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The Complete Guide to a Quality Full-Service Moving

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 20:11:34 GMT

Moving can be an overwhelming experience, whether you’re relocating your home or business. If you’re considering a hassle-free transition, full-service moving could be your ideal solution. At United Moving & Storage, we understand how complex moving can be, which is why this guide breaks down everything about full-service moving in Bremerton, WA. From packing to unloading, you’ll learn how professional movers streamline the process while saving you valuable time and minimizing stress.

What Does Full-Service Moving Really Cover?

When people hear “full-service moving,” they often envision a company that simply transports their belongings. However, the scope is much broader.

Here’s a breakdown of what a typical full-service moving package includes:

Packing Services: Professional movers handle all the packing using quality materials. This protects your items and frees you from tedious packing tasks.
Loading: Movers securely load all your belongings onto the truck, ensuring efficient use of space and safe handling.
Transport: The moving company takes responsibility for safely transporting your items to the new location.
Unloading: Upon arrival, movers unload everything carefully to prevent damage.
Optional Storage: Many Bremerton movers offer short-or long-term storage solutions, useful if your new home isn’t quite ready or you need temporary extra space.

Choosing a professional moving service means you enjoy a comprehensive solution that covers every major step, giving you peace of mind throughout your move.

How Full-Service Moving Saves Time and Reduces Stress

Moving ranks high on the list of stressful life events. Coordinating the process alone can be exhausting. This is where full-service movers step in to truly make a difference:

Time Efficiency: Professional movers work quickly and systematically. They pack with expertise, load efficiently, and transport with reliability. This efficiency means you spend far fewer hours managing the move.
Reduced Physical Strain: Heavy lifting and maneuvering bulky furniture can cause injury or fatigue. Relying on movers means you avoid these risks entirely.
Expertise Minimizes Errors: Full-service moving companies have trained staff who know how to protect fragile items, load optimally, and navigate logistical challenges.
Stress Relief: With experts handling the details, you can focus on settling into your new space instead of worrying about broken valuables or missed deadlines.

For Bremerton, WA, residents and businesses looking to move, full-service moving offers a worry-free, smooth experience from start to finish.

Who Benefits Most From Full-Service Moving?

While anyone planning a move might consider full-service moving, certain scenarios in Bremerton particularly benefit from this option:

Busy Homeowners: If your schedule is packed, full-service movers handle the labor-intensive parts, freeing you to manage your daily obligations seamlessly.
Corporate Moves: Businesses relocating offices can reduce downtime by entrusting movers to expertly pack equipment and furniture, facilitating quick setup at the new site.
Long-Distance Moves: Moving far away from Bremerton involves complex logistics best managed by skilled movers who ensure secure transport and timing.
Senior Moves: Older adults often require special care during relocation. Full-service moving companies train teams to assist with delicate handling and provide personalized service.
Specialty Items: Movers in Bremerton experienced with delicate or oversized belongings, such as pianos, antiques, or artwork, offer packing and transport expertise you can trust.

No matter the size or complexity of your move, full-service moving is a valuable investment in convenience, safety, and peace of mind.

Tips for Choosing the Right Full-Service Moving Company in Bremerton, WA

Finding the right movers in Bremerton can significantly impact the success of your moving experience.

Here are some essential tips to help you select a reliable moving company:

Check Credentials and Licensing: Always verify that moving companies are properly licensed and insured. This ensures they meet industry standards and provides protection for your belongings during the move.
Read Reviews and Testimonials: Customer feedback offers valuable insights about the professionalism, reliability, and quality of service movers provide. Look for movers with consistently positive reviews.
Request a Detailed Quote: Transparent pricing is crucial. A reputable full-service moving company will provide a detailed estimate covering all services, so you know exactly what you’re paying for upfront.
Ask About Experience With Your Type of Move: Whether you’re relocating a household, an office, or specialty items, confirm the movers have experience handling similar moves. This expertise reduces potential complications.
Evaluate Customer Service: Responsive, friendly communication is a sign of a company that respects its clients. Choose movers who listen to your needs and answer your questions clearly.
Inquire About Storage Options: If you need temporary storage in Bremerton, consider a moving company that offers secure storage solutions as part of their services.

By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to choose the best full-service moving company in Bremerton, WA, ensuring your move goes smoothly from start to finish.

Get Started on Your Hassle-Free Move

Ready to experience a stress-free relocation? Contact United Moving & Storage , local movers serving Bremerton, WA, who specialize in full-service moving to handle every step for you. Whether you’re moving your family, office, or specialty items, professional moving streamlines the entire process. Reach out today to get started on your smooth, efficient move with trusted Bremerton movers.

Choose the Best Local Movers in Gig Harbor, WA

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 18:53:11 GMT

Moving can be one of life’s most stressful experiences, whether you’re relocating down the street or across town. That’s where trusted local movers in Gig Harbor, WA, come in to take the burden off your shoulders. From careful packing to safe transportation, professionals who know the Gig Harbor community can transform your moving day into a smooth, manageable process. Experienced movers provide more than just muscle; they offer strategic planning, ensuring your items are packed efficiently and loaded securely. They understand the importance of timing, traffic patterns, and building regulations, which can significantly reduce delays and potential complications. By utilizing the right equipment and techniques, movers help prevent damage to furniture, electronics, and other valuable belongings. Additionally, professional movers in Gig Harbor, WA, often provide guidance on organizing and labeling your items, making the unpacking process quicker and more convenient. Hiring local experts also allows you to focus on other important aspects of your relocation, such as setting up utilities or settling into your new neighborhood.

What to Expect When Working With Local Movers in Gig Harbor, WA

Hiring local movers in Gig Harbor, WA, ensures your move is handled with expertise, precision, and care. These professionals not only handle the heavy lifting but also provide guidance and support throughout the entire process, making even a complex relocation manageable. From the initial planning stages to unloading at your new home, you can expect a well-organized approach that reduces stress and saves time.

Here’s a closer look at what working with trusted local movers in Gig Harbor, WA, entails:

Comprehensive Planning and Consultation: Experienced movers start with a detailed assessment of your belongings, home layout, and moving timeline. They provide an accurate estimate and develop a customized moving plan tailored to your specific needs.
Professional Packing Services: High-quality packing materials, specialized boxes, and careful techniques protect fragile items, electronics, and valuable furniture during transit. Movers can also offer full packing services, saving you time and ensuring efficiency.
Expert Loading Techniques: Your belongings are systematically loaded onto the moving truck using proven methods to maximize space and balance the load. This reduces the risk of damage and ensures a smooth journey to your new location.
Secure Transportation: Local movers in Gig Harbor, WA, are familiar with the area’s traffic patterns and road conditions, ensuring safe and timely delivery of your possessions.
Unloading and Strategic Placement: Upon arrival, movers carefully unload your items and place them in the designated rooms, sometimes offering unpacking assistance to help you settle in quickly.
Safety and Peace of Mind: Professional movers prioritize the protection of your belongings with proper equipment, secure packing, and trained personnel, giving you confidence throughout the entire moving process.

By choosing experienced local movers in Gig Harbor, WA, you gain more than just a moving crew—you get a team that manages every detail, anticipates potential challenges, and ensures a seamless, stress-free relocation from start to finish.

Step-by-Step Overview of the Moving Process

Understanding the moving process can help reduce stress and ensure a smooth relocation. When you work with local movers in Gig Harbor, WA, you can expect a structured, efficient approach that covers every stage of your move. From planning to unpacking, professional movers handle each step with care and expertise.

