Posted by admin on November 17, 2011 under Long Distance, Moving Tips | 
This is a guest post provided by AmericanMovers.Org, a portal of long distance movers.
There are various costs to consider when you decide to move. If you hire a mover, you will need to pay for the pick up, transport and unloading of your household goods. You may want to also have the movers pack your things, which will increase the cost but will result in a faster, easier move, depending on your timetable and specific needs. The cost of transporting your household using professional moving company is determined by the number of items, rooms and the total weight of the shipment.
For a two-bedroom home, an average cost would be 4,000 pounds, but keep in mind that this is just an estimate. A four bedroom home might weigh 13,000 pounds or more. For the sake of comparison, if you move a four-bedroom home from Albany, NY to Denver, CO and it weighs13,000. pounds, it would cost approximately $11, 500, based on a professional moving company calculator. It is always helpful to get as many moving company estimates as possible as well.
Another consideration is insurance costs, which vary according to the value of the items. If you have many antiques and other valuables, be sure to take clear photos of each item and write a description of it as well, in case it is damaged or broken and you need to prove that it was in good condition before the move. Get the best insurance coverage that you can afford. You must be covered or make sure that your North American movers are.
Some people drive rental trucks themselves, which is generally less costly than using a moving company, but renting a truck requires time, a driver or two, packing the truck yourselves or paying someone to load it, then there is the time factor. Do you have the time to take off work to drive across the country? What about the price of gas in the states that you will be travelling through?
When you arrive at your destination will the unpacking be done by you, or will you have help? In some cases, the expense of replacing your furniture in your new location is less than the price of taking it—only you can decide if that solution is right for you. If you have a lot of boxes and other items that will need to be stored, that is another expanse to calculate before you move.
Posted by admin on October 29, 2011 under Moving Tips |
Guest Post by CrossCountryMovers.Org, moving portal of long distance movers.
There are local and cross country moving companies that specialize in office moves, and they usually have storage facilities available as well, if there is no rush to set up the new office right away. In cases where the company requires a fast, immediate move with as little downtime as possible, there are many details to be taken care of to help ensure a cost-effective, organized move with the least amount of trouble.
Depending on your office, you might need software to transfer your records. If there are any sensitive documents involved, you will want professional, insured workers who work efficiently and can be counted on. Another service that can be provided is document shredding. It is time-consuming and messy to shred documents in an office, so that could be a wise investment.
You might also want to consider keeping older records in storage rather than returning them to your office, since they will take up space that could be better utilized. There are many options for storage, including climate-controlled facilities, if necessary. In addition, documents can always be scanned and transferred to secure hard drives so that less paper is used and stored. Many companies are striving to be paperless, but if that is not possible, at least every effort can be made to reduce the number of documents stored.
If you need your office furniture taken apart and put in the new office space, that can be arranged in addition to the other aspects of your move. Another consideration is deciding who will be taking the computers and other office equipment to the new location and setting them up. You will want to be sure that no data is lost in the move, and that nothing is misplaced or damaged. The system that is currently being used can be analyzed to be certain that your company is getting maximum benefit from all of the features it offers.
In the end, your office move should be painless and efficient, whether you are moving across town or across the country. Luckily, professional and also cheap moving companies that specialize in office moves will be able to offer you a smooth transition and peace of mind.
Posted by admin on October 17, 2011 under Long Distance, Moving Tips |
As if the anxiety of moving long distance does not overwhelm you enough, you have to also set aside time and patience to start packing for your move. Packing for a long distance move usually involves doing so with great precision; you want to ensure that the items are packed and properly padded so that the long distance movers you hire get everything there in one piece. In light of this, packing for long distance should always commence some eight weeks before moving day.
One of the first things that you would need to do is to clear the clutter from your living space. You may have a few items laying around that you may not have used in years; this is time to get those items out so you can sell it through a garage sale or give them away to family and friends or your favorite charity.
The next step would be to get packing supplies. If you are in need of boxes, your local grocery store should have those in abundance. Ensure that these boxes are sturdy and can withstand the move across country. Other supplies to get include moving blankets, storage bins, note pads, plastic wrap, markers, tape and labels.
Packing experts would tell you that when packing, you should start room by room. This is to make sure that all your household items are not in a muddle which would make it harder to sort out when you get to the new house. As you pack each room, you should label the box and container by the room’s name for easy access.
