As people grow older they generally end up moving to a new home that’s more convenient to family and easier to manage. Are you retiring soon and thinking about downsizing? Or perhaps, you’re helping an elderly family member move in with you?

Managing a life change of this scope can be a hassle, from letting go of belongings you no longer need to getting excess belongings into storage. To make the process a little easier, consider hiring established Bay Area long-distance movers to help out. At Foster Van Lines, we’ve provided high-quality moving services for residential customers since 1941. Our team has helped clients through many kinds of relocations and understands the ins and outs of the process.

To make your senior move a less stressful experience we’ve put together some tips for finding a quality Richmond long-distance moving company.

Choose a Moving Company that Shares Your Communication Preferences

Staying in communication with your mover it vital from the planning stages through moving day. Make sure the company you hire is willing to use a communication method that you prefer. You can find movers who use:

  • Phone
  • Video Calls
  • Emails
  • Text

If you prefer a simple phone call from your mover, simply ask if they are willing to communicate with you primarily in this way.

They Provide Ample Time for the Process of Downsizing

It’s difficult to determine which items to let go of when downsizing to a smaller place. Your moving company should allow you plenty of time for you to sort through your belongings. Homeowners need patience and understanding when making these kinds of decisions. Plus, a good mover will also offer donation services, allowing you to give many of your belongings to others who will be able to use them.

They Boast Full-Service Packing & Unpacking Options

You may not be able to pack up an entire household alone or within your moving schedule. Many moving companies offer full-service packing and unpacking options. You can also find companies that provide fragile-only packing and specialized moving services.

Take advantage of these features to streamline your move and reduce the amount of effort involved. It’s also a good option for those who are helping an out-of-state relative with their senior move.

They Offer Relocation of Medical Equipment

Do you have medical equipment that also needs to come with you to a new home? First, find a mover that transports medical and lab equipment, like oxygen tanks and hospital beds. You’ll also want to find out what steps the mover follows when packing and transporting your equipment.

It’s also important to confirm that the movers you pick are trained experts, such as having ProMover certification or OSHA certification.

Plan Out the Transportation of Persons & Pets

While movers don’t move people or usually, pets, they should be able to work within your plans for getting relocated. Ideally, you’ll be paired with a move coordinator who will take note of when you are leaving the home and when you’ll be arriving at your new home. They should also be able to make reasonable adjustments for households with pets, such as not entering a specific room with a pet in it or not approaching service animals.

If you are helping a relative with their senior move, the company should be comfortable with your presence on moving day and taking direction from you.

As a side note, consider packing a first day box for your senior relative and their pets. These boxes will go with you in the car or on the plane. They will include everything needed for the first few days in a new home, like clothing, hygiene products, and pet food.

Learn More About Foster Van Lines

If you are planning a senior move anytime soon, consider reaching out to Foster Van Lines. We offer comprehensive long-distance moving services that make the entire process swift and hassle-free. Consider reaching out to our Richmond long-distance movers about creating a plan that’s tailored to your needs. We offer:

  • Full Packing Services
  • Fragile-Only Packing
  • Custom-Crating Services
  • Piano Shipping
  • Vehicle Shipping
  • Furniture Assembly Services
  • Short- & Long-Term Services

We’re also proud to be agents with North American Moving Services. We’re able to work with other members of their worldwide network to complete relocations of all scopes and sizes.

To get started with a free consultation and cost estimate for your senior move, give Foster Van Lines a call. We’ll be happy to arrange an appointment right away.