Author: Brooks Transfer

  • 6 Tips for Moving into a Rental Home

    6 Tips for Moving into a Rental Home

    Moving into a rental home is an exciting milestone that comes with its own set of tasks and responsibilities. To ensure a smooth transition and make your new place feel like home, here are six essential things to do when you move into a rental home.

    1. Conduct a Thorough Walkthrough

    Before you start unpacking, take the time to do a detailed walkthrough of the property. Check for any pre-existing damage or issues, such as leaky faucets, malfunctioning appliances, or damaged walls. Document everything with photos and notes. This step is crucial because it helps you avoid being held responsible for damages already there when you moved in. Make sure to share your findings with your landlord or property manager immediately to ensure they are aware of any issues.

    2. Familiarize Yourself with the Lease Agreement

    Your lease agreement is a vital document outlining your responsibilities as a tenant and what to expect from your landlord. Review it thoroughly and understand the terms, including the rent amount, due date, maintenance policies, and rules regarding pets, guests, and alterations to the property. Knowing your lease inside out can prevent misunderstandings and help avoid potential conflicts with your landlord.

    3. Set Up Utilities and Services

    Setting up utilities is crucial to making your new rental home comfortable. Contact utility providers to set up or transfer electricity, gas, water, and internet accounts. Don’t forget about other services such as trash collection, cable, and any subscriptions you might have. It’s a good idea to set these up before you move in so that everything is ready to go from day one. Keep a list of essential contact numbers handy in case you need to report an outage or service issue.

    4. Research Parking Regulations

    Knowing where to park a moving vehicle is essential, whether you hire movers or handle the move yourself.  Many complexes restrict portable storage trailers or containers from parking in regular parking spots. Complexes also offer specific areas for loading and unloading. It is crucial to avoid a situation where you have no place for the movers or truck to go. Being well-informed about the parking regulations at your previous and new rental locations is essential.

     

    5. Update Your Renters Insurance Policy

    Renter’s insurance protects your personal property in case of fire, water damage, theft, etc. Ensure you update your renter’s insurance policy to guarantee your belongings are fully covered in your new apartment. If you still need to get renter’s insurance, contact an insurance agent in your area to get a policy. 

    6. Personalize Your Space

    Making your rental feel like home is essential for your comfort and happiness. Even though you may have limitations on what you can do, there are plenty of ways to personalize your space. Consider adding removable wallpaper, rugs, and artwork to add your personal touch. Plants can also brighten up the space and make it feel more inviting. Small touches like changing the shower curtain, adding throw pillows, and thoughtfully arranging your furniture can make a big difference.

    Ready for Your Rental

    Moving into a rental home can be exciting and overwhelming, but following these steps can ensure a smooth and enjoyable transition. 

    Whether you need storage, full-service packing, local, inner-state, cross-country, or international moving services, we can help you with your residential relocation needs. Contact us today for a free quote. 

  • Checklist for Changing Address Before a Move

    Checklist for Changing Address Before a Move

    Moving to a new home is an exciting adventure! Amidst the packing and planning, updating your address with various institutions is essential to ensuring a smooth household relocation. Here’s a checklist to guide you through the process.

    1. Notify the Post Office

    Notify the post office of your change of address. This is crucial to ensuring all your mail gets forwarded to your new home. Do this through the USPS website or by visiting your local post office and completing a change of address form. This step acts as a safety net, catching any mail from places you might have forgotten to update. It usually covers 12 months for first-class mail, giving you ample time to notify everyone of your new address.

    2. Update Your Bank and Credit Card Information

    Keeping your financial institutions informed is vital. Contact your bank and credit card companies to update your address. This ensures that all your financial statements, credit card bills, and important notices reach you immediately. Most banks and credit card companies allow you to change your address through online banking portals or mobile apps, making it a quick and convenient process. Additionally, check any investment accounts, loans, or financial services to ensure they have your current address.

