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Everyone knows packing is a long, arduous task but it has to be done. In order to avoid mishaps and to help ensure the process goes smoothly, remember these tips:
- Unplug and thoroughly clean out your refrigerator and freezer. Leave the doors open so that everything can begin to dry out. It is important to give your refrigerator at least 24 hours to dry so that mold and odors do not form.
- Empty out your dishwasher, freezer, refrigerator washer, and dryer.
- Leave glassware and kitchen items in cabinets and cupboards. It is easier for the movers to remove them as they are packing.
- Point out any items that require special handling when packers first arrive.
- Empty and clean out garbage cans. Make sure all garbage is moved to the curb for removal. If trash cans cannot be cleaned, you may want to leave them behind. Be sure to instruct the movers if this is your decision.
- Drain fuel and other fluids from mowers and other small engines.
- Drain water from garden hoses.
- Remove all bed linens from beds. Mattresses will be placed in special protective cartons.
- Dispose of highly flammable items. Aerosol spray cans, flammable paints and supplies should be given away or disposed of properly.
- Be sure to set aside items that you do not want the movers to pack, for example:
- Important financial or real estate documents that you will need access to complete the sale of your old home or the purchase of your new home.
- Items you may need for your family's travel - luggage, clothing, toiletries, airline tickets, travelers checks, amps, spare keys, first aid kit.
- A telephone to connect in your new home prior to the arrival of the movers. Carry the phone with your personal items.
- Valuables, plants, or any other items you will transport personally.
- Snacks, games, a special toy, or other items to make travel with kids more comfortable.
- Any cleaning supplies you may need after the movers are finished.
- Set aside and show packers items that should be loaded last and unloaded first at destination (vacuum cleaner), coffee pot, cleaning supplies).
Take a thorough final tour of the house to insure that nothing is left behind. Do not forget any items in the attic. Lock all the doors and windows. Leave keys and garage door openers with the new owner or your Realtor.
This information is provided as a service to our web site visitors. Home Inspectors® endeavours to maintain accurate and current information, however all information posted on our web site may be subject to change without notice, and should be verified by contacting the agency in question (if applicable) before use of, or reliance upon, any information posted herein. While we attempt to ensure that all information is accurate and a fair depiction of real circumstances, it is to be used solely for information purposes. Home Inspectors® may not be held responsible for the accuracy of any of the above information. Re- production of any of this information is strictly prohibited without written permission of Home Inspectors®.
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