Category: Moving Tips

Did you know, over 35 million Americans move each year? With careful planning, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are five things to avoid when planning your move.

1. Waiting and Not Planning Ahead

Moving is a tremendous job, and procrastinating, without a plan, can make it even harder than it has to be. 

Whether moving from a studio apartment or a four-bedroom home, there are a lot of steps involved. Everything goes more smoothly when there is a plan in place. 

Create a notebook or binder and put your daily checklist in it. Use your notebook and checklist to plan everything from getting your moving estimates to scheduling your utility services.

2. Hoarding Too Much Stuff

There is no need to bring unnecessary items to your new home. If you have accumulated lots of stuff over the years, this is the perfect time to unload some of it.

Before packing, go room to room and sift through your possessions. Ask yourself three questions:

1. Do I love it?

2. Do I really use it?

3. Would I repurchase it?

If your answer to these questions is no, donate or sell the item. Eliminating the clutter will save time and money in your move. Don’t let your excess clutter get in the way of a stress-free moving experience.

3. Forgetting to Pack an Essentials Box 

When you get to your new place, there are things you’re going to need right away that you’ll wish you hadn’t packed. Towels, toiletries, necessary kitchen utensils, sleeping clothes, etc. Even if you’ve labeled your boxes you could still spend hours going through them all to collect everything you’re going to need just to survive your first night.

Avoid this inconvenience entirely by packing an essentials box. Include a couple of changes of clothes and all your necessary toiletries and medications. Also, include cleaning supplies, a small tool kit, phone chargers, towels, basic kitchen essentials, and snacks. 

Your essentials box will be your go-to box the first day or so in your new home.

4.  Forgetting to Label Your Boxes

Labeling your boxes is essential when packing for a move.

Be sure to label what each box contains, how it should be handled, and which room the box should be placed in at your new home. If a box contains delicate items, make sure those are properly packed and label the box “fragile” so that the movers know they should take special care when transporting it.

If you take care to label your boxes thoroughly, you will save time and frustration when it’s time to move and unpack them.

5. Packing Last-Minute 

It can be tempting to leave things to the last minute when moving, and that includes packing!  

If you wait until the last minute, you can end up overwhelmed and stressed. You run the risk of not packing things properly and possibly even running out of time. You don’t want the movers arriving while you are still packing!

Make a schedule for you and your family of when to pack up each room and about how long it will take. Allow yourself a few extra hours for packing each room, because it usually tends to take longer than you expect. That might mean doing a little every day in the weeks and months leading up to move.

Come moving day you’ll be relieved you had a plan.

Home Sweet Home

There’s no doubt that moving is a stressful process. It’s often the test of patience and tolerance for families and friends. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can smooth out the process for everyone involved.

Are you in the market for a professional moving company to take the stress out of your move? Contact our team of moving specialists today and see how we can help you. Also, if you’re looking for other expert moving tips and tricks, then check out our blog. 

Moving can be exciting, especially if you’re moving to a new area or perhaps a new state. However, relocating can also be very challenging, both technically and emotionally.

There are a lot of things to consider when moving. For instance, there may be changes in weather, property values, and many other differences. Perhaps you’re moving out of an urban area, as many Americans have recently.

Regardless of where you’re moving to and where you’re coming from, here are things to consider.

1. Cost of Buying and Living

Every house on the market has a price tag. But there’s more than just the actual cost of buying a home to consider. 

Before purchasing your new home, it’s essential to examine the additional costs of moving to a home in a new area. In addition to your purchase price, consider the following costs: property taxes, insurance, and homeowner’s association fees.

Also, what is the cost of living in the area? Is it manageable for you? Can you afford the local cost of groceries and gasoline? What, if any, changes will you need to make to be more comfortable in your new setting?

 Keep in mind that costs range from state to state.

2. Culture and Lifestyle

In many ways, your lifestyle depends on the culture of the area you live in.

Select an area that aligns with your lifestyle goals. Your interests and passions should be a primary factor in where you decide to live.

If you love nature and the outdoors, consider regions that provide outdoor activity opportunities. If you desire diversity and entertainment, look for areas that offer those options.

