How Much Storage Do You Need?

If you are moving to a new place, looking for storage options is a wise thing to do. The reasons are many, for example, you are moving out from your old house before your new house is ready, or you are thinking of downsizing your home and you feel that the space is not enough for all your valuables. Perhaps you haven't decided yet if your furniture fits your lifestyle in your new place. 

Here's what you need to know about storage:

Sorting your items is necessary for a successful move. Determine which items will be stored and make a list. Get this information ready when you start finding a moving company you can trust. Before you start packing and navigating all your storage options, these are some of the things you need to ponder on:

• Do you need all your stuff?
• If you dispose some of it, what things would you miss?  
• When was the last time you have used a specific item? If you can't remember, then maybe it's time to add it on your garage sale or post it on eBay. If you can't sell it, donate it to charity or give it to your friends or neighbors.
• What items have sentimental value? If you treasure it for long, will the value increase over time?
• What items need storage? Some items require special storage, including wine, vehicles, and boats, just to name a few. 
• Are there items sensitive to temperature changes? Valuable papers may need a climate-control facility. Ask your movers about this service and find out the additional charges. Doing so but will prevent temperature changes from damaging your valuables. 

Tips for Packing Table Lamps

A desk lamp is perfect for creating a pleasant workspace and a great accent to any home office. If you want the same motivating atmosphere in your new home, you can take your favorite lamp with you. 

Here's how to lighten things up and pack your functional and stylish lamps:

1. Prepare tall boxes that you can get from your moving company. Pick a size that's appropriate for your table lamp. Have bubble wraps, packing paper, packing tape, and marker ready.
2. Make sure the bottom of the box is taped properly and will carry the weight of the lamp. Line the bottom of the box with bubble wraps or crushed packing paper for cushioning.
3. Detach the bulb and shade. Your hands must be clean and dry before you remove the parts for safety. The cord should be wrapped around the base of the lamp. Professional movers remind everyone to not use packing tape on the cord as it can stick to the paint and ruin the outer coating; rather, you can tuck the plug end securely into the wrapped cord.

Sorting Your Records & Files Before You Move

Aside from packing computer and organizing books for an upcoming move, your need to keep your documents safe. For some, sorting files can be a tedious process. In this post, you will learn how to sort your files and records in your home office or den without missing anything.

Most of the time, people keep their documents in a drawer or shelf and when you are moving to another place, you need to get all the records smoothly. Here are some personal records you have to collect:

School records

Usually, most schools will transfer your children's records to the new school, but it is best to obtain copies even for a fee. If your child is applying to a college or university,you can request for a certified copy of their transcript that can be mailed to your new address.

Medical records

Make sure you have copies of you and your family's medical records. It will be great if you can find a new physician prior to moving so they can just call for your files. But this is different when you are moving out of country as records are not easily transferred across borders. That's why it's best to obtain a complete copy of medical records from your family doctor, dentist, optometrist, and other healthcare professional.

Vet records

If you are moving with pets, they will also need copies of veterinary records especially if you are moving out of state. Vaccination records and health check-up are just some of the requirements for the immigration of animals.

Home Office Moving Tips: How to Pack Books

If there are some items that are most often neglected during the moving process, this is it. Books are more likely to be placed in boxes and it ends there. They are one of the heaviest small items to pack especially when you have a large collection. However, professional movers encourage you to bring out your inner bookworm and give special consideration to books while packing and moving them. Properly packing your books - old or new - will keep the pages intact and their shelf-life for long. 

Now that you're learned how to pack and move your computer, this step-by-step guide to organizing your textbooks, paperbacks, encyclopedias, and prized collections comes well-recommended by professional movers: 

1. Have small boxes, packing tape, and packing paper available.
2. When it comes to boxes for your books, the smaller the better. This will prevent injuries when loading them into the truck and reduce the risk of tearing the box and everything inside. 

Packing & Moving Tips for the Home Office

If you have a home-based work or business, or simply have a study room, you want to ensure an organized move. As much as possible, you want all your things to arrive safely in your new home. To get your space ready for moving, there are a few steps you can take so you won't have to deal with the overwhelming amount of documents, books, receipts, and files to keep.