    3. Contact Utility Companies

    Utility services are essential for daily life, so you must notify your providers about your move. This includes electricity, gas, water, internet, cable, and garbage services. Contact each provider to schedule the disconnection of services at your previous address and the connection at your new residence. Doing this in advance helps avoid service interruptions, ensuring you have all the utilities you need when you move in. Remember any additional services like pest control, security systems, or home warranty services that might require an address update.

    4. Inform Your Employer

    Updating your address with your employer is crucial for payroll, tax documents, and any other correspondence. Make sure to notify your HR department well in advance. This ensures that your W-2 forms and other important documents are delivered to the correct addresses. If you have direct deposit, it’s also a good idea to check if you need to fill out any additional forms to update your information. Additionally, if your employer provides health insurance or other benefits, update those records to avoid potential issues.

    5. Notify Subscription Services and Clubs

    Ensure you update your address with magazine subscriptions, meal delivery services, and clubs and organizations. This way, you can enjoy your subscriptions and memberships without interruption. Updating your billing address for online subscriptions like streaming services to avoid payment issues. Inform your newspaper, grocery, and pet supply delivery providers.

    Additional Tips for a Smooth Address Change

    • Healthcare Providers: Inform your doctor, dentist, and specialists to ensure your medical records are current and you receive any necessary correspondence.
    • Insurance Companies: Update your address with your health, auto, home, and life insurance providers to keep your policies current and ensure you receive important updates and billing information.
    • Government Agencies: Notify the IRS, DMV, and Social Security Administration of your change of address to keep your records current and avoid any potential complications.
    • Friends and Family: Tell your loved ones your address has changed so they can stay in touch.

    On the Move

    Taking care of these address updates ahead of your move will ensure a seamless transition to your new home. This organized approach helps you avoid any missed mail or service interruptions, allowing you to focus on settling into your new space. 

    Let us help you with your upcoming relocation. We customize and design our services to fit any moving situation and budget. Contact us today for a quote.

  • Top Tips for Working with Professional Movers

    Top Tips for Working with Professional Movers

    Hiring professional movers can significantly simplify relocating to a new home. Their expertise can make the moving experience smoother and less stressful, from packing to loading to transport and unloading. However, being prepared and proactive is essential to ensure a successful partnership with your chosen moving company. Here are tips to help you achieve success when working with professional movers.

    1. Plan and Schedule Early

    When booking a moving company, planning ahead and scheduling your preferred moving date as early as possible is essential. Most residential moving companies have specific guidelines for scheduling, especially during peak moving seasons like summer. Try to book your move at least eight weeks in advance, but if you’re planning an out-of-state move, aim for 12 weeks ahead. Out-of-state moves often require more time and coordination, so the sooner you schedule, the better.

    2. Communicate Clearly

    A successful relocation requires effective communication. From the outset, communicate your expectations, preferences, and specific instructions to the moving company. Provide them with detailed information about fragile items, large furniture pieces, and any items that require special handling. Be available to answer any questions or concerns the movers may have before, during, and after the move to ensure everything goes smoothly.

    3. Know What Not to Pack

    Before your move, get a list of prohibited items from your moving company. Certain items, such as live plants or animals, are not allowed onto a moving truck. It’s crucial to make arrangements for these items before moving day to avoid delays. Knowing what not to pack will help streamline the moving process and prevent last-minute issues.

    4. Confirm Plans and Details

    As your moving day approaches, take the time to confirm all the details with your moving company. Call to verify the arrival time of the movers, where the moving truck should park, and how long the move will take. Double-checking these details ensures that everything is in order and that there is a clear understanding. Communication is critical to a successful move, so stay in touch with your moving company leading up to the big day.

    5. Be Packed and Ready

    To make the most of your time with the movers, ensure everything is packed and ready to go before they arrive. Avoid keeping them waiting by having all your belongings boxed up and organized. Consider using a packing guide to estimate how long each room will take to pack so you can plan accordingly. Being prepared will save time and make the moving process more efficient and stress-free.