3. Health Care

Health and health insurance is another factor that might affect your decision.

Some people have health needs that require them to be close to medical facilities or hospitals that provide specialized care. Others may want to move somewhere that has better options and access to healthier lifestyles. You may be in one of these categories. Then look for areas with these considerations in mind.

If you have kids, you need to do all you can to make the move work for them. This includes checking into the school system to make sure they’ll do well there. Not only that, but you’ll want to make sure the school system has a good reputation.

4. School Systems

If you have kids, you need to do all you can to make the move work for them. This includes checking into the school system to make sure they’ll do well there. Not only that, but you’ll want to make sure the school system has a good reputation.

A move can affect kids quite a bit, and an excellent school system could go a long way towards helping them adjust.

5. Weather

Remember to research the weather in your new area. 

Weather can affect your mood, lifestyle, and social plans. It can also affect your utility bills. Be prepared for weather changes and related heating or cooling costs.

Get familiar with the average seasonal temperature changes as well as weather risks. Is the area you are considering moving to prone to flooding or tornadoes? Know the area so that you can be prepared. 

Things to Consider

There are many things to explore when relocating, especially if you’re moving to a different area or even a different state.If you want more information and advice on moving, please visit our site. We can give you some great tips to help take the stress out of a long-distance move.

It’s a well-known fact that moving is a stressful endeavor, so it’s no wonder that Americans are relocating less.  

What statistics don’t tell you is that there are several ways to make moving more manageable. Over the years, people have come up with some pretty handy ways to take the strain out of relocation. 

Here are some of the best.

1. Make Lists

Love them or hate them, lists make your life easier whenever you’re planning a big relocation. By definition, planning eliminates the last-minute panic that comes from overlooking vital elements of your move.

As soon as you’ve made up your mind to relocate, grab a pen and notebook, and start making lists. 

Use a timeline, a week-by-week moving checklist, of all you need to accomplish between now and your move day. A detailed checklist will help keep you on track and help you avoid missing anything important.

Make sure your lists include everything from buying your packing supplies to filling out your change of address paperwork.

2. Prepare the Kids

If you’re moving with children, tell them about the move as soon as you can. Getting them involved in the planning can help them to cope better. Apply for new schools as soon as possible. 

3. De-Clutter Early

Moving is an excellent time to get rid of unwanted items. Get an early start so that you don’t end up with a load of unwanted goods and nowhere to take them.

You may have items that your movers are not allowed to transport, like open tins of paint, pesticides, or household chemicals. Dispose of these hazardous household items early to avoid last-minute panic.

To ease the sting of breaking your hoarding habit, donate your unwanted items to charity. 

4. Pack Wisely

When you have time on your hands, packing is a breeze. Pack room by room and clearly label every box on each side. Include a list of contents on each box. 

You’ll be glad you paid attention to these details when you arrive at your new home.

Ask your moving company to place each box in the relevant room when they unload the truck. 

5. Avoid First-Night Panic

Keep one box aside for the last few items that you need to keep using right up until the last minute on moving day. It’s bound to be the first box you’ll need upon arrival at your new home.

Pack a survival kit for your first night. This should include a change of clothing, toiletries, some snacks, and water. If you’re moving with pets, don’t forget to include their bowls, leashes, and a meal for their first evening. 

6. Choose Reputable Movers

Your choice of movers will make or break your mood on moving day. 

Do your research beforehand. You want to hire a well-established, accredited firm with a proven track record. Look up reviews and ask friends and family for recommendations too. 

Smooth Move

Our expert movers can guarantee you less stress moving, get in touch, and let’s start planning the next step together. 

Remember to Change Your Address at These Important Spots

Every single year, the U.S Postal Services has to handle millions of items that were returned. Most of which will never find their intended recipients. 

Making sure you remember to update your address is an often overlooked aspect of moving. That’s why we put together a list of the most important places and organizations you need to change your address.

Required Updates

There are some places for which changing your address is legally required.

For instance, you’ll need to replace your driver’s license with that of your new state’s (if you’re moving out of state, of course). 

You’re responsible for notifying companies that send you bills through the mail. Bills won’t just disappear even if you don’t live there anymore. You’ll be held liable for legal notices, bills, or anything important that you miss.

