Keeping the Clutter at Bay After a Move

Moving is an exciting time; it’s also a significant amount of work. It can be challenging to stay organized while you’re packing and unpacking and it’s so tempting to just haphazardly unpack to get a break from it all.

The problem is, most people end up regretting that. The last thing you want to do is look around your new home and see nothing but clutter. So, stay organized as you unpack.

Give Yourself Time

Time is your friend when it comes to moving. Unpacking after moving to Virginia, will take time and effort. If you’re going straight back to work after a move, you could be surrounded by boxes for a long time. That makes it difficult to be at home and work.

The best thing you can do is schedule some time off and make a checklist so you can devote your time entirely to unpacking. Being able to focus on one job at a time until you’ve got everything as you want it will make the process smoother.

Ask for Help

Moving to a new home isn’t a job you should undertake by yourself if you can help it. There are lots of elements involved in moving and settling in, so the more pairs of hands you can recruit, the better. Consider using professional movers in Virginia Beach to take that weight off your shoulders…literally.

Getting help from movers will mean you can have peace of mind about how your belongings are transported. You could even arrange for movers to help with packing and unpacking, so the job gets done quickly and efficiently.

Unpack Essentials

Moving is an ordeal, despite how organized you are. As you pack your belongings, put together a separate kit with all of the essentials you’ll need in the first few days.

This kit should include basic toiletries, sets of clothing for family members, cleaning supplies, food and drinks, medication, and anything else you think you will need if you arrive ahead of your moving company or you aren’t able to unpack everything immediately. 

Your essentials kit will be handy and available to get you through.

One of the best things you can for your first night in your new home is unpack bedding and make your bed. It’s going to be a busy day, so you’ll need somewhere comfortable to crash when it’s over.

Your Favorite Room

It’s always wise to unpack room by room but where do you start? Start in the room you’re likely to spend the most time in. For instance, if you like to relax in front of the TV when you get home, you may want to set up your TV and unpack DVDs.

Or, if you like your bedroom to be a haven you can retreat to after a hard day, work on creating your haven first and foremost.

Unpacking Doesn’t Have to Stressful

No-one really enjoys unpacking, but that doesn’t mean it has to cause any stress. Take a look at some more tips for a stress-free move on our website. 

 

New Kid on the Block? Here’s How to Meet Your Neighbors

One of the hardest challenges after moving to a new area is making connections with new people.

If you just moved, you may wonder how to create connections with your new neighbors. After all, we all need social interactions.

To help you have a smooth transition into your new community, we’ve created this guide on how to meet your neighbors.

How to Meet Your Neighbors

There are many ways to create connections in your new community.

Although there will be times you may feel anxious about interacting with people you don’t know, it’s important to have an open mind and step out of your comfort zone.

Consider the following suggestions and make them part of your daily routine. They’ll help you have an easy transition to your new neighborhood.

1. Be Friendly

You’ve probably heard this a hundred times, but first impressions do matter. Fortunately, it can be as simple as greeting your new neighbors with a smile and saying something nice.

Try to remember their names, too, as people always appreciate it when you greet them by name the next time you see them.

2. Spend Time Outdoors

If you participate in outdoor activities, you’ll increase your chances of meeting new people. Even just sitting on your front porch and allowing your kids to play on the lawn will increase your chances of seeing and meeting new people.

You can also visit local parks with your kids. Think about what you enjoy doing, and then go out and do it to meet like-minded people who live nearby.

3. Attend Social Events

If you’re the type of person who’s has a hard time approaching new people, then let others approach you. Do this by attending social events in your neighborhood.

Numerous community events happen in Virginia Beach, but don’t forget to look for block parties and other neighborhood meetings to join.

4. Ask for Help

It may seem strange, but asking your new neighbors for help is a great way to connect with new people.

Ask for suggestions about local restaurants or about community events. Even getting directions to the library can open a window to a new friendship.

Most people love helping others, so they’ll be more than happy to answer your questions. Just don’t forget to return the favor when any of your neighbors need anything!

5. Get Involved in Your Community

Local park districts and libraries have classes in a variety of areas including exercise programs, computer learning, and even concerts in the park.

Neighborhood watch programs are great opportunities to meet new people and to show your desire for helping the community.

