Moving Tips
Booking Job Over Phone:
Please be as thorough and candid as possible when describing your unique move job. Having accurate job details in advance will help ensure team efficiency. Knowing prior to your move: the residence size, # of stair flights (in & out), description of large and heavy items, long walkways over 50ft, most dismantling and reassembling needs, multiple destinations, and any other pertinent move details are important to us as your moving company. Please feel free to call us anytime after your initial phone booking to further discuss your job details.
Appointment Cancellation / Change:
Please call AND email us ASAP if you need to change or cancel your appointment. Please note that you will forfeit your deposit.
Parking:
Try to arrange for parking for the moving truck at both destinations. The closer we park to your house/building the quicker and efficient the move will be.
Packing:
Being FULLY PACKED prior to the crew's arrival will make your move fast, safe, and cost-effective. Here are some packing/moving tips:
*Do not leave any small stuff without packing.
*Pack and protect all fragile items.
*Use small boxes for books.
*Make sure boxes are full and close flat in order to stack.
*Leaving the boxes at the front will increase job speed (if desired).
*Label boxes clearly and include the room they belong to.
*Have a plan for furniture arrangement.
*Dressers, cabinets, etc. should be emptied prior to team arrival.
*Small fragile, valuable, and sentimental items should be moved by client.
*(This includes medicine, jewelry, small paintings and glass items, electronics, etc).
Elevator:
Make elevator reservations in advance with your building manager.
Storage:
Make storage reservations in advance and be aware of hours of operation.
HOA Requirements:
Please let us know ASAP if proof of insurance is required.
Children (pets too):
Please keep safe and clear during move (Very Important)
Delicate Floors / White Carpets:
Have protected before team’s arrival. We do carry carpet runners to make pathways only.
Mattress Bags:
We recommend using mattress bags for protection. They're about $5 at any local storage facility.
Appliances:
We can disconnect most appliances. We don't reconnect gas and water lines.
Truck:
Please respect our liability concerns and do not enter ramp or back of truck.
Moving Tips and tricks in chicago and suburbs
Relax and Let AMPOL MOVING INC Moving Services Handle Your Next Move
1. Plan for Traffic and Parking
Chicago is known for its dense traffic and limited parking, which can make moving day even more challenging. Here are some strategies:
- Avoid Rush Hour: Try to schedule your move during non-peak hours. Weekdays early in the morning or mid-day (before or after the usual rush) are ideal.
- Permit for Parking: If you're moving into a busy neighborhood like downtown or near the Loop, you may need to secure a parking permit for the moving truck. Contact the city or your building management ahead of time to arrange this.
- Know the Streets: Some streets in Chicago are one-way or have unique traffic patterns, so use apps like Google Maps or Waze to monitor real-time traffic conditions.
2. Prepare for the Weather
Chicago is famous for its extreme weather, from frigid winters to hot, humid summers. Be sure to account for weather conditions on your moving day:
- Winter Moves: If you're moving in winter, prepare for potential snow and ice. Make sure the sidewalks and entryways to your home are cleared of snow, and keep an eye on the forecast for any snowstorms.
- Summer Moves: Summer can bring scorching heat. If you're moving during the hot months, stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid moving during the hottest part of the day. Consider using air-conditioned moving trucks if available.
3. Hire Professional Movers Who Know the City
Hiring local movers who are familiar with Chicago’s streets and neighborhoods is essential. They will know the best routes, deal with parking restrictions, and efficiently navigate busy areas. Ampol Movers, for example, is a trusted choice for local moves due to their extensive experience in the city.
4. Start Packing Early
Moving in Chicago can take longer than expected, especially with busy neighborhoods and potential weather delays. Here are some tips to pack efficiently:
- Sort and Declutter: Before you even start packing, go through your items and get rid of anything you don’t need. This will make the packing process much easier and save you time and money on moving costs.
- Use Durable Packing Materials: Chicago's roads and weather can be rough on your belongings. Use sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts to protect fragile items. Don’t forget to clearly label each box with the room it belongs to and a description of its contents.
- Pack Essentials Last: Keep a box of essential items for the first night (toiletries, clothes, important documents, phone chargers, etc.) so you don't have to scramble through boxes when you arrive.
5. Take Advantage of Chicago’s Public Transportation
If you’re moving from one part of the city to another, public transportation can be a helpful option for getting small items to your new home. Consider using the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) to move boxes, especially if you’re moving from a downtown apartment with limited parking.
6. Use a Storage Unit if Necessary
Chicago’s downtown areas and neighborhoods can have limited space for storage. If you’re downsizing or between homes, you may need temporary storage. There are plenty of storage options in Chicago that can help you keep your belongings safe until you’re ready for them.
7. Get Help With Furniture Assembly
If you have large furniture or need to disassemble items like bed frames or bookshelves, consider hiring movers who can do the job for you. Many professional movers in Chicago offer assembly and disassembly services, which can save you time and effort on moving day.
8. Be Ready for High-Rise Moving Challenges
If you’re moving into or out of a high-rise apartment or condo, be prepared for the challenges that come with elevators, restricted access hours, and limited parking. Here are some tips:
- Elevator Reservations: Many buildings in Chicago require you to reserve the elevator for your move. Make sure to coordinate this with your building management ahead of time.
- Check Move-in/Move-out Times: Some buildings only allow moves during certain hours or days of the week. Be sure to confirm with your building management.
9. Consider Using a Moving App
Apps like MoveAdvisor and Sortly can help you keep track of your moving process. These apps allow you to create moving inventories, find moving companies, and stay organized.
10. Don’t Forget About the Security of Your New Home
Once you’re in your new place, ensure the safety and security of your belongings:
- Change the Locks: If you're moving into a new apartment or house, consider changing the locks to ensure you’re the only one with a key.
- Check the Building’s Security: If you’re moving into a multi-unit building, familiarize yourself with the building's security measures, such as door codes, entry points, and any security personnel on-site.
Why Choose AMPOL MOVers Moving Services?
Moving in Chicago can be a unique experience, especially with the city's busy streets, unpredictable weather, and various logistical challenges. To help you prepare for a smooth move, here are some moving tips for Chicago that will make the process easier and less stressful.