Written by: Kate Becker
Date:

Moving is something many people experience at least once in their lifetime. Some individuals even more, because Americans relocate 11 times in their life on average. Moving should be a positive experience, but for many it only causes stress. For seniors, it gets even more difficult because they don’t like their routine to be disrupted. However, if you find the right movers for the job, senior relocation will go without obstacles. So, let Verified Movers help you find the experts who’ll take care of your move. Meanwhile, keep on reading and learn more about senior moving!

Organization is everything

Whenever you are about to prepare a move, you need to be well-organized. The best case scenario would be to start preparing at least two months before the moving day comes. Of course, sometimes it is not possible, since you don’t know a few months before that you will have to relocate. In cases like that one, last minute moving tips for beginners can come in handy. However, the best solution would be to find a moving company that offers last minute moving services. No matter whether you are the senior relocation, or you are organizing a move for a family member, all these tips will be useful.

A woman raising her hands
Moving can be difficult for seniors, buy you should take your time

Anyways, when you can actually prepare ahead, you should have a detailed plan, because that is the only way that nothing goes wrong. Of course, you shouldn’t be stressed out if there are some slight changes. However, having a moving checklist will help you make a new routine and have a sense of security while you organize senior moving.

Stick to your plan

When you are preparing a relocation, especially if you are doing it for the first time, you should follow helpful moving tips and stay organized during this whole process. From the earliest stages, to the very end, it is really important to stick to your plan and try not to change your schedule too much. If you start delaying or avoiding tasks, there is no point in making a schedule and a moving checklist.

So, get a notebook and start writing everything down, if you don’t prefer using some digital devices. Don’t hesitate to write down every idea that comes to your mind, and every task that needs to be completed. Also, there can be some potential problems that need to be handled. Of course, you cannot predict and prevent them all. For that reason, it is always recommendable to hire professionals. Of course, if you are organizing a relocation for a senior, it is still doable. However, if you are a senior yourself, you need to be extra careful and make sure you don’t get hurt during the process. Ask for all help you can get, because there is nothing wrong with that.

A granddaughter and a grandma talking about senior moving
Make sure you ask for help

Complete your tasks one by one

It is important not to get overwhelmed when you first start preparing for your relocation. You might get too emotional, because, as we have said, as a senior, you would rather not change your routine. And if you do – you might feel stressed out. You should do everything that is in your power to make this whole process easier on yourself. Moving is a complex endeavor but when you go slowly, everything will be done the right way. It is important not to put too many tasks on yourself, especially if you are preparing the senior relocation for yourself. There will be much to do, but if you follow a certain order, you will have it done in a timely manner. So, some of the points on your moving checklist are:

  • Get some moving supplies.
  • Sort your belongings.
  • Say goodbye to all items you don’t need or use anymore.
  • Pack your items with care.

Get some moving supplies

Opting for professional packing supplies is the best thing you can do. The safety of your belongings matters a lot, and by getting some professional packing materials you will provide just that – safety for your most valuable items. However, it is important to know what packing supplies to get and the amount of things needed, especially the moving boxes. The best way to know what moving supplies you will need, what size, material, and shape of the boxes, is to make an inventory list. It may seem a little bit time-consuming at the beginning. Instead of packing the items you have, you will spend time noting them down. However, this really is important, because later you will save time and even money. First of all, you will know exactly what you have, so you will get the supplies you need, and won’t be left with many boxes you wouldn’t know what to do with. Then, if you decided to move with a moving company, you will have fewer boxes. That means loading will last shorter and it will probably be cheaper.

A house with a nice yards surrounded by plants
You may be going to a smaller house, so make sure to declutter

Sort your belongings

This step is of crucial importance. This is another reason you need an inventory list. Go through your house, attic, and basement and make an inventory list that should include every item you are planning on moving. It will help you while packing, and most importantly – it will make the unpacking process much easier. You should sort out belongings into three piles and make sure you don’t overlook anything. Again, planning a relocation as a senior is not easy, so it would be best to ask people to help you in every possible way, especially if you hire professional movers.