Or, volunteer at a local animal shelter or food pantry. Volunteering is a great way to meet others with similar interests.

6. Bring Baked Goods

This is a classic one, and it’s for a good reason. Everyone loves desserts. Bring a batch of your signature baked goods when you introduce yourself to your new neighbors.

This shows people that your thoughtfulness and will make your visit more memorable.

Looking for a Moving Company?

Following these tips will help you make connections easily.

If you’re looking for a moving company, we have over 100 years of experience serving families and businesses across Hampton Roads. Contact us today as we’d love to help you get to your new home.

How to Use Packing Paper and Padding to Protect Valuables

Americans are moving in droves. Around 40 million Americans move at least once every year.

That can mean stress, heavy lifting, and broken valuables. However, damaged items don’t have to be a part of the moving chaos.

We’ve nailed down the top moving necessities and best tips for packing protection. Here are the top ways to use packing paper and padding to protect valuables

Gather Supplies

Make sure you have the appropriate boxes for your fragile items as well as plenty of bubble wrap and packing paper. Your own ordinary, everyday things like towels and blankets that you are packing anyway will also come in handy to fill in extra space.

Check with your movers for specialty boxes that make packing plates and glassware a snap.

Packing Breakable Items

When packing delicate items, be sure to pack heavier things on the bottom of the box.

Place several layers of bubble wrap or crumpled packing paper on the bottom of the box. After your items are packed, fill space in the box with additional crumpled paper. This will prevent the items from shifting around and getting damaged.

Reinforce the bottom of the box with extra tape.

Plates

Since plates and dishes tend to be heavy, use small to medium-sized boxes to pack these items for your move. A dish pack box is ideal, but if you don’t have this kind of specialty box, use a sturdy box of thick cardboard.

Wrap each plate in several layers of packing paper or bubble wrap and secure it with tape. Place each plate vertically in the box with bubble wrap in between each plate. Packing plates vertically will help eliminate the pressure of stacking and prevent breakage.

Glasses

Wrap each glass with bubble wrap or packing paper. For stemware, wrap the stem with bubble wrap for added protection, then wrap the rest of the glass. Stuff paper inside each glass to prevent crushing. Wrap it in several more sheets of paper for protection.

If you have a specialty glass pack, place each glass into its own compartment in the box. If you are using a standard box, make sure it is sturdy and use lots of paper for shock absorption.

Picture Frames

To protect the glass on the frame, place an X of painter’s tape from corner to corner of the glass. This will help protect the glass, but in case the glass does break the tape will keep the pieces in one place and prevent additional shattering.

Wrap the frames in bubble wrap and tape the bubble wrap to keep it in place. Put the crumpled paper on the bottom of the box and set the frames inside. If the frames are more than eight inches tall, stand them up inside the box. Use paper to fill in the gaps.

Pack for Efficiency

Set aside various towels and blankets and use them as additional packing material. Use them to pad boxes and fill in space so that items don’t shift around.

.Add throw pillows to the bottom of boxes to provide an extra layer of support beneath delicate items. Use blankets and towels to fill in the gaps.

Use Stretch Wrap on Furniture

When it comes to protecting items during a move, furniture is often overlooked. However, it’s easy for furniture to get dinged or damaged during a move.

An excellent solution to prevent this kind of damage is to use a large roll of stretch wrap to protect the furniture and its vulnerable edges. This will help cut down the friction that causes scrapes.

Wrap Lamp Shades

Lamp shades can be awkward and tough to pack. However, packing them the wrong way may lead to rips or dents.

Protect lampshades by wrapping them in bubble wrap. Use packing paper to fill up the interior space of the lamp shade. Make sure to add packing paper to the box’s edges to keep the shade from sliding around.

Also, try not to use newspaper to pack the inside of the shade because ink could tarnish the shade.

Mark the Boxes “Fragile”

Label your boxes “fragile” and “this side up” on the appropriate sides. Set the boxes marked “fragile” in a separate area than your other boxes. Let your movers or helpers know which boxes contain the delicate items so they are treated with care.

More About Moving

These top tips should help you get the most out of packing paper and help protect valuables. And, we have expert tips and tricks for all kinds of moves.

Check out our blog here for ways to avoid mishaps on a long-distance move.

