Things To Do In Your New Neighborhood

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Now that you've reached your destination, there are important things you need to do. These tips will help you adjust in your new home:

• Be sure to have your final payment ready for your moving company in the form of cashier's check, certified check, cash, or even credit card.

• When your moving crew arrives, take note of the condition of the boxes and contents. Keep the inventory, bill of lading, and read them carefully.

• Assign a couple of helpers to keep a certain task at hand. As your moving crew unload all your boxes, one person can check off items in the inventory and someone can lead the crew to the designated room. Remind them to be on the lookout for damages on the exterior of cartons or any missing goods. 

• Have the driver sign the inventory before he leaves. This is crucial in validating an insurance claim. 

• If you notice any damage in the box, don't unpack or unwrap it. Wait until the moving company representative come and inspect it. 

• Get your tools ready for assembling furniture.

How to Pack a First-Night Box

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When you're packing, be sure to create your "first-night" box containing your survival kit and essentials. These are the things you will use on the last morning in your old home and the first night in your new one. This box should be loaded on the truck last.

Don't forget to pack these essentials:

• Clothes for every family member

• Disposable plates, glasses, and utensils

• Basic tools

• Cleaning supplies

• Bed linens

• Flashlight

• Lightbulbs

• Medications

• Non-perishable snacks

• Napkins

• Towels

• Toiletries

• Children's toys

• Trash bags

Easy Ways to Pack a Moving Box

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When packing boxes for moving, you can't go wrong! No one wants to have their belongings chipped or damaged in transit just because you missed a few safety measures. There are a number of ways you can protect your items on moving day. The easiest way to start is keeping the boxes secured by using commercial-grade materials and supplies.

Here's how you can pack a box the smartest way --

• Assemble the box and secure the bottom seam with packing tape. Professional movers recommend using straps for added protection. 

• Place enough padding using paper. To find out if you've done this properly, press down on the paper. You should not be able to feel the bottom of the box. This serves as cushioning.

• Fill the corners with paper, packaging peanuts, or loose fills. 

• Wrap each item in bubble wraps or paper and place them inside the box. Be sure to leave enough room on the sides and top so you can add more padding if necessary.

• Small gaps can be filled with paper, towel, or fabric. Don't underfill boxes, otherwise they will collapse when stacked.

• Secure the box with a tape and label it accordingly. Be specific about its contents and what room it belongs to. Label the sides of the box, not the top part. This allows you to rad the labels even when boxes are stacked. 

For more packing tips, click here.

Essential Moving Supplies

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Organizing for a move can be overwhelming. Not to mention all the packing and sorting you have to do. To help you make your work easy, here's a quick rundown of all the packing supplies you need:

• Tools for disassembling furniture.

• Boxes they can be purchased from your moving company. Get a wardrobe box for your clothing. To calculate the number of boxes you need measure the number of linear feet. Get special crating if necessary.

• Box cutters so you can quickly open the box

• Bubble wraps, packing peanuts, and loose fills for padding. Buy in bulk or large rolls.

• Large trash bags for disposing items you don't need or can no longer be donated or placed in a garage sale. 

• Packing paper to stuff boxes and wrap delicate items

• Scissors

• Small sealable plastic bags to keep screws, brackets, and any other loose parts or small items

• Stretch wrap to secure furniture drawers and cabinets

• Packing tape and tape dispenser

• Permanent markers for labeling boxes

Read more packing tips

Affordable Moving Options for Apartment Dwellers

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For apartment dwellers, self-moving is an affordable option. If you are moving on a budget, you will be doing the packing and other work. You'll cut a few dollars off your expenses even when you are moving long-distance. 

Here's how to do a self-move from your apartment:

• Inform your landlord about your moving date and other plans. Talk about your rental agreement to get your deposit back, any papers you need to sign, parking requirements, and other questions you may have. 

• Start getting moving estimates. Self-moving companies charge less than those who offer full-service options. 

• You can also rent a truck and drive it yourself, or pack your stuff and hire someone to drive the rental truck. This is more convenient and it facilitates safe transit of your belongings. 

• Be sure to select the appropriate equipment and supplies for your move.

• Before you start packing, go through your things and see what items you can donate, discard, or sell. The less space in the trailer, the more you save!

