Category: Moving Tips

Often, the logistics involved in a working family completing an out-of-state move prove overwhelming. Enrolling children in a new school system, transferring vehicle registrations, and staying on top of mail deliveries rank among the seemingly endless minutia you have to juggle.

While some of those things falling through the cracks for a few days won’t upend the move, others can set off a domino effect of mounting frustration. That’s why it may prove fruitful to consider missteps that can disrupt an otherwise smooth transition. The following are common setbacks people experience when moving out of state and ways to avoid them.

1: Forgetting to Measure Your New Space

New living space may not accommodate your furniture in a fully functional fashion. Dining room tables, couches, and bedroom sets rank among the large items that sometimes don’t fit. Even when rooms appear to possess adequate square footage, the layout of the living space may not be conducive to free movement. That’s why it’s essential to measure the furniture and the room dimensions and get a sense of placement. 

2: Placing Heavy Items in Large Boxes

People who don’t work as professional movers sometimes operate under the misconception that heavy items should go in big boxes. In a conceptional way, that seems to make logical sense. But the reality is that large boxes have wide bottoms and are more likely to fail. So, you should pack heavy items like books in small boxes and lighter items like pillows and blankets you should pack in larger containers.

Imagine moving day arrives, and the bottoms start falling out. Having to repack your belongings not only disrupts your timeline. It can also prove a little embarrassing. Heavy items require sturdy boxes and packaging that can handle the weight. If you are unsure about the strength of boxes or how to pack them securely, you should leave this task to the professionals.

3: Forgetting to Label Boxes

It’s not unusual for people to focus on wrapping fragile items and neatly packing them in boxes. While that aspect may help ensure successful transport without damage, labels matter. Unlabeled boxes don’t allow moving professionals to separate fragile items from others. This means that glassware might be placed at the bottom and the weight of other cartons could damage otherwise securely packed things.

In addition, proper labels allow the movers to place the boxes in the appropriate rooms at your new home.

When packing belongings yourself, remember to label each side of every box with a permanent marker before sealing it. Include the box contents and the room location. Also, indicate if the contents are “fragile.” This strategy could save hours of delays and an unnecessary headache.

4: Getting Over-Extended With Moving Tasks

One of the more common things that happen to busy families is that they simply have too much on their plate. Regular work weeks, family commitments, and socializing already fill up busy schedules. Planning a move and all the small tasks that come with it is challenging. Without a to-do list, the unfortunate result is people rushing to get packed, tossing things randomly in bags and boxes as the moving trucks pull up.

The fact of the matter is that out-of-state moves require families to handle so many additional issues that basic moving tasks take a backseat. That’s why enlisting the help of a full-service moving company is essential. Vehicle transportation, proper packaging techniques, and setting a detailed moving itinerary can take the worry out of moving. If you are planning an out-of-state move, contact us for a quote and avoid setbacks.

 

You find yourself having to make a residential move, and your budget is pretty slim. While moving can bring along some extra expenses, there are also a few good ways to save money. 

1. Get creative when sourcing packing supplies.

The cost of large moving boxes, packing paper, and quilted pads can add up. Not to mention the other packing supplies you will need like tape and bubble wrap. If you have a lot to pack, the cost of moving supplies is something to consider. Look for budget-friendly options: 

• Some grocery stores give away boxes that you can easily use for packing
• Check with local businesses for newspapers to use as packing paper 
• Use your own heavy blankets and towels to protect your furniture

As an adage, some moving companies provide discounted moving supplies like gently-used boxes for free or for a discount when you hire them for help. 

2. Sell what you don’t need. 

The fewer items you have to move, the more cost-effective your move will be. If you have things you don’t need, consider selling them instead of carrying them to your new place. You could post the articles on local classified groups online or even host a garage sale. As a side note, some items that you may consider trash you might be able to recycle for extra cash. For example, a lot of metal recycling centers will pay money for old metal appliances. With a bit of sorting and effort, you may even make some money to put toward your moving costs. 

