10/25/2016
Moving Into Your New Home
By Andrew McNab, MATCO Moving Solutions
There are many challenges associated with relocating into a new home. Some questions you
may ask yourself are, how do I make sure no items get broken? How do I move bulky items up and
down stairs without damaging brand new walls? How do I secure a load to my vehicle? These
challenges can show up at precisely the wrong time, causing delays, damage or injury. Hiring
relocation professionals is the best way to make sure your move goes smoothly. However, if you are
thinking about recruiting your friends to help on the big day, here are a few tips:
Plans vs. Zombies
A move can go way past the estimated time if there are unforeseen challenges and setbacks.
Every minute that ticks by past the intended finish time makes people frustrated and irritable, which
can lead to costly mistakes or even injury. Make sure you are prepared for challenges like severe
weather, traffic delays and dehydration. Use labels to properly mark which room each carton or item is
headed. Measure doorways and openings to make sure you can fit items in the proper rooms. How
many trips will you need to make? You can keep everyone working efficiently if you make a plan and
stick to it.
Protecting Your Investment
When moving into a new home, there is potential for causing a lot of damage if proper
precautions are not taken. In addition, there is potential to hurt yourself or others if handling anything
overly heavy or sharp. Use heavy blankets to protect bannisters, floor runners to protect expensive new
flooring and CSA approved safety shoes so you don't hurt yourself should you drop anything. Make
sure all appliances, file cabinets and dressers are emptied beforehand so they are as light and
maneuverable as possible. If a unit has doors or drawers, tape/ziptie/lock them shut so they don't fly
open during your move. Just remember to put the keys in a safe spot!
Life On Easy Street
Moving is hard work, especially over the course of a day (or longer). Any way you can make
the process more efficient should be considered. If you have rented a truck and have steps leading up to
your front door, consider laying down a ramp from your vehicle to your door so it is easier to bring
items inside. Use 2 wheeled hand trucks and 4 wheeled dollies so you can move multiple items at the
same time. Avoid handling the same piece multiple times by bringing the piece directly into its final
resting place. By the end of the big day, you (and your friends) will be happy you made the job as
smooth as possible.
MATCO carries out thousands of relocations per year, from residences to full commercial
facilities and everything in between, all over Western and Northern Canada. We are here to provide
relocation and storage solutions that fit your needs and your budget. We encourage you to hire a
professional moving company when relocating into your new home, but if you decide to recruit your
friends into helping you, always remember the golden rule of volunteers: Just because you aren't
paying them, doesn't mean the help is free. Treat them right and keep them happy with food,
hydration and music during the move. Take care of them and they will take care of your belongings and
your new home. Andrew McNab - 780 484 8800 - [email protected]
