You are going to forget. People always do. And when you finally remember, you will have wished you had done it months earlier. It is one the most irritating parts of moving: the garage. Occupying a unique place in our house and minds, the garage is often the home of seasonal items (sleds, Christmas decorations, sports equipment), transportation (motorcycles, bicycles), building material (tools, lumber), and items we do not want to keep in the house (paint, flammables). It also becomes the final resting place of things we have forgotten and things we want to forget (but can’t quite throw away). Since we usually only think of it when we need something, the garage is also often overlooked in the initial moving stages. It is a problem that is not going to go away. Many of the items in the garage will need some special attention. Take a look at some of our garage-moving tips and you will be ready to face the problem head-on:
Get Started Early
Packing up the garage is going to take some time. Remember: it is one of the biggest open “rooms” in the house, is full of stuff, and is likely unorganized. Give yourself a few weeks, at least and, if possible, tackle it in the fall, spring or summer. Packing the garage will be all the more difficult if the temperatures are dipping below zero.
Purge
Moving is a great time to start sorting through your items and getting rid of the things you don’t use anymore that are just taking up space. Do you really plan on using that VCR again? How about those text books from your college years? Or the skates you haven’t worn since the winter of 1997? There is no point in moving things to a new place if you are NOT going to use them.
Hazardous Materials
There will be some things that moving companies cannot take due to safety concerns. These may include propane containers, oxygen tanks, fireworks, matches, solvents, and industrial chemicals. If you are not sure, ask. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Tools
Take extra precautions when moving tools. Tools are expensive and can hurt people if not packed properly. Use large plastic baggies for the smaller tools and items. Wrap bladed items in towels and moving blankets – taking time to make sure the blades are securely covered. Make sure any fuel-powered tools are completely drained of gas. Don’t forget to drain the lawnmower and BBQ, as well.
Vehicles
If you need to move vehicles (cars, motorcycles, boats), consult your moving company and find out their individual policies.
Let the Pros Do It!
If the task is just too daunting or time-consuming, let the pros do it! An experienced moving company will know how to pack up your garage quickly, safely, and efficiently which will free up your time to take care of everything else. Best Canadian Movers is your best bet for a moving company in Toronto, Mississauga and the GTA. Fully bonded, licensed, and insured, Best Canadian Movers will provide you with exactly what you need: courteous and professional movers who you can trust, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. We also have packing and unpacking services. Give us a call today to find out how we can help with your garage and all areas of your home!