    6. Label Boxes Clearly

    Clear and concise labeling is essential when packing for a move. Not only will it help you when unpacking in your new home, but it will also assist the professional movers during the loading and unloading process. Make sure to label each box with the specific room it belongs to, such as the upstairs bathroom or primary bedroom. Also, mark boxes containing fragile items to alert the movers to handle them carefully. Proper labeling will ensure that your belongings are delivered to the correct rooms and handled appropriately during the move.

    Work With the Pros

    Hiring professional movers can simplify relocation and ensure a successful transition to your new home. Contact us today to schedule your move and receive a free cost estimate to start planning your relocation.

  • How to Choose Storage for Your Next Move

    How to Choose Storage for Your Next Move

    Moving to a new home often involves more than just transporting belongings directly from one location to another. You may need storage solutions to temporarily house your items during the transition. Whether you’re downsizing, renovating, or needing added space, renting storage can provide a convenient solution. However, before you commit to a storage facility, you must consider several things to ensure you select the right option for your needs. Here’s what to consider when looking for storage for your next move.

    Location

    The location of the storage facility is critical, especially if you need quick access to your belongings. Choose a facility conveniently located near your current or new home to save time

    Security

    When choosing a storage facility, prioritize security. Consider features like gated access, surveillance cameras, and on-site security personnel. Additionally, inquire about the facility’s security protocols and whether they offer insurance options for added protection against theft or damage.

    Unit Size

    Determine your storage needs and select a size that accommodates your belongings adequately. Take inventory of the items you plan to store and consider factors such as furniture size, boxes, and any special items that may require extra space.

    Climate Control

    If you are storing sensitive items such as electronics, wooden furniture, or artwork, consider renting a climate-controlled storage unit. Climate control controls temperature and humidity, protecting your belongings from extreme weather. 

    Accessibility

    Check the accessibility options offered by the storage facility. Determine whether they provide 24/7 access or have specific operating hours. Additionally, inquire about loading dock availability, elevator access for multi-level facilities, and whether they offer moving equipment such as dollies or carts.

    Cleanliness and Maintenance

    Check the storage facility’s cleanliness and maintenance in person. A well-maintained facility is more likely to keep your belongings safe and secure. Look for signs of cleanliness, organization, and pest control measures.

    Cost and Terms

    Compare pricing and rental terms from different storage facilities to find the best option for your budget. Consider monthly rental rates, security deposit requirements, and any additional amenities or insurance coverage fees. Pay attention to lease terms, including minimum rental periods and any penalties for early termination.

    Reviews and Reputation

    Online customer reviews can help you assess the storage facility’s reputation. Pay attention to customer service, cleanliness, security, and overall satisfaction feedback. Positive reviews suggest a reliable storage facility.

    Insurance Coverage

    Verify whether your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy covers stored belongings or if you need additional insurance from the storage facility. Knowing what your insurance covers can help you feel more at ease in any unanticipated circumstances.

    Special Considerations

    If you have specific requirements or special items to store, such as vehicles, recreational equipment, or valuable collections, inquire whether the storage facility offers specialized storage options or amenities to accommodate your needs.

    These factors can help you choose a storage facility for your next move. Researching and selecting the proper storage solution can help protect your belongings during the move. Contact us for full-service moving assistance.

  • Tips for Growing Into a Larger House

    Tips for Growing Into a Larger House

    For many people, a dream come true is the day when you can move into a bigger house. A larger house can be exciting and overwhelming, whether a relatively incremental upgrade (i.e., three bedrooms instead of two) or a massive change.

    If it’s your first time moving into a larger space, you should first learn how to handle the extra room. Fortunately, we’re here to help with these top tips for how to grow into a bigger home.

    Step One: See Where Everything Fits

    People tend to adapt to their living spaces over time. So, if you’re living in a small home or apartment, you’ve likely adapted to have fewer belongings and furniture. When you move into a bigger house, it is natural for the space to feel empty if you do not have enough belongings to fill it up.

