What's everyone's busy moving advice ?

2016-11-16T14:20:31-05:00

I will be making a civilian move here (transferring my job) in the next few months, blistery cold Northern Ny to Sunny Fl:). What is everyone's favorite moving tips and tricks?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2016 2:20 PM

2016-11-16T14:20:53-05:00

Best not busy!*

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2016 2:23 PM

2016-11-16T14:23:36-05:00

Whatever is very valuable or personal to you, load it in your vehicle. We did this with my husband's computer, 60" TV and documents.

Response by SCPO Jason McLaughlin made Nov 16 at 2016 2:30 PM

2016-11-16T14:30:55-05:00

Research, Research, Research. Where you end up living is ultra important. Rent vs Buy. Schools. ETC

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Nov 16 at 2016 2:45 PM

2016-11-16T14:45:22-05:00

Watch everything with an eagle eye. Civilian moves don't have the oversight that military moves do, and the packers/movers know this all to well. Remember everything you learned from military moves and use all that experience.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2016 2:52 PM

2016-11-16T14:52:54-05:00

CPT Private RallyPoint Member Labeling your boxes is important. Kitchen, garage, bedroom, etc. Taking an inventory and pictures of your items will help to make sure everything made the move. Along with bubble wrap and newspapers, you can use clothes and towels to help cushion your breakable items. Allow plenty of time, because it takes a long time to pack everything correctly. Best of luck on your move!

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Nov 16 at 2016 3:03 PM

2016-11-16T15:03:54-05:00

Pack everything up immediately. Set aside what you need to continue functioning, but pack up the rest. Most people wait until the last minute and then get overwhelmed with the sheer volume of stuff that you forget you have. Get it out of the way now and you won't stress it later. It'll also make it easier to clean if you also have a move out inspection to deal with.

Also, use the time to start going through your stuff. I'm the type of person who always thinks I should save something because I might need it later, but you wouldn't believe the amount of stuff I was throwing away when I actually sat down and went through it all.

It'll save you some frustration in the long run.

Response by MCPO Mark Durland made Nov 16 at 2016 3:47 PM

2016-11-16T15:47:30-05:00

If you're doing a self move, consider all of the stuff your local U Haul store has on it's floors (and in the racks). Stickers to mark boxes as "Kitchen", etc might seem like a luxury, but they're EASY to see and you don't keep running out of ink in your Sharpie. If you've got the $$ (or even better, if your new employer provides relocation assistance), hire some movers. Keep an eye on them, but in the end you'll save some money on co-pays to your Orthopedist.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Nov 16 at 2016 3:51 PM

2016-11-16T15:51:44-05:00

CPT Private RallyPoint Member, I've moved many times, as have most on RP! I suggest that you take a real good look at your possessions and determine what you really (I mean really) will need and/or use once in your new location. I'm sure you'll find a lot of stuff you won't need. Either trash it, or if it's still a serviceable item consider giving it to one of the charities that deal with used items.
I promise you'll find a lot that you don't wish to take with you. There's no sense in moving items you won't need at the other end!
I grew up in Jax, FL, and I loved living there, so I'm confident that you'll like your new location!

Response by SP5 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2016 5:29 PM

2016-11-16T17:29:49-05:00

CPT Private RallyPoint Member Consider additional insurance that covers full replacemenrt cost - the basic insurance covers loss based on weight, and not very generous at that. Still pictures and video for proof of condition of your possessions will be useful in case of a claim. Jewelry, cameras, small electronics, family pictures all should go with you in your POV. Good luck in your new location.

Response by SSgt Luke Hunt made Nov 16 at 2016 11:03 PM

2016-11-16T23:03:06-05:00

keep receipts, and take it off taxes... the cheapest way to move is by not hiring anyone to help. Have yard sales to eliminate unwanted items

Response by SSG Carlos Madden made Nov 17 at 2016 10:56 AM

2016-11-17T10:56:21-05:00

Use this opportunity to rid yourself of the stuff and clothing you no longer need. Not only will this downsizing be helpful but it will leave you with less to pack and thus, less to move.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Jul 18 at 2021 12:15 PM

2021-07-18T12:15:33-04:00

Lots of good info here so far. My further advice: before and during packout, identify items to donate and donate them. We’ve pared down a few times and it’s nice. Shelves and drawers aren’t full of junk you don’t use…making it hard for you to use the stuff you do need.

During the packout designate a do not pack space (we used a bathroom or something really small) to put your luggage, papers, heirlooms etc. make sure you hold out ta50 and uniforms if you’ve got a drill during this whole thing.

If you haven’t reserved a rental trailer, do so now.

Keep all your expense receipts, unlike a PCS, this is deductible on your taxes