6 Tips from Maryland Movers to Help You Prep Your Apt for Moving Across Country

Moving can be a pleasant experience, but there are almost always stresses along the way. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize the difficulties and make your move as seamless as possible. Here are six tips to consider as you pack up your apartment to move across the country.

1. Start Early

Planning is essential for making your move free of stress and successful, but nearly everyone finds that moving takes more time than initially anticipated. Start early; making sure each step of your move is complete a few days before necessary helps you tackle difficulties with ease. You may also want to book the services of inexpensive apartment moving companies. If you do plan to use a mover, booking early will ensure the lowest rate (and is especially important during the busy summer season!).

2. Checklists Help

Planning for your move is challenging enough, but the execution phase can be tough if you forget steps along the way. While planning, set up checklists for each step of the process. Review your checklist on occasion to ensure you’re aware of upcoming tasks. Reviewing your list helps you plan day-to-day tasks while appreciating just how much progress you’ve already made.

3. Declutter

If you’re planning ahead of time, take some time to consider which items you’ll use at your new location. Every item you sell or donate to charity is one less item you’ll need to move, helping make the process seamless. Furthermore, many people who relocate find they plan on purchasing new things once they arrive. Purchasing items near your new home leads to more comfortable transportation, so think about parts of your home you’d like to upgrade before beginning the packing process.

4. Color Coding and Labels

Once you arrive at your new location, you’ll have specific items you’ll want to unpack as quickly as possible. Color coding makes it far easier to sort through stacks of boxes to locate the things you need. Labels are useful as well. Even after your most needed items are unloaded, you’ll want to identify other items quickly. Knowing where your entertainment devices are, for example, helps you unwind after a busy day even while you’re still unpacking.

5. Bring a Door Stopper

Although it may seem like a small step, bringing along a door stopper helps you move items as seamlessly as possible. Too often, people moving to a new home improvise with other things, which might not be able to hold your door open properly, potentially leading to broken items. Door stoppers are inexpensive, but you’ll find plenty of use for them during the moving process and afterward.

6. Have an Essentials Box

You’ll want to set aside essential items to unpack as quickly as possible. Some of these items, however, are more important than others, including things you’ll want to access as soon as you settle and while traveling. Set aside an essentials box that contains items that can’t wait for the movers to arrive, including medication and essential entertainment devices for children. Carry these boxes or bags with you while en route to your new home.

It’s common to encounter minor setbacks along the way while moving. By planning ahead of time and staying ahead of schedule, you can ensure that your move progresses as smoothly as possible.

Austin Business Movers Offer Tips on Transporting Office Furniture

Business relocation has its share of hiccups that can occur, although much of the headache is reduced if advanced planning takes place and employees are willing to pitch in and do their part. Many business owners find that moving furniture out of their business is one of the most difficult aspects of relocating. Use the tips from a professional van line below to minimize some of the stress associated with moving office furniture.

1. Empty it Out

Whether it is the filing cabinet or an office desk, empty out the drawers and remove anything inside. Employees should be responsible for cleaning out their desks, but you may want to handle cleanout of other items yourself. It is a good time to sort through the documents inside of these locations and shred anything that you no longer need. Pack the documents from each area into a separate box, labeling the outside of the box with the inside contents.

2. Call a Professional Furniture Mover

Do not attempt to relocate a business without the assistance of a professional moving company. Research the moving company options, request estimates and compare prices, check out reviews and alleviate some of the hassles that come when it is time to move furniture. Movers have the tools and equipment needed to easily remove furniture and can complete the work safely and easily.

3. Separate It

Disconnect computers, printers, fax machines, and other electronics and valuable items before the movers arrive. Keep cords, cables, and wires from the items separate and properly labeled in their packages inside of a large box. For example, you may want to pack USB cords in one package and ethernet cables in another.

4. Unbolt Furniture

If any of the furniture at your business is bolted down to prevent theft or removal of the piece, make sure to unbolt the items before moving day. This can take a considerable amount of time to complete if much of the furniture is bolted down that can cut into the time allotted for the relocation. Rushing through the relocation process is the last thing that you want to do.

