Philadelphia, PA
- Philadelphia is one of the East Coast's most robust and progressive cities. It's impossible not to fall in love with its friendly locals, fantastic food scene, rich history, and diverse attractions.
What to Know Before Moving to Philadelphia
On top of that, there's plenty of great schools that offer comprehensive education for your children. Honestly, there's little to no reason not to consider living in Philly. And if you're planning to move there this summer, here are some essential things you should know!
Know That Moving During the Summer is Expensive
Face it. The hot summer months are not the best time to move. Costs will be higher, availability of movers will be scarce, and it's more difficult for anyone with children or pets as they'll need a lot more water and shade. But if you don't have a choice, moving during these stressful times requires you to plan accordingly.
Do Your Research
Knowledge is power, so it's essential to research your potential city before packing up. Philadelphia is a good choice for most families as it features some of the lowest median listing prices in America at $217,485. That said, know the safest neighborhoods, shortest commute routes, or accessible educational institutions around the area. Additionally, when looking at homes or apartments, make sure you take time to tour the inside before signing anything.
Downsize Your Home
Philadelphia is a very walkable city, but if you're moving from out of state or to the suburbs, having too much stuff might slow down the process. Not to mention that the more things you bring, the more you will have to pay the movers. That's why you should take the time to declutter and downsize your belongings before the move. Start by sorting out your home inventory. You can either sell or donate the things you don't need. A good way of selling them would be online or through a garage sale. As for donations, your local thrift shop, food banks, or neighbors will be more than happy to receive your stuff.
Compare Quotes from Multiple Movers
Different moving companies offer different rates and a wide range of services. It's a good idea to compare quotes from at least three movers before deciding on one! Comparing ensures you're getting the best price possible for your move. More importantly, a good moving company helps organize your relocation without taking advantage of you through shady contracts and hidden fees.
Check Your Mover's Credibility
The last thing you want to happen is to get scammed by rogue movers. Thankfully, you can easily avoid a financial disaster through preventive measures. Make sure to inspect your potential moving company's credibility by asking for their license or USDOT number before hiring them. Pay attention to their business track record, as well as customer feedback on Yelp and Google Reviews. And if you can, ask for recommendations from families and close friends. They won't do you wrong by suggesting a bad moving company.
Stock Up on Water Bottles
Stay hydrated this summer! When planning a move during Philly's hottest months, be sure to have plenty of ice-cold beverages available. This means stocking up water for you and your movers.
Turn on the AC in Your New Home
It's tempting to turn off the AC in your new home to save money. However, the temperature inside an empty house can quickly exhaust you and your movers. That said, remember to set up your utilities in advance to avoid any hassle. Have your new air conditioning checked for maintenance issues before the big day.
Protect Yourself From the Heat and Sun!
Wear the right clothes for your upcoming move. It may be a scorching hot day, but don't forget to pack light. Not only will you avoid being overheated from heavy clothing, but it'll also help with carrying boxes and furniture without getting too sweaty. Stay cool by wearing loose-fitting layers that are easy to remove when moving in or out of homes.
The best way to avoid dehydration is by wearing breathable fabrics such as cotton blends and linen shirts/pants. Lastly, never underestimate how much good an umbrella can do during a heatwave! Protect yourself against the sun's rays with sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, hats & lightweight scarves while working outside in the warm weather.
Making Your Relocation a Smooth One
Any move has the potential to be complicated, stressful, and time-consuming. It doesn't matter if you're relocating close or far away. The best thing you can do to ensure a flawless move is to hire a moving company with ample expertise and proper equipment. These movers should facilitate your relocation with discipline and professionalism.