So let's get your home office in order... starting with your computer. Check out this home office series and learn everything you need to know about packing and moving your home office or den:

Packing and Moving Your Computer

If you have a laptop, you just carry it in your bag and take it with you in the care. But if you have your desktop at home, you need extra effort to keep it safe. You need to handle it with special care during the moving process. Aside from the hardware itself, the data is valuable and often irreplaceable. Just like any other electronics, computers are are delicate items that should be safely packed and moved.  Follow these tips to ensure safe transport of your computer:

Create a backup file
What's in your computer is equally valuable with the hardware so you want to make sure your data is protected, especially financial records and other important files. Also, make a backup of your family photos, music collections, videos, and other files before you pack it in the box. You can use a DVD or CD, external hard drive, or USB. They are affordable and can store decent amount of files. You can also sort your data into folders.

Disconnect the cables
After backing up your files, turn off your computer, monitor and any other peripherals. Disconnect all the cables and tie them using twisty ties or velcro tiles. Label and store them in a different box than the hardware. Remember to wrap the keyboard, mouse, and other peripherals before sealing the box.

Secure the box
After creating a backup file and arranging the cords safely, it's time to pack your desktop. Use the original packaging or purchase a packaging kit with padding.

Keep the CPU in an upright position with the motherboard side down. Make sure the box is padded properly so the computer isn't snug inside the box. Protect the items inside the box and make sure it has adequate cushioning materials to prevent damages during transport.

Moving Tip: Inform People About Your Move

Preparing for moving day can be a tedious process, and sometimes the stress makes you forget some minor details. Moving is more than just hiring a mover. One of the things you missed unintentionally is letting people know you are relocating. If you want to know who you will inform first and easy ways to let them know, read along --

Aside from your friends, family, and neighbors, you need to notify the following:

Personal

• Magazine subscriptions, if any
• Professional and interest groups
• Schools/colleges/universities

Companies/Organization

• Your employer
• Your bank
• Insurance companies
• Credit card company
• Pension company
• Local council tax department

How To Label Your Moving Boxes

When planning your move, make sure your valuables don't get misplaced or damaged. The secret: label them. 

Packing doesn't end in putting all your items inside the box. Professional movers recommend using stickers, labels, and keeping an inventory list. It is important to know the contents of each boxes and label them accurately. Doing so will facilitate an efficient move.

When you label the boxes, place the sticker in the part where it can be easily seen. Each label should have an arrow indicating whether the box should be kept upright at all times to prevent mishandling. Also, write specific instructions or special handling (for example, placing the word "Fragile" on delicate items or "open first" for things you need right away). But be careful not to mark your boxes with words like "china," "silver," or "antiques" to prevent possibility of theft.

You can also label it by room, as professional movers suggest. Use words such as “kitchen,” “bedroom,” “dining room, and so on. It will be helpful to label them within rooms when necessary. If your bedroom has two closets, you can label the boxes with “bedroom 1A” and “bedroom 1B.” You can also do this for kitchen boxes. Pack and label them according to cabinets or drawers.

How to Pack Your Bedroom When You Move

Linens and clothes can take up much space and time when moving. Not to mention the furniture, mattresses, and other large items. To save you from the clutter in packing, follow these tips --

The first thing you need to do when packing your bedroom is sort through your closets. If you keep more clothes than you ever wear, it's time to get rid of those outdated wardrobe before you move. You can keep the items that need cleaning or mending. If it's beyond repair, stash it away. You can sell unwanted items or donate to charity. Each family member can pack their own rooms to simplify the moving process.

Clothes

Professional movers suggest using wardrobe boxes for clothes that you don't want to take off the hanger. You can fold other clothing into a medium to large-sized box that has been lined with plain paper. Make sure the boxes are not too heavy to lift and label them appropriately.

Shoes

You can use the original boxes for your shoes. If you no longer have the boxes, wrap each shoe in plain newsprint paper then wrap each pair together. Place them in the same box and label properly. Be careful not to pack heavy items on top of the shoes. Lighter items like blankets and pillows could be use to top off the box.

