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.

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. 

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.

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!

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.

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. 

How to Meet Your Neighbors After Moving

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Now that you've settled in and have all your belongings unpacked, it's time to meet the neighbors! If you are new to your area or got some new people moving in next door, these tips will help you create a friendly community:

• When you are new in town, don't make a bad first impression. Introduce yourself, smile, and be polite.
• Start a conversation. Ask for recommendations for restaurants, nearest grocery store, and anything else you find interesting. 

• You can write your name, contact number, or email and give it your neighbor so they will know you are open for communication when they need help.

Which Moving Solution Is Right For You?

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Do you have a hard time deciding which household moving solution is best for your needs? You're not alone. A quick Google search will give you a lot of moving companies to choose from, but how do you know which one to use? Where do you start?

If you are one of the homeowners scratching their heads, read along.

• If you need a storage unit, make sure the container is sturdy and made of high-quality, weatherproof materials.

• Determine what packing options and moving services you need. Find out how much stuff you are moving and how many containers you will use. You can use multiple containers but be sure you're getting the appropriate sizes so you won't pay for extra space you don't use. 

How to Lift Boxes Safely

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Whether you re moving cross-country or within short distances, one of the most important factors to consider when packing is your safety. Check out these tips on how to avoid injuries when lifting all those boxes:

• Take a few minutes to stretch and warm up before loading boxes into the moving truck.

• Avoid wearing your flip flops. Wear closed-toed, non-slip shoes. 

• Be sure to remove any obstacles in your path. Remove rugs and be careful when passing the doorway.

• Do not attempt to lift a box that's too heavy for you to handle. 

iPhone Apps for Moving

There's an app for everything these days, even for moving! Have you used any of these?

Zillow.com. This is the perfect app for house hunting! You will receive instant notifications when new listings are available within your area or when there's a price drop for the house you are eyeing on.

Evernote. Get organized even before you start packing! Make lists, take photos, and record reminders using this app.

Moving Van. With this app, you can take pictures of the items in your box and help you remember the contents of each box. This app will speed unloading and unpacking and will take at least some of the hassle of your next house move away!

Moving with a Baby

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Moving with kids can be tough. This is especially true when you have a baby. Aside from packing all your stuff, you are wondering how the move will affect your baby. 

Here are a few tips to help you in packing the nursery room, plus some advice when settling to your new home:

• Before packing baby furniture, professional movers recommend taking it all apart. Follow the instruction manual when disassembling the crib and other furniture.

• When packing the glider/rocker, remove the chair from the base and refer to the manual for instructions. 

• Keep all screws and small parts in a zip top bag. 

• Clean the nursery room and sort baby items. Get rid or sell stuff you don't need. Check for functionality and consider the materials used as some may have been recalled due to safety issues. You can check Consumer Product Safety Commission website for more details. 

• Hire professional movers who are skilled in moving all your belongings so you can focus on keeping your baby safe and healthy.

• Make sure to childproof the nursery in your new home before unpacking all your baby's stuff. 

• Help your baby to adjust in the new environment and get back to his usual sleep patterns.