3. Cut your utility usage where possible and split deposit payments when you can.

When you are in the process of moving, utility costs can change. You may have to pay for whatever you use before leaving your current address and paying a deposit to get service at the new place. Cut utility usage before moving day not to find yourself financially overwhelmed with the final bill. You may try: 

• Raising the thermostat a few degrees to prevent the AC from kicking on so often 
• Lowering electric heat settings a bit while you’re up packing or while in bed 
• Unplugging electronics when they are not in use 
• Scaling back on limited internet usage 
• Opting for showers over baths to save water usage

Keep in mind that some companies will allow you to split up deposit payments throughout your first few bills, which may help you save a bit during the move. 

4. Create a meal plan to save money on eating out.

When you’re in the middle of a move, it can be tempting to eat out and grab food on the fly instead of cooking. However, restaurant meals can be 325 percent more expensive than a meal you prepare at home on your own. Even just making your coffee at home could save around $40 in 30 days. Create yourself a meal plan, make your coffee at home, and you could save quite a bit to put toward your move. 

5. Enlist help to avoid time off of work.

While it may seem counterintuitive to hire professional movers to help you move, doing so can mean you have more free time, and you may not have to miss much time from work. If you are ready to tack down your moving budget and need to get an idea of the cost, reach out to us for a free moving quote today. 

 

What if you have found the ideal new home — but the kitchen is a bit dated? 

Many people dream of a new kitchen but can’t afford the costs of expensive remodels when they move into their new home. With the average kitchen remodel costing anywhere between $12,000 to $35,000, even a minor remodel can easily set a new homeowner back at least $4,000. 

Here are a few low-budget ways to refresh a dated kitchen and give it a newer look. It’s not a full remodel, but these small changes can make a huge difference.

1. Add a Fresh Coat of Paint

A coat of new paint can shave years off a dated kitchen. Painting is one of the most affordable and easiest ways to refresh a kitchen when moving into a new home. All it requires is about 1-2 gallons of paint and a few hours to get the job done. In the end, the kitchen will look refreshed and inviting.

2. Update Kitchen Cabinets

New kitchen cabinets can cost thousands of dollars. However, many vintage kitchen cabinets are well-made of solid wood and will continue to last decades.

• Sand and re-stain
• Paint
• Add new cabinet pulls and knobs

Sometimes, all kitchen cabinets need is a little TLC, and you can make them look refreshed and new without the hefty price tag.

3. Upgrade to a Modern Faucet

Many people are surprised after they realize the dramatic impact a modern faucet makes in a kitchen. Old, outdated faucets are often hard to keep clean and aren’t as functional as newer models. Yet, it’s one of the things most new homeowners overlook. Traditional chrome models show water stains, whereas brushed nickel and other versions repel water and leave it looking clean all the time. More contemporary faucets also add height and have built-in spray features making pots and pans easier to clean. Good-quality faucets are very affordable and can give your sink a whole new look.

4. Change Drawer and Shelf Liners

A low-budget refresh that you can do before your residential move or quickly before you unpack is to place new shelf liners throughout the kitchen. It’s a great way to give the interior of cabinets a clean look. It provides an opportunity to do some reorganization and perhaps even some downsizing to make cabinets more functional. Depending on how many surfaces need re-lining, this job, on average, costs anywhere between $25 and $75.

5. Install New Switch and Outlet Plates

Switch and outlet plates are often overlooked items for replacing. Homes often contain the original metal or white switch plates and then can look dingy. Try installing decorative or at least newer metal ones to provide a “cleaner” look—it’s surprising to learn what a big difference this small change makes. Nice-looking switch and outlet plates can cost anywhere between $3 and $15 per cover. It’s an easy fix that doesn’t take away much time from unpacking.

6. Add New Lighting

Older kitchens often have dim or inefficient lighting, which makes the room look dark and dank. Swap out the overhead fixture for an updated fixture that accommodates LED light bulbs. Homeowners can find inexpensive fixtures. If you need to have them professionally installed, it will increase the cost, but they’ll do it safely and correctly. 