IRS and State Tax Agencies

You’ll also need to update your address with the IRS and any state tax agencies in which you reside. You can find info on how to go about this on their websites.

Even though many people pay their taxes online and receive refunds through direct deposits, you’re still required to notify them of the change. Again, you’ll be responsible for any correspondence that you miss.

Social Security Administration

Another important agency to notify is the Social Security Administration. Many people move when they retire and if you’re receiving social security benefits, you’ll definitely want to make certain they know your new whereabouts.

This also applies to Medicare/Medicaid recipients as well as veterans and the VA.

Banks and Credit Cards

Be sure to let your bank know you’re moving as well. You won’t want to miss any incoming mail from them, nor allow the new occupants access to your financial information. You can usually do this on the bank’s website or a simple phone call.

Credit cards are equally as important to update, especially if you pay your bills through the mail.

TSA Precheck, Global Entry, and Related Programs

If you’re apart of programs such as TSA Precheck or Global Entry, these are important ones to update if you’re traveling anytime soon. Because these programs serve to reduce security risks, you’ll want to let them know ahead of time so there are no discrepancies at the border or security line.

Subscriptions and E-Commerce

If you receive subscription services such as magazines or newspapers, you should call them up or use their websites and notify them of the change. Although the new occupants may appreciate some free reading.

But online shopping sites such as Amazon should be updated too. Obviously, you don’t want your orders showing up on your old doorstep. 

Don’t Put it off Until the Last Minute

Moving is a stressful event and planning ahead is a crucial part of keeping anxiety to a minimum. Once you know where and when you’ll be moving, be sure to notify all the necessary agencies and organizations of your new whereabouts.

And if you need a reliable moving company to help you on your move, we’re the ones to call. Contact us for a free move quote today!

No matter how well you plan your move and how effortlessly you pull it off, moving to a new city or town is fraught with uncertainties.

Whether you’re starting a new career in a new town, or you’ve undergone a work transfer, it’s difficult to take things in your stride when you’re new in town.

Here are our best tips for settling in as soon as possible. 

1. First Steps When You’re New in Town

Before you even think about adjusting emotionally and socially, there are a few housekeeping items you should get out of the way first.

As soon as you can, take a drive around your neighborhood, to make sure you know where the following things are:

• emergency medical care
• grocery stores
• a pharmacy
• gas station

While you’re at it, update your address book with important numbers. For example, you’ll want contact details for a plumber, an electrician, and other key contractors.

The Better Business Bureau is an excellent spot to find reviews on reputable local businesses. 

2. Say Yes to Social Interactions

No matter how awkward you feel at first, don’t turn down invitations from co-workers and neighbors. How else are you going to make new friends?

When you do get out, be approachable and talk to as many people as you can. Your new best friend could be right under your nose.

3. Give Yourself Time

It’s normal to feel totally out of your depth in new surroundings. Don’t fret if you get lost umpteen times and can never seem to find the fastest bus route. 

There is no way you can plan ahead for every eventuality. You’ll find a jogging route you love, a welcoming coffee shop, and the best take out options over time.

Some people adjust to life in a new place almost immediately; others take years. Be kind to yourself; you’ll get there.

4. Get Involved

Keep tabs on community notice boards, Facebook pages, and attend local events. 

Not only will you get to meet more local people, but they’ll also perceive you as the kind of person who’s interested and involved in their surroundings. Supporting local initiatives is the fastest way to immerse yourself in a community. 

If you’re moving with children, school activities are an excellent ice-breaker for meeting other parents in the community. 

5. Be Positive

Accept that you’re bound to feel overwhelmingly homesick at first. Remember, you moved for a good reason. Focus on the positive aspects of moving to a new city. 

Make a point of seeking out the things you love, meet new people, and feel more at home. Look for clubs that center around your interests, join the local gym, and attend hobby fairs.

It’s easier to feel more comfortable when you’re taking part in familiar activities. You’re also more likely to bump into someone with similar interests. 

Keep Moving

Take it one day at a time, and before too long you’ll be the one offering help and advice to someone else who’s new in town.