Jewelries

Secure jewelries in your valuable box and don't pack them with your clothes. Take them with you as most moving companies will not move valuables without proper insurance.

Linens, Bedding, and Pillow

Pack sheets, linens, and pillows in a clear plastic bag to easily identify which bedroom it belongs to. Make sure it is sealed. 

How to Pack and Move a Mattress

At the end of a busy and tiring day, nothing feels better than curling up in bed. Most of you would agree that a comfortable mattress is a staple in every bedroom and it comes with a price. This is the reason why you should be extra careful when the time comes that you have to move into a new house. 

These tips will help you prepare and move your mattress like a pro:

• Obviously, the first thing you need to do is remove the sheets and pillows. Wash and dry them before packing into their respective boxes. It's good to have a fresh and clean bedding once you arrive in your new home.
• Because mattresses are heavy, you will need extra hands to move it safely. Clear the area near the bed then carefully remove the mattress from the bed frame. Take it into your work space and wrap it in a mattress bag  - this is a fitted plastic bag designed to protect your mattress from dirt, tears, and other damages. These packing material can be purchased from your moving company. Make sure the mattresses are wrapped with tape to make sure the bag stays in place.
• Label the mattresses accordingly. You can write something like "Kids room" or "Jane's room." This will help in unpacking as it will end up in the right bedroom.
• When moving the mattress, be careful not to bend or fold the mattress. Keep the walkways and stairs free from any furniture so you can safely maneuver it. It is recommended that you hire a moving company because they are skilled in moving large and heavy items and have the necessary equipment to lift the mattress easily. But if you are doing it yourself, use a forearm forklifts.
• When you get to the moving truck, load the mattress against a wall or stack them upright together. For memory foam items, professional movers recommend to keep it flat at all times and don’t let it stand a on end. Do not place anything heavy on top of the mattress to prevent it from deforming. 
• When unloading mattresses to your new home, carry them carefully. Take extra caution when removing the packaging to keep them in good condition.

For more tips on how to pack your bedroom, click here. 

Protecting Fragile Items When Packing

When packing your items for moving, protecting fragile items should be one of your priorities. Professional movers suggest getting quality packing materials that provide cushioning to keep your valuables safe from vibrations, and bumps as well as changes in temperature, humidity, and air pressure.

With that in mind, you need to consider how to pack the items properly so that they can withstand any kind of mishaps, whether you move it by yourself or hire a professional moving company. Different items have specific requirements to keep them safe. Some people who are on a budget prefer to use towels, blankets, or clothing to protect their items. But doing this can put your precious items at risk for breaking.

During transport, boxes may be shaken by vibrating engine or perhaps a rough pavement on the road. Since common hazards for fragile items are inevitable, there is something you can do to lower the risk of being damaged during the move. You need packing materials that are efficient in cushioning. Here are the things you need:

• Bubble wraps –These pliable plastics are used to pack delicate items. You can wrap such items individually using bubble wraps two to three times for better cushioning.
• Packaging peanuts/loose fill - These materials are designed to fill a space within a box to protect breakables during transport. They can withstand multiple shocks, flow around the item, and interlock when stressed.
• Foam structures - This is appropriate in packaging fragile objects of different weights and sizes. These materials are made to fit around an item for cushioning. 

Moving Collectibles & Antiques

More than 40 million people in the U.S. today are moving to a new place and if you're one of them, chances are you're hiring a professional moving company to help you with packing, storage, and transport of your valuables. Whether you are moving within state or planning a long distance move, you have to make sure you get trusted and experienced movers to handle your belongings with care, especially when it comes to your precious antiques and collectibles.

These tips will keep your collection safe and sound during the moving day:

• No one understands packing antiques than your moving crew. They know it should be given extra care when packaging and transporting. They know the best practices and ensure that your valuables arrive safely in your new home. During on-site assessment, cite the things that need special attention, including family heirlooms, antiques, and porcelains so they will know which packing materials and methods are appropriate. The more fragile items you have, the more you should rely on skilled movers.
• To keep your antiques safe, secure doors and removable pieces or loose parts. Detach delicate handles and tape them inside the drawers. Glass panels and mirrors should be covered with padding or stretch wrap. You can put small pieces in labeled plastic bags then put these in a labeled Parts Box.

