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. 

Image: foto76 / freedigitalphotos.net

• 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

Image:  Apolonia / freedigitalphotos.net

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.

Image:  Stuart Miles / freedigitalphotos.net

• 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

Image:  cuteimage / freedigitalphotos.net

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

Image: zirconicusso / freedigitalphotos.net

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

Image: Houzz.com

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.