How to Plan for Your Furniture Removal and Storage

Do you have a big move coming up and all you can think about is how you wish it was already behind you? That is completely normal. While there is very little you can do to make the process of furniture removal and storage happen any faster than what the dates and amount of work dictate, there are ways to ensure that things run smoothly and effortlessly, and that moving day gets done and dusted with as little hassle as possible.

As with most things in life, proper planning and preparation are what are necessary to turn a formidable and daunting project into bite-sized, manageable tasks. While this might not sound like a lot of fun, it is actually so much easier and simpler than you might currently imagine it to be.

Here is some advice to help you along as you plan and execute your furniture removal and storage:

 

Start Planning as Early as Possible

The more time you give yourself, the less the rush and pressure there would be as you get closer to the removal date. The less pressure, the less likely you are to feel stressed and overwhelmed, and the less risk there is of things going wrong or falling off your radar. Start making to-do lists as soon as you know about an impending move to help you organise your thoughts and to clear your head of unnecessary clutter as you try to remember everything.

 

Declutter

While we are on the topic of getting rid of the clutter, this is a very important step in your preparation process. Moving presents the perfect opportunity to get rid of all those items you have accumulated over time that you do not use or simply do not want anymore. This might take two or more rounds to be truly effective. Sell or donate your unwanted items. The less you have to move, the easier and cheaper your furniture removal and storage will be.

 

Take Photos of Your Electronics

To make it easier to reconnect all your electronics in your new home, use your cell phone to take photos of the connections of all your devices before you unplug them. At your new place, you can simply look at the photos and quickly and easily reconnect them perfectly.

 

Make Arrangements for Insurance

You are taking all of your belongings on a road trip. The risk of something happening to some of your possessions increases significantly. Typically, this will not be covered by your regular short-term home contents insurance, so make sure you are covered for any potential losses either by taking out additional insurance cover through your service provider, or through the moving company that is assisting you with your furniture removals and storage.

 

Find the Right Moving Company

This is basically the main factor that will make or break your furniture removal process. Choosing the right furniture removal and storage service providers to partner with means finding a company that is capable both in terms of experience, as well as in providing the necessary skills that are applicable to your move. Not all relocations have the same requirements and not all furniture removal and storage companies offer the same solutions. Here are some things to look out for:

 

• Experience

Furniture removals require a lot more skill than many might realise. It certainly takes more than a couple of guys with access to a truck. If you want your possessions to be handled with care and arrive safely, choose a furniture removal company with a demonstrable history of moving excellence.

 

• Quality Packing Materials

First, does your furniture removal partner of choice provide packing materials for the move? They should. Second, this packing material should be of good quality and fit for purpose in order to ensure the safe transport of your possessions. Do not settle for anyone using old newspapers and discarded boxes for your prized furniture and art pieces when you are paying good money for a proper service.

 

• Specialised Services

Talking about your fine art and antique furniture… Moving and storing these items require specialist knowledge. Make sure the furniture removals company you choose has the qualifications to create custom packaging for these items and know how to relocate them safely. Damage can be detrimental to their value and these items are irreplaceable.

 

• Storage Solutions

Where possible, it is advisable to choose one service provider that can offer both furniture removal and storage services. This will result in less handling of your possessions, minimising the risk of damage. It is also easier to deal with one service provider, it increases accountability, and could result in more favourable rates. If you do, however, have fine art or antiques that need to go into storage, make sure you choose a solution that offers exceptional security and dust-free containers in a controlled warehouse for complete peace of mind.

 

• Reliable Insurance

If you do choose to get insurance cover through the company that takes care of your furniture removal and storage, make sure that their insurance is reliable. It should be underwritten by a trustworthy insurance provider, and claims should be handled speedily and efficiently. Do not hesitate to ask for details regarding this.

 

Preparing for The Day of The Move

As the big day approaches, there are a number of things you can do to ensure the day itself goes off without a hitch. Here are five tips that will make a huge difference, and which are often overlooked in the rush and excitement of the move:

 

• Arrange Access for The Furniture Removals Company

If you live in a security complex, gated community, or apartment block, it might be necessary to arrange access for the movers beforehand to ensure that they are let in to do their work without hassle or interruption. The last thing you want is for unnecessary drama with your body corporate on your last day of staying there.

 

• Pack an Overnight Bag

Chances are that you will not get to unpacking everything on the same day as you arrive at your new house. Pack an overnight bag in advance with some fresh clothes, your toiletries, and even some coffee and your favourite mug. Do not forget to include your cell phone and laptop chargers!

 

• Arrange for A Babysitter And/Or Pet Sitter

As much as we love our kids and pets, they can make moving day more challenging. This is a stressful time for them also, so arrange for them to stay with friends or family for the day while you sort out the move.

 

• Set an Out of Office Notification in Advance

Let colleagues and clients know in advance that you are unavailable on that date. The last thing you need is to deal with work issues while your attention needs to be on the move.

 

Established in 1947, Elliott Mobility has grown to become one of the world’s leading furniture removal and storage companies. Contact us for a free quote.