When you hire movers to do your packing and unpacking, along with loading and transporting your items, it's known as a full-service move. This type of move will save you time, but what do you do with all that time?

There are still several tasks that must be done. From making sure your utilities are turned on at your new home to cleaning up your old home before turning in your keys, you have plenty to do.

If you're planning to hire The Professional Moving Specialists for a full-service move, here are some of the ways you can utilize the time you will gain back.

Create a Moving Inventory

Before the movers arrive to pack up your belongings, you'll want to create a moving inventory. This is a great way to see what you own and to make sure all your items make it to your new home.

An itemized checklist will ensure you know what was packed and what gets unpacked. You want to be very specific with this inventory and consider taking pictures of anything expensive.

Figure Out What You want to Pack

You may not want movers packing every single item you own. Whether you want to pack your most expensive items or you prefer to pack your clothing on your own, make sure you figure this out ahead of time.

If you're moving a long distance, make sure you set aside a change of clothes and other items you may need. Also, consider packing important documents yourself instead of having movers handle these items.

If possible, designate a room or an area clearly marked for the items you will pack. This area can also be designated as the items you will take in your vehicle with you.

Triple Check Everything

Once the movers start to pack up your items and load them into the truck, you can start triple checking everything. Check cabinets, corners, closets, and other areas to ensure you don't leave anything behind. 

Remove Flammable Items from Your Home

Movers will likely not touch anything flammable, hazardous, or corrosive. You want to remove these items and pack them yourself. These items include:

• Batteries

• Cleaning Fluids

• Gasoline

• Kerosene

• Fireworks

• Firearms

• Nail Polish

• Aerosol Cans

• Propane Tanks

• Fertilizer

Make sure these items are separated or disposed of properly before your movers arrive.

Keep the Kids and Pets Busy

While movers are at your home packing up, you want to keep the kids and pets out of their way. You can keep them busy in the back yard or have one parent take the kids and pets to a local playground. 

Not only will keeping them out of the way help movers work faster, but it will also keep your pets and kids safe. If necessary, you can even consider hiring a sitter for the pets or kids during the time the movers are packing up.

Disassemble Ahead of Time

Some movers will disassemble furniture, while others may not. It can save you a little bit of money if you disassemble items before the movers arrive. This is a good use of your time when you hire full-service movers.

There are many things you will still need to do, even when you hire full-service movers. Make sure you fully understand what your residential movers are willing to do for you and what you will still need to handle on your own.