If you are in the planning process for your move, contact us. We can help you pack and move!

This Changes Everything: 7 Moving Hacks for a Stress-Free Moving Day

If you have moved from one home to another, you know that moving day can be an absolute anxiety-inducing nightmare.

Did I forget to do something? Are my valuables going to break? Which box is my toothbrush in again?

These are just a few of the questions that may cloud your mind when thinking about your move, but worry no longer, because we’re here to help.

Here are seven moving hacks that can make your moving day, and the days that follow, a breeze.

1. Donate Before You Pack

During the packing process, separate items that you no longer wish to keep. Either donate or sell those items, but either way, it will be a relief to have fewer things to carry on moving day. Donating can score you a deduction on your taxes, and you’ll feel good knowing the items you no longer had a use for are going to new homes!

2. Use Boxes with Handles and Label Them All

Be sure to use boxes with handles, as you will quickly find it makes the moving process a lot easier. If you already have boxes and they don’t have handles, don’t fret, simply cut some holes into the sides of the boxes, creating handles yourself.

Label each side of every box for easier identification for you and the movers.

3. Take Photos of Your Electronic Before Disassembly

Before you unplug all of your electronics, snap some photos on your phone of what the set-up looks like. When you get to your new home you can refer back to the pictures for easier reassembly.

4. Label Your Power Cords

Use a strip of tape to label all of your power cords. While there’s no denying this is a tedious task, you will thank yourself when it comes time to set up the entertainment center in your new place, as you won’t have to wonder which cord goes to what device.

5. Keep Screws and Bolts Organized

Put any screws and bolts into labeled ziplock bags. Similar to the cords, you’ll be glad you did yourself this favor when you’re able to quickly identify what goes where when it’s time to unpack and set up your new home.

6. Have a First Night Box

Pack a box of any items you’ll need the first day and night of the move. A few sets of clothes, your essential hygiene products, and phone chargers are a good place to start.

7. Activate Utilities Before Moving Day

If possible, call your local water and electric companies and request that they turn on their respective services a day or two before you’re scheduled to move in. Working lights and heating or air conditioning are a must for moving day, and you will no doubt want to take a hot shower once you’re done.

Putting Your Newfound Moving Hacks to Practice

With these seven moving hacks, you’re ready to pack up and hit the road!

Be sure to check out our blog, where you’ll find more moving day tips and tricks to make the process that much easier for you and your family.

 

New Home, New You: Your Checklist For Moving Into A New Home

Moving into a new house is a milestone that most people will experience several times throughout their life. In fact, according to the U.S. Census, the average American will change residencies 11 times in his or her life.

No matter how many times you’ve done it in the past, there always seems to be an endless list of things to do when moving into a new home. Between updating your address, adjusting to a new commute, and figuring out the kids’ schooling, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. And that’s before you’ve even packed a single box.

There are things you can do to save yourself from the stress of moving. It’s just a matter of being organized and planning. Below, we’re sharing tips on how to put together a checklist for moving into a new home. Read on to learn how to get ready for your next move.

1. Hire Movers

One of the most important things to do when moving into a new home is hiring movers. It seems obvious, but it’s often the thing that people forget, or put off until the last minute.

You want to be sure that you are working with a company that you can trust. The movers with the best reputation are often in high demand, and you’ll have to plan ahead.

Take your time, research and compare companies across availability, services, and price. Interview companies over the phone if you can as well. Once you’ve found movers you trust, book them for your dates and cross that off your moving into a new house checklist.

2. Collect Materials

There is nothing worse than clearing your schedule for a day of packing, only to realize half-way through that you’ve run out of boxes or don’t have enough packing tape. When you’re putting together your checklist for moving into a new house, buy more packing supplies than you think you’ll need.

You know you’ll need boxes of a variety of shapes and sizes. You’ll also need packing tape and bubble wrap for securely packing your most valuable items.

3. Pack Room-By-Room

Packing up an entire house is a vast project, which is why it helps to break it down into smaller pieces. Add each room in your house as a separate entry on your moving into a new house checklist.

As you go through each room, take the time to declutter your belongings.  Over the years of living in the same place, we all tend to amass items we don’t need, and we keep things around that we no longer use.

Moving into a new house is the ideal time to critically evaluate what you own, and throw away or donate the items that don’t need to go with you to your new house.