Begin throwing out items as you go along as well. In the kitchen in particular, you may need to go through your refrigerator and cupboards and get rid of all the expired items. Next, wash, dry and pack the appliances from the kitchen; if there is a breakable item like a blender then you should either wrap it in moving blankets or wrap it within several sheets of newsprint paper. The same goes for your plates, glasses etc. and your other breakable wares.
Computers should go back in their original boxes if you still have them. If you don’t then you can fit it snugly in another box along with pieces of foam at the corners to hold it steady. You should also pack your printers and appliances the same way that you pack the computer. This would prevent your household items from moving around this way and that in the truck, which can ultimately lead to damage.
Pack each item neatly in the box and tight enough so that the items would not move around when the boxes are sealed. In some cases you may be moving with a family heirloom such as a chinaware set or other fragile items. You simply wrap them all in a towel so that it would not shatter during the ride.
For packing larger items, both shrink wrap and moving blankets should be your friends; they can protect your furniture from the weather.
As you pack don’t forget to label the box or storage container by the name of each room. When you have completed packing from each room, you should then relocate the boxes and storage container to a room in your house that does not have much people traffic. This would make it accessible and less stressful for the movers when they get there.
This articles was provided by FindGoodMovers.com for our readers, a moving portal for local and long distance moving companies.
Posted by admin on June 23, 2011 under Before Your Move, Moving Tips |
Moving or relocating is never an easy job even if it is just across town, but when you relocate across the country or to another state it can become a little more challenging. Relocating to another state can be job related, a change of scenery, a divorce or a host of other reasons. Whatever the reason will dictate the steps you need to take early in the planning stage and will also tell you how much time you have to relocate. Relocating is a good reason to have a yard sale or donate those items you no longer need to a store like Goodwill.
You can start to pack the items that you do want to take with you, but you do need to take special care with this type of packing because these items will be traveling in a moving van for quite awhile. It is not like you can pack a box, not tape it shut, and transport it across town. You should make sure that you have extra packing material, glass separators, etc. Anything to make sure that your valuables, dishes, and any other breakable items make it from point A to point B without breaking.
If you do not have a place to live where you are relocating, you may have to store your items in a storage unit until you do unless you make a trip to where you are moving to secure an apartment, condo, or purchase a home before you relocate. If you are driving across country, you do not want to be house or apartment hunting right when you get there. If you do have to store your items, there is another added expense not to mention having to either move the stuff yourself or hire a mover to move it to your new home or apartment.
Although this may be the most expensive way it might be best to hire a moving company to relocate your belongings. You can rent a truck and move yourself, but then you have your car that you have to get to your new destination. Some moving van you rent do have a trailer in which you can hitch to the moving van and tow your car. While this may be the cheaper route, you still have to do all the loading and unloading, and pay for the gas for the moving van. If you have children, this way of moving may not be the best idea.
Before you relocate, plan ahead and everything will run smoother.
Posted by admin on March 25, 2011 under Moving with Pets |
If you are moving with pets, you should know that they are very sensitive to moving and require extra care and attention particularly on a moving day.
You should pre-plan for relocating your pet as this is the most crucial pace. It doesn’t matter whether you are moving down the street or to another state. You have to plan your pets move well ahead of time. Normally one member of family is in charge of the pet.
One thing is obvious that you will not be able to transport your pet in a moving truck. Moving companies are not permitted to load anything live on the moving truck. So if you are driving to your new place, you may want to take your pet with you. This way of transporting your pet is usually fine if your trip takes a day or two. If an overnight stay is expected you have to do to extra planning. Find out which motels or hotels allow pets. There are many helpful sites that show pet-friendly housings throughout the country.
Make sure to have a carrier or kennel. The kennel turns into your pet’s home away from home and offers familiar environment. You should have travel kit for your pet which includes food, water, towels and plastic bags.
Another option is to ship your pet to your destination instead of have him travel with you. There are many pet transportation companies that will provide the service for you. They are professionals in transporting pets and will make all essential arrangements. Normally your pet will be transported via air freight and if your pet arrives to destination before you do, the company will hold and take care of your pet until you arrive.
If your move involves flying, almost all airlines allow you to take a pet with you. There will be an additional charge for shipping a pet in cargo area of the plane. You need to contact airlines for instructions and requirements before you take your pet on the plane.
