Keeping track of everything during a move is a full-time job all of its own. That's why it's so easy to overlook certain important to-dos that leave you feeling stressed on moving day. Whether you are planning on moving cross-country or just dealing with the city to suburb moving process, you don't want to miss any essential details. 

Make sure you are completely ready for the big day by tackling these easily forgotten tasks on your local moving checklist ahead of time.

Requesting a Moving Van Parking Permit from the City of Chicago

While it's not required to get a permit to move in Chicago, you do need special permits for your Chicagoland movers to get a better parking spot. In Chicago, these are called, "CDOT Occupy-Right-of-Way Permits."

The city's Department of Transportation permit portal issues these permits to commercial entities that need easy access to the building entrance. You won't be able to apply for this permit directly, but you can check in with your licensed Chicago movers to make sure they have applied for the permit.

Make Sure Your Mover is a Certified Illinois DOT Moving Company

Speaking of licensed Chicagoland relocation services, it's a good idea to double-check that your moving company's certification is current. If the mover provides a U.S. DOT number, you can use the FMCSA website database to search for the mover's certification and its status. All long-distance movers are required to have this certification which means they meet the necessary medical and safety standards to operate moving vehicles.

Additionally, commercial and residential movers who provide intrastate transportation services in Illinois must be registered with the state's Commerce Commission. You can easily check a mover's certification status within the ICC's Motor Carrier Information System Entity Search database.

Be Prepared for the Heat or Rain on Moving Day

Whether you are working with a moving company in the Chicago suburbs or the city, you'll be just as impacted by bad weather on the big day. Make sure to start checking the weather forecast at least a week ahead of your relocation. 

If things look particularly bad, check in with your mover to see if they have any alternate days close to your intended moving day available. 

If not, plan accordingly for the weather. Make sure to have plenty of water on hand and keep fans running. You may want to wear a raincoat and galoshes or put down protective plastic if it is a rainy day.

Make Your Best Move with Pickens-Kane

No matter what type of move you are making, Pickens-Kane can also help you with tailored moving tips in Chicago. Our experts can provide a free moving consultation, where we assess your needs, help you determine the best time to move in the Chicago area, and provide a free cost estimate.

As a moving and storage company for over 100 years, we're more than able to provide for all of your relocation needs, including international moves, residential moves, commercial moves, and storage services. Allow us to begin the moving process for you, starting with a consultation.