• Bring small collectibles such as stamps, coins, and fine jewelry for transport with you. 

• Place collectibles in their original packages. If you don't  have them, ask your movers if they have grade cartons and foam peanuts or bubble wraps.

How to Pack Electronic Devices & Appliances

Electronics and appliances need proper handling during transport. They may be subject to constant shaking or bumps if packed the wrong way. So it is essential to know how you can secure your electronics and appliances to avoid the risk of damage in transit. 

These tips will keep your devices safe during the entire moving process:

• Appliances should be disconnected the day before you pack so they can cool down properly.
• Professional movers suggest to use the original packing materials for appliances. If you have disposed the original boxes, you must use furniture removal cartons available for TVs and other appliances. Special packaging may be a bit expensive but the protection it gives is worth the price. 
• Check the manual for electronic item you're packing for special considerations when packing for transport. If you don't have the manual on hand, you can try looking for it on the internet. 
• When packing appliances, make sure to add cushioning using crushed paper or polystyrene. Place enough padding on the bottom, sides, and top of the appliances as they may be subjected to shaking. 
• Remember not to overload your boxes. 
• Use a packing tape to secure the box. 

What Not to Pack When Moving

Whether you plan to have a DIY move or hire professional movers, there are a few items that you should not pack for safety reasons. You must avoid carrying dangerous and possibly harmful items and it is very important to be aware of these things. Here are some of them:

Frozen food. Once defrosted, frozen food loses its alimentary capacity. So make sure you consume or dispose them a couple of weeks before moving. You may also give it to your neighbors.

Plants. It can be difficult for you to take your plants if you are moving out of state. But if you are moving within state, you can pack them.

Old things you no longer need or use. If you have old clothes, shoes, and other stuff you no longer use, an option you have is to hold a garage sale before you move out. You can donate them to charity or give away these things to your neighbors. 

Dangerous things. Flammable, corrosive or explosives should be included on your packing list. These include liquid bleach, nail polish, nail remover, acids, chemicals, pesticides, paints, gasoline, motor oil, lighter fluid, batteries, and loaded weapons.

Documents. Important papers include: passports, visas, credit cards, birth certificates, car papers, deeds, check book, medicines, keys, medical and school records, travel documents, mortgage and lease contracts and bank statements. Put them in a file and take them with you. Remember to secure documentation of other family members as well. If you have a pet, the vet records should also go with you. 

Things with high value. Aside from paperwork, you should not include expensive jewels, cash, expensive collection, rare items and things with sentimental value. These items are hard to replace.

Ways to Avoid Moving Scams

You probably heard of scams related to moving service. We have been bombarded by a lot of hypes by these moving companies claiming of giving affordable services. But when you see these kinds of marketing ploys, be careful as not all of them are legitimate. Don't fall into their trap. Don't be a victim of fraud and moving scams.

Here are few tips to avoid scam movers and easily identify them:

Get referrals from real estate agents, friends, and family
Referrals are a great way to spot a genuine moving company. Start with your family, friends, and neighbors. Ask them if they could refer you to a reliable moving company. You can also ask experts in the housing industry, like real estate agents around your area. They are always a good source of information.

Do a background check
Investigate and do your research about the movers. Check if they are listed in Better Business Bureau (BBB) and American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA). Find out their location, license, memberships to organizations, and more. Genuine movers will show their license, memberships, and will add an address on their websites. Fraud movers usually do not have these information.

Know their workers
Extend your background check from the moving company itself down to their workers. Make sure they have a reliable team as you will entrust them with your valuables.

Be a keen observer
If the movers show up with a rental truck, it's time to think twice. Professional movers own trucks with distinct company name or logo. 

Get on-site estimates
Aside from discussing initial fees on phone or email, genuine movers come to your home to meet you in person and give a firm estimate based on the weight of the items. 