Here’s a step-by-step overview of what to expect:

Initial Consultation and Estimate: Movers assess your belongings, discuss your timeline, and provide a detailed moving plan tailored to your needs. This step ensures transparency and helps you budget effectively.
Packing Your Belongings: Skilled local movers in Gig Harbor, WA, use high-quality packing materials and techniques to protect fragile items, electronics, and furniture during transport.
Loading the Moving Truck: Movers carefully organize and load your items to maximize space and prevent damage, ensuring a safe journey.
Transportation to Your New Home: Experienced movers navigate local traffic and deliver your possessions efficiently, minimizing delays.
Unloading and Placement: Upon arrival, movers unload your items and place them in your desired rooms, sometimes assisting with unpacking.
Final Walkthrough and Confirmation: The team ensures all items have arrived safely and meet your satisfaction before completing the move.

How United Moving & Storage Ensures Safety and Efficiency

Working with local movers in Gig Harbor, WA, means your belongings are handled with the highest level of care, and every step of the move is optimized for safety and efficiency. United Moving & Storage combines professional training, proven techniques, and modern equipment to ensure a seamless relocation experience.

Here’s how they prioritize your move:

Trained and Experienced Staff: Every team member is professionally trained in proper lifting techniques, packing methods, and safe transportation practices, reducing the risk of damage or injury.
High-Quality Packing Materials: Movers use durable boxes, protective wraps, and padding to safeguard furniture, electronics, and fragile items throughout the move.
Organized Loading and Unloading: Trucks are strategically packed to prevent shifting during transport, and items are carefully placed in your new home for a smooth setup.
Efficient Scheduling: United Moving & Storage coordinates every phase of your move to minimize downtime, delays, and stress.
Clear Communication: From start to finish, movers keep you informed about timelines and progress, ensuring a worry-free moving experience.

Ready to make your move stress-free? Contact us today to work with trusted local movers in Gig Harbor, WA, who handle every step with care and efficiency.

5 Tips From Professional Movers for a Move in Gig Harbor, WA

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 12:59:23 GMT

Relocating can be overwhelming—even in a scenic and serene location like Gig Harbor, WA. Between coordinating logistics, packing belongings, and managing timelines, stress is inevitable without a clear strategy. However, with the right preparation and support from experienced professionals, your move can proceed efficiently and with minimal disruption. Whether you’re transitioning locally or managing a long-distance relocation, implementing a few key practices can dramatically ease the process. Hiring professional movers that residents trust is not just a convenience—it’s a strategic step toward a seamless transition.

These are 5 ways you can ensure your move will be stress-free:

Declutter Before You Pack

Before a single box is filled, take time to evaluate your belongings. Sort through each room and categorize items into keep, donate, sell, or discard. This step reduces unnecessary volume, lowers moving costs, and simplifies unpacking at your destination. Focus on eliminating duplicates, outdated electronics, and clothing you no longer wear. For seniors or those downsizing, this phase is especially critical—it streamlines the move and creates a more manageable living space post-relocation.

Decluttering also aligns with senior transition services offered by full-service moving companies. These include donation delivery and move-in ready planning—services that United Moving & Storage provides with care and precision. A leaner inventory means fewer boxes, less handling, and a cleaner start in your new home or office. It also ensures that professional movers that locals rely on can focus on transporting what truly matters.

Label Boxes Clearly and Strategically

Effective labeling goes beyond writing “Kitchen” or “Bedroom” on a box. Include room names, contents (e.g., “Dishes – Fragile”), and priority level (e.g., “Open First” or “Non-Essential”). Use color-coded labels or a numbering system paired with an inventory list for added organization. This system is invaluable during unpacking, especially when coordinating with professional movers in Gig Harbor, WA, that locals rely on, as it enables precise placement and reduces post-move chaos.

For businesses, strategic labeling is essential for continuity of professional moving services. Office movers that companies employ understand the importance of labeling IT equipment, confidential files, and workstation components to ensure rapid setup and minimal downtime. Whether you're relocating a small startup or a corporate office, accurate labeling supports a faster return to normal operations.

Schedule Your Move Early

Peak moving seasons—typically May through September—fill up quickly. Reserve your moving date as soon as your plans are confirmed. Early scheduling ensures availability of quality crews, trucks, and storage if needed. It also gives you time to coordinate utility transfers, address change notifications, and finalize packing.

United Moving & Storage, with decades of experience since 1964, advises clients to secure services at least four to six weeks in advance. This buffer allows for adjustments and ensures access to their full range of services, from residential to industrial moves. Waiting until the last minute can result in limited options or rushed decisions that compromise quality. Planning ahead gives you peace of mind and aligns your move with the availability of professional movers that families count on.

Prepare Fragile and Valuable Items Properly

Artwork, electronics, antiques, and glassware require specialized packing materials and techniques. Use double-walled boxes, bubble wrap, and foam inserts. Never overfill boxes with delicate items, and avoid mixing heavy objects with fragile ones.

For high-value or sensitive items, consider professional packing services. As an agent of United Van Lines, United Moving & Storage handles specialized freight—including trade show exhibits and works of art—with precision. Their trained staff use industry-grade supplies and methods to protect your most important possessions. This is particularly vital when your relocation involves complex logistics, reinforcing why professional movers in Gig Harbor, WA, are essential for safeguarding valuables.

Partner with Trusted Professional Movers!

Even with meticulous planning, moving is physically and logistically demanding. Hiring professional movers that residents recommend ensures your belongings are handled with care, timelines are met, and unexpected challenges are managed by experts. Full-service movers provide packing, loading, transport, unloading, and even unpacking—freeing you to focus on the transition itself.

Whether you need household relocation, office movers in Gig Harbor, WA, that businesses count on, or international shipping, a reputable company offers scalable solutions. United Moving & Storage provides indoor and outdoor storage, portable containers, and logistics support. With over 45,000 square feet of secure storage and a global network spanning 135 countries, they deliver reliability at every stage. Their specialization in corporate, military, and residential relocations means they are equipped for moves of any scale or complexity. Choosing professional movers in Gig Harbor, WA, residents have trusted since 1964 ensures your move aligns with industry-leading standards.

Make Your Move Effortless

A successful relocation begins with preparation—but it thrives with partnership. By integrating these five strategies into your moving plan, you significantly reduce stress and increase efficiency. From decluttering and labeling to early scheduling and expert handling of fragile items, every step contributes to a smoother experience. And when you enlist the support of professional movers, you gain more than muscle—you gain peace of mind, precision, and professionalism.

Don’t leave your move to chance. Call United Moving & Storage at (800) 344-0147 to request your free, no-obligation quote. Whether you’re moving a household, office, or industrial facility, our team is ready to deliver a seamless transition from start to finish.

Why Hire Professional Movers in Bainbridge Island, WA

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 08:00:56 GMT

Moving to a new home or office can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you're relocating within Bainbridge Island or planning a long-distance move, choosing the right moving company is crucial. Hiring professional movers in Bainbridge Island, WA , ensures that your belongings are handled with care, and the entire process is efficient and stress-free. Unlike attempting a DIY move, working with experienced movers in Bainbridge Island, WA, gives you peace of mind, knowing that every item, from delicate antiques to heavy furniture, is packed, transported, and unloaded safely. With professional support, you can focus on settling into your new space while experts manage the logistics, timing, and organization of your move.

Why Hiring Professional Movers in Bainbridge Island, WA, Saves You Time and Stress

Relocating to a new home or office can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when you consider the time, effort, and careful planning required. Hiring professional movers in Bainbridge Island, WA, ensures that every step of your move is handled efficiently, from packing fragile items to transporting bulky furniture. Their experience allows them to anticipate challenges, manage unexpected obstacles, and keep your move on schedule, saving you countless hours and preventing unnecessary stress.