Keep reading our blog for more helpful tips on everything related to relocation and get in touch for help with your next big move.

Moving can be a stressful process. Without the proper plan in place, it’s almost always a recipe for disaster. However, if you’ve decided to hire professional movers, there are a few things you can do to ensure everything runs smoothly. 

If you’ve got movers, read on to explore six helpful things you can do to help the movers on moving day. 

1. Pack Ahead of Time

To ensure your movers work as efficiently as possible, have everything packed before the movers arrive.

Packing early allows for the movers to be in and out, and it also helps you keep everything accounted for during the moving process. Packing last minute may mean accidentally leaving essential items behind or creating added stress on your big day.

2. Organize Your Boxes

Label each box as you pack it. Every box should have a list of its contents and a designated spot in your new home. 

Make sure that the writing is large, legible, and in permanent marker — label at least two sides of the box as well as the top.

Consider using a color-coded label system to indicate the room to which it should go in the new house. Then make sure you have the color codes available for the movers at the new house, so they know which rooms to place the boxes.

Also, mark “Fragile” and “This End Up” as needed on those boxes so that the movers will know to take extra care when handling those.

3. Stay Close on Moving Day

Often times movers need to consult with the clients during the move. They might have a question that only you as the homeowner can answer, so stay close by and accessible.

4. Keep Pets and Children Clear

Safety is essential during the moving process. Sometimes young kids and pets can quickly get in the way, so movers recommend keeping them in a safe room out of the way or better yet at a sitter’s home. 

5. Arrange Proper Parking

Depending on your location, parking can be a hassle, not only for you but also your neighbors, movers, and oncoming traffic. It’s best to devise a plan to maximize parking room to ensure everyone is happy.

Most moving companies will reach out ahead of time to discuss parking details. If necessary, let your neighbors know what time the moving truck is coming and ask them if they can park their cars accordingly. If you don’t have your own driveway and need extra space, be sure to speak with your neighbors or acquire a special parking permit from the necessary parties.

6. Remove Obstructions

Make moving day safer for your movers by removing obstructions from their path.

Remove any doormats as well other rugs and floor mats. Your movers will provide their own non-slip floor covering to protect the floors.

Make sure walkways, driveway, and front porch are clear of potted plants, hanging plants, and windchimes.

Now That You’ve Got Movers, It’s Time to Relax 

You’ve done everything right — you’ve hired an expert moving company, you’ve packed and labeled everything accordingly, you let the neighbors know you need some extra parking room for the day. Now it’s time to relax and let the professionals get to work.

Professional movers are just that, professionals. So it’s always best to let them do what they do best on moving day. We know it’s difficult sometimes to let go of the reigns, but a professional moving company is uniquely skilled to ensure your moving process is efficient, quick, and easy.

Keep Moving Day Simple

Now that you know what to do to ensure everything runs smoothly on moving day, it’s time to put your plan in motion. If you’ve got movers and want to explore some more moving day tips, be sure to check out our blog for more tips and tricks.

If you’re searching for professional movers in your area, contact us for a free quote today.

Preparing Your New Home For Move In

The process of moving into a new house can be just as overwhelming as it is exciting. When what you really want to do is just get settled and enjoy your brand new space.

Whether it’s your first time moving into a new house or you’re a seasoned pro, there are many opportunities you can take advantage of to speed up the process.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of helpful tips for you to use to get your new home ready for you and your family.

Give the House a Thorough  Scrubbing

Who doesn’t love a house that’s sparkling clean? More likely than not, your new home is going to need a deep clean once you move in.

Don’t miss areas like the cabinets, which can be overlooked. Be sure to hit all the floors, carpet, kitchen and bathroom surfaces, baseboards, and windows. Many people change out the toilet seats as well.

And remember, you can always hire a cleaning crew if you’re too busy.

Make any Upgrades Now

Making updates to the interior is best done before you move in so you don’t disrupt your day-to-day once you’re settled.

Redoing the floors or remodeling kitchens or bathrooms can be a major inconvenience. With all the noise and mess, it’s not the best way to start life in your new place.

