A Quick Guide to Car Shipping

For those who are having a long-distance move and would like to hire a car shipping company, there are important factors to consider. Some people prefer drive their vehicles but if you need auto shipping, you can ask your moving company representative if they can refer you to an auto relocation service. 

If you decided to ship your car, these tips will help:

• Most car shipping companies give a window time for delivery instead of guaranteed delivery dates. This varies on the company you choose. If they guarantee a delivery date, be sure to put it into writing. 

• Prepare your car for shipping. Start by inspecting any belongings or personal items you might have left inside. The antenna should be retracted or removed. Secure any loose parts.

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• Depending on the distance, moving your car usually takes two to six weeks. 

• Be sure to get your car fully insured by the carrier. Ask all the details including deductibles and read the fine print. Request a copy of their insurance certificate and verify this with the Department of Transportation. 

• Upon delivery, inspect your vehicle carefully. Compare the condition and mileage and as much as possible, don't accept your car at night or without thoroughly viewing it. 

• Before you sign any agreement, understand how auto shipping works. Ask questions and know all the details.

Essential Tips for Making Unpacking Easier

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Your moving crew has arrived in your new home... now there are moving boxes everywhere! If you are wondering where to begin, read on. The task of unpacking may seem overwhelming at first but once you're learned the proper way of doing it, it goes a lot smoother. 

The secret to making unpacking a breeze is to label your boxes when packing them. If you are reading this when you are still organizing your stuff for moving day, consider yourself lucky!

When you're unloading your boxes, be sure to prepare the room where it should be dispatched. When it's time to unpack, know where to start first. This may take several days, or even weeks to get everything in order. Professional movers suggest setting a deadline so you won't take it too slow or put too much pressure on yourself either. Did we mention that unpacking your things by yourself is a great way to save money?

Be sure to have your tools and supplies ready
Wipe things down with household cleaners before putting them into their places. Get your utility knifes and scissors to open boxes. You will also need screwdrivers, hammer and nails, and hex keys to assemble furniture and install hooks or shelves. If you prefer to add cabinet liners, you may do so before you unpack. You can turn on the music to make unpacking more fun!

Helpful Tips for a Successful Job Relocation

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If you are planning to relocate but haven't found a new job, now is the time to plan your move. These tips will help you land on your dream home (and job!) 

• Create an impressive resume. With the competitive job market, it is more important than ever to make your resume stand out from the rest. Be sure to add relevant skills and experience.

• Start job hunting. Browse the classified ads and job search websites, or go to job fairs in your area. 

• Consider the cost of living when accepting a job offer. Find out the cost of living in the area you wish to relocate into. A higher salary isn't always better if the cost of living is outrageous.

Reasons Why People Move Homes

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In 2010, more than one in ten residents in America moved from one place to another. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 7 out of 10 people moved within the same county, while 2 out of 10 moved cross-country.

The reasons are many but the most common are:

• Better home. Survey shows that people move because they simply want a better place to live in. 

• Job relocation. Another reason why people move is when they accepted a new job and were transferred to a new office with the same employer.

• Establishing a household. After college, some students want to gain independence and transition from living with their parents to living alone or with a friend. Similarly, people move with their spouse to establish a household. 

Other reasons include:

• Downsizing the home. Most homeowners want to downsize their home when all the kids are gone.

• Divorce. Usually, divorced couple establish new life in separate households. 

• Retirement. A lot of people prefer to retire in another place where they can enjoy life without working or want to get closer with their grandchildren.

Fun Ways to Relax After a Big Move

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So you've just settled into a new home... Congratulations! Whether it took you a few hours or days to move and unpack, a little R & R would be great!

After your moving crew has unloaded all your stuff, give yourself a pat in the back and enjoy these fun ways to relax after a big move:

• Put your headphones on and play some music. 

• Grab a pillow and lie down on the sofa. Watch a good movie. 

• Unpack your wardrobe box and get your comfy set of clothes and slippers. Feel at home!

• Find a massage therapist in your new neighborhood.

• Treat yourself to a foot spa, manicure, and pedicure.

• Dine at a nice restaurant after moving day and start finding your new favorite eating spot.

Things to Do When Moving Into a New Home

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Moving into a new home is an overwhelming process, yet a very exciting journey. It comes with a lot of responsibility -- from packing, loading, and adapting into the new environment.

To help ease the stress that comes with moving, here are the most important things to add on your moving checklist:

• Sort out all your items. You can cut down your moving costs when you get rid of unwanted items. You can donate them or place it on a garage sale. Doing so will help you save more space and pay less.

• Pack your items properly. Use professional grade moving boxes and supplies. This will keep all your stuff safe and secure during transit. 

• Hire professional movers. Be sure to hire reliable moving service and get the best deal out there. Compare prices and get a moving quote to help you decide.

• While waiting for the moving crew to arrive in your new home, set up utilities. Contact utility companies in your new area and have everything ready -- electricity, water, phone, internet, cable, gas, and others.

