Many people have pets that are an important part of their lives, and this makes them worry about moving house and how the move will affect their pet. These tips will help you move your pets safely.                                                                          

Unfortunately, a pet cannot just be packed into a moving box and loaded onto the moving truck. If you are moving just a short distance, you will probably be driving your car there; this makes it easy to load the pet into your car to transport it to the new house. If you are moving interstate, you might need to make arrangements with a pet transport company or an airline to get your pets there; specialty pet moving boxes are available.

Many animals take moving house in their stride, adjusting quite easily to their new environment, particularly when they have the security of their family there and their routine is kept the same. Smaller animals like rabbits, guinea pigs and mice are likely to be unaffected by moving house. Birds will be happy as long as their routine stays the same. If you keep fish, you will need to completely empty the aquarium for moving; siphon out the water into a large bucket, and put the fish in it before carefully transporting them to the new house. Refill the tank as soon as possible, using the water from the bucket.

Dogs and cats are very sensitive to changes within the household, and may become distressed with moving boxes being packed and furniture being moved around. While you are preparing for your move, reassure your dog or cat constantly and give them some extra attention to keep them calm. Leave some of their toys and their usual feeding bowls unpacked to keep things as normal as possible. Make time to take your dog for the usual walks as exercise helps to ease stress.

On moving day, it would be best if someone they know could mind them away from your house, to avoid the additional stress of seeing their household being loaded into a truck. Doors could be left open and pets could escape during loading of the truck. Also, not having to think about the pets will give you one less thing to worry about on this already stressful day. Many vets offer boarding services.

When everything is settled into the new house, go and collect your pet yourself, if possible, and take them “home” to their new house. Show them around the house and yard so they can see that all your belongings, and theirs, are in place. Take your dog for a walk as soon as possible so he can get his bearings within the new neighborhood, and investigate the new smells. Keep him contained in the house or yard for a couple of weeks until he readjusts to the new environment.

With cats, it is best to keep them indoors for a week or two until they get the idea that this is home now. Provide them with a litter tray and plenty of food and fresh water at all times. Give extra cuddles and attention to help them, settle down.

Arrange to have a new name tag, with your new phone number, made before your moving day, so it can be attached to your pet’s collar as soon as you arrive at your new home. If you own any exotic pets, see your vet for advice on the best way to move house with them. Get all the best moving advice at MovinGood.com.

How much in advance should I book a moving company?

As soon as you know you are going to be moving house, start getting quotes and making plans. You need to get several quotes to compare, and you also need to find out exactly what is included in the quote. At MovinGood.com you can get seven quotes from some of the best moving companies in the business, all on the one site. Decide on your moving company as soon as you can so you can make a booking when you have the moving date. This way you will be sure to get the movers you want. Because weekends and Fridays tend to be the most popular days for moving house, choosing to move during the week may be cheaper and easier to get a booking.

How long does a house move take?

There are many factors that determine how long your move will take, but as a general rule, loading the truck will take till the middle of the day and unloading should take a little less time. However, the distance between the two houses, the amount of possessions you have and the terrain of the two properties will all influence the amount of time your move will take. When you are getting quotes from moving companies, ask for a time estimate as well.

What happens if the distance between houses prevents the move being completed in a day?

Long distance moves require a different set of strategies than a single day move. It is important to get the correct time frame from your moving company in advance so you can plan properly. Some movers like to pack the truck in the afternoon, drive overnight and then unload the truck the following day. Other companies load one day, travel the next and unload the third day. It really depends on the distance to be traveled.

You will have to plan for an overnight stay or travel for you and your family, so you arrive at the same time as the moving truck at the new house. Remember to pack a small overnight bag that contains toiletries, a change of clothes and snacks.

What is included in the moving quote?

Different moving companies have varying policies, so you must check exactly what is included in the quote you have been given. The most common inclusions are the truck and the removalists, the time it will take to load, travel and unload the truck and some moving insurance. Sometimes included, but often only available as extras to be paid for, include moving boxes, moving blankets, packing supplies and the furniture put into the position you request in the rooms of the new house.

Do I need to take out extra moving insurance?

If there is moving insurance provided by your moving company it may be inadequate for your situation. Get full information from your movers about their insurance and then talk to your own insurance company for advice about what cover you should have. You might find that some of your current insurances offer you some cover while you are moving house.