The winter months are the best time to move because rates are usually lower and there’s not a lot of people moving at that time. You can receive the best moving deals and your personal household goods will more than likely be shipped faster.

It’s crazy for movers during the summer months because it’s the busiest time of the year for moving. Almost one-third of all moves take place in the summer, peaking in June, according to the U.S. Census. The busiest times are often near the end of the month and on weekends.

Scheduling your move mid-month or mid-week can reduce stress and sometimes result in savings. Begin contacting moving companies at least one month to two months prior to your move. Reputable moving companies can reach capacity quickly, and procrastinating may result in missing your preferred move date.

Make sure to ask your moving company for referrals and testimonials too. Here at Rainier, we provide free in-home estimates for the move at no obligation to you. Even if you are considering handling the move yourself, you have nothing to lose by inviting us into your home so you can find out if a professional move is the best option for you (highly recommended).

If you decide to go with another moving company, be sure the mover has a federal motor carrier, or MC, number so you know your mover is legitimate. You can verify their status by contacting the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration by visiting https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/. You can also visit the Federal Maritime Commission for overseas moves at www.fmc.gov.

Safe moving!

In a prior post, I provided you tips on how to keep you and your family healthy when moving overseas. This week, I’m going to give you tips on how to find the best home when you are relocating overseas.

Trying to find a nice home at your overseas destination country can be anything from a relatively simple matter to a complete nightmare. There are a lot of factors to consider when you need to either rent or own a new flat: the housing market in your destination country; the size of your family; the expected length of your assignment; costs and allowances.

In most, but not all circumstances, you will probably be looking to rent your new home. The number of rentals in keeping with international standards may be limited, and language and cultural differences may complicate the negotiation of leases. By contrast, you may be entering a well-supplied housing market, where property owners are accustomed to accommodating the requirements of expatriate families.

You can make your experience easier, if you maximize the contacts and resources available to you. Get as much advance information as possible. Ask your employer for contacts, and if possible retain the services of a relocation consultant or destination services provider. The Internet provides an ever-increasing supply of information and resources. Get to know expatriate colleagues who already may be living in your destination country; find out whether there is an established community of foreign residents, who can provide advice and assistance.

Feel free to contact me if you need further advice and if you plan on moving overseas. I can provide you with a list of resources and organizations that you can contact prior to heading across the pond. My contact information is below for your convenience.

Safe moving!