Key benefits of hiring professional movers in Bainbridge Island, WA, include:

Efficient Packing and Loading: Professional movers bring high-quality packing materials and specialized equipment to safely pack and load all types of items. From fragile glassware to large appliances, their expertise ensures nothing is damaged during transit.
Stress-Free Organization: Moving involves coordinating timelines, routes, and logistics. Professional movers in Bainbridge Island, WA, manage all of these details, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home rather than juggling boxes and scheduling conflicts.
Time Savings: With trained staff, proper moving trucks, and modern equipment, professional movers complete the process far faster than DIY efforts. This efficiency allows you to maintain your daily routine while the move happens seamlessly.
Safety and Protection: Handling heavy furniture and navigating tricky staircases can be risky. Hiring professionals ensures proper lifting techniques and reduces the risk of injury to you or your belongings.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that experts are overseeing your move eliminates much of the anxiety that comes with relocating. You can trust that your possessions will arrive safely and on time, without the guesswork or frustration of a self-managed move.

Overall, working with professional movers in Bainbridge Island, WA, transforms a potentially stressful experience into a smooth, organized, and efficient process, allowing you to enjoy the excitement of your new space without the hassle.

What to Expect When Hiring Professional Movers in Bainbridge Island, WA

Hiring professional movers in Bainbridge Island, WA, guarantees a seamless moving experience, but knowing what to expect can help you plan better and make the most of their services. From the initial consultation to the final delivery, professional movers manage every aspect of your relocation with precision and care.

Here’s what you can expect when working with professional movers in Bainbridge Island, WA:

Comprehensive Planning: The team will assess your moving needs, create a customized moving plan, and provide an accurate estimate to ensure your move stays on schedule and within budget.
Expert Packing Services: Professional movers bring high-quality packing materials and techniques to protect delicate items, electronics, and furniture during transport.
Safe Loading and Transportation: Movers handle heavy lifting, secure items in the moving truck, and carefully navigate every route to prevent damage and delays.
Efficient Unloading and Setup: Once at your new location, they unload and place your belongings exactly where you want, helping you settle in faster.
Peace of Mind: Knowing experienced movers are managing your move reduces stress, minimizes mistakes, and ensures your possessions arrive safely.

By understanding these steps, you can fully leverage the skills and expertise of professional movers in Bainbridge Island, WA, turning what could be a stressful relocation into a smooth, organized, and worry-free process.

United Moving & Storage: Expertise, Equipment, and Trained Staff

When it comes to a smooth and reliable relocation, few companies match the professionalism of professional movers in Bainbridge Island, WA, like United Moving & Storage. With decades of experience, state-of-the-art equipment, and highly trained staff, they ensure that every move, whether local or long-distance, is handled with precision and care.

Key highlights of United Moving & Storage include:

Expertise: Their team of professional movers in Bainbridge Island, WA, has extensive experience handling all types of moves, from delicate antiques to bulky furniture, ensuring everything arrives safely.
Advanced Equipment: Utilizing modern moving trucks, high-quality packing materials, dollies, and lifting tools, professional movers can manage heavy and awkward items efficiently and safely.
Trained and Friendly Staff: All movers undergo rigorous training in packing, handling, and logistics, providing professional, courteous service throughout your move.
Customized Moving Plans: United Moving & Storage works with you to create a plan tailored to your timeline, budget, and specific moving needs, making the entire process seamless.
Reliable Customer Support: From initial consultation to final delivery, their team communicates clearly and supports you every step of the way.

By choosing United Moving & Storage, you’re not just hiring movers; you’re partnering with professional movers who prioritize safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Choosing professional movers in Bainbridge Island, WA, is a smart decision for a smooth and hassle-free relocation. United Moving & Storage offers reliable, efficient, and affordable moving services tailored to your needs. Don't let the stress of moving overwhelm you. Contact us today to get a free estimate and schedule your move.

Local Movers in Gig Harbor, WA With Global Resources

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 22:43:28 GMT

What if you could get the personalized care of a hometown moving crew backed by the resources of one of the largest moving networks in the country?

That’s exactly what you get when working with United Moving & Storage in Gig Harbor, WA. In this guide, we’ll explore why choosing local movers with global resources can make your move smoother, safer, and less stressful—whether you’re moving across town or across the country.

Why Local Movers Make a Difference

When it comes to relocation, experience and local knowledge are invaluable. Local movers in Gig Harbor understand the unique challenges of navigating neighborhood streets, dealing with local traffic patterns, and scheduling around regional weather conditions.

Unlike national-only moving companies that operate from a distance, local movers are rooted in the community. This often translates into better communication, more personalized service, and a stronger commitment to making sure your belongings arrive on time and in great condition.

The Global Advantage Through United Van Lines

United Moving & Storage isn’t just a trusted local company—it’s also an agent for United Van Lines, the nation’s largest mover. This connection offers benefits that go beyond what most local movers can provide.

With access to a nationwide network, customers get the logistical support, specialized equipment, and tracking technology typically reserved for large-scale moves. Whether you’re moving to another Washington city or across the country, this combination of local expertise and global resources ensures your move is well-coordinated from start to finish.

Personalized Service From a Local, Family-Owned Business

There’s something reassuring about working with a family-owned business that’s been part of the community for decades. Local movers who are deeply connected to their area often go above and beyond to protect their reputation.

In Gig Harbor, that means your movers aren’t just handling another job—they’re serving their neighbors. You get tailored solutions for packing, loading, and transport, and the team’s familiarity with the area helps avoid common moving pitfalls like road restrictions or unexpected detours.

Expertise in Gig Harbor’s Unique Moving Needs

Gig Harbor has its own moving challenges, from tight residential streets to the need for ferry scheduling in some moves. Local movers who operate here regularly know how to navigate these situations efficiently.

They also understand the seasonal factors that can impact your move. For example, heavy rains may require additional protective measures, while peak summer traffic might affect loading and delivery times. A mover who knows the local environment can plan ahead, reducing delays and potential damage to your items.

Why a Local and National Partnership Matters

You might wonder—why not just hire national movers if they have all the big resources? The truth is, large companies without a local base can miss important moving details that affect your experience. By partnering with United Van Lines, United Moving & Storage offers the best of both worlds:

Local familiarity with Gig Harbor neighborhoods and regulations
National network for interstate or long-distance moves
Specialized equipment for fragile, bulky, or high-value items
Advanced tracking so you know where your belongings are at all times

This dual advantage is especially useful if you’re moving to or from Gig Harbor but your destination is far away.

The Customer Experience With Local Movers

Working with local movers often means better flexibility. Need to change your moving date? Have special requests for handling antiques or large furniture? Local teams can often accommodate changes more easily than national-only companies.

Plus, when you have questions, you’re speaking directly with people who will actually handle your move—not just a call center far away. This leads to faster responses and clearer communication.

How to Choose the Right Local Movers in Gig Harbor

When selecting a moving company, here are a few tips to ensure you make the best choice:

H3 Check credentials :

Make sure they’re licensed, insured, and have a strong safety record.

Ask about local experience:

Years of work in Gig Harbor means they understand the area’s challenges.

Look for partnerships:

Being affiliated with a national brand like United Van Lines adds credibility and resources.

Read reviews:

Local testimonials can reveal how they handle customer service and problem-solving.

Taking the time to research will help you find movers who fit your specific needs.

Get in Touch With Gig Harbor’s Trusted Local Movers

If you’re planning a move in or out of Gig Harbor, choosing a company that combines the dedication of local movers with the resources of a national network can make all the difference. You can contact United Moving & Storage to learn more about their moving solutions and see how their local expertise paired with global resources can benefit your move.

Tips for a Smooth Moving Day

Even with the best movers, a successful moving day takes preparation. Here’s how to make it go as smoothly as possible:

Pack in advance to avoid last-minute stress
Label boxes clearly by room and contents
Set aside essentials like toiletries, medications, and a change of clothes
Communicate special instructions to your movers before they start loading

These simple steps can reduce delays and help your movers work efficiently.

