Besides, insist on a duly licensed and insured company that charges competitive moving rates.