Most of the packing and moving tips you read on the Internet are aimed at the homeowners—or more specifically, the stuffowners. But what about the people they ask to help them move the stuff? What are stuffowners doing to make theirjobs easier? Here are some moving tips and tricks to smooth the path for those unsung heroes, the Moving Helpers.
Labeling, Labeling, and More Labeling.
If everyone's on the same page with regards to where each box goes, each job gets easier. Label your boxes on the tops and all of the sides, so that no matter who picks it up and takes it into the new house, they'll know right where to put it.
Reduce Their Downtime.
Whether you're using a rental truck or a moving container service, be sure it's at the old house before your crew gets there. Wait times at rental places can get out of hand, so a good rule of thumb is to call your moving helpers only after the truck or container has actually arrived on the premises. Your helpers' morale is improved by not having to stand around and wait, and worst-case scenario, you load a few boxes by yourself.
First Come, First Served.
Give your moving helpers first pick of anything you plan on selling at a garage sale or donating to charity. If you compare the cost of a full-service moving company with self-moving, the service your friends and family are providing is well worth whatever income you might give up in yard sale profits.
Provide the Amenities.
The traditional payment for moving helpers is food, but go the extra mile. Make sure you have plenty of beverages to stay hydrated. And anything that's left, send it home with the helpers (so you don't have to move it to the new house). And leave a stack of towels in the bathroom, along with some small bottles of shampoo and/or bodywash, in case your helpers want a quick shower before they head home to collapse on the couch.
Taking care of your moving helpers will ensure that your move goes smoothly, your friendships are solid, and that you have help in the future if you need it again. Until next time, faithful stuffowners, may all your moves be happy ones!