Ready to Put Together Your Moving Checklist?

No matter how excited you are for your new home, the moving process can be tedious. Putting together a checklist for moving into your new home can help.

It will keep you on task, and each time you cross something off the list, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment. Your excitement for your move will only grow.

For more information and tips on moving, please contact us at any time.

Out of the Dark: How to Set up House Utilities For Your Move

Over 40 million Americans move to a new address each year. For many of these people, setting up utilities at the new home is an afterthought when there’s so much to do throughout the packing and moving process.

However, no one wants to settle into a new home without electricity, heat, water, and the internet. Here’s how to properly set up your house utilities so they’ll be ready and active in your new home when you arrive.

Gather All of Your Information

To make the process go much smoother, gather the names and contact information for your current utility providers in one location. Record the names and contact information for any providers you are switching service to.

Have your new address ready when you start contacting providers.

Make Sure Your Moving Date is Firm

Before you begin contacting providers to cancel your current service and start a new one at the new address, you’ll need to make sure your move-out/move-in date is set in stone. It’s one of the most important moving tips you need.

This is because some utility companies require a few weeks’ notice when connecting or disconnecting services. If you’re using a new provider, you’ll need to schedule new connections at least a day before you move in to ensure everything will be working.

For your electricity and gas providers, it’s recommended you schedule disconnection a day or two after your move. You may not want to be without heat and power the day of your move.

Pay Outstanding Bills Before the Move

Make sure your utility bills are paid up before scheduling disconnection. Any overdue bills should be settled to keep your credit in good standing.

You may want your current providers to contact readings on your gas, water, and electricity meters, so there are no surprise bills once you settle into your new home.

Inquire About New Customer Discounts

When switching to a different utility provider, ask if you’re eligible for a new customer discount. Set aside available money in case the new company requires a safety deposit. This is often needed when transferring to a new state until your credit check clears.

Contact Your Town or City for Water and Other Services

Most towns and cities provide water, garbage pickup, recycling, sewer, and other basic resident and curbside services. Contact your new town’s offices ahead of your move to arrange for water connection.

Now You Know How to Set Up Your Utilities

By planning and setting aside time to deal with all of your utility providers, the process of setting up your utility services at your new address will be much less stressful.

We know that there’s a lot to do and take care of when you’re relocating to a new home. If you need reliable, professional movers to safely move your belongings in the Virginia Beach area, contact us. We’ll be happy to help you with your next move!

Tips That’ll Help You Prepare for a Long Distance Move and Avoid Mishaps

Congratulations! You have made the final decision to move across the state (or across the country).

Before you engage in a little daydreaming about what life will be like in your new digs, there are some things you need to begin working on to make sure your long distance move is a success.

Set Your Moving Dates

Whether you have three weeks or three months until your planned move date, today is the day you need to start looking into your moving company options.  The closer you are to your desired moving date, the harder it will be to find a company that can accommodate your move out date.

Long distance haulers usually quote a “delivery window,” and not a specific delivery date that you’ll need to take into account when making your final moving company selection.

Develop a Moving Schedule

Now is your opportunity to create your own moving schedule and checklist. This checklist will be vital to keeping you on track during the moving process.

Create your own personalized list and assign completion dates for each task.

Set Your Long Distance Moving Budget

In the spring of 2016, the American Moving and Storage Association reported that the average cost of a traditional interstate, cross-country move of about 1,225 miles was about $4,300. The average cost of an in-state move was about $2,300 which covered four movers at $200 per hour.

Both of those were based on 7,400-pound average weight of the items to be moved. That’s right; it’s the weight, not the number of items moved that’s going to determine the cost of your move unless you pay for additional insurance.  

There are three types of cost estimates you can get from long distance movers; binding, non-binding and “not to exceed.” It’s important to understand what each of these is so you can correctly compare estimates.

Reputation Matters

Ranking right up there in importance to cost is choosing a reputable mover.  A quick online search of a prospective company’s name is bound to turn up some reviews from previous customers. For a long distance move, however, you’ll also need to make sure the company you’re considering can handle your move.

Even if you’re moving in-state from Roanoke, VA to Virginia Beach, VA, for example, not all local movers can handle your job. Your best option is a mover that has experience in your destination area and is also or is affiliated with, an interstate carrier.