5. Take it Apart

Moving companies offer full-service moves that include furniture disassembly. Many people use this service, as it saves them time and effort. If you opted to take apart the furniture yourself, instill the help of everyone in the office and make sure the necessary tools to take the furniture apart is at your disposal before you begin. Store all bolts, screws, etc. in Ziploc baggies, so they’re not lost during the relocation.

Final Thoughts

Moving furniture from one location to another can be a strenuous task if you are not thoroughly prepared. Do not fall into such a category. Instead, use the tips and information above to ensure a smooth furniture move. Whether you are relocating down the road or across the miles, these tips alleviate much of the stress and headache of the event.

Tips for Moving Long Distance with the Family Pets

Preparing for a long distance move is a large, stressful job, but even with the excessive amount of preparations that are necessary, it is critical to remember that just like their human family, pets also may find the moving process to be stressful. Pets, like kids, often require extra attention when moving, especially during a long distance move. You have gotten new identification tags, an appropriate travel crate and made arrangements for pet-friendly accommodations, but there might still be a few things you have forgotten to do, so here are a few ideas to help make your long-distance move go smoothly for your entire family, including the family pet.

1. Ensure Their Safety and Security

Safety and security are essential when moving as well as while traveling from house to house. There will be chaos and noise from the movers opening and closing doors and taking out boxes, so it is important that your family pet is kept in a quiet, safe place until you are ready to leave. On moving day, Cheap Movers Las Vegas (site here), suggests having a family member watch them or placing them in a travel crate in a familiar room out of the way of movers.

2. Check the Local Ordinance and Bylaws of Your New Community

When moving to a new area with a pet, it is important to do a little research beforehand. Some communities have a wide range of restrictions in place regarding pets that may be different from the area in which you are currently living. So, before signing a lease, especially in a state you are unfamiliar with, do your homework to avoid the risk of finding out after the move that your pet isn’t permitted in the community.

If moving to an apartment community, check with the complex to ensure they allow the type of pet you have. For instance, some communities may only allow cats. Keep in mind that some neighborhoods or housing associations may have a weight restriction on pets and certain breeds may not be permitted to reside in the community.

3. Schedule a Vet Appointment

You should schedule an appointment with their current vet before moving to make sure they are up to date on all vaccinations, get all medications, and to obtain a copy of their medical records. After you have settled in, it will be helpful to talk with neighbors, coworkers, and friends about recommendations for veterinarians in your new location and schedule an appointment for a visit. Be prepared for a visit with your new veterinarian by bringing all of their medical records, vaccination records and the name and phone number of your previous veterinarian.

4. Stick to a Routine

Although it may be difficult, especially if traveling by transportation other than your vehicle, it is important to keep your pet’s schedule as regular as possible. If you are traveling by car, frequently stop for walks, bathroom and feeding breaks. Remember your family pet will be aware of any stress and anxiety that are experiencing, so it is essential that you stop for breaks in order to enjoy a little one-on-one time with your pet, even if it is to simply go for a walk at a rest area or to help them know that you are close by.

Before traveling in a car, it is recommended that you safely secure cats/kittens and small dogs in a small, but comfortable crate and it’s best for larger dogs to be secured in a rear seat in a dog-approved seat belt and harness. If you are traveling by plane, it is essential that you start gathering information as soon as possible about pet transportation on the airlines. Be aware of the airline rules and regulations regarding pets. Traveling as well as being in a new environment can be overwhelming for pets, so remember to bring along their favorite toy and familiar bedding and make sure to give them lots of extra attention.

Everything You Need to Know Before Moving to Houston

If you are moving to Houston, you are in for a wonderful experience! Houston is one of the fastest growing populations, and it is the nation’s fourth largest city. With a large job market, a bustling tourism industry, and an exciting food scene, Houston is one of the top places to live in the U.S.

Houston is Huge – Plan Accordingly

We all know the saying ‘everything is bigger in Texas.’ In regards to Houston, this saying is the absolute truth. Houston, commonly called H-Town, could fit Philadelphia, Chicago, Baltimore, and Detroit all within its 600 square miles. Due to its massive size, you should choose where you live wisely. It’s advisable to live close to your workplace because Houston is know for its terrible traffic. Mass transportation in this huge city is lacking, and walking to most destinations is out of the question.