• If you have a flexible moving day, move on an off-peak (during weekdays or at the beginning of the month). 

• Start planning your move. Read our packing tips and moving advice. 

Quick Facts About Long-Distance Moving

On average, a person in the U.S. can be expected to move 11.7 times in their lifetime. 

With that being revealed, we assume that a lot of people would like to know more about moving, in particular, long-distance moving. The process can be overwhelming, with all that packing, loading, and finding the right moving service. So here are some of the facts you should know:

• When it comes to cross-country moving, the options you have are: rental truck, DIY packing and hiring a driver, and using a full-service moving company. 

• The rates vary from one mover to another. Generally, full-service movers charge based on weight. A company representative will give a moving quote or will come to your home for an in-house estimate; some companies charge based on space; truck rental services charge based on the equipment you use. 

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• Long-distance moves usually take 2-4 weeks to complete a delivery for full-service movers. For a rental truck, you can expect to drive 500-600 miles in a day. 

• To know if the moving company you are eyeing on is reliable, it has never been more important to do your own research. Ask your friends and family for referral on reliable long-distance moving companies. 

• Be sure you are hiring long-distance movers who are dependable, professional, trustworthy, helpful, and caring. 

• Traditional moving companies require at least 4-6 week notice for cross-country moving. Depending on the company you choose, moving last-minute to another state is possible. 

• When moving long-distance using a truck rental service, consider the fuel costs.

To ensure a stress-free move, read our packing tips and moving advice.

Prepare for These Relocation Expenses

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If you are wondering what relocation expenses to include in your budget, read on. One of the biggest stressors of moving is figuring out how much you can afford for the services you need. Be sure you have enough money for these common relocation expenses. 

Quality moving supplies and boxes. Don't just get any box that you come across the neighborhood. Get moving boxes, crates, packing tapes, bubble wraps, packing paper, and other supplies so you won't risk your household goods of getting damaged during transport.

Moving service. Depending on your needs and budget, you can rent a truck, get help with loading and unloading, or get a full-service moving package. Getting a moving estimate is a great way to find the best deal out there.

Storage options. There are several moving companies that offer short and long-term storage for your goods. Again, be sure to find the facility that will give you the best rates.

Food, lodging, and other travel expenses. Find out where the cheapest accommodation and restaurants are. If you have friends or family along the way, ask them if you can stay in for a night.

Finding a new house. There are some fees involved when you get help from a realtor or a housing service. Be sure to ask for the charges later on.

Utilities. Call your utility providers to find out the charges for disconnecting and reconnecting services.

License and registration. If you are moving cross-country, you need to get a new driver's license and registration. Fees vary by state so be sure to check with the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Decorating/renovating your new home. You want your new home to be nice and clean when you move in. Consider setting a budget for cleaning supplies, new furniture, decorations, and other last-minute purchases. 

Read more tips on how to create a moving budget  

Creating a Moving Budget: Tips & Tricks

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Most people create their budgets for household expenses like groceries or rent. The good news is that you can do the same when you are planning a move. Whether you are having a cross-country move or relocating within state, you can set a reasonable budget so you won't be surprised later on. 

Here are a few tips for the budget conscious:

• For a long-distance move, consider the specifics of your move: the date, place, and how much you're moving. Knowing these things will help you get a firm moving estimate. 

• Review your finances and figure out how much you would spend on your move. Check your bank accounts, debts, and other financial aspects as they can affect your moving budget. You may want to spend on services you are comfortable to pay. 

• Be sure you're getting a fair price for your move. Get moving quotes from several companies and compare the rates. You can easily get an estimate online. 

4 Ways to Get Moving Company Estimates

For those who are moving soon and have a tight budget, the way to land on the best deal is getting estimates from moving companies. You have to make sure that it fits your needs and standards. Getting a moving quote will help you in determining the cost and the services included. From there you can narrow down your search.

There are different services that you can get: self-service, rental truck, or full-service moving. Ask about the equipment and supplies included, liability coverage, and other services.

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You can get a free moving quote in several ways:

• By phone. Some people still prefer the traditional way of inquiring for the cost of services so they can ask all the questions they have in mind.

• Online. With today's modern technology, you can get an instant moving estimate from the company's website.

