From the First Box to the Last: How to Plan Your Packing List

If you’re adequately prepared for a move, then you’ll have a packing list for moving.

Whether this is your first move or if you want a better moving experience than last time, you need to know how to pack for a move.

Read on to learn moving out essentials for creating your packing list, from the first box to the last.

Your Packing List for Moving

If you’re considering how to pack for a move, making a packing list for moving is the first step. There are a few steps to follow for making this packing list.

1. Take inventory of everything you own. Go from room to room to make sure you leave nothing out.
2. Ensure you have all of the moving supplies you need (boxes, bubble wrap, labels, etc.)
3. Create a separate list for valuables for insurance purposes and to make a note of any special packing needs.
4. Make an essentials packing list, which includes things you need that you’ll pack last.

Now, it’s time to get rid of anything you no longer use. You can do this through donations or a sale. If you have time, a garage sale or an online marketplace are excellent ways to make extra cash.

Tips on How to Pack for a Move

After creating this inventory list and purging your extra items, you should first pack things you use less frequently, such as items in storage or off-season clothes. These are first on your packing list because they are usually already in boxes or containers, ready to be moved. Make sure you label these boxes as you go.

Clothing

If they are not stored, the best way to pack clothes for moving is using wardrobe or cardboard boxes. Suitcases or duffel bags are a great hack, too, as they’re bulky and difficult to pack away. If you have it, a vacuum and compression bags will save you lots of space and protect your clothing. Place those vacuum-sealed bags in moving boxes, label the boxes and you’re set.

Other Items

The other priority items on your packing list for moving include china or rarely used dishes, artwork, decorations, knick-knacks, and extra linens (e.g., towels, sheets). Make sure you label boxes appropriately to save yourself the hassle.

Entertainment media, such as books, records, and any video items, should be next. Your non-essential electronics are next, followed by furniture and large appliances.

Pack Your Moving Essentials Last

Your moving essentials are the last thing you pack. These are items that help you clean up while packing or prevent you from unpacking your neatly packed boxes to find items that you need. Other essentials are for emergencies or to keep you supplied and fueled during the move. 

Your essential box should include:

• Cleaning supplies
• Aspirin or pain relief
• Toiletries
• Coffee maker or instant coffee
• Disposable plates and utensils
• Snacks
• Tape
• Box cutter or scissors
• Trash bags
• Hammer and screwdriver
• Batteries and extension cords

These items are essential because they come in handy for uninstalling decorations or appliances you’ll be moving. Your essentials box is the last thing you pack when moving so that these items can stay handy and be the first box available when you arrive at your new place.

Making Your Move

If you need any other tips on planning or packing for your move, don’t hesitate to contact us. Be sure to check out our website for more helpful moving information or to get a free quote from Brooks Transfer and Storage.

5 Questions You Should Always Ask Your Moving Company

For most people, you may only hire a moving company a hand full of times in your life.  So, when it is time for a residential move, you want to be sure that you hire a company that is dependable, reliable, efficient and affordable. How do you decide which company is best for your needs?  It is always smart to do your homework before making your final decision.  Here are five questions you should plan to ask your moving company BEFORE you sign a contract.

1. Can you provide references?  Just like any hiring process, it is reasonable (and even recommended) to ask for references.  In addition, you should check a variety of websites for online reviews and ask family, friends and co-workers for their personal recommendations.
2. Can you provide a “not-to-exceed” estimate?  Moving is expensive.  You want to know well ahead of time exactly how much your moving company will charge. Some companies add on costs the day of the move.  A binding quote means that they will not charge you more than the estimate indicates.
3. Do you subcontract moves?  If your possessions will be transferred to another company at any point of your move, you should be aware of this ahead of time and reconsider.
4. What is your policy for cancellations and/or changes?  It’s possible that your plans will change for your move and you may need to change the date and or time. Find out what the moving company’s policy is for any changes.
5. Is your moving company licensed?  All dependable moving companies will have a license number that was issued by the US Department of Transportation. If a moving company does not have this license, you should find another company that does.

Professional, Reliable Moving Company, Hampton Roads

Brooks Transfer & Storage Company, Inc. has been helping families move to their next home for more than a century. We are a professional, licensed moving company that serves the Hampton Roads area.  Our team has built our success on many satisfied customers.  We understand that  you only move a few times in your life – and that you are moving your most precious possessions.  So, we work hard to make your move as easy on you as possible.  We are happy to share references, an accurate estimate and will never transfer your possessions to a subcontractor. For more information or for a free estimate for your next move, call us at 800-544-1265.

3 Tips for Decluttering and Preparing to Downsize Your Home

If you’ve been in a home for many years and you’re looking to downsize your property, preparing for this big event isn’t something that can be done overnight. Utilize the decision to downsize as the perfect time to go through all of the items that you’ve built up over the years. In turn, you’ll be able to declutter and truly prepare to downsize your home. At Brooks Transfer & Storage, we have a passion for helping Virginia homeowners with their downsizing process. Before we start the moving process for you, we wanted to introduce you to 3 tips for decluttering and preparing to downsize your home.