Conclusion: Local Care, Global Reach

Choosing local movers in Gig Harbor with the backing of a trusted national network means you don’t have to compromise on personal service or professional resources. United Moving & Storage offers the unique benefit of understanding the community’s moving needs while providing access to United Van Lines’ nationwide capabilities.

When it comes to your next move, would you rather choose a company that’s only local, only national, or one that gives you the best of both worlds?

The Best Storage Units in Bremerton for Every Need

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 21:44:11 GMT

Decluttering your life starts with choosing the right space. Whether you’re in the middle of a move, running out of garage room, or storing business equipment, having the right storage units makes all the difference. At United Moving & Storage , we offer over 45,000 square feet of secure, flexible storage in Bremerton, WA. Contact us today at (800) 344-0147 to learn how we can help store your belongings with confidence and convenience.

Storage Solutions That Fit Your Life

Life moves fast—and sometimes, your living space can’t keep up. Whether it’s seasonal decorations, extra furniture, or just too many boxes in the attic, clutter adds stress. A dependable storage unit gives you back space and peace of mind.

Common Scenarios Where Storage Helps

Downsizing from a larger home
Moving between rentals or homes
Storing items for college-bound kids
Making room for a new baby
Temporarily storing items during renovations

With United Moving & Storage, you’ll find the right-size unit to match your lifestyle and situation.

A Facility Built for Flexibility and Security

Our facility is more than a place to store things—it’s a professionally maintained environment designed to protect what matters. We offer one of the largest and most versatile storage setups in Bremerton.

Our Facility Features

45,000+ square feet of storage space
Indoor and outdoor unit options
24/7 security monitoring
Wide driveways for easy vehicle access
On-site staff during business hours

You’ll never have to wonder whether your items are safe or accessible. We combine convenience with care.

Vehicle, Boat, and RV Storage for Outdoor Needs

Big items like boats and RVs are great for adventure—but not so great for your driveway. Fortunately, our facility makes it easy to store large vehicles securely.

Outdoor Storage Unit Options

RV storage : Store short-term during off-season or year-round.
Boat storage : Easy-in, easy-out for weekend adventures
Auto storage : Keep classic cars protected or store a seasonal vehicle.

With paved drive lanes and wide access points, storing and retrieving your vehicles is stress-free.

Reliable Storage for Business Owners

Businesses across Bremerton rely on our units to stay organized and efficient. Whether you run a construction company, boutique shop, or online store, having off-site storage frees up valuable space.

Commercial Storage Applications

Overstocked inventory
Display racks and fixtures
Tools, hardware, or supplies
Office equipment and records

We understand that business needs change fast. That’s why we offer flexible storage options that grow with your company.

Moving Services + Storage = Stress-Free Transitions

As a moving company and storage provider, we know that timing doesn’t always work out perfectly. That’s why many of our customers take advantage of both services.

Whether you’re relocating across town or across the state, we make it easy to pause, store, and move when you're ready.

Visit our About page to learn more about our team’s moving expertise.

How to Choose the Right Unit Size

Choosing a unit size doesn’t have to be difficult. Our staff is happy to help guide you, but here’s a general idea to get you started:

Storage Size Guide

5x5 unit : Small boxes, seasonal gear
5x10 unit : Twin bed set, small furniture
10x10 unit : 1-bedroom apartment contents
10x20 unit : Full household or vehicle
Outdoor lots : RVs, trailers, boats

Not sure what you need? Just give us a call—we’ll recommend the best option based on your inventory.

Flexible Terms, Easy Access

Your storage solution should work on your schedule, not the other way around. At United Moving & Storage, we prioritize flexibility and transparency.

What You Can Expect

Easy month-to-month rentals
No long-term contracts required
Quick setup and move-in
Convenient hours for access
Local support from real people

Need to upgrade or downsize? We make it simple to adjust your plan.

Why Choose United Moving & Storage?

There are plenty of storage facilities out there—but few combine local service, size variety, and moving support like we do. Our team is based right here in Bremerton and understands the needs of families, business owners, and military personnel.

What Sets Us Apart

Locally owned and operated
Professional movers available
Decades of experience
Affordable pricing and clear terms
Full-service solutions under one roof

From your first phone call to move-out day, you’ll feel supported and informed.

Serving the Bremerton Community and Beyond

We’re proud to help residents of Bremerton, Silverdale, Port Orchard, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re a Navy family on the move or a homeowner clearing out the garage, our facility is ready for you.

Declutter With Confidence Today

Storage doesn’t have to be a hassle. With United Moving & Storage , you get professional-grade service, spacious units, and the flexibility to store your items the way you want.

Call us at (800) 344-0147 now for a free quote , or click here to get started today.

Reliable Storage Units in Bremerton, WA

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 18:11:30 GMT

Whether you’re moving, renovating, or just trying to declutter, having extra space can make life a whole lot easier. That’s where secure and accessible storage units in Bremerton, WA come in handy. From temporary solutions to long-term needs, choosing the right storage facility gives you peace of mind, knowing your belongings are safe and within reach when you need them.

At United Moving & Storage, we offer versatile storage solutions designed to fit a variety of needs. Whether you’re storing household furniture, seasonal gear, business inventory, or family heirlooms, our clean and secure units are ready to serve.

The Benefits of Using Storage Units

Storage units provide more than just extra space—they offer convenience, flexibility, and protection. Here are some of the top reasons why people in Bremerton are turning to self-storage:

Decluttering and organising: Clear out the garage, spare room, or attic without permanently parting with your items.
Moving made easier: Store your belongings while transitioning between homes or during staging for a home sale.
Renovation projects: Keep furniture and valuables out of harm’s way while your space is being remodelled.
Business storage: Free up office space by storing excess inventory, documents, or equipment.

Our facility in Bremerton is designed to accommodate all these scenarios, offering units in various sizes to match your needs—whether it's a small unit for a few boxes or a large one for a full household.

What to Look for in a Storage Facility

Not all storage units are created equal. When choosing a facility, it’s important to consider more than just cost. Security, cleanliness, customer service, and accessibility all play a crucial role in your overall experience.

Here’s what you’ll find at United Moving & Storage:

24/7 security monitoring and gated access for your peace of mind
Climate-controlled units to protect sensitive items from temperature and humidity
Flexible rental terms with no long-term commitment required
Clean, pest-free facilities maintained to the highest standards
Friendly, knowledgeable staff to assist with your storage needs

Our location in Bremerton is easily accessible, making drop-offs and pickups a breeze no matter what your schedule looks like.

Choosing the Right Unit Size

One of the most common questions we hear is, “What size storage unit do I need?” We’ve got you covered. Our team is happy to help you estimate the perfect unit size based on what you’re storing. From small 5x5 units for a few personal items to larger 10x20 units that can hold an entire household, we offer a wide range of options to ensure you only pay for the space you need.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to protecting your belongings and making space in your life, a dependable storage solution is essential. For those in Bremerton, WA, United Moving & Storage offers the ideal combination of security, convenience, and customer service.

Let us help you store with confidence. Learn more about our flexible <storage> solutions today or give us a call at (360) 377-4090 . Visit us online at online . Store smart and stress-free with United Moving & Storage—your trusted local storage provider in Bremerton, WA.

Streamline Your Local Apartment Moving Experience Now

Sat, 22 Feb 2025 20:48:18 GMT

Moving within Bremerton, WA can be a daunting task without proper planning. If you’re preparing for a local move, starting with local apartment moving can make all the difference in reducing stress and saving time. With the right approach and resources, you can enjoy a streamlined transition to your new home.

Local Apartment Moving Tips

Begin your journey with a detailed plan that covers every aspect of the relocation process. Start by decluttering your space—a critical step to simplify packing. Create a checklist that outlines tasks for each day leading up to your move. Consider reaching out to reputable local apartment moving services in Bremerton to help manage the heavy lifting and logistics. These professionals offer tailored solutions that can be adjusted to your unique moving needs, ensuring efficiency and reducing the burden on you.

