While most people coast-to-coast see July 1st as a day of fun, BBQs, cool drinks and fireworks, many thousands more see it as a great day to move. With the promise of pizza at the end, intrepid amateur movers and their friends do their best to transfer everything from Address A to Address B without losing or damaging a thing. Unfortunately, every year we hear reports about moving mishaps, like a queen mattress that becomes airborne and lands flat on the highway, or furniture that’s been haphazardly loaded and suddenly the shoulder becomes a living room. And, if these incidents aren’t enough fun (ha!), just wait for the traffic jams they cause! Here are a few practical reminders before the big day to make sure all your furniture and dearly beloveds arrive in one piece!

A car in good working order

A few weeks before moving day, take your car to the mechanic for a basic inspection: brakes, lights, etc. Pay special attention to the air pressure in the tires too, making sure they’re filled to the manufacturer’s standards. A packed car with improperly inflated tires will create extra friction on the road, increasing the risk of a flat. Just picture yourself on the side of the road: first you have to unload all your boxes to find the spare tire, then change it, then reload the car… and don’t forget all the curious looks from passersby. That’s an experience you can do without!

Distribute the weight

When you’re loading, make sure you distribute everything properly so the car still handles the road comfortably and safely. If the back seat folds down, put the heavier objects in the middle of the car. Use cords and covers to protect the interior; heavy cargo that’s not properly distributed can end up costing you more than a professional mover, even for just a short distance!

Know your route

Review your possible itineraries BEFORE you leave. Can you park the car in front of the building? Is there construction or tolls along the way? Think about keeping your wallet handy instead of in the bottom of a box!

Patience is a virtue

Take your time, the pizza can be reheated. Many makeshift movers are in too much of a hurry and try to move everything in one trip. They always fail, of course, because it’s rarely possible. Accept that the move is going to take longer than you think, and even more importantly, remember to show some courtesy on the road!