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!