Determine What You Want To Move

Now is the time to purge.

Take a serious look around your current home. If you see things that you no longer need or use, it is time to let others enjoy them.

Sell items at a garage sale or online at sites like Letgo or Craigslist. Or, perhaps donate them to places like Goodwill or Salvation Army. Pruning your move inventory is going to be the best way to prune your costs as well.

Pack Effectively

As you pack your belongings make sure that you use sturdy boxes. Also, be certain that the contents of each box are wrapped and appropriately secured with adequate cushion. Nothing should be able to shift around inside the box.

Make sure that each box is securely closed with tape and labeled clearly with contents and room destination.

Separate Valuables

Items like social security cards, passports, birth certificates, and other personal records should be packed in a box that stays with you during the move. Consider including other documents you might need to have on hand and not want to dig for when you reach your new home.

Decide if you want to also separate valuables like jewelry, photos, and sentimental items and keep those with you too. Take care when traveling with them in your personal vehicle as well. Make sure you keep valuables out of sight and locked up.

On the Move

Every move is challenging, but long distance moves have an added layer of complication.

Make sure you have a plan and a timeline and contact us for additional help with your move!

Moving? How to Transfer Schools Mid-Year for Your Kids

For kids, moving schools can be difficult enough as it is. But if you’re moving during the school year, things can become even more challenging. However, with a little bit of planning, you can cut the impact on your kids.

Let’s look at how to transfer schools mid-year without grief.

How To Transfer Schools Mid-Year

Wondering how to transfer schools in the middle of the school year? Here are some valuable tips to make the process as smooth as possible.

1. Plan Ahead

Your new community is in a specific school district’s boundary. It’s a good idea to find out what it is before you get there. Don’t wait till the last minute.

Call the school district for specific advice on moving your children into their new schools. The district will provide you with paperwork as well as the requirements for enrollment.

Here are some ways to make the process easier.

• Notify the current school and the new about your move date
• Complete necessary paperwork before the move
• Email it to the new school
• Get records from current school
• Make sure immunizations are up to date
• Have important documents with you, not packed away

Being a little prepared up front can make moving mid-year much less stressful, and it can also make your children feel more secure.

2. Get Your Kids Involved

Try to take some of the mystery out of going to a new school. Tell your children as much as you know about the school and staff. If you know the date they will go back to school, tell them.

If you can’t visit the new school before the move, let them look up their schools online. Show them the list of teachers they could have. Make it as exciting as you can but not stressful.

Empathize with their feelings. It’s natural for children to feel unhappy or afraid to leave behind a life they love. Make sure they know you understand and are there to listen and support them.

Another essential thing to do is keep them involved in their studies during the move. Ask current teachers for advice on keeping your kid’s skills sharp. At the least, they should have a good book to read in their downtime.

3. Ease the Transition

Knowing how to transfer schools mid-year can ease the transition.

Don’t plan to send your kids back to school the very day you get to your destination. Especially if you’re traveling any distance to your new home. Your kids will need time to transition and settle in.

If you can plan to move during a school holiday, do it. Allow your children to move into their new rooms, meet neighbors and check out local parks. Let your children adjust to their new surroundings before starting school.

On the first day back, plan to spend most of the morning at your kid’s new school. You’ll want to meet the teacher and administration. Make sure your kids are comfortable and secure before you leave.

Get Ready, Let’s Move

Moving mid-year is stressful, but it doesn’t have to be terrible. Learn how to transfer schools mid-year with confidence and ease. A little planning goes a long way!

Need more advice about moving? Check out our blog for more articles.

Looking for a mover in the Hampton Roads area? We can help! Contact us today

 

7 Essential Things to Know When Working with Moving Companies

Over 35 million Americans move each year. If you’re going to be one of them, it’s a smart idea to contact moving companies and get some help. After all, moving is considered one of the top stressors, right behind divorce or a death in the family. So it makes sense to get as much help as possible!

Once you’ve set a move-in date and signed your moving contract, there are still a few things that moving professionals want you to know.

7 Things Moving Companies Want You To Know

Take these words to heart, so that your move can go as smoothly, quickly, and efficiently as possible!

1. Finish Packing Before They Arrive

Unless you have selected the additional option to have movers pack for you, make sure that the packing is complete before they arrive.

Have your belongings packed, labeled, and ready to go by the time the movers enter. Remember that if they have to wait around for you to finish packing, you’ll end up paying for that wait time.

2. Label Thoroughly

If you have fragile items, label the boxes as such. You can even buy special packing tape that functions as a fragile label.

Also, label each side of every box and make sure the destination room at the new home is evident on each label.

3. Give Them Space

It’s understandable that you want your belongings treated with care. Any concerns you have about particular items should be brought up with your movers ahead of time. On moving day, step back and stand aside.

The professionals know the ins and outs on how to lift and carry furniture, as well as navigate stairs and tight hallways. Let the pros do their job with efficiency.

4. They Won’t Move Certain Items

Moving companies have certain items that they just don’t transport. These are called non-allowable items. Hazardous items like chemicals, fireworks, and propane tanks to name a few should not be packed in with your belongings.

Other items that are irreplaceable and expensive articles need to be transported by you, or you need to arrange another way for their transport.

5. They Can’t Move Your Plant

Movers will not relocate your houseplants. They can’t take responsibility for safely moving plants because the plants may suffer from a lack of light and water as well as temperature changes during the move. You will need to transport your houseplants yourself.

If you are moving to another state, check the regulations of the state to which you’re moving. Some states ban the entry of all plants. Others will admit plants under specific conditions.

6. They Provide Peace of Mind

Working with a professional moving company provides the assurance that things will get done right, quickly and efficiently.

You can count on your team of movers for their reliability. Relax and trust that your moving company’s experience and know-how are being put to good use.

7. Consider a Gratuity

While it is not required, workers in the service industry appreciate a customary tip. If pleased with your service, check on the internet to see what the proper gratuity etiquette is in your area.

Final Thoughts

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful. It can be downright fun!

If you need an estimate for your next Virginia Beach, VA move, contact us.

A Quick Guide on How to Transfer Utilities When You Move

Are you planning on moving soon?

There are a lot of small details to remember as you settle into a new place, but one of the major things is transferring your utilities. No one wants to get to their new home or apartment, only to find out it doesn’t have heat, running water or electricity.

If you’re confused on how to transfer utilities to a new place, keep reading for more details.

How to Transfer Utilities When You Move

Transferring your utilities might sound like a complicated process, but it’s actually quite easy. Here is a quick guide to help you understand the ins and outs of how to transfer services so you can move through the process seamlessly.

Step 1: Do Your Research

What utility companies are in your new area? If you’re moving locally, you might assume that your utility company will stay the same, but this isn’t necessarily true.

Some states have energy provider options. Use this “energy choice” database to determine if you have an energy choice in your area and which is the most cost-effective.

Do your research and make sure that all of your utilities can transfer. This is especially true with services such as cable or internet, as your current provider might not offer service in your new area. You might also find that you can save money with a different provider, so it’s worth it for you to switch.

Step 2: Plan Ahead

Once you know that you’re able to transfer utilities, don’t wait until the last minute to do so. Call a few weeks ahead of time to let your companies know that you’re moving.

Some transfers can take longer to process, so you don’t want to be without utilities in your new place.

Step 3: Update Your Address

When you’re calling to set up your new utilities, try and have your exact moving address ready for them. If you don’t have it yet, make sure it’s correctly updated before you move.

This is to provide your new service address, but it’s also to make sure any of your old bills get forwarded to your new address. You can also request to do this through the US Postal Service.

Step 4: Pay Any Outstanding Bills

Before you leave your current place, make sure you settle any outstanding balances. Even though you move your service address, it doesn’t mean your billing information will transfer over. This could mean that you’ll rack up late fees if you don’t settle old balances.

Step 5: Do an Energy Audit

If you notice your utility bills are higher than they should be, it’s probably a good time to conduct an energy audit. Most utility companies will send a professional out for free to test your systems and find out what could be costing you money.

It’s a good idea to do this as soon as you move, and address the problems right away.

Want to Learn More?

Moving is a multi-step process, and it’s best to be prepared and to do as much research as possible each step of the way. Now that you know how to transfer utilities, check out the rest of our blog for more helpful moving and storage tips.

Need assistance moving? Contact us for a quote.