New Home Refresh

Moving into a new place with a dated kitchen doesn’t have to bring down the excitement; even minor changes can equal significant differences.

Are you planning an upcoming move? Contact us today for a free estimate or to learn more about our moving services.

 

Moving with kids can be an exciting experience! You’ll need to have the proper equipment available to you on moving day to ensure that your kids will stay out of the way of movers and adequately entertained. This means that you’ll have to leave some essential items unpacked for the day of the move. Here’s are some suggestions to help when moving with kids.

1. Snacks

Kids need healthy, non-sticky, non-messy snacks on moving day. Pack snacks that are filling and tasty. Granola bars, apples, cheese sticks, and dried fruits are all examples of the types of foods that you’ll want to have on hand for your children on moving day. You may also need to order food for lunch on moving day, so know the name of a local place that serves food your kids are likely to eat without trouble.

2. A Comforting Item

Moving can be a little traumatic. Leave out a comforting item such as a stuffed animal, a favorite blanket, or a preferred doll to have on hand. If your child is old enough to choose, allow your child to pick the item for themselves.

3. Change of Clothes

Kids can get messy, especially if you plan to send the kids into the backyard while the movers take away boxes. Put a change of clothes in a bag, including underwear, socks, and a sweater or jacket for the evening. You can also put your kid’s pajamas in this bag, so you can easily find what you need to get them ready for bed in the evening after you’re in your new home and the movers have left.

4. Medicines

If your child needs medication during the day, you’ll naturally want to have their medicines on hand and available whenever you need them. Ask your child’s physician for extras of the prescription if you’ll need some during the transition. Even if your kids don’t take any medicine regularly, you’ll still want to have some medication available if your child wakes up not feeling well. Consider leaving out a fever-reducer, thermometer, allergy, and other regular medication your child may take throughout the year.

5. A Source of Entertainment

It’s so important to have a source of entertainment for your child available! It’s also essential for the entertainment source to be easily transportable. This might be a hand-held video game system, some car-ride games, or games loaded onto a mobile device. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something your kids will find entertaining for long periods.

6. Items Needed for Nap Time

If your child is young enough to need naps, keep items needed for nap time available throughout the relocation. This might include a roll-out mat, a blanket, and a pillow. If your child needs something else to get to sleep – like a music player to soothe them – leave that out as well.

Get Ready for Your Upcoming Relocation. Meet with Movers Now.

If you’re moving sometime shortly, meet with a reputable moving company to discuss your upcoming relocation. We can give you a price quote and help you set a date.

 

Taking care of houseplants is a daily joy for those who carefully maintain them. Most people don’t want to leave their plants behind in a move, but there are several essential details to know if planning to take them.

Moving household plants can be tricky. Professional moving companies can’t transport them since state rules, and other industry regulations prevent them from carrying them on their trucks.

If you are determined to bring your plants with you when you move to your new home, you need to be prepared to manage that. Here are some tips to help you move your own household plants.

Moving Across State Lines

Before taking any plants across state lines, it’s important to research state laws. Also, be sure to follow any applicable federal requirements in their effort to prevent the spread of pests. Some states require permits; others have stricter regulations.

Prep Plants Before the Move

Before the move, about a week (or more if possible), start prepping plants for the trek. Before doing any preparation, be sure the plants can survive in the new climate. Even though plants are indoors, local environments can negatively impact them, so be sure to check. Once you confirm plant hardiness, prep the plants.

• Prune dead leaves

• Rid the plants of pests (use a flea collar at the base of the pot to draw them out)

• Refresh soil with sterilized planting soil

• Water plants 2-3 days before moving

Additionally, transfer plants to plastic planters if you are not already using them. This will make indoor plants lighter to carry and create conditions for less chance of breakage.

Pack plants in open boxes

For short moves across town, carefully place indoor plants in open boxes. This is the easiest way to transport them.