    The first step should be to see where everything goes and find a spot for each item. Try to be as conservative as possible rather than spreading everything out just because you can. This way, it’s easier to tell whether the area is “missing” something or if the space works well for your living situation.

    Step Two: Live With the Empty Space For a While

    Once you move into a larger home, it’s tempting to fill it with various furniture and decorations as quickly as possible. However, rather than rushing out to the nearest department store, we recommend living with your current belongings for a month or two.

    The purpose of this transitional period is to allow you to feel comfortable with empty areas. Also, this time enables you to figure out what will work best in a particular spot. If you rush to buy furniture or other home goods, you may need help finding a place for everything. Also, items may contrast each other, meaning it’s hard to make the room feel “right.”

    Step Three: Make a List of Decor and Accessories You Need

    List the items you want or need to fill the extra room in your living space. For example, if you have an empty bedroom, you may want that to be a guest bedroom. Alternatively, perhaps you plan to expand your family soon and want a room for your next child.

    Similarly, if your kitchen has a lot of empty cabinets and counter space, you can determine whether you need extra appliances or dishes. Or, perhaps you can use the cabinets to store other non-kitchen-related items like seasonal decor.

    Step Four: Start With Large Items if Possible

    Once you know how to fill your extra space, it’s best to start with larger pieces like furniture (if possible). The area will feel more furnished, and you can add smaller decorative belongings later. If you begin with decor and no furniture, the room will likely look incomplete, making it harder to enjoy.

    Also, since this is your house, you want to pick pieces that fit your taste. For example, if you like tropical patterns, you could start with fake tropical plants. Then, you can incorporate furniture with tropical patterns, then move on to tropical wall art or decorative ornaments.

    Get Moving Help For Your New Home

    Regardless of the size of your current home, relocating into a larger house can always be a challenge. By hiring professional movers, you can get peace of mind and start enjoying your new home that much sooner. Contact us to find out how we can help.

     

     

  • What to Look for in a Commercial Mover

    What to Look for in a Commercial Mover

    An excellent commercial mover can make moving your business much more manageable. Here are some things to look for when choosing a commercial mover.

    A Dedicated Point of Contact

    The best commercial moving companies will provide you with a dedicated point of contact. They’ll give you their email address and phone number. The contact will also communicate with you regularly.

    Expertise

    Consider what specific expertise you’ll need. For example, will you need help installing telecom systems or computers? Or do you need a mover with experience handling delicate scientific equipment?

    Choose a company with experience moving businesses similar to yours and the specific expertise you need. An experienced company will understand the specifics of your industry and can advise you on the best way to approach your move. They’ll also be experienced in moving specialized equipment.

    Remember that moving companies are local, long-distance, and international, so choose the right one based on your needs. Local moving companies typically make moves within 100 miles or less.

    Service

    Consider the services you need and whether the mover offers those services. The best commercial movers will provide packing, unpacking, disassembling, and reassembling furniture.

    Reputation

    Ask your industry colleagues, Chamber of Commerce, or real estate agent for recommendations of commercial moving companies they’ve used. Research several commercial moving companies. Check with third-party licensing companies such as the Department of Transportation and the Better Business Bureau.

    Also, look at online reviews. Ensure you look at genuine reviews rather than fake ones a company may have bought. Reading multiple reviews and being skeptical of companies with almost all five-star reviews can help avoid review scams.

    Interview at least three prospective companies and ask for references. Call each reference and ask specific questions about the reference’s experiences with the moving company. Be wary of a company that avoids providing references.

    Ensure the company you are considering has an insurance certificate that protects your property. Also, ask whether the company uses subcontractors. If it does, find out the names of the subcontractors and research their track record. The subcontractors should also have an insurance certificate.

