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May-8-2005 21:10

Hello everyone. I am preparing to move into my first apartment (still in college). I was wondering if anyone has helpful hints on moving smoothly. I will be moving my things over 100 miles, so any hints in regards to packing, moving, and unpacking would really help. Thanks!!!

May-9-2005 01:07

One of the most under-used hints in the removal business:

When packing plates into boxes, stand them on their side, not flat (wrapped, of course). This reduces the chance of them breaking while in transit.

May-9-2005 04:45

In my experience, the most difficult and potentially disasterous part of being a first-time renter is dealing with landlords. Here's a few tips I've learned over the years:
1) Don't be afraid to be a stubborn, cold and paranoid person when it comes to documentation. If they want cash, get a receipt the moment it's given. Read the lease and make sure they adhere to it. Also, get a few copies of your lease and keep it in a safe place. Make sure it is an official, legally-binding lease.
2) Never be afraid to take them to court.
3) Take pictures when you first move in, paying special attention to things that you may be charged for later on as damage you did.

I don't mean to sound paranoid but these are things that people tend to learn the hard way. I live in a college town and I see this constantly. I hope this advice helps you save some money and aggravation.
P.S. Yes, liquor boxes are the greatest. I have ones from three moves ago that I still use.

May-9-2005 05:50

Thank you for all the wonderful suggestions. I didn't even think to use alcohol boxes, or take pictures before I move in. Thanks so much.

May-9-2005 08:59

Another extrememly useful tip for dealing with landlords: Upon moving in, make a list of EVER LITTLE thing that is wrong with the place. Stains on carpet, dents in walls, etc. Turn a copy in to your landlord and keep a copy for yourself. That way they won't be able to bill you for damages that you didn't cause when you move out.

May-9-2005 09:14

Absolutly check out everying when looking at the new place too. That is the time to say "this needs fixed" or "this is unacceptable." Before you sign the lease is when they will actually get things done for you. After...well, they have more pressing needs. *rolls eyes*
If you are using a moving van compare prices. I've found Uhaul is alot more expensive than a Ryder truck.

May-9-2005 10:14

And you don't really need to move every pencil stub in your desk drawer. Don't - as a friend accused me several moves ago - let boxes of dross follow you whereever you go. And have a great move!!!

May-9-2005 11:53

Let the landlord sign off on everything, including the list of stuff that is wrong about the appartment. Check your contract well. Is it ambiguous, is it clear, does it state everything.

And keep in mind, everything that is not taken care off in a contract, the normal law applies. Everything that is stated in a contract, can be different from the law, but not against the law.

May-9-2005 13:26

Write on each box what room it is for. That way anyone helping you can at least but the box in the right room so you aren't tripping over them all. Buy lots of cleaning stuff because other people's standards aren't always your own. And the most important tip is make the bed up first. That way you have somewhere to crash and if the rest has to wait at least your bed is ready.

May-9-2005 19:17

Thanks everyone for the tips. I am sure they are all going to come in handy these next two weeks. Thanks again!!!

May-9-2005 20:15

Throw away anything you haven't used, touched or looked at in 2 years. Eventually, it becomes clutter. Look at it objectively though, don't throw away sentimental stuff you will one day miss. I recommend everyone go through their boxes every year and toss things. You have to let it all go eventually so don't let it hold you back while you are here!

pack by room, and mark the boxes by room so you know who what and where.

And from experience, take pictures when you are going to leave too, with a camera that will date the photo, before your landlord even comes over to inspect the place. I had a landlord that screwed us, by messing up some things after we had left and said it was our fault. Long story short, landlord won in court.

Enjoy your new place!!