Be skeptical
Most of the time, scam movers offer attractive low prices which can be too good to be true. They even have a website to showcase their deals at a very low price.

Secure a contract
The contract should cover all the details without hidden charges. Genuine moving companies will give you documents with detailed information as well as a booklet of your rights and responsibilities. On the other hand, fraud movers will give you paperwork that's simple and will charge you later on for things you have not agreed beforehand. So make sure to ask if you don't understand something written in the contract or if you feel that there are lacking information. If you find their answers suspicious, chances are they might be into something. 

Ask about the claims
Before signing the contract, find out how your movers provide claims. Professional movers include a claim policy on the contract to compensate for accidental damages during the moving process.

Don't pay cash deposit
If a moving company demands on cash before getting the job done, say no! Genuine moving companies will never do that.

Don't be a prey of fraud movers! Recognizing these red signals will give you a worry-free moving experience.

Advantages of Hiring Movers During Winter

Homeowners usually prefer summer for moving for obvious reasons such as better weather conditions and safer roads. But moving in winter has its perks. In fact, moving during winter months will allow you to save money. 

Some of you may not like the idea of winter moving, but here are the benefits that are less commonly known:

• Winter is an off-peak season for moving, so it will be easy for you to find and book a professional mover, even on the last-minute.
• If you are on a budget, winter might be a good time for you to find low cost deals as the demand for movers is low. Most of the professional moving companies will give you quality service at affordable rates.
• Another advantage of moving during winter is that you can easily pick your moving date. Professional movers can accommodate all your needs.
• Despite of the snow and cold breeze, relocating during winter season can be faster as the roads are less busy.
• Professional movers have ample time and are readily available to give a reliable moving service with attention to detail. 

Follow these tips and you'll be enjoying a cozy fireplace in your new home while sipping a warm cup of tea.

How to Protect Your Belongings While Moving

Moving to a new place can be both exciting and stressful. Choosing a professional moving company has its own challenges. Protecting your precious belongings and household items is very important and will help make your move a success. Here are some ways to ensure your valuables are safe while moving:

• Don’t pack everything in one box. Make sure you can lift it yourself.
• Heavier things should be packed in small boxes. 
• Prevent boxes from caving in by avoiding to stack anything on top of boxes.
• Make sure the box doesn't have any dead weight. Fill them all to the top. 
• Pack clothes in wardrobe boxes. 
• When the moving crew arrives, make sure everything is already packed and ready to go. 
• Keep an inventory list of items you are going to move. This will ensure that the moving crew didn't misplace anything. 
• Plan ahead. Whether you are reserving a truck or hiring professional movers. If you wait until the last minute, you won't be able to book your move. 
• Pick appropriate box sizes for each item. Use smaller boxes for small items; bigger items should be placed in bigger ones. 

How to Get a Better Moving Experience

Packing and moving your belongings can be stressful to some. As a result, most people entrust their valuables to moving companies. Unfortunately, some of you may have heard of horror stories from friends and family members who had a bad moving experience. If you're one of those people who made a wrong decision of hiring unreliable movers, you may lose your time and money.

The good news is that there are people who had a good experience, and these are the ones you should get assistance from. You can ask them about the moving company they prefer then do your own research. Find out if the moving company fits your needs. The most important thing is to plan ahead and learn everything yo need to know about the movers of your choice. 

So how do you get a better service from your preferred moving company?

• The easiest way to find trustworthy movers is to get referrals from real estate agents, family, and friends. Find professional movers who have the credibility and have been in business for a few years. 

• Aside from over-the phone estimates given by the moving company, it is recommended to set appointments and on-site estimate for accuracy.

• Professional movers suggest making a checklist of services that you need. There are a wide range of services offered by companies, including packing and storage. Other moving companies provide additional services, like cleaning your new house, unpacking, and assembling your furniture, and arranging household items. 

How to Save Money with a Moving Company

Doing your research before hiring a moving company can help you save a lot of money. Depending on the type of services being offered, there are some factors to consider that will how much you may be spending.