    Price

    A mover should fit within your budget. However, developing a realistic budget is critical. When you first realize you’re going to move your operation, create a scope of work and do some research to determine ballpark prices for each aspect of the move.

    As you interview movers, ask for quotes or estimates. Ask questions about how the mover charges for its services; for example, do they charge by the hour or net cost?

    Have the moving company come to your office to prepare an accurate estimate. Also, walk with the representative through your new building to avoid surprises. Inquire about what services are included in the estimate and which require an extra charge.

    Commercial Storage

    Does your company require short or long-term storage? Consider if the commercial moving company provides businesses with commercial storage solutions. Have they secured climate-controlled warehouses for office furniture, IT equipment, files, and records and files?

    Process

    Ask each prospective moving company about its process. How do they plan and facilitate corporate moves? If you hire them, what can you expect from start to finish? How long will the move take?

    Experienced Movers

    We are experienced movers who can help your moving process go more smoothly. Contact us for an estimate today.

  • Parks to Visit this Spring from Virginia Beach to Chesapeake

    Parks to Visit this Spring from Virginia Beach to Chesapeake

    As the Virginia coast awakens from winter, thoughts turn to the great outdoors. Now is the perfect time to return to nature, thanks to the gentle temperatures, sunny days, and colorful spring blooms. Here are a few favorite parks from Virginia Beach to Chesapeake, Virginia, to explore this spring.

    First Landing State Park

    There’s a reason why First Landing State Park is Virginia’s most visited state park. The park’s mixture of history and scenic natural beauty has landed it on the National Register of Historic Places and National Natural Landmarks.

    The park may be best known as the area where English colonists first landed in 1607. However, indigenous peoples have long navigated the waterways that were also instrumental in the War of 1812 and the Civil War.

    Today, the 2,888-acre park offers miles of trails that wind through cypress groves, tidal flats, dunes, and beaches. You can canoe, kayak, bike, hike, camp, and bird watching. Stop by the First Landing Trail Center to learn about the area’s rich history and natural bounty.

    False Cape State Park

    Want to get away from it all this spring? Spend a day exploring False Cape State Park. There are only three ways to get to this remote island between the Atlantic Ocean and Back Bay: by boat, tram, or on foot. That means you’ll find pristine, unspoiled nature at every turn.

    Starting in April, you can take a tram to the park’s center; if you visit earlier, you’ll have to walk. But it’s well worth the effort to experience more than six miles of untouched beaches, sand dunes, salt marshes, woodlands, and wetlands.

    Keep your eyes peeled for the more than 300 species of wildlife that call the park home. Red foxes, bald eagles, loggerhead turtles, wild horses, and migratory birds all congregate here. In spring, wildflowers bloom for the season, adding color to the already-stunning natural beauty.

    Chesapeake City Park

    Enjoy the sun at Chesapeake City Park on a warm spring day. This urban oasis within the city offers 90 acres to explore, including 60 acres of open green space and forested areas.

    Take your pick of activities, including walking and biking trails, horseshoes, a skate park, volleyball and basketball courts, and an outdoor fitness area. Bring your canine companions and hit the off-leash area, or bring the kids and let them explore the Fun Forest Playground.

    Check the park’s schedule for events, such as outdoor concerts, on the Robert G. “Buddy” Bagley Stage. Take a moment to stop at the Chesapeake 9/11 Memorial and the Gold Star Families Memorial Monument to reflect on the sacrifices made.

    Spring is the perfect time of year to get back to nature! The sun shines after the cozy winter months and the great outdoors beckon. These Chesapeake and Virginia Beach parks make it easy to get out and enjoy the changing seasons.

    If you’re planning a move to Virginia Beach or Chesapeake, VA, soon, let Brooks Transfer and Storage do the heavy lifting. Our professional movers will help you navigate your Virginia move and keep it stress-free. Contact us today.