Posted by admin on February 16, 2011 under Arizona |
People who move to Arizona do so to experience the brilliant sunshine that can be felt for most of the year in some parts of the state. But even more than that, those who relocate to Arizona are the ones who have fallen in love with its picturesque landscapes and countless scenic locations that one can explore with the family.
The home to the Grand Canyon and countless parks and golf courses, Arizona is suitable for those who wish to retire as well as it is a good state for couples to settle down and raise their children. One of the first things you realize when you are in Arizona is that each city offers something unique and can be very diverse to cater to all kinds of people.
Phoenix is the capital city that can well be described as the heartbeat of Arizona. Its stunning skyscrapers make up the beauty of this metropolitan town which is also home to several schools and universities and financial conglomerates. Some of the best restaurants and bars can be found in Phoenix, Arizona as well as it is also a great place to socialize with your friends or business associates.
Compared to Phoenix, Scottsdale is a more laid-back town brimming with peaceful deserts, breathtaking lakes and golf courses with rolling hills of green that you would think that you are in a resort. One thing is for sure, when you are on this side of Arizona, your comfort levels would definitely increase that you would want to own a property there.
Most people who relocate to Arizona are in search for a better lifestyle for themselves and their family. In Arizona jobs are never a problem as the economy there is increasingly better than elsewhere. The state has opened up a lot of job opportunities to provide residents with a way to earn a living.
Purchasing property in Arizona is also another popular option as well; the state truly benefits from Northeastern residents who get tired of the unbearably cold fall and winter months. If you are looking to purchase property in Arizona you can expect to pay a reasonable price for a property that may cost you hundreds of thousand of dollars if you were to purchase one of equal size elsewhere.
The houses in Arizona are attractive with most that feature a Spanish/ Mediterranean style that would have a good resale value should you decide to upgrade in the future. Even if you are renting, there are many inexpensive condos and houses that are modernly designed with great amenities for your convenience.
For those thinking about renting in Arizona, depending on where you decide to live you can get a two bedroom apartment for under $800. Most of these homes are equipped with everything from a pool area to a play area for the children.
Posted by admin on December 23, 2010 under Illinois |
Thinking of moving to Chicago might be one of the finest conclusions you will ever bring to your lifestyle. Not only it is among the most vivacious and diverse urban centers in the world but is also one of the cleanest places you will ever travel to. Next time you visit Chicago have a look around and you’ll see a ton of freshly planted trees, green rooftops, and just a very green conscience city doing its best to create a difference in the peoples live.
One of the features that makes the city so unique loved from any other city are its neighborhoods. Chicago is dissimilar than any other city, it is uniquely formed and sketched by its neighborhoods like Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Logan Square and River North.
Then when you add up in what it has to offer with its arts, architecture, music and sports teams such as Bulls, White Sox, Black Hawks no wonder college graduates move to Chicago. There are lots of colleges that have their own limited spot particularly the nearby Big Ten Schools. It’s a legitimate advance for a graduate to relocate to Chicago and find a job in a field of study because of the lifestyle and capability Chicago offers.
So the question is where are you going to live and how are you going to move? With hundreds of moving companies and rental agencies to select from, how does one make a decision on a mover and neighborhood that is best for you and your needs? Certainly you will find many rental agencies and movers in Chicago but putting your living experience and belongings in the hands of someone who you don’t know can be excruciating. And going through this route alone is not only a trouble but very time taking, going through all companies to hire from looking for the best deals.
Making a conclusion like finding a new apartment or a moving company in Chicago can really make or break your experience. Luckily there are agencies such as Chamber of Commerce and Better Business Bureau and the service is always free.
Whether you are moving and trying to settle in the city for the first time, or simply searching a change, the decisions you reach for your living should be right at the top of your list before you move to Illinois. Find the right home in the good neighborhood, and you’ll get the best time and experience of your life here.
Posted by admin on November 17, 2010 under Winter Moving |
Except for the cheap moving rates, ask anyone who has recently moved and they will tell you that winter moves are never pretty. When moving during the wintertime you are no doubt cold and there is no place that you would rather be than sitting by the fireplace or in your easy chair with a cozy blanket thrown over your legs. While thinking warm thoughts could give you something to look forward to when you get to your new home, we also have a few more moving tips to ensure that the cold weather does not get you down.
Firstly, if you have a scheduled move this winter you can do yourself a favor by thinking warm thoughts, but more importantly preparing for the move to your new home. No matter where you are moving to, you should always try to bundle up by dressing warm so that you would feel comfortable in the car when driving to your new home. Even if you are moving out of state from a slightly cold weather climate to one that gets icy cold this time of year, you should wear something warm just in case your vehicle breaks down and you may have to get out to fix something.