Address the Big Items First

It makes sense that if you are downsizing from a 4 bedroom home down to a 2 bedroom, that you can immediately get rid of 2 beds and potentially even two sets of bedroom furniture. There is no sense in moving large items that simply have no place in your new home. So, one great place to start when it comes to decluttering and preparing to downsize your home is to go through the big items in your home first and decide whether or not there is a place for them in your smaller house.

Don’t Rush the Process

At Brooks Transfer & Storage, we understand that the moving process can be overwhelming. By teaming up with our moving professionals, we’ll take some of that unnecessary pressure off of your shoulders. One great way to help limit the stress when trying to declutter and downsize is for you to start the moving preparations early. Do not rush through the fine details of your move. Feeling comfortable with items that you plan to get rid of, pack up or store will go a long way in limiting your stress levels throughout the move.

Create an Inventory

With any move big or small, creating an inventory is critical. This will ensure that all items that you’ve gone through and plan to take with you when downsizing are delivered and identified once our team at Brooks Transfer & Storage moves your items to your new home.

Even though you may be planning to downsize to a smaller home, the moving process is still one that should not be taken lightly. At Brooks Transfer & Storage, we believe that addressing the big items first, taking your time with the moving preparation and creating an inventory are all key tips for decluttering and preparing to downsize your home. If you are ready to partner with a proven moving company in VA, contact our dedicated staff at (800) 544-1265 or email info@brookstransfer.com to request a free quote.

How to Save Money Moving in the Virginia Beach Area

Moving in the beautiful Virginia Beach area doesn’t have to be as expensive as you might think. With the right strategies in place, you’d be surprised how much you could save – without having to do all the work yourself too.

The 5 Top Tips to Save Money Moving in the Virginia Beach Area

 1. Make the Most Out of the Space in Your Moving Boxes

The more tightly you pack the items in your moving boxes, the fewer containers you will need to buy and then relocate to your new home. The less boxes you have, the less time it will take your movers to transfer everything into your new home – which could save you substantially on your per hour fees when everything is all said and done. As a bonus, tightly packing your items will also minimize your risk of potential property damage; the less empty space in your boxes, the less likely your things will shift around and possibly break.

2. Do Everything You Can to Prevent Potential Property Damage

One thing you might not consider moving is the hidden costs that can result from property damage to your more valuable assets. While moving yourself can sometimes seem like the most cost-effective option, think about the risks you face financially if something goes wrong handling your more delicate items. To minimize this risk, hiring experienced moving professionals in many cases are the better option in the end.

3. Schedule a Move-In Date at the Most Cost-Effective Time

The time of year you move can substantially affect the costs of hiring movers. Try to avoid moving during their busy seasons in the summer and the first half of months. Relocating during the winter, towards the end of the month, or during a weekday is most ideal for those looking to maximize their moving budget. Save your slot well ahead of time with professional movers in Virginia Beach to guarantee their availability and the most cost-effective pricing.

4. Donate or Sell Your Belongings You No Longer Need

Odds are you’ve probably accumulated quite a few items you no longer use, need, or like in your current place of residence. Selling these items can help you earn some extra cash, while donating them could provide you with a nice tax deduction. The less items you need to move, the lower your moving costs will be as well.

5. Look into Possible Tax Deductions

If you are moving in the Virginia Beach area for work purposes, you may be able to write this off as a tax deduction on your income taxes. Take the time to save all your receipts associated with your move and check with your accountant to take advantage of these possible financial savings.

Trust Brooks Transfer & Storage When Moving in the Virginia Beach Area

As long-time moving professionals serving Virginia Beach residents for nearly 140 years, Brooks Transfer & Storage is the clear company to turn to for moving. We’re the clear leaders in the area committed to your moving success. Don’t hesitate to call us today at 1-800-544-1265 or use our online contact form to receive a free quote!

Why Choose Brooks Transfer When Moving in the Norfolk Area

Hiring an experienced, professional moving company in the Norfolk area can be a cost-effective solution that saves you both time and unnecessary stress.

Experience Servicing the Norfolk Area and Surrounding Areas since 1878

When looking for a moving company in the Norfolk area choose Brooks Transfer & Storage. We are one of the most experienced moving companies in the country! For over 138 years, we have been proudly servicing:

• Norfolk
• Suffolk
• Virginia Beach
• Chesapeake
• Portsmouth
• Newport News
• Smithfield
• Hampton
• Williamsburg
• Poquoson
• Isle of Wight
• Gloucester
• Surrounding Hampton Roads
• Northern North Carolina

We began as a family business seeking to help people relocating their belongings both locally and nationally. While we no longer use horses and wagons like we did in 1878, our commitment to our customers has remained the same. Today, we use modern vans and advanced technological systems to provide you with the best service available on the market.