     

     

     

  • Home-Buying 101: Strategies for Saving for Your New Home

    Home-Buying 101: Strategies for Saving for Your New Home

    The prospect of buying your first home is exciting—but when you sit down and think about how much money you need to save for a down payment, closing costs, and other moving expenses, it can feel a bit daunting.

    Fortunately, finding ways to save and budget for your first home doesn’t have to be a guessing game. You can follow a few practical tips and tricks to take the stress out of saving for and moving to your first home.

    Know How Much You Need to Save

    Start by getting a better idea of how much money you’ll need to save. Typically, the most significant costs associated with purchasing your first home are:

    • closing costs
    • down payment
    • moving expenses

    While exact costs for these things will vary based on your home’s final sale price, saving between 2% and 5% of your total loan amount for closing costs and about 15% for a down payment is generally a good idea. However, depending on the home loan you’re getting, you could pay as little as a 3% or even 0% down payment.

    Create (And Stick To) a Budget

    Once you know how much money you need to save for your first home, it’s time to create a realistic budget. While creating a budget might seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Simply tally up your total monthly income and average monthly expenses.

    From there, subtract your monthly expenses from your income and see what you’re left with. Decide on what leftover money to allocate towards your first home purchase. This will give you a better idea of how long it might take you to save for your house.

    Get Creative With Ways to Save More

    If your budget doesn’t leave much leftover money to set aside each month, some creative ways exist to cut expenses and bring in more money.

    Start by looking more closely at your current monthly expenses. Are there areas where you’re spending more than you need to? It may be time to start eating at home more often instead of ordering takeout a few days per week, or you may have monthly subscription services you don’t need or use.

    You might also explore creative ways to bring in more money. Consider, for example, decluttering your current place and selling items that you no longer need. This will serve a dual purpose of cutting down on clutter before your move and helping you add more money to your home-buying fund.

    Consider a side hustle to bring in more money.  With anything from tech service setup to freelancing, a side job for extra cash can be an option.

     Don’t Forget to Budget for Movers

    As you save money to buy your first home, it’s essential to focus on the significant expenses—like down payments and closing costs. However, you won’t want to overlook general moving expenses, like the costs of hiring a team of professional movers. With some shopping around, you can make the most of your moving budget and still get the valuable moving help you need to take the stress out of your big day!

    Contact us today for a free quote.

  • Unique Performance Venues in Virginia Beach, VA

    Unique Performance Venues in Virginia Beach, VA

     

    You are in luck if you intend to relocate soon to Virginia Beach, Virginia. This seaside city has fantastic performance venues, so there’s always something to see and do. Whether you want to dance to live music, take in a play, or laugh at a comedy show, you’re sure to find it in Virginia Beach. Here are a few favorite places to be entertained.

    Sandler Center for the Performing Arts

    With a 1,300-seat capacity, the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts serves as a center for the arts community in Virginia Beach. This visually stunning space is home to the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and hosts a variety of performance genres, such as ballets, plays, concerts, and comedy shows.

    Notable past performers include music stars Travis Tritt, Ricky Skaggs, Melissa Etheridge, Kathy Mattea, and Mary Chapin Carpenter. There’s always something on stage at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, no matter the time of year.

    Elevation 27

    At Elevation 27, you’ll find an incredible and diverse lineup of live music. Named for its location — just 27 feet above sea level — this local favorite books a wide range of regional, national, and international acts. Best of all, you can enjoy food and beverages from the onsite restaurant as you listen.

    The venue was designed with sonic perfection and offers some of the best acoustic conditions. Elevation 27 is a great place to see your favorite musical artists and bands — and experience new ones — in an intimate setting with amazing sound.

    Oceanfront and Boardwalk Live Music Stages

    Virginia Beach’s oceanfront and boardwalk live music stages offer endless entertainment. Perhaps the best-known event is the annual American Music Festival, which draws thousands of music lovers to the large open-air venues 5th Street, 31st Street, and 34th Street Stages every summer.