Where to Live – Best Neighborhoods in Houston

Considering its massive size, Houston is bound to have a neighborhood that will fit your needs and desires. Here are some of the most popular areas to live in the city:

  • West University Place is located around 15 minutes from downtown. It is located close to Rice University and near the medical center. While this is a trendy area for families and professionals, be prepared to fork over lots of money for the privilege of living in this centrally located, affluent area. According to Zillow, most homes here are well over a million dollars.
  • Eastwood is just three miles from downtown. Unlike some of the other neighborhoods, the housing is much more affordable, so this is an attractive neighborhood for young urbanites and families. The average home in this area appraises for $163K, with approximately 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Many enjoy Eastwood for its varied architectural styles, which include many homes in the craftsman tradition.
  • The Woodlands is a planned community 27 miles from downtown on the north side. This is an entire community in and of itself, with multiple shopping areas and neighborhoods. This popular community caters to upper middle-class families that want a suburban escape from the hectic rush of downtown. However, if you plan on commuting from here to a downtown office everyday, expect to spend lots of your time in the car as traffic is horrendous.
  • Houston Heights is one of the fastest growing neighborhoods and has the highest number of artists per capita in the entire state. With multiple parks and great safety statistics, the Heights is a wonderful place to raise a family.
  • Memorial is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Houston, boasting some of the finest (and most expensive) homes in the city. While homes here might be pricey, this is one of the most prestigious neighborhoods to live in if you have the money.

The Houston Job Market

You may be moving because of a new job, or may be forced to look for a new job because of your move. Though Houston has a wide diversity of industry, it has long been the state’s biggest producer of oil & gas. Thousands of Houston jobs are tied to the oil and gas industry, so the recent drop in oil prices has sent a ripple through the entire Houston job market. Oil & gas companies have seen massive layoffs in recent months, that in turn have affected the economy as a whole, as people tighten the grip on their wallets and stop spending. A recent report showed that the region lost 2600 jobs in March, which is frightening when you consider that over the last 25 years, the area has added approximately 14,000 jobs every March. Though things are looking bleak for oil & gas at the moment, there are several other big industries that still offer great job opportunities, including:

  • Space research: Houston is the home to the NASA Astronaut Corps.
  • Aircraft manufacturer
  • Agriculture
  • Biomedical: The largest medical center, Texas Medical Center, is located here.
  • Environmental Services

Finding Good Schools

If you are a parent, the school district that you choose will be an important decision for your children. Houston boosts a number of universities and a large amount of public schools. These are a few of the best options:

  • Carnegie Vanguard High School
  • Eastwood Academy
  • The High School for the Performing and Visual Arts
  • Challenge Early College High School

Get Moving!

Houston is bound to have something to appeal to everyone. With a low cost of living and a population even more diverse than New York City, this city is an incredible place to live. To lock in the lowest rate on your Houston move, give Cheap Movers Houston a call for a quote. This local moving company helps with both local and long distance relocations in and out of Houston at some of the best rates in the city. They’ll move you fast so you can start enjoying your new life in your new hometown!

 

 

The Best NYC Movers

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Taking precautions when moving in New York City is a serious step to avoid causing unnecessary stress that can make the moving transaction very difficult when it doesn’t have to be.  It’s very important to find a reputable moving company that has good reviews and one you can feel safe and trusted to take care of all your important items. Especially when it comes to moving in the city (Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx).

By Picking up the phone book and looking for local moving companies in NYC is the first step.
While doing this, you are looking for someone with having at least eight years’ experience and ones that don’t hire moving brokers.
Have at least three local New York companies ready to research, getting an in home estimate is a must.
If there are some companies not willing to do an in-home estimate then ignore them. Alternatively, make sure they give you a guaranteed not to exceed quote.
You are looking for a company that is willing to do the moving themselves some hire other sub-contracting companies to do the moving.  Setting up an appointment to visit the company’s office and checking over some of their paperwork to prove they are who they say they are and that there is several years’ experience.