A Reputation for Providing Service of the Highest Quality

As a company, we have earned a strong reputation for being:

• Punctual
• Thorough
• Meticulous

Our incredibly knowledgeable and professional staff will handle all the small details of the move for you, so you can stop worrying, sit back, and relax. Leave it to the highly reliable, trained professionals with “thousands-of-moves worth” of experience! Rest assured with Brooks Transfer & Storage your personal belongings will be transported safely and securely to your next location. We have the moving process down to an exact science.

We’re Local

Norfolk residents have been trusting Brooks Transfer for a long time. If we weren’t 100% committed to our customers’ satisfaction we wouldn’t be in business for as long as we have.

Our family owned and operated company provides moving solutions customized for your specific needs. We offer services for:

• Local moves
• Office relocations
• Interstate relocations
• International relocations

A Wide Array of Moving Services Customized to Fit Your Needs

Need some help moving your personal items? Need just a little help packing? We’re here for you and happy to take care of it. Among other things, we can also provide you with:

• Storage units
• Temporary storage
• Full service packing
• Unpacking services
• Complete relocation consultations
• Packing insight tips

With Brooks Transfer & Storage a move doesn’t have to feel so overwhelming anymore. Contact us today for a free quote and get started on your next move. Brooks Transfer & Storage is the best in the business so why not work with someone that will always put your needs first?

Top 10 Tips for Moving with Children

Kids are resilient and can love new experiences, but moving can also be a big challenge for them.  Here are some recommendations—practical and psychological—for how to make your move easier for you and your kids.

Tips for Moving with Kids

1. Hold periodic family meetings.  Involve your children in the process of moving.  If they’re old enough to understand their own feelings, use these meetings to reassure them and answer questions.  If they’re not yet old enough for such complex conversations, use the meetings to involve them in the process and help get them excited about this new chapter.
2. Project your positive attitude with a countdown to the move. Once the decision has been made, tick off the days on a calendar and help your kids understand that this is an exciting change and everything will be not only okay, but even better.
3. Solicit your kids’ feedback on your new home.  If you have multiple choices for where you’ll live, your kids’ feedback can be valuable to you and to them.  If your choices are limited, solicit feedback from your children about how to make the best use of the choices you do have.
4. Do lots of research on your new home and surrounding area.  Learn about the neighborhood you’re moving into, the school system, public transportation, museums, and other aspects of your new location so that you start with a good understanding of the community.
5. Get your kids involved in determining which rooms will be used for what purpose.  This is especially helpful with their bedrooms, which functions as their own personal space.  But they can also be involved in how you set up other rooms, like offices or play rooms.
6. Visit your new location with your children before you move.  This will mean that the newness of the move will be mixed with some familiarity, which can be of great comfort to them.
7. Plot points on the map to your new home.  If you’re driving to your new community, especially if it’s a long drive, make an adventure out of the trip by visiting interesting and new places along the way.  Your kids will take that sense of adventure to the new place with them.
8. Have a See-You-Later party, instead of a Goodbye party.  If goodbyes communicate finality, sadness is likely to be the prevailing feeling for your kids.  But if you set it up as a See-You-Soon party, your family’s friends as well as your kids will likely view it as an opportunity to visit you in a new location, allowing friendships to continue.
9. Keep your routine intact: Try to give your kids stability, even during a move with established bedtimes, mealtimes, etc.
10. Help your kids find new friends:  Even though you are busy getting settled, invest time in meeting new neighbors and finding other kids who might be new playmates.

Contact Brooks Transfer & Storage for More Information

Brooks Transfer & Storage is interested in your whole moving experience, not just in filling boxes and loading moving vans.  Give us a call at either 800-544-1265 or 757-427-9500 and we’ll be happy to help you.

Benefits of Hiring Local Movers in Norfolk

Looking to hire movers in the Norfolk, VA area? Flowers and groceries aren’t the only thing you should be shopping for locally! There are many benefits to hiring local movers in the Norfolk area. Brooks Transfer & Storage has been serving this area for over 139 years! Can you imagine a better candidate for your next move?

Local = Trust

At Brooks Transfer & Storage, we are proud to say how much experience we have in the area. Norfolk residents have been trusting us with their belongings and safe keepings for over a century. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is an attribute that has kept us up and running from generation to generation. We are still a family owned and operated company and we always aim to treat your belongings as our own.

Everything You Need On Hand

Even if you only plan on making a local move down the street, Brooks Transfer & Storage has everything you need to make it as smooth as possible. Whether you just need us to physically move your belongings or you’d like us to pack everything away and transport, we’ve got you covered. We offer storage units, temporary storage, full service packing, and anything from a local to international move. We serve both residential and commercial properties and have the right equipment and options to make your move as easy as possible.

Local Movers = One Trip

If you’ve ever done a local move, chances are you’ll never do it again without the assistance of a local moving company. Why? It’s frustrating! Most commonly, residents will go back and forth between the old and new residences and waste half of their time just on traveling! Make your upcoming move more efficient and hire a local mover who will get everything you need done in one trip.

Want to learn more? If you are looking to hire a local mover in the Norfolk, VA area, contact Brooks Transfer & Storage today at 800-544-1264 or by email at info@brookstransfer.com and enjoy the friendly and reliable moving services that we always provide!