    But that’s not all. Head to the 7th Street Stage on the Boardwalk, an open-air venue that offers music, movies, plays, and other free events throughout the year. The 17th Street Park Stage hosts festivals and shows and is close to the beach. The 24th Street Park Stage is a large open-air venue often used to host beer and wine festivals, concerts, and plays.

    Little Theater of Virginia Beach

    Since its founding in 1948, the Little Theater of Virginia Beach has delivered an ever-changing calendar of live theater entertainment. This all-volunteer, non-profit theater is truly a community effort. Nestled in a residential neighborhood just a few blocks from the water, the theater offers five productions yearly.

    Here, the focus is on nurturing local talent. Along with the full schedule of plays, The Little Theater of Virginia Beach also offers classes, training events, and other opportunities for the community to engage with the performing arts.

    Virginia Beach — A Place to Call Home

    Virginia Beach has live venues so that you can stay entertained year-round. Whether you love listening to live music, watching ballet or a play, or simply experiencing a wide range of live performances, these venues offer something for everyone.

    There’s no need to go alone when planning a Virginia Beach relocation. Contact Brooks Transfer & Storage, and let us do the heavy lifting for your next move.

     

  • How to Safely Pack Glassware

    How to Safely Pack Glassware

    Safely transporting your belongings from your old house to your new home is a top priority when making a residential move. Moving delicate and fragile items like glassware can be stressful. By packing your glassware securely, you can guarantee that it arrives at its destination undamaged. Your belongings will arrive safely if you utilize appropriate packing materials and exercise caution when packing.

    Correct Box

    One of the most critical steps to pack glassware correctly is ensuring you have the correct size box. Aim for a medium-sized box for your glassware. Using a box too small won’t hold enough, and a box that is too large can quickly become too heavy. You also want a very structurally sound box. Make sure the box is sturdy and designed with thick cardboard walls to support the heavy weight of glass.

    Or use a glass pack kit. These specially designed kits are compartmentalized to accommodate glassware, crystal, and stemware. Some kits include foam padding to enclose and isolate every piece.

    Packing Materials

    Next, ensure you have plenty of packing materials to protect your glassware. Use bubble wrap or foam to wrap each glass for protection individually. Add layers of shredded paper or plastic bags to offer more protection between each glass. You can purchase these packing materials from your local store or recycle and repurpose items in your home.

    All About the Layers

    While you want to wrap each glass individually to protect it, you always want to add extra packaging to the box. Prepare your box of glassware in layers, containing:

    • Bottom Layer – Add a layer of padding at the bottom. This layer can be bubble wrap, foam, several layers of crumpled packing paper, or even a towel.
    • First Glassware – Put the wrapped, heavy glasses and mugs on the bottom, on top of the padded base layer.
    • Protection – Add a layer of protective padding on top of your heavy glasses and mugs.
    • Second Glassware – In the middle of the box, pack similar glasses that can nest inside one another.
    • Padding – Lastly, add a protective padding layer to the top of the box to prevent shifting during the move.

    Packing your glassware boxes in layers will help prevent shifting and potential breaking.

    Fill the Box Completely

    When packing your glassware, completely fill each box, even if it isn’t full of glassware. You want the box to be snug but not jam-packed. Having little space inside the box means glassware won’t shift and potentially break during transport. Add packing peanuts, crumpled packing paper, or balled-up towels to the sides and top to take up space and offer additional cushioning.

    Label Clearly

    After you carefully pack your boxes, make sure to label the box clearly. You want big, bold, visible lettering to indicate the box contains fragile items and glass. Make sure you add a label to all sides of the box so people can clearly read what the box contains, even if people stack more boxes on top. It can help to gather all the fragile boxes together and save them in a separate area for the movers to see.

    Let Us Do the Heavy Lifting

    For your next move, consider using professional movers to help. Dedicated and caring professional movers will care for your fragile and delicate items like your glassware. To learn more about how a professional moving team can help or to get a quote for your move, contact us today.