• If using cardboard boxes, tape the bottom to reinforce them

• Cushion the sides of the planters with newspaper or other recyclable items

• Make sure there is enough space for houseplants to breathe

• Place box on the floor in the backseat if possible

• Add a few sturdy items to help keep them still, if needed, especially if the vehicle’s trunk is the only option.

Longer moves are a little tricky because plants need protection from heat and cold. Plan to keep them at a steady temperature that is appropriate for your plant. Keep in mind that sunlight exposure through windows can make them overheat. Trunks are not ideal for long transports since plants won’t receive fresh air or sunlight. Also, remember to bring a watering container along to keep them moist. Be prepared as the process could get a little messy.

Winter Moves

Exposure to extreme cold can damage sensitive indoor plants, even for brief periods. If moving during a time temperatures have plummeted, warm up the car before leaving and carefully wrap plants with newspaper.

Unpacking Plants

Be sure to unpack the plants as soon as possible upon arrival. Understandably, they’ll be plenty to attend to, but it’s essential not to leave plants packed any longer than necessary. After all, you spent all that time carefully packing and transporting them; it would be a shame for beloved houseplants not to survive the move once they’ve arrived.

Shipping plants

In some cases, houseplants can be shipped through the USPS, UPS, or FedEx, but check with company representatives before making arrangements to ensure that you follow guidelines and rules. Keep in mind that boxes will shift, and plants have a higher chance of being damaged, so take extra care to pack houseplants when planning to ship them. Choose the fastest method possible.

Share the Love

Since transporting plants to a new home, especially a home that’s far away, can be a significant chore, consider donating your plants to neighbors, friends, or family before you move. Your friends might appreciate the gesture, and it will give them something to remember you by.

Moving Made Easy 

Need a quote for an upcoming move? Contact us today for a free estimate.

 

If you’ve ever spent hours moving heavy objects around, you probably already know how tired you can get —  and how easy it is to get injured.

After all, in the average residential move, you’re bending, lifting, carrying over and over for hours on end. Then you have to do it all again in reverse when you reach your new home. Besides, moving is complicated, so you’ve probably got a million things on your mind, making it hard to pay attention to what you’re doing.

Add it together, and it’s a recipe for a safety disaster — especially if you’ve opted to do all the hard work yourself with a DIY move.

These five tips will help you put safety first during your next move.

1. Pack Properly

Though it can be tempting (and save time) to throw as many items as you can into each box, it’s not always the best idea for your back. As a general rule, packed boxes shouldn’t weigh more than 50 pounds. Anything heavier is asking for trouble, even if you do lift properly.

Instead, use smaller boxes to reduce the load. You can still use large and over-sized boxes. Just fill them with light objects, such as pillows or comforters, rather than books.

Bonus: Your items will be more secure when packed in smaller, properly packed boxes, too. When large, heavy boxes are over-packed, they’re more likely to be unbalanced and unstable. That increases the risk of breakage and damage.

2. Lift the Right Way

You’ve likely heard “lift with your legs, not your back” many times. But considering that back injuries can be painful and debilitating for a long time — proper lifting technique is key to a safe move.

If you must lift a box or object unassisted, follow these lifting best practices:

• Start with your feet close to the base of the item
• Bend your knees and squat
• Keeping your back straight, slowly stand up, using your leg muscles

The safest way to lift a heavy object is to get help. Don’t attempt to lift heavy items on your own.

3. Choose Quality Packing Supplies

Reducing waste by reusing boxes is great for the earth — but it may not be the safest option for a move. Sometimes second-hand boxes are flimsy or broken down. They are more likely to tear, break or fall apart, to lead to a greater chance of injury or damage. 

Choose your moving supplies wisely. Make sure you check the integrity of your boxes. If they are not quality, invest in new, sturdy boxes and quality tape to keep them shut. Using packing paper and bubble wrap will help keep objects secure, so you can lift boxes and carry them in and out of a moving truck without incident.

4. Grab the Right Gear

Moving is tricky: You’re going to get hot, sweaty, and dirty. Protect yourself by gearing up with the right clothes and equipment.