To avoid having to stop and check your car, you should take your vehicle in to the mechanic a week before moving so that he can service it and make it ready for the road.
Experts would also advise you to rid your walkways and driveways of excessive snow at both homes before the movers arrive. This would not only ensure a smooth move for them to get back and forth with your household items in a safe fashion but it would also avoid any slips and falls that you could be liable for.
There is nothing that beats walking into a warm home when you are coming in from the cold outdoors. It would be nice if you can have the heat going in both the old and new home so that the movers could feel comfortable as they move your items. In addition, you can reward the movers with cups of hot beverage including hot chocolate, tea or even coffee. This would be a great way to tip the movers for their service.
Posted by admin on October 12, 2010 under Before Your Move, Moving Tips |
As with any other industry, the moving business is also filled with its fair share of moving scammers. There are a lot of moving companies that are out there; how do you decipher the ones you could trust to do business with? Even if you are in a hurry to move, we suggest that you hang tight, at least long enough to do your homework before selecting a moving company. After all, as the old adage goes “it is truly better to be safe than sorry”.
One of the first things that you would want to do the minute you make up your mind that you are moving is to locate at least three moving companies within your area. You can source these numbers either from your telephone directory or even an Internet search. With their name and numbers in hand, you should start seeking out each company through the Better Business Bureau’s (BBB) Website. The BBB is a very reputable and highly recommend website that serves as a benchmark for trustworthy businesses. The list of criterion that one has to fulfill before becoming a member of the BBB is one which expects the applicant to do everything from build trust, to advertise honestly, be responsive and embody integrity to name a few. All BBB members, once accepted, would receive the company’s stamp of approval which is usually placed on the moving company’s website. Find moving reviews from past customers.
The next way in which to check out the legitimacy and efficiency of a moving company is by asking them to provide you with references. The moving company should have a list of their previous clients along with their contact numbers which they can easily pass on to you so you can follow up with questions. Note that not every moving company would provide you with legitimate references. Some of these reference contacts can very well be a family or close friend of the movers. If this is the case, how would you know which contact is real and which isn’t? Moving gurus would advice that you get both the home and office contact number of the past clients as the office number can lead you to employees who can verify their identity.
Finally, ask your prospective moving company to provide you with information about their moving history. This should include information such as the years they have been in business; the amount of customers that they have moved over a period of time and how many moving trucks is on their facility. By answering these questions you would be able to get a clear view on the company’s longevity, popularity and if they have the right amount of resources to get the job done.
Posted by admin on September 14, 2010 under Before Your Move, Moving Tips |
If you are moving across town then most likely you will need a local moving company to help you with your move. There are many moving companies, but remember they are not all the same. There are many things to consider when selecting moving company in your area. This article will help you to find a reputable company for your move. Here is what you should look into when shopping for movers.
First of all find out how long they have been in business. The primary reason for this inquiry is that those companies who provide poor service and have bad customer services do not go far in the business. So the longer they have been in business the better probability that they offer good services.
The next thing you should check is whether the moving company is licensed and insured. This may seem obvious, but there are some companies who try to cut expenses so they can offer lower moving rates and will not have insurance at all. If the movers are not careful with your belongings and damage furniture and other expensive items then you are the one who suffers because there is no insurance available to cover you for the losses and damages.
Due to the nature of moving service providers which have numerous competition, there are different ways in which the moving company will provide estimate for your move. One case is they will try to come out with a better value, so some will provide an hourly rate and quote less time than it in reality will take to relocate your home. As you imagine, if it takes longer than you were quoted you pay for the actual time. The main goal is to get a written estimate for the move, number of movers, hours, what’s included in the quote, and etc. If you have an awkward feeling about the estimate, either clear up it with their representative or contact another moving company.
References are also an important part when selecting a moving company. Particularly for larger moves ask for a list of people you can call just to affirm how they performed for them. This is your time to decide if you are able to anticipate to get the same type of service the references stated to have received. Keep in mind, the moving company will only give you the list of happy customers, so besides their references you should check with the Better Business Bureau and other moving blogs and sites.
If you call a company and get casual “hello” then you should go call the next company. The representative should be able to address all your questions and provide you with an estimate in a professional fashion.