Ever thought that cheap movers are the best out there? Think again. Hiring them can cause you a lot of trouble and might even end up paying more that what had been estimated. Here's how to choose a reputable moving company that will help you save money in the long run:

The best way to save on costs when moving is your choice of movers. Compare the moving companies and their services. Often, you can get a free estimate from different companies and this allows you to find the most affordable services in your area. For you to get an accurate quote, make sure to discuss your specific needs, concerns, and the kind of services you require. Ask for special packaging deals and opt for the one that will give you more savings while catering all your needs.

When moving locally, most moving companies charge a decent hourly rate. Professional movers recommend calculating how much time is needed to complete the entire move, including packing, loading, and unloading. It is also a good idea to anticipate unexpected events such as traffic jam and adverse weather conditions. 

Reasons to Hire a Professional Moving Company

At some point, you've experienced moving from one place to another. Do you remember how the moving process went through? Some of you got help from friends and others hired a moving company. And when the time comes that you have to go through it again, here are some of the reasons why you should not hesitate to hire a professional moving company:

You can be sure of firm estimates
Everyone likes surprises, but not with moving fees. This might happen if you deal with unprofessional movers. Be sure to hire a professional moving company that gives firm estimates and will explain everything you will be charged of, from start to the end of the moving day, and stick to your agreement. 

You will get an experienced, dedicated, and reliable team of movers
Professional movers know how to handle your valuables, big or small. They are experts in packing and transporting items no matter how fragile or heavy they are. They aim to provide quality service to their clients and build a solid relationship with them. Plus, you won't have to worry about last-minute changes, cancellations, and delays with the shipment.

Things to Do Before Hiring a Mover

Hiring professional movers is no easy feat. You may be overwhelmed with so many moving companies to choose from. Here are some tips to make the task of hiring movers less complicated:

Know your options
Before hiring a mover, do your research. Find at least ten moving companies that passed your standards and research their history. Recognize the signs of rogue moving company and learn the details that will be involved in your move, from packing to loading, and unloading.

Ask questions
Interview your movers over the phone so you can narrow down your options to the top 3. This will also save some time and effort.

Get firm estimates
You might be confused with estimates as different companies offer a wide range of moving options. While discussing important details, ask about estimates and find out the deals they offer that best fit your needs. You can also request for on-site survey.

How to Organize Your Move

Most of you will agree that moving is one of the most overwhelming household tasks there is. But did you know that there's a secret to an organized move? The solution: planning ahead. If you can get a head start, you should be able to make it through this daunting process in a breeze. So get ready to enjoy your new place! Here's how you can organize your move to avoid moving day chaos:

Planning is the key
Don't procrastinate. If you're not leaving in a hurry, professional movers suggest packing your valuables and organizing everything within 30 to 60 days. Create a checklist and write down everything you need to finish week by week.

Find out your moving strategy
How are you going to get from your old house to your new abode on the day of moving? For short distance moves, rent a truck for the day. On the other hand, if you'll be moving in a long distance and have a big family, hire professional movers you can trust.

Keep in touch with your movers
Professional movers advise explaining all your needs and expectations prior to booking. Your movers have to be informed of all those important details to give you a fair estimate of the cost, time, and have the proper equipment available to access restrictions and disassemble/assemble furniture.

Tips to Make Packing Easier

So you've found your dream home! It's all exciting until you start thinking about packing your valuable. To make moving so much easier, planning ahead is the key. Here are essential tips to make sure you unpack your valuables in good shape.

Use boxes in appropriate sizes
Most professional movers recommend placing heavy items like books in small boxes so you won't have to put too much stuff in excess. Light items, like linens and pillows, in bigger ones. Doing it the other way around not only makes the job harder but puts your belongings at risk of breaking.
 

Put lighter items on top of heavier boxes. 
If you are loading them in the truck yourself, place heavier boxes toward the front of the truck for balance.
 

Fill in the gaps. 
Make sure you don't leave empty spaces in boxes. If you hire professional movers, they will advise you to stuff boxes that unbalanced or loosely packed with packing paper, towels, or fabrics.