• Heavy-duty work gloves made from sweat-resistant, stretchable fabric
• Long-sleeve shirts and pants
• Closed-toe shoes
• Dollies or hand-trucks with solid straps to move heavy and oversized items securely
• Furniture glides, so you can slide furniture rather than lift it

5. Ask for Help

Without question, the best way to move safely is by working with professional movers. They’ll have the experience, training, and expertise necessary to safely move even your bulky, heavy items.

Don’t take the risk of getting injured! If you need help, ask for it. Moving is a tremendous job, and there’s no need to go it alone.

Movers You Can Count On

Are you planning your upcoming move? Connect with us for a free quote; we can safely get you and your family to your next home.

Since spring is the number one home-selling season, many Americans plan their relocation between May and September each year. This period is considered peak moving season. 

Like any industry, busy periods can cause delays and logistical challenges not experienced during slower times. If you think about this in simple terms, it’s a lot like trying to get through traffic during rush hour or ordering a coffee during the morning work commute. 

While moving may be more comfortable during the off-season, the driving reasons for relocating from May through September are unlikely to change. Given that everyday people will continue to move during peak months, these are things to consider that can make the process seamless.

Why Is This the Peak Moving Season?

Perhaps the primary reason families prefer to move during this period is summer vacation. Parents generally like their children to complete a school year and start fresh in a new system. Although curriculums may be similar, the learning differences and schedules can prove disruptive to a child’s academic year. Parents like to list homes in spring and close during the break.

Weather is another important factor. Northern states struggle with winter chills, snowfall, and other unenviable conditions. A sudden snowstorm can cause delays while trucks wait for roads to get plowed, among other logistical issues. Lastly, many apartment leases end in late spring and summer, prompting renters to find new digs.

How To Time Your Peak Season Moving

Let’s consider the analogy about rush hour traffic or getting a morning coffee in the context of peak moving season. Rush hour traffic generally occurs between 6-10 am and again from 3-7 pm and the morning coffee issues usually happen around 7-9 am. Roll the week to, say, Saturday or Sunday. The majority of people do not commute to work, and more families make coffee at home. This leaves the roads relatively vacant and coffee shop seating available. The point is that you can plan for peak season moving lulls as well. These include the following.

• Weekdays: Many people try to schedule their move on weekends to avoid taking days off work. Consider planning yours on a slow day such as a Tuesday or Wednesday. These tend to rank among the quieter moving days.
• Mid-Month Moves: The number of moves at the beginning and end of peak season months tends to be higher than the middle weeks. It may be easier to schedule a mid-month date with your preferred moving company.

By targeting the lulls during the peak season, you may be able to secure the services of a residential moving company of your choice.

Contact An Experienced Moving Company ASAP

The log-jam of moves during the peak season makes it increasingly difficult for people to secure the services of a high-quality mover. Industry-leading organizations often get booked months in advance. That’s why it’s vital to secure bids and vet companies as soon as you anticipate moving during the peak season. It’s essential to put your valued belongings and transition in the hands of people who you trust.

Contact us today for your free quote.

Managing employees during a relocation can be challenging – especially if you’ve got a large group to manage. It helps to have a plan and stick to it. These tips can help you maintain productivity in your workplace while also keeping up employee morale. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Plan Your Relocation at a Quiet Time of Year

Pick the right time of year for your upcoming office relocation. Moving at a busy time of year places undue stress on your employees, leading to burn-out.

2. Communicate With Staff

Communication is vital during an office relocation. Give your employees a timeline to keep them up to date on what’s happening during the move. If you expect employees to be part of the relocation effort and pack, sort, or unpack — layout your expectations at the start of the relocation process.

Work on a plan with your employees. Take their feedback and listen to their concerns. This will ensure that everyone is on the same page and agrees about what needs to be done.

3. Provide Encouragement

Moving is hard for everyone, including staff! Encourage your employees throughout the relocation. Tell employees when they’re doing a great job, and give bonuses or prizes to employees who go above and beyond.