Next, focus on packing smartly . Gather quality supplies and pack room by room to keep your belongings organized.

Coordinating Your Local Apartment Moving

Coordination is key when planning any relocation. To maintain control over the schedule and avoid last-minute chaos, set clear timelines for each phase of your move. Communicate with your chosen movers about your expectations, and verify that they provide comprehensive local apartment moving services. Their expertise will ensure that critical details, such as parking permits and elevator reservations, are handled in advance, allowing you to focus on other preparations.

Budgeting is another crucial aspect of a successful move. Request quotes from various service providers to compare costs and services offered. A well-planned budget will prevent unexpected expenses and help you allocate funds more effectively. By integrating professional moving assistance, you not only save time but also reduce the risk of damage to your belongings during the transition.

Final Steps to a Smooth Local Apartment Moving

As your moving day approaches, review your checklist and double-check all arrangements. With a clear plan and the support of experienced professionals, you can complete your local apartment moving with confidence and minimal disruption. Remember, the key to a stress-free move lies in early preparation and leveraging the right resources.

Ready to simplify your moving experience? Whether you need expert guidance or full-scale assistance, our team is here to help. Explore our comprehensive range of local apartment moving services and learn more about how we can support you every step of the way. For more information, contact us today

Essential 5-Step Process for Office Moving in Bremerton, WA

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 19:19:42 GMT

Moving your office to a new location in Bremerton, WA can be an exciting yet overwhelming task. Whether you're upgrading to a larger space or relocating to a different part of town, a well-planned and organized office move can make all the difference. With the right approach and the support of professional office moving services in Bremerton, WA , the transition can be smooth and stress-free. Here's the essential 5-step process for a successful office move.

1. Plan and Prepare in Advance

The key to a successful office move starts with meticulous planning. Begin by creating a detailed moving checklist, outlining all the tasks that need to be completed in advance. Consider the following:

Notify Employees: Inform your team about the move well in advance to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Update Address Information: Be sure to update your business address with the USPS, vendors, clients, and any other important contacts.
Assess Your Inventory: Take inventory of office equipment, furniture, and supplies. This is a great time to declutter and decide what items need to be moved, sold, or donated.

Creating a well-organized plan and timeline will ensure that everything is taken care of before the big day arrives. For additional peace of mind, contact United Moving & Storage , your trusted provider of office moving services in Bremerton, WA , to help plan your move.

2. Hire Professional Movers

While it may be tempting to handle the move on your own, enlisting professional office moving services in Bremerton, WA is often the best decision for both efficiency and safety. Professional movers have the expertise, equipment, and manpower to handle the logistics of your office move, ensuring that your valuable office furniture, equipment, and documents arrive at your new location safely and without damage.

Hiring experienced movers like United Moving & Storage provides the added benefit of:

Ensuring your office items are packed securely.
Reducing the risk of workplace injury during the move.
Managing complex logistics and last-minute changes.

Don’t risk damage to your assets or office downtime—let the pros handle it.

3. Pack Up Your Office

Packing is one of the most crucial steps in the office moving process. To keep everything organized and protected, use high-quality packing materials like bubble wrap, sturdy boxes, and packing tape. Label each box clearly with its contents and which office area it belongs to in the new space.

For sensitive or important items such as documents, computers, and electronics, consider working with the professionals at United Moving & Storage . They can offer packing services to ensure everything is packed securely and transported safely to your new office.

4. Disassemble and Reassemble Furniture

When moving office furniture, it’s often necessary to disassemble larger items like desks, filing cabinets, and conference tables. Professional movers are skilled in the safe disassembly and reassembly of office furniture, ensuring your items are moved efficiently and without damage.

By hiring United Moving & Storage , you can rest assured that your office furniture will be carefully taken apart, transported, and set up in your new office space with minimal disruption to your business operations.

5. Settle into Your New Office Space

Once everything has been moved into your new office in Bremerton, WA, it’s time to start settling in. Arrange your office furniture and equipment based on the new layout, and make sure all your electronic devices are set up and ready to go. This is also a good time to do a final walk-through of the old office to ensure nothing has been left behind.

After the move is complete, ensure that employees are oriented with their new space and that all communication systems, such as phones and emails, are working correctly.

Conclusion

A successful office move in Bremerton, WA requires careful planning, organization, and professional assistance. By following this 5-step process and enlisting the help of United Moving & Storage , you can ensure that your office relocation goes off without a hitch. From planning and packing to disassembling furniture and settling into your new space, professional movers make the entire process easier and more efficient.

If you’re planning an office move and want expert help, don’t hesitate to contact United Moving & Storage for reliable office moving services in Bremerton, WA . We’re here to ensure your move is smooth and stress-free. Call us today at (800) 344-0147 or visit our contact page to get started!

Streamline Your Office Relocation With a Moving Service

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 00:48:35 GMT

When it’s time for your business to move offices, the process can quickly become overwhelming. With so many factors to manage — furniture, equipment, timelines, and team coordination — relocating can disrupt your workflow. Hiring a professional office moving service can transform what might feel like a stressful ordeal into a smooth and efficient transition.

Minimize Downtime and Keep Productivity High

An office move often means pausing daily operations, which can lead to lost productivity and revenue. Moving services specialize in helping businesses like yours relocate with minimal disruption. Their expert teams plan and execute moves efficiently, ensuring that your business is back up and running as quickly as possible.

Expertise in Handling Office Equipment

Your office is filled with valuable and delicate equipment — computers, printers, servers, and more. Packing and transporting these items incorrectly can result in damage or loss. A professional office moving service understands the importance of these assets and uses proven techniques to handle them safely. This expertise ensures that your equipment arrives at the new location intact and ready to use.

Customized Moving Plans for Your Business

Every business is unique, and so is its moving process. Professional moving services tailor their plans to your specific needs. Whether you are relocating a small office or a large operation, they work with you to create a strategy that takes into account your timelines, priorities, and space requirements, offering a personalized experience that reduces stress.

Access to Specialized Tools and Resources

Relocating office furniture and heavy equipment requires more than just manpower. Moving services come equipped with the specialized tools and resources needed to handle bulky or fragile items. From furniture dollies and padded moving blankets to secure packing materials, these professionals are prepared to ensure your property is transported safely and efficiently.

Simplify Packing and Organization

Packing up an office is tedious and time-consuming, but professional movers can take this responsibility off your plate. Many moving services offer comprehensive packing solutions, organizing everything systematically and labeling boxes to make unpacking seamless. This level of organization helps ensure that nothing gets misplaced in the move, allowing your team to settle in quickly.

Ensure Compliance With Regulations and Building Rules

Office relocations often involve navigating regulations, building permissions, and moving day logistics. Whether it’s reserving elevators or coordinating parking for moving trucks, a qualified office moving service has the experience to handle these details. This ensures your move complies with regulations and avoids unnecessary delays or fines.

Reduce Stress for Your Team

Relocating an office can place a heavy burden on your team, especially if you attempt to handle the move internally. Utilizing a moving service allows your employees to focus on their work instead of worrying about packing or lifting heavy items. This not only boosts morale but also ensures they remain productive throughout the transition.

Cost-Effectiveness in the Long Run

While hiring a moving service comes with an upfront cost, it often saves money in the long term. Professional movers prevent unexpected issues such as damaged equipment, lost inventory, or prolonged downtime. Their efficiency and attention to detail ensure that your move stays on schedule and budget.

Foster a Positive Transition Experience

Relocating to a new office is an opportunity for growth. By hiring a professional service, you can focus on building excitement among your team instead of managing logistical hurdles. Their support allows you to enjoy the transition and concentrate on what matters most — running your business successfully.