7 Essential Moving Supplies

If you are moving across town, you can pack pretty much anything you want with less worries. But when it comes to long distance moving, you should consider packing differently and you will be needing more time and patience. Every item needs to be securely placed inside the moving truck.

Here are the essential moving supplies you need:

• Moving boxes. Get moving boxes in different sizes that can be used in odd-shaped items as well. Having the appropriate boxes will make the loading process easier. 

• Furniture pads. Take ample amount of furniture pads to protect all your furniture during transit.

• Linens and blankets. You can use fabric to wrap around items or fill in gaps inside the box. They serve as extra padding too.

How to Pack Your Sewing Machine

For the seasoned crafter, organizing their own craft room is an investment. Professional movers understand you more than ever! We know how much you value each of your craft supplies so we will teach you how to pack your sewing machine and be able to enjoy your hobby. 

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• Whether you have electric sewing machine, sergers, or embroidery machines, they're generally packed the same.

• For sewing machines without a cover, start by purchasing a box that's slightly bigger than your machine. Place crushed packing paper in the bottom of the box.

• Detach anything that's loose, including the needle. You can pack this inside your sewing kit or tape the loose parts to the machine.

• The presser foot should be lowered.

• Remove the spool holder, if possible. If not, be sure to pad it with packing paper.

How to Pack Your Craft Supplies

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If you love crafting, you know how important it is to keep all your essential craft supplies and favorite fabrics. According to professional movers, these things can be packed together inside your moving boxes --

• Fold or roll all your fabrics and place them inside the box.

• Be sure the thread is hooked on the spool. Place them in zip top bags.

• Carry paints, spray aerosols, and glues with you. These are the things you should not place with the rest of your household goods. If you want to save some space, you can sell them at your garage sale instead, or pass it on to your crafty friends. 

• If you have unused yarns, keep them wrapped in packing paper to avoid getting tangled. You can also place them into individual zip top bags.

• Beads should be kept in their original packaging and should be taped so they won't run loose. 

Last-Minute Moving Tips

If you need to move long distance on such a short notice, you only have a few options especially if your're moving on peak season. Depending on the schedule, some professional movers stand out from the crowd because of their ability to handle last-minute moves. Read on to learn all of the important things done quickly.

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• Make a reservation. Be sure to call so your moving company representative so they can check the prices and availability while you're on the phone. 

• Collect important files. Keep your moving quote, bill of lading, checklist, important phone numbers, and other documents. Use a folder to file them together so you don't misplace them.

• Get extra hands. Ask your friends, family member, or close neighbors to help you pack and load your items. Don't forget to give them a treat (think pizza, drinks, or a cup of coffee). 

• Pack your items properly. Just because you're moving last-minute doesn't mean you have to rush the packing process and forget the essentials, or any other details that matter. Use quality packing materials and moving boxes, and be sure to follow our packing tips. 

How to Get Rid of Old Batteries Before Your Move

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In our last post, we discussed how to properly dispose of your computer to get rid of the clutter in your home and maximize the space in the moving truck. Today, let's continue our eco-friendly agenda. 

Aside from computers, some batteries pose a threat in the environment. There are different kinds of batteries - lithium, car batteries, and electronic batteries. Each has a different way of disposal.

• Alkaline batteries (zinc, manganese, steel, and other common metals) do not pose a health or environmental risk. But it doesn't mean that you will not take extra precaution when disposing them. Batteries are not fully dead so be sure to dispose them separately. Do not dispose them on fire as they can explode.

• Lithium, zinc, and rechargeable batteries contain toxic materials and should never be thrown with your household waste. 

• Car batteries are hazardous waste as well. They contain avid, plastic, and heavy metals. They can be recycled and in most instances, you can find a place to drop them off. 

How to Properly Dispose of Your Computer

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If you have a computer that you no longer use and wanted to dispose it into the trash bin, read this first. Professional movers encourage you to be environmentally responsible and get rid of your computer in the most eco-friendly way possible.

Be sure to protect your data before getting rid of your desktop. Use disk-erasing tools or just destroy your hard drive completely. If you're moving and want to clear out your home, here are some of your options:

Resell
If your computer is still in good condition but you don't want it to take additional space in the moving truck, you can resell it online or in electronic shops. It's a good way to get extra cash.

Moving Your Home Security System

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In 2011, there is an alarming FBI Property Crime Report wherein an estimated of 9.6 million property crime offenses have been recorded. When you are moving into a new home, you are vulnerable to burglary so it is important to keep an eye on your things.

Now that you have everything ready, it's time to look around and see what you might be leaving -- your home security system. If you want to have the same level of security in your new home, read along.

• If you want to install the same home security system, consider what type of alarm system you have. For traditional wired alarm, the installation process can be pretty easy to remember. But you will need a trained technician for drilling holes and running wires through the attached sensors. 

• If you own a wireless security system, it is easier for you to pack up and take it with you. Uninstalling them is fairly simple. You can put it back into the original packaging and place it in the moving truck along with your appliances.