Even if you’re making minor renovations–like repainting, changing light fixtures, etc.–it’s best to finish them before moving in. Which can make move-in day all the more exciting.

Don’t Forget to Change the Locks

One thing many movers don’t think about is all the different people that may have had keys to your home: in addition to past owners, there are the realtors, maintenance workers, construction companies. So before you move in, make sure all your exterior locks are replaced.

Once you close on your new house, get in touch with a locksmith to set up replacement locks. 

This can give you peace of mind knowing your family home is more secure.

Be as Organized as Possible

Hang onto all documents and receipts related to your house and keep them in one place. Unexpected things may happen and you may end up needing to file an insurance claim or service warranty. If you decide to sell the house in the future, it’ll come in handy to stay organized.

Keep a folder or cabinet designated to insurance documents, receipts, and invoices for any repairs to major construction projects you undertake. Any paper that relates to your house should be stored in one space.

Update Your Home’s Safety Features

Another aspect of moving into a new home that is often overlooked is updating all of the safety features of the home.

This includes replacing the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, buying new fire extinguishers, and locating your electrical panel and emergency shut off valves.

Change your filters and clean the a/c unit by simply hosing it down. It’s also a good idea to test the sump pump before you need it.

Preparing Your New Home

There are few things more exciting than moving into a new house and making it a home. Once you get unpacked, it’s time to settle in and enjoy your new space.

If you’re looking for a moving company to help you on your journey, contact us for a free quote today!

In 2017, 11% of the United States population decided to move. 

Moving can be a stressful and challenging time, especially if you have children. 

Are you a parent getting ready to tell your kids, “We’re moving!” then check out these five great tips to help prepare your children before a big move.

1. Let Your Children Express Their Feelings

Have a family meeting and share the news about the move as much ahead of time as possible. This will give your kids time to adjust to the idea of moving.

Acknowledge their feelings. They may be excited about the new adventure or sad and upset about leaving their home, school, neighborhood, and friends.

Emphasize the positive things about the move, perhaps in the new house they’ll have a bigger room or you will be closer to grandma and grandpa’s house. Explain that you’ll try to make the move as easy as possible for the whole family. 

2. Visit Your New Community Before the Move

Alleviate your child’s fears by getting familiar with your new community ahead of time.

Drive through your new neighborhood. Visit your child’s new school through a prearranged tour.

Look for things in your new city that your child might enjoy. Perhaps your new community has an active park district or maybe there is a zoo  or a children’s museum that they might find exciting. 

Identify activities for your children to participate in once you have settled in so that they have something to look forward to. Check to see what clubs, sports teams, and lessons are available through school and the community park district. 

3. Choose a Good Time to Move

If possible, select the most appropriate time for your family to move. Some families try to move during the summer so that there is less disruption in their children’s school schedule. 

4. Help Them Stay in Touch With Friends

We live in a digital age where it is very easy to keep in touch with old friends. Most children have access to texting, emailing, or calling. 

Make sure that you have contact information for all of their friends so that they can keep in touch after they move away. This will offer your kids some security and comfort as they make a difficult transition. 

5. Give Them Some Choices

When you tell your children, “Hey, we’re moving,” they may feel like they didn’t have any choice in it. And they probably didn’t have a say in the decision.

However, it’s essential to make them feel included in the whole process. You should let them make choices throughout the process, to give them some ownership in the move.

For example, you could let them choose a color to paint their new bedroom. They could select which toys to take with them and which to let the movers pack. 

Help Your Child Understand Why They Are Moving

Telling your child, “We’re moving” can be challenging to do.

However, if you follow these tips, it may be a smoother transition for you and them. For an easier move, we have you covered with our moving services! Contact us for a free quote today.

If you’re a book lover, chances are you know the pain of a ripped page or a bent cover. Packing to move to a new home is challenging. But, it’s more challenging for book lovers.   

Why? First, books are among the heaviest items in your home. Second, you don’t want to damage them. And lastly, books require some special attention when packing.

Read on and learn seven tips on how to pack books for moving.

1. Curate a New Library

We all love good books, but there comes a time when you have to let some of those books go. This is difficult for book lovers but not impossible. Here is what you need to do.  