Make Your Office Move Stress-Free

An office move represents a fresh chapter for your business, and partnering with an office moving service can make it a seamless one. With their expertise, tools, and dedication to minimizing disruptions, professional movers help you maintain focus on your operations while they handle the heavy lifting. Investing in a moving service is a smart choice to ensure that your office relocation is not only smooth but also efficient.

If you are planning an office move, work with us at United Moving & Storage for reliable office moving services.

Benefits of Renting a Portable Storage Container for Moving

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 22:56:36 GMT

When you begin the moving process, there are a lot of decisions to make. One significant choice revolves around how to handle your belongings during the transition. An increasingly popular option is renting a portable storage container. These containers offer numerous benefits, making them an excellent choice for your moving storage needs. With the right tips, you can maximize the efficiency and convenience they provide.

Convenience at Your Doorstep

Portable storage containers provide an unparalleled level of convenience. They are delivered right to your front door, allowing you to load your belongings at your own pace. There's no need to rush through packing — or to make multiple trips to a storage facility. Everything can be packed and organized directly in front of your house, offering flexibility and reducing moving-day stress.

Secure and Safe Storage

One of the primary concerns when moving is the safety of your belongings. Portable storage containers are designed to be durable and secure. Made from robust materials, these containers protect items from weather elements and potential theft. They are built to withstand extreme weather conditions, ensuring that your possessions remain safe regardless of where the container is temporarily placed.

Cost-Effective Solution

Moving costs can add up quickly, but renting a portable storage container can be a cost-effective solution. Traditional storage options often involve separate charges for moving trucks, storage, and labor. With a portable storage container, you combine these elements into one rental package, often saving money. Additionally, paying only for the space you need allows you to choose a container size that best fits your possessions, optimizing costs effectively.

Flexibility and Control

Having control over your moving timeline is another key advantage. With traditional moving services, you often abide by their schedule. Renting a portable storage container lets you dictate the pace. Take the time you need to pack and unpack and coordinate the exact pickup and delivery dates. This flexibility can ease the pressure associated with moving, giving you time to plan every step thoroughly.

Easy Access to All Possessions

During a move, finding specific items can be challenging. When you use a portable storage container, you have the freedom to choose how to pack and organize your items for easy access. Want to reach essential items first? Pack them near the front. This organization saves time and eliminates the hassle of frantic searches during the move.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Rental

To ensure you get the most out of your portable storage container, there are a few strategies worth considering. First, create an inventory of all the items you plan to store. This list will give you a clear idea of the container size needed and help you maintain organization throughout the move. Also, maximize space inside the container by using furniture covers, blankets, and other padding to protect and stack items securely.

Consider dividing your container into "zones" for optimal efficiency. Group items by room or category, labeling boxes accordingly. This system makes unpacking more straightforward and ensures that nothing gets lost in the shuffle. Additionally, don’t overload containers; distribute the weight evenly to maintain balance during transport and aid in safe unloading.

Portable storage containers, at the heart of modern moving solutions, offer you numerous advantages for a smooth transition. Their combination of convenience, affordability, security, and flexibility makes them a fundamental tool for anyone planning a move. By following practical tips, you'll ensure that your experience is streamlined, and your items remain safe from point A to point B. Consider starting your moving process with a reliable portable storage solution, and experience a seamless and stress-free transition to your new home.

Is It Time to Store Your Boat at a Storage Facility?

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 15:12:43 GMT

Owning a boat is a significant investment and a source of joy for those who love the water. However, storing it can be a challenge, especially if you're unsure whether your current setup is adequate. Here are some clear signs that it might be time to consider storing your boat at a dedicated storage facility.

Limited Space at Home

One of the most common reasons boat owners turn to storage facilities is a lack of space at home. Many homeowners find that their driveways or yards become cramped when a boat is parked there, as the boat takes up valuable real estate that could be used for other purposes. This can lead to a cluttered and disorganized look, which some people find stressful. If your outdoor areas feel cramped and your boat is occupying a substantial portion of it, it may be time to consider external storage options. By utilizing a storage facility, you can free up significant space at home, resulting in a more organized and less cluttered environment.

Neighborhood Restrictions

Certain neighborhoods have strict regulations regarding the storage of large vehicles, including boats. These rules are often put in place to maintain the aesthetic appeal and property values of the area. Homeowners' associations frequently enforce guidelines about what can be stored in driveways or on properties, which can include limitations on the size, type, and condition of vehicles. If you're receiving complaints or notices about your boat's presence, this is a strong indicator that you should look into a storage facility.

Weather Concerns

Boats are built to withstand harsh conditions on the water, but prolonged exposure to the elements when not in use can lead to damage over time. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions—such as heavy rain, snow, or intense sunlight—your boat could suffer from weather-induced wear and tear. Storing your boat at a facility can provide it with protection from the elements, extending its lifespan.

Security Concerns

Boats are valuable assets, and as such, they can be targets for theft and vandalism. If you're worried about the security of your boat while it's stored at home, a secure storage facility might offer peace of mind. Many facilities provide enhanced security measures, such as gated access, surveillance cameras, and on-site personnel.

Frequent Maintenance Issues

If you're finding that your boat requires frequent repairs or maintenance due to inadequate storage conditions, this might be a sign to reconsider your storage solutions. Proper storage can help prevent common issues such as hull damage, mold, and corrosion, reducing the time and money spent on maintenance.

Seasonal Use

For those who only use their boats during certain seasons, it makes sense to store them in a specialized facility during off-seasons. This not only protects the boat but also ensures that it's ready to go when you're ready to hit the water again.

Travel Plans

If you travel frequently or for extended periods, leaving your boat unattended at home might not be the best option. A storage facility can keep your boat safe and secure until you're back and ready to use it again.

Resale Value

Maintaining your boat's condition is crucial if you plan to sell it in the future. Proper storage can help retain its value and make it more appealing to potential buyers. Showcasing a well-maintained boat can make a significant difference in its resale potential.

Storing your boat at a dedicated facility offers numerous benefits, from increased security to improved maintenance and care. If you recognize any of these signs, contact us to explore professional storage options. You'll not only protect your investment but also ensure that your boat remains in top condition for many adventures to come. Contact our team today to learn more.

A Guide to Storing Your RV at an RV Storage Facility

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 11:04:14 GMT

Owning an RV opens the door to endless adventures and unforgettable experiences. However, when it's not in use, finding a secure place to store your RV can be a challenge. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about storing your RV at an RV storage service, ensuring your vehicle remains in top condition until your next trip.

Understanding RV Storage Services

RV storage services offer dedicated spaces designed specifically for storing recreational vehicles. These facilities provide various options, including outdoor, covered, and indoor storage, to cater to different needs and budgets. Utilizing an RV storage service can offer peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle is stored securely.

Benefits of Using an RV Storage Service

Storing your RV at a specialized service offers several benefits. First, it frees up space at your home, which is particularly valuable if you have limited driveway or garage space. Additionally, many storage facilities offer enhanced security features, such as surveillance cameras, gated access, and on-site personnel, ensuring your RV is well-protected. Finally, professional storage services often provide additional amenities, such as maintenance and cleaning, to help keep your RV in excellent condition.

Choosing the Right Storage Option

When selecting an RV storage service, consider the different storage options available. Outdoor storage is often the most affordable choice, but it exposes your RV to the elements. Covered storage provides some protection from the weather, while indoor storage offers the highest level of protection, shielding your RV from harsh weather conditions and potential damage. Weigh the pros and cons of each option based on your specific needs and budget.

Preparing Your RV for Storage

Properly preparing your RV for storage is crucial to maintaining its condition. Start by thoroughly cleaning both the interior and exterior to prevent mold, mildew, and pests. Next, drain all tanks, including water, sewage, and fuel, to avoid potential leaks or damage. Additionally, disconnect the battery and ensure all appliances are turned off. Finally, cover your RV with a high-quality cover or tarp to protect it from dust and debris.

