6 Things Not to Expect from Professional Packers

When seeking out professional packers, do keep the following in mind when it comes to your expectations.  The last thing you want to do is stress yourself out on moving day anticipating that the packers will do XYZ when in fact, they will only do ABC.

One.  Everything will be packed the day before you move.

If you scheduled to move on a certain day and your packers plan to pack you up the day before, there is that possibility that they might not get all your your things packed within the designated time frame.  From accidents to unexpected illness or simply underestimating all your items, anything can happen which can cause packers to carry on their tasks the following day which just might put you behind so plan accordingly.

Two.  All your items will be at your location and intact.

Sometimes things are forgotten, get shifted around and unfortunately break, this is why it is important to have your items insured.  You will also want to have recent photos of your most treasured items, so that you can prove that damage occurred while packing.  Also, be sure that all your items are accounted for.  Find out what kind of system your packing company uses to help you stay organized in advance.  Do they label, number, color code, etc.?  If your packing and moving professionals are one in the same, you should have no problem keeping up with who did what and who handled your items.  Get names and numbers before your workers start handling your items.  Keep in mind periodically even with professionals will mishandle or leave your items on the truck, you will want to know what happens in the event an oversight or accident takes place concerning your belongings. 

Three.  You will be able to find everything with ease.

Just like if you were to pack items on your own and label them as best you can, you may forget what was in the box or bag you packed.  The same holds true with professional packers so before you accuse someone of stealing something, be sure you have opened every box and unwrapped everything before you assume your items are lost especially those you may have hid from yourself.

Four.  The inventory list that the packers provide may not correspond with your list.

It happens, sometimes what your list reflects may not be accurate with the packers list because at the last minute something was added after you got your copy.  So be sure your list and theirs is updated.

Five.  The boxes you may have packed may not be reinforced by the packers.

You may have gotten a head start on your packing, but didn't tape your boxes or even pack your items as well as the professionals.  If this is the case, most likely the company is not going to take responsibility for what you already packed and they will not reinforce your boxes either.

Six.  The professionals may not pack your items the way you want.

You may wish to have your collectibles packed with extra bubble wrap, cardboard, and a box within a box, but for sake of time, your request is rejected or ignored.  You may want to pack those items the way you want to avoid conflict.  The last thing you want to do is get into a major argument with people who are handling your stuff.

With these six tips, you should be well on your way to having a successful move.  You may also want to consider making your packers duties less cumbersome by ridding yourself of those cheaply made items or hard to pack things that you really don't care too much about.  Less is best and will save you time, money and heartache!

Nicholl McGuire