Hourly Rate Moving Tips

For many people who need to move locally, hiring movers by the hour makes a lot of financial and logistical sense. Of course, if you're working in this way, you will ll save money the more efficient you are. From that standpoint, it is relatively easy to shave some time off the moving process.

1. Get organized

This can cover quite a few areas, but a basic trick is to color code boxes by room so the movers are very clear about where everything goes in the new property. If there are boxes you know you'll need right away, make them further distinct with bright tape. Keep those boxes together and make sure they're the last thing on the truck when you load. This way, they'll be the first thing to come off and you won't waste time looking for your stuff.

If you're packing yourself, once the boxes are color coded, they can be stored in a separate room, garage or even a tool or storage shed so they're out of the way. Stack the boxes in advance so that the heaviest boxes are at the bottom and the movers quickly can grab a few at a time with dollies.

You'll also want to take measurements and plan out your furniture placement for the new location. This allows you to direct the movers quickly and shows you in advance where there will be space for them to put boxes out of the way as they unload for you.

Lastly, don't wait until you are at your new property to declutter. Go through all your stuff and donate, recycle or sell what doesn't have functional value before the move. The less there is to pack up and unload, the fewer hours the movers have to work or the fewer staff you'll need.

2. Don't pack what doesn't need packing

Not everything needs to go in a box, case or bag. For instance, a common trick is to leave clothes in your drawers and just surround them with a clear wrap so the whole thing stays shut. In the same way, extra blankets can stand in for moving pads or fill space between more awkwardly shaped items in the truck. Let the movers know what you have so they can bring the perfect amount of additional supplies.

3. Disassemble and reassemble what you can

Many pieces you own are large but relatively simple to take part on your own. A good example is your bedframe and head and footboards. See if a friend or family member can lend a hand for the disassembly and reassembly so the movers don't have to do it for you. Just remember to put accessory parts like screws in labeled bags. Regardless of whether you do the assembly and disassembly of furniture or not, have your manuals on hand and/or take pictures of how items go together, particularly for electronics.

4. Move in the mid-morning or late evening

The idea here is simply that you are avoiding rush hour traffic. This allows the movers to make better time on the drive. Be aware, though, that not all movers operate after traditional office hours.

5. Move on a weekday or in the middle of the month

Most people are at work during the weekdays. Similarly, most people move at the end of a month when their lease expires. Subsequently, if you book your move during these options when demand is lower, the movers likely will quote you a lower hourly fee.

6. Arrange parking in advance

The closer you can get the truck to your door, the faster the movers can get each load in and out. Reserve parking spots or clear the truck parking with the appropriate authority.

7. Talk to the movers in advance about potential difficulties

An example here might be the need to navigate stairs. The more the movers know about the old and new properties, the better prepared they can be with the right equipment or planning alternatives.

8. Create a fun atmosphere

A few refreshments, and some upbeat music playing, these simple things can keep your movers feeling energized and happy. As a consequence, they'll likely get the job done a little faster without consciously trying.