Moving house empty
If there are references available call them to get some feedback from their personal experience.
One important item to make sure is offered from the moving company is a booklet providing ‘your rights and responsibilities when you’re moving’.  Make sure it states clearly what services the company offers, how much insurance is included and what is covered, things like this are important to be aware of before hiring. For the best NYC Movers, look here for some of the cheapest moving services around.
Make sure you read it over a couple of times so everything is clear and ask questions if something isn’t clear to you.  One rule to remember do not sign anything you don’t fully understand or sign something you aren’t one hundred percent happy with.  There are several businesses online that offer looking into your moving company choices and checking that all their information checks out and that they are a legal reputable moving company.

 

Remember if anyone turns up on the day that should not be there or cannot show identification as to who they are do not proceed ask them to leave then call the company.  Following these few steps should ensure finding the perfect reputable moving company for that smooth moving transaction and peace of mind that your belongings are safe and in good hands.

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Nationwide Moving Companies – Long Distance

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Your upcoming move might take you to a different region or to the other side of the country.  When this is the case, there is a need for a lot of thought into the overall process of moving from planning to preparing and executing.  Just as there are moving companies that make their services available in your area, there are nationwide moving companies that extend their services throughout the nation.

 

It is beneficial to hire a full-service moving company for long distance moves.  There are several nationwide moving companies that are reputable and have a good track record.  What you should do is browse through these companies and get more than just one quote.  You may find yourself getting a better rate from one company than you might get from another so in a way, shopping for the best moving company is no different than shopping for a car.  Look into current specials and discounts that might be available from certain companies and take these into account.

 

Some moving companies will stay restricted to a certain geographical region of the country such as the East Coast or the West Coast.  IF you are searching for long distance moving companies that can cover your moving needs nationwide look at Great Guys Moving – Long Distance Movers.  Also, to prepare for your long distance move, get TIPS, find average COSTS, and get free QUOTES. You must be able to find what works for you and what services meet your needs.  Moving companies are in a competitive industry and will go to great measures to compete for your business with advertisements, promotions and deals, etc.  At the end of the day, a company that best tailors to your moving needs is the one that is best suited for the job.  Once you find yourself leaning towards a particular company, starting putting together a list of questions to ask them.

 

Nationwide moving companies provide a convenient service for your long distance moving requirements.  Their staff will be knowledgeable and well versed and it is highly recommended to use their services when making such a move as it will only make it easier on you in the long run.  In no time at all you will be right at home in your new place, unpacked and ready to go.  Always make sure you do your research beforehand so that you know what you are getting yourself into!

Safe Packing for Safe Moving

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Austin, TX Moving Company Ratings

Finding the right moving company for your move is very important. In Austin alone there are hundreds of options for moving companies.  If this is your first time, you may not have any idea where to start searching.  Perhaps your friends and family know of some moving companies but it is still important for you to do your own research and look for a company that has a strong reputation.  Every Austin moving company has a track record and you can save yourself problems down the road by making sure that you do your homework. A quick look on help will help you find the best Austin movers. Looking down the list of Austin movers, you will routinely find this Austin moving company at the top of the list of the best movers in Texas. That’s because they’ve been offering moving services in Austin for 24+ years.

 

You can easily look for a list of moving companies that service your area by using the Internet.  Make sure that the company you are interested in is rated and accredited by the Better Business Bureau and see if you can find reviews from previous customers.   You can get a feel for a moving company’s customer service ability and so much more by reading up on previous experiences of others.  Besides a generic 5-star rating, there are four other metrics that you should consider and here they are. – http://www.gallerymariko.com

bbb

First, there is the Better Business Bureau Rating that is usually based on a letter scale and can be found from the BBB site if the company is accredited.  Second, a customer complaint rating gives you an idea of the number and occurrence of complaints that a certain company has received.  Third, a crash rating measures a company’s proneness to accidents.  The last thing that you want is to have your items damaged during your move!  Finally, a FMCSA safety rating can be interpreted as how safe you can expect your belongings to be during transit.  Obviously, you like to hire a reputable moving company with the highest ratings as possible.

 

Finding a full service moving company that not only has experience but a strong and positive track record is very important.  This will put you at ease and give you assurance that everything will go as smoothly as possible.  The chances are good that if a significant number of previous customers have had a bad experience with a certain company that you could be the next dissatisfied one.  This is not a chance that you want to take!

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Moving Company Rates

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Full Service Moving Company

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