Say goodbye to all items you don’t need or use anymore

You don’t really need everything you own. There are many items in your household. Many of them. But, you don’t use them all. Or need them, for that matter. So, declutter your home and make the process much simpler. Sell, donate, or recycle them. The less you have to move, the better. Keep only belongings that you really use, or are sure you will be using in the near future. Having a countless number of moving boxes can only make your new home cluttered also. Besides, you may be going to a smaller home or one of the senior facilities. In both cases, you will be able to take with you only the most important items. Donating your items is always a good idea. However, remember that you should donate only the items that are in a good condition. Don’t hesitate to sell those belongings that would be useless to everyone.

Boxes ready for senior moving
Make sure to label the boxes

Pack your items with care

Before you start packing, you will need to use a proper packing guide to help you make this whole process quick and simple. Better yet, hire professional movers that can take care of this task for you. Do whatever fits you the most, but be sure to make the right call. Because moving is all about making the right choices. And if you decide to pack all by yourself, make sure you label every box with its contents. It will help you unpack faster. Even if you hire a company to just transfer your belongings, having your boxes labeled will help them too. First of all, they will know what items are fragile and they will take special care when it comes to those boxes. Also, when the unloading time comes, they will take each box into the room where it belongs. A simple task such as labeling can mean a lot for the whole process of relocation.

In the end, the best thing you can do is to hire a professional that specializes in senior moving. This way, you will give yourself enough time and space to enjoy your new beginning. And who doesn’t like that? We sure do!

Find a moving company that specializes in senior moving

There are many different moving companies on the market. And many of them specialize in senior moving. But, before you jump to conclusions, be sure to remember one thing – to stay away from moving scams and fraudulent movers. We are all exposed to this type of scam, but there is a way to avoid them. And it is quite simple. All you have to do is to take your time when researching moving companies. Compare them. Ask all the questions that interest you. This is not a good time to be shy. Not at all.

Also, not every company you come across will have all the services you need. Senior moving is quite specific. If you are moving long distance, for example, it is important to know what to expect even more. There are many questions to ask movers before long distance relocation. Don’t hesitate to do so and be completely prepared.

A man talking on his phone and looking for a moving company for senior moving online
When organizing senior moving, avoid moving scams

Look for a moving company online

The easiest, quickest, and most efficient way to find a senior mover is by looking for one online. But, you should be careful. You can’t believe everything you read online. And you know it. Take your time and provide yourself with enough space to find a mover that can satisfy all your moving needs. Read online reviews and the fine print. Feel free to use our database to find your match. This way you will find professionals who specialize in senior moving and there will be no obstacles when it comes to your move.

Ask the people you trust for some references

If looking for movers online isn’t exactly your cup of tea – you can always ask the people you rely on for some references. This approach might take a bit more time, but hey – you know what’s best for you! Someone you know has moved in the past for sure, and all you have to do is to ask. Yes, it is that simple. So, be patient and take your time. Someone you know is going to point you in the right direction at some point!

Stay on the lookout for moving scams

Red flags are everything at this point. They really are. So, look for them. And if you see any – look for another mover. Right away. There is no point in risking your safety or the safety of your belongings. They should always come first.

  • Senior moving professionals won’t ask you for large money deposits. And if a moving company asks you for one – it may be a moving scam.
  • No contract? No deal? Handshake deals aren’t your best option. 
  • Trust only fully licensed and properly insured movers.
  • Stay in touch. If a mover changes office address or phone number often – it may be a sign of a con.
A young woman playinh
Take your time and you will have a pleasant move

Take your time and your relocation will be pleasant

We have already said that we understand how senior moving can be difficult, both physically and emotionally. However, if you take your time, go step by step, and have good organization, this will be a pleasant experience and it will be over without any issues.