Ensuring Security and Protection

Security should be a top priority when storing your RV. Choose a storage facility that offers robust security measures, such as 24/7 surveillance, gated access, and strong lighting. Consider investing in additional security features for your RV, such as wheel locks, steering wheel locks, and alarm systems. By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risk of theft or vandalism.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

While your RV is in storage, regular maintenance and inspections are essential to keep it in optimal condition. Visit the storage facility periodically to check on your vehicle, ensuring there are no signs of damage or issues. Keep tires properly inflated and check for any signs of wear or tear. Additionally, consider starting your RV and running the engine periodically to keep the battery charged and the engine components lubricated.

Cost Considerations

The cost of RV storage services can vary depending on factors such as location, storage type, and facility amenities. Outdoor storage is typically the most budget-friendly option, while indoor storage is more expensive due to the added protection it offers. When choosing a storage service, balance your budget with the level of protection and amenities you require for your RV.

Building a Relationship With the Storage Facility

Developing a good relationship with the staff at your chosen RV storage service can be beneficial. Stay in regular communication with them and inform them of any specific needs or concerns you may have regarding your RV. A positive relationship can lead to better service and greater peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle is in good hands.

Planning for Access and Retrieval

Consider how often you will need access to your RV and choose a storage facility that accommodates your schedule. Some facilities offer 24/7 access, while others may have restricted hours. Ensure that the storage service aligns with your travel plans and provides convenient access when you need it.

Storing your RV at an RV storage service offers numerous benefits, from enhanced security to freeing up space at home. By choosing the right storage option, preparing your vehicle properly, and maintaining regular inspections, you can keep your RV in excellent condition and ready for your next adventure. For expert advice and storage solutions, contact us at United Moving & Storage. We'll ensure your vehicle is well-cared for during the off-season.

Portable Storage Services vs Traditional Moving Services

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 07:26:00 GMT

Moving can be a stressful experience, but the good news is that there are more options than ever before when it comes to choosing how to transport your belongings from one place to another. In this article, we will explore the differences between portable storage and moving services and traditional moving services so you can make an informed decision about which option is best for you.

Cost

One of the biggest factors to consider when choosing between portable storage and moving services and traditional moving services is cost. Portable storage and moving services typically offer a more affordable option, as you only pay for the space you use. With traditional moving services, you may end up paying for unused space in a large truck. Additionally, with portable storage, you can take your time packing and unpacking, which may save you money in the long run.

Convenience

Portable storage and moving services offer unparalleled convenience. Instead of having to load all of your belongings into a truck on a single day, with portable storage, you can pack at your own pace. You also have the option to keep the container at your location or have it transported to a secure facility until you are ready to unload. This may be a good option if you are expecting to take time between moving out of your old space and moving into your new place. Traditional moving services require everything to be done on a strict timeline, which can add unnecessary stress to an already overwhelming process.

Flexibility

Another significant advantage of portable storage and moving services is the exceptional flexibility they provide. If your new home isn't quite ready yet, or if you need additional time to sort through your belongings and decide what to keep, sell, or donate, portable storage containers can be a lifesaver. These containers allow you to safely store your items off-site until you're fully prepared to move them into your new space. This arrangement not only alleviates the stress of a rushed move but also gives you the freedom to organize your possessions at your own pace. In contrast, traditional movers may not offer this level of flexibility, often adhering to strict timelines that can leave you scrambling to find temporary solutions for storing your belongings, potentially leading to unnecessary complications and added costs. With portable storage, you can take control of the moving process and ensure a smoother transition to your new home.

Security

When it comes to security, both portable storage and moving services and traditional movers take measures to protect your belongings. However, with portable storage containers that are delivered right to your door, you have greater control over who has access to your items during the packing process. Additionally, many companies offer climate-controlled units for fragile or sensitive items.

Customer Service

Finally, customer service is an important factor to consider when choosing between portable storage and moving services and traditional movers. Look for companies that have positive reviews from previous customers and offer transparent pricing without hidden fees. Good communication throughout the process can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth move.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both portable storage and moving services and traditional movers have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on factors such as cost, convenience, flexibility, security needs, and customer service preferences. Take the time to research different companies in your area and ask questions about their processes before making a decision. By weighing all of these factors carefully, you can ensure that your next move goes off without a hitch.

If you need moving services, contact our team today.

Exploring the Essential Supplies Needed for Your House Move

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 08:44:34 GMT

Moving to a new home can be an exciting challenge. It involves careful planning, organization, and securing the right supplies to ensure a smooth transition. To help streamline this process, understanding the essential supplies and equipment needed for a house move is crucial. This blog delves into the necessary supplies that facilitate a successful move, highlighting the advantages of using a professional moving service and providing practical tips for creating an effective moving strategy.

The Foundation of Your Move: Packing Supplies

The first step in your moving process involves gathering the right packing supplies. Quality packing materials help protect your belongings and simplify the packing process. Sturdy cardboard boxes in various sizes are essential for categorizing items, while bubble wrap and packing paper ensure fragile items remain safe during transit. Additionally, investing in heavy-duty tape and box cutters can save time and effort when packing and unpacking. Don’t forget markers for labeling boxes, as clear identification will assist you in locating specific items upon arrival at your new home.

Furniture Protection: Essential Equipment

Besides packing supplies, having equipment designed for handling larger items is vital. Furniture pads and moving blankets serve as excellent protective layers for your furniture, preventing scratches and damage. A furniture dolly can make moving heavy items much more manageable, significantly reducing the risk of injury. Additionally, stretch wrap can be used to secure drawers and doors on furniture, making transportation easier. If you are moving appliances, consider acquiring appliance dollies specifically designed for this purpose to ensure safe and efficient loading and unloading.

Organization Tools: Making the Process Easier

As you prepare for your move, effectively organizing will save you time and potential stress. Consider using a moving checklist to keep track of tasks and deadlines, ensuring nothing gets overlooked. Incorporate color-coded labels for each room — this small addition can drastically reduce confusion during the unpacking process. Furthermore, having a designated “moving day” bag filled with essentials like medications, toiletries, and a change of clothes can help you maintain comfort amidst the chaos of moving.

Final Preparations: Stay Calm and Focused

As your moving day approaches, ensure that all supplies are gathered well in advance to avoid any last-minute scrambles. Take the time to pack your items carefully, being mindful not to overload boxes, which could compromise the structural integrity of your packing approach. Allocate adequate time for dismantling furniture as needed and ensure that important documents or keys are easily accessible. It's beneficial to enlist the help of friends or family during the final stages; their assistance can provide additional hands and emotional support, transforming the day into a more positive experience.

The Benefits of Working with a Professional Moving Service

While the aforementioned supplies and organization methods can significantly ease the moving process, enlisting the help of a professional moving service can elevate your experience. Professional movers possess access to high-quality supplies and equipment that may not be readily available to the average person. They come equipped with tools such as ramps, hoisting straps, and padded hand trucks that are designed to handle the logistics of heavy and awkward items more efficiently. Furthermore, their expertise can improve the overall timeline of the move, ensuring that your belongings are safely loaded and unloaded in a timely manner while you focus on settling into your new home.

Moving to a new home involves a multitude of tasks, but being well-prepared with the right supplies and equipment can make the transition smoother and more manageable. As you embark on this exciting new chapter in your life, remember that effective preparation is key. Embrace the journey ahead and look forward to establishing your new home.

Signs You Need a Moving Service for Your Apartment Move

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 19:20:38 GMT

Moving out of an apartment can be a daunting task, laden with physical exertion, emotional stress, and logistical challenges. While some may prefer to handle the process themselves, several indicators suggest hiring a professional moving service could ease the transition.

Here are six signs you need to hire a moving service to help you move out of your apartment.