Gather all of your books in one spot, sort through them, and check all the titles. As you do so, decide what to keep and what not to keep. Start the sorting early because you have lots of titles to go through.   

You can donate the books you no longer need or sell them.

2. Group the Books in Sizes

Now that you have streamlined your library sort the books according to size. This gives you a preview of how they are going to fit in the boxes.

3. Find Sturdy Boxes

Despite streamlining your library and grouping the books, they are still heavy. To ensure easier transportation, find sturdy boxes. This will keep your books manageable and safe.  

As you pack, we recommend that you distribute the weight in the box. How? By packing the bigger books at the bottom with the spines alternating up and down.

4. Use Packing Paper

Protect your books by lining the boxes with packing paper. This adds an extra layer of cushioning, thus protecting your books from dirt and liquids and prevents them from shifting around.

Add extra tape to the bottom for extra reinforcement.

5. Go for Rolling Suitcases

Can’t find sturdy boxes at the store, at work, or social media groups? Why not use rolling suitcases? 

Rolling suitcases are generally deep and sturdy — ideal for transporting bulky books. Also, the wheels make them even more convenient. When it comes to unpacking the truck, all you have to do is roll the suitcases from the moving truck into your new home. 

6. Don’t Overfill the Box or Rolling Suitcase

Although boxes and rolling cases provide space for your books, don’t overfill them. It is important to leave space between the top and your books. This helps to ensure that you don’t have bent covers on arrival. 

Plus too many books make the box too heavy to lift.

7. Pack with Care

Take your time when packing your books. To ensure you pack with care, start early. If you have any expensively bound volumes, wrap them individually.   

Also, store them separately in the box with the spine straight. This prevents side to side friction, which could damage the cover.

Label the book boxes so that movers know how to handle these heavy items appropriately.    

Moving Help

Looking for moving experts with the right experience? We at Arrow Moving & Storage Co can help. Contact us today and let us help with your move.

Easing the Transition: Moving Schools Mid-Year

With nearly 40 million Americans moving every year, many families can’t avoid moving during the school year. Although you may not want to mid-school year, there are steps you can take to ease the transition.

We put together a list of helpful tips to aid the process of transferring school during the school year.

Planning is Everything

For families, a big part of the moving process involves researching the local school districts in the area. Finding out exactly which schools your kids will be attending is the first step.

Once you know which schools serve your area, give them a call and ask them for instructions and advice on paperwork and the transferring process. Schools deal with many cases like this every year so they should be happy to help you out.

Here is a brief checklist of the process:

• Inform the school and let them know the dates they’ll begin classes.
• Handle the paperwork before the move itself.
• Request all the necessary records from the old school.
• Ensure your children’s physicals and immunizations are up to date.
• While you’re packing up, make sure to find important documents and keep them handy during the process; don’t lose track of them in the chaos of moving.

Involve Them in the Process

One of the best ways to ease the transition is to be open with them and let them in on the process. Let them know when you’re moving, when they’ll be starting school, what you know about the school and their future teachers.

If you’re able, take them on a visit to the school before they start. Or if you aren’t able to, let them see pictures or videos of it online.

Be sure they keep up with their studies during a move. They’ll likely miss a few days or weeks of school during the move. Talk to their new teachers about the curriculum and what you can do to help them into the new subjects.

Do your best to empathize with them. Kids will all handle a move differently so it’s good to determine whether your children need space during the transition or if they need you to help them along. Make sure they know you’re there for them.

Helping Them Through the Transition

Take your time with the process. Don’t send them back the day you get to your new home, especially if you’re traveling a long distance.

If you’re able, plan the move around a holiday. This will allow kids the chance to take some time to acclimate to the new environment and get to know the neighbors and adjust to their surroundings.

Depending on their age, you may be able to spend some time at your kids school their first day back. This gives you the opportunity to meet teachers, administrators, and get a feel for what they’ll be experiencing every day.

Getting Ready to Move

Moving in the middle of the year can be a stressful event for anybody. But kids can bear the brunt of the anxiety. That’s why it’s important for you to be there for them to ease the transition. 

If you’re in need of professional movers to help you with your move, contact us for a free move quote today!