Move-It-Yourself Made Easier

7/17/2008

(NAPS) Millions of household moves take place each year in the U.S. If you are among the do-it-yourselfers, here are a few tips to get you started:

Truck selection. Most movers find the 12- or 16-foot truck perfect for moving a few large items or the contents of a small condo or apartment.

Reserve your truck at least two weeks in advance.

Pack smart, loading the heaviest items on the truck first.

Mark your boxes as you pack, so it s easier to put them in the right room when you unload.

To ensure a smooth moving day, pick up your truck a day early and practice driving it.

Take extra precautions, especially when the truck is loaded. Use caution near low-hanging tree branches and building overhangs and when cornering. Park in well-lit areas and padlock the rear door.

Make safety and security a priority. Trucks are taller, wider, heavier and require more stopping distance than the vehicle you are used to driving. Drive slower and take extra precautions, especially when the truck is loaded. When traveling, park in well-lit areas and padlock the rear door.

Create a travel bag for moving day to keep important paperwork, credit cards, identification, change of clothes, drinks and snacks close at hand.