• Online & phone. There are moving companies that will require you to fill out a form through their website and they will give you a reference number. Then, you have to call to get an estimate.

• In-house. In addition to online and phone estimate, you can get a firm rate when a company representative come to your home and estimate the cost of your move.

After weighing all your options, compare the services and price. Be sure you are not paying for services you don't need and that you are getting your money's worth.

Important Points to Consider When Shipping Furniture

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If you are planning a cross-country move and want to take a lot of furniture (we're thinking king-sized bed, tall cabinets, grandfather clock, etc.), you want to move it all in the most affordable way. There are several moving companies offering services - from cheap to expensive - and it can be difficult to know which one is the best option.

Here are a few important points to consider to help you find the best deal for moving your furniture:

• The first step is to get a free moving quote from moving companies. You can call them directly or visit the company website.

• Moving companies usually charge based on the weight of the furniture. Ask the representative to make an on-site estimate. However, it can be costly to move a lot of furniture. For those who are moving on a budget, professional movers recommend finding a moving option that charges by linear footage.

• Some offers are too good to be true - be careful not to fall to this trap. When hiring a professional moving company, make sure to get what you need and don't end up with paying more than what you expect. 

• Find out if there are any additional fees, fuel costs, or taxes you have to pay. Also, consider the transit time and safety. 

• Having a DIY packing and loading/unloading is a great way to save on moving expenses. You can ask a few friends or family members to help you out. But if your budget permits, hiring a reliable full-service moving company is worth it.

• Generally, summer months are peak times of the year to move so the prices are higher. If you have a flexible moving date, choose off-peak days for moving to get the most affordable price.

Preventing Heat Exhaustion on Moving Day

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There is an increase in demand for moving during summer. And this means you have to travel under the scorching heat of the sun. Because this is the time when people begin to plan their moves, it is great to be prepared of what lies ahead.

If you are packing and loading them into the moving truck, follow these tips to beat the heat:

• Start as early as possible. Professional movers recommend taking advantage of the cooler temperature and loading your stuff in the moving truck in the morning. 

• Avoid wearing dark-colored and tight fitting clothes. They usually absorb the heat so in order to avoid sweating more, allow your skin to breathe by wearing light-colored, loose clothes. 

• Take breaks. Don't put too much pressure on yourself. Take breaks to maintain your energy and feel good all throughout moving day.

• Stay hydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of water or give a hydration nudge to a busy family member. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages at this time.

• Locate the nearest shade. It can be in your garage or under a tree in your lawn. If the space permits, you can do a lot of tasks in the shade. You can even plug a fan for some air!

• Keep a towel handy. This will help you get rid of the sweat and eventually, make you feel comfortable during the day. 

Learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion: headache, fatigue, heavy sweating, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, feeling faint, nausea, pale skin that's moist and cool to touch, cramps, dark-colored urine, and low-grade fever. If you are experiencing these symptoms or notice someone having heat exhaustion, get out of the heat immediately. Find the nearest shade or go inside an air-conditioned room. Drink cold water or other beverages (except alcoholic/caffeinated drinks). Lay down and elevate the feet and sponge/spray with cool water. Be sure to loosen or remove restrictive clothing. If you notice weak pulse, or the person is disoriented, become unconscious, hyperventilating, or having shallow breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

What You Should Know About Moving During Summer

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For moving companies, summer is the busiest time! Now that you have more time to get a moving quote and schedule for a move, here are a few important considerations:

Get a free estimate
Always check around for rates on several moving companies to make sure you are landing on the best deal. Consider hiring reliable movers to pack your belongings, and if you don't want to miss all the summer fun, go for a full-service moving. It's a great way to enjoy while getting all your stuff done.

Planning is key
If you are doing a self-move, be sure to learn about all the packing and loading techniques. An organized move will keep you and your belongings safe. 

Familiarize yourself with these packing tips.

Reserve a slot
Moving companies get booked pretty fast during summer! Once you've found a reliable moving company that's fit for your budget and needs, reserve in advance. This will help you get the best rates and ensure that equipment is available.

While it is better to book a move early, there are some moving companies that can accommodate last-minute reservations. Speak with a moving specialist today and start planning for your upcoming move!

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.