4. Provide Tours of the New Space

Let employees see where they’ll be working! This can be especially helpful if some employees are reluctant to move into a new space. Provide tours and, if possible, give employees a chance to pick their own workstation. Even if they can’t choose their own workstation, provide them with an opportunity to be a part of the planning for the area’s appearance and layout they’ll spend the most time.

5. Incentivize Employees

Some employees may decide not to relocate with your company. It might depend on where you’re moving and what the new location is like. Some employee incentives to stay with your company might save you a lot of headache and hassle if you can retain most or all of the people who work for you.

6. Have a Management Plan

Collaborate with other leadership members in your company or organization to ensure that all of your company managers are taking the same approach to staff management. This may involve some planning meetings to strategize. Have regular check-ins with other managers to get a sense of how things are going and ensure that everyone in your organization is on the same path.

7. Play Up the Positives

Remind employees periodically about the positive things they can expect from your upcoming relocation, whether your new building will have more storage space, a better view, or a larger parking lot. The more attractive you make the forthcoming location sound, the more excited your staff will be for their upcoming move.

Work With a Reputable, Full-Service Moving Company

Make the relocation easier on your employees by working with a full-service moving company. Working with a reputable company will reduce the workload for your employees, so they can stay focused on what matters most: their jobs. Call today for a price quote.

 

Let’s face it: Moving is stressful. With multiple components to schedule and organize, it’s no wonder that moving is consistently ranked among some of the most stressful life events.

However, it doesn’t have to be this way. Hiring a professional moving company takes much of the burden of moving off your shoulders and makes the experience less stressful.

But how do you choose a moving company? With so many available options, knowing how to pick a reputable, reliable mover is critical. These steps will help you hire a moving company that’ll save you stress.

Referrals, Reviews, and Credentials

When it comes to choosing movers, there’s nothing like getting a personal recommendation. Start your search by asking family, friends, and co-workers for referrals. If they’ve had a good moving experience — or a not-so-great experience — ask for details.

Next, check online reviews, but don’t just limit yourself to reviews published on a moving company’s website. Instead, look at sites like Yelp, Google, Better Business Bureau, or the U.S. Department of Transportation.

While you’re on the USDOT site, you can check to see if an interstate moving company is licensed. Movers that make in-state moves should be insured and licensed, too; check for a DOT license and insurance information.

Review Estimates

Now that you’ve created a list of reputable moving companies ask for estimates. You’ll want to compare at least three.

An in-person estimate will be more accurate, as the company will do a walk-through and see precisely what they would be moving. A good mover will ask questions about what you plan to take and what you will leave behind.

Look for Red Flags

Keep your eyes open for red flags during the estimate process. These may include movers that show up late, seem unprofessional, or have recently changed their company name. Extremely low bids are another red flag and may indicate a scam or lack of experience.

Unless they must rent special equipment for your move, moving companies should have their own vehicles. A rental truck can be a warning signal.

Finally, beware of moving companies that request a large deposit upfront. In most cases, payment is due after the move is complete. If movers request a large deposit (more than 20 percent) or ask for cash, that’s a big red flag. Always pay with a credit card.

Get Everything in Writing

Once you’ve chosen a mover, get your contract in writing. You’ll want to make sure that terms are laid out in the agreement, including:

• Estimate and prices
• How overages and additional fees are handled
• When payment is due
• Insurance policies
• Pick up and delivery dates
• Inventory/list of belongings

What to Do if There’s a Problem

What if you run into issues with your mover or have complaints? In most cases, you have up to nine months to report any problems and file an insurance claim, so don’t wait too long to go through your belongings and check for damage.

You may file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. For interstate moves, you can contact the Federal Motor Carry Safety Administration. If the company belongs to the American Moving & Storage Association, you can file a complaint there.

While moving is stressful, a good moving company can make it less so. These tips will help you find the right company for your move. Contact us today for a quote. We can work to make your move more manageable.