Moving is both a stressful and exciting experience. If you are hiring a moving company for the first time, it is normal to wonder what you should and shouldn't do to handle the situation in the best way possible. Understanding a little proper moving etiquette can certainly make the process easier. If you just remember the acronym MOVE, you should do alright.

M is for Make Sure You Answer All Questions

When it comes to transferring all your things to another place, the movers may have some questions. They may ask about where boxes need to go, how furniture should be placed or if there are items destined to be thrown away. Be sure you give them a clear and polite response to any questions they may need to ask you. If they happen to ask the same question a second time – just answer it again. Chances are pretty good there is a reason they are asking again.

O is for Organizing Boxes With Proper Labels

It is essential to mark each box with the items you have in them as well as which room they will be going into in the new home. This will eliminate confusion for the movers and you when you are ready to begin the unpacking process. Clearly mark any fragile items so they won't have heavy items placed on top of them. If you have any boxes you want to transport in your vehicle (such as expensive items or medication), clearly mark that those boxes go in your vehicle.

V is for 'Voiding Problems By Not Packing Heavy Boxes

Just because you aren't the one moving the boxes doesn't mean you should try to over pack them. For example, take care not to put too many books or heavy dishes in one box. An easy solution to this is to mix clothing, pillows, or stuffed animals in the box with heavier items to balance the weight while filling the box. You can even label the boxes so you know you have a stuffed animal or pillow that is an add-in item in the box that doesn't really go in the same room as the rest of the items in the box.

E is for Expressing Thanks When The Job is Done

Common courtesy dictates a thank you for providing excellent service. A little kindness after the movers have completed their task goes a long way. Something as simple as giving them a bottle of water or a hot beverage (if it is cold outside) can go a long way. It is also important to keep in mind that a lot of individuals in this type of profession tend to rely on tips. While the movers are never going to ask you for a tip, it is common courtesy to offer approximately 5% to 20% of the total bill as a tip. Unless you are told otherwise, just give the tip directly to the movers.

The key thing to remember is that this moving etiquette will benefit you just as much as the movers. By labeling all of the boxes, unpacking and getting settled will be much less of a hassle. To learn more, speak to local moving companies.

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