1. You Have a Tight Schedule

If your work commitments, family responsibilities, or other obligations leave you with little time to focus on moving, it's a clear sign that you need professional help. Professional movers can efficiently handle packing, transportation, and unpacking, allowing you to focus on your daily routine without the added stress of moving.

2. You Have a Lot of Heavy Furniture

Moving heavy items like sofas, beds, and large appliances requires not only muscle power but also the right equipment and techniques. If your apartment is filled with bulky furniture, hiring a moving service can prevent potential injuries and damages that could occur if you tried to move these items without professional assistance. Professional movers are equipped with the right tools and expertise to handle heavy and awkward items safely. They can also efficiently navigate tight spaces and stairs, ensuring that your furniture arrives at your new location without any scratches or dents.

3. Long-Distance Move

Planning and executing a long-distance move comes with its own set of challenges, including securing the right vehicle, adhering to moving regulations, and ensuring that all belongings are properly packed for the journey. Additionally, one must consider the logistics of travel, such as mapping out the best route, scheduling breaks for rest and meals, and managing any unexpected events that may arise along the way. Professional movers are well-versed in handling long-distance relocations and can alleviate the complexities involved, ensuring a smoother and more efficient move.

4. You’re Concerned About Fragile Items

Fragile items such as glassware, antiques, and artwork require special care during a move. These items are often irreplaceable or hold significant sentimental value, making their protection paramount. Professional moving services have the expertise and materials necessary to pack these items securely, using specialized packing techniques and high-quality materials to minimize the risk of damage. They understand the nuances of handling delicate possessions and can provide customized packing solutions tailored to each item's needs. If you have valuable or delicate possessions that you can't afford to get damaged, hiring movers is a wise decision. Not only do they ensure the safety of your belongings, but they also offer peace of mind, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move.

5. Lack of Help

Attempting to move alone or with minimal help can drastically increase the overall stress and time required. If friends and family are unavailable or unable to assist due to various reasons, such as distance, scheduling conflicts, or physical limitations, a professional moving service can provide the necessary manpower to ensure your belongings are moved safely and efficiently. These services often include packing, loading, transporting, and unloading your items, taking the stress out of the moving process and allowing you to focus on settling into your new home.

6. You Want a Stress-Free Experience

Moving is inherently stressful, from organizing and packing to ensuring everything makes it to the new location in one piece. Hiring a professional moving service can take a significant load off your shoulders, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free experience. Movers handle all the heavy lifting (literally) and logistics, giving you peace of mind.

In conclusion, recognizing these signs can help you decide whether hiring a professional moving service is the right choice for your upcoming move. With their expertise and resources, movers can transform an overwhelming task into a seamless, efficient process, leaving you free to enjoy the excitement of settling into your new home.

If you need help moving out of your apartment, contact our United Moving & Storage team to schedule our services.

What Type of Moving Expenses Can You Deduct?

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 18:32:38 GMT

Before the TCJA, moving expenses could be deducted if the move was related to starting a new job and met certain distance and time requirements. However, this deduction is now suspended for tax years 2018 through 2025 for most taxpayers.

If you are a member of the military, you may still be able to deduct moving expenses. Here are the conditions under which moving expenses are deductible:

1. **Member of the Armed Forces**: You must be an active-duty member of the Armed Forces.

2. **Move due to Military Order**: The move must be due to a military order and a permanent change of station.

If you believe you qualify for this deduction, it's a good idea to consult IRS Publication 521, "Moving Expenses," or speak with a tax professional to ensure you meet all the necessary requirements.

For any moving help, please contact our team at (800) 344-0147

Six Tips for Moving an Elderly Family Member to a New Home

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 12:34:05 GMT

Moving is a significant event in anyone's life, but it can be particularly challenging for elderly individuals. If you're tasked with helping an elderly family member move, there are several important considerations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth transition. Here are six tips to help you navigate this process successfully.

1. Start with a Plan

The key to managing a move efficiently is thorough planning. Start by drafting a timeline that outlines all the steps you need to take leading up to the moving day. Discuss the plan with your elderly family member and involve them in the decision-making process. This will not only help in alleviating their anxiety but also ensure that their preferences and concerns are taken into account.

2. Declutter and Organize

Assisting an elderly family member with downsizing can be an emotional journey filled with memories and significant moments. Take the time to go through their belongings together, categorizing items into keep, donate, and discard piles. Be patient and respectful of their attachment to certain items, understanding that each object may hold sentimental value. Allow ample time for thoughtful decisions, and offer emotional support as they navigate this major transition. Additionally, consider enlisting help from other family members or professionals if needed to ensure the process goes smoothly and is not overwhelming for anyone involved.

3. Safe and Accessible Packing

Safety should be a top priority when packing an elderly person's belongings. Utilize sturdy boxes and quality packing materials to safeguard fragile items. Clearly label each box with its contents and designate the room it belongs to in the new home. Avoid overpacking boxes to prevent them from becoming too heavy, which could lead to injuries. Consider preparing a "Moving Day Essentials" box containing crucial items such as medications, important documents, and personal necessities to ensure these are easily accessible upon arrival.

4. Prepare the New Home

Before moving day, ensure the new home is ready for your elderly family member. Check that it is clean, safe, and accessible. If necessary, make adjustments, such as installing grab bars, ramps, or even a stairlift to accommodate any mobility issues. Arrange for utilities and services to be connected in advance. If possible, try to replicate some aspects of the old home in the new environment, such as placing familiar furniture and decorations in similar locations to provide a sense of continuity and comfort.

5. Hiring a Moving Service

One of the most helpful decisions you can make is to hire a professional moving service. Moving companies have the experience and equipment needed to handle the logistics of the move efficiently. When selecting a moving service, look for companies that specialize in senior relocations, as they will be more attuned to the specific needs and sensitivities involved in moving elderly individuals. Discuss the details of the move with the movers, including any special requirements or fragile items that need extra care.

6. Emotional Support and Patience

Moving can be an incredibly emotional process for elderly individuals, as it often signifies leaving behind a lifetime of memories. Provide continuous emotional support throughout the entire process. Encourage your family members to express their feelings and reminisce about the good times they've had in their old home. Being patient and understanding can go a long way in making the transition smoother. Plan for breaks during the move to allow for rest and emotional regrouping. Remember, the aim is to make the move a positive experience rather than a stressful ordeal.

Helping an elderly family member move requires consideration, empathy, and meticulous planning. By following these tips, you can ensure that the process is as seamless and stress-free as possible, making the new home a welcoming and comfortable space for them to start the next chapter of their life. If you need a moving service to help your loved one with their relocation, contact our team at United Moving & Storage for more information.

Choosing the Right Moving Service

Fri, 31 May 2024 16:36:30 GMT

Relocating can be both an exciting and daunting experience. One critical aspect of a successful move is selecting the right moving service. The right movers can make the transition smooth and stress-free, while the wrong choice can result in delays, damage, or inflated costs. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best moving service for your needs.

Choosing Professional Movers Over DIY Moving

When planning a move, one of the main decisions you'll face is whether to hire professional movers or undertake the move yourself. While the DIY approach might seem like a cost-effective option, it often comes with hidden challenges and expenses. Professional movers bring expertise, efficiency, and the right equipment to handle belongings safely and swiftly. Additionally, moving companies often provide insurance, offering peace of mind that your possessions are protected.

Assess Your Moving Needs

Before you begin your search for a moving company, it's essential to understand your specific requirements:

Distance of the Move : Are you relocating within the same city, moving to another state, or even heading to a different country? The distance will significantly impact your planning and costs.
Size of Your Move : Are you transporting just a few personal items or an entire household's worth of furniture and belongings? The volume and weight of your possessions are crucial factors to consider.
Special Requirements : Do you need additional services such as professional packing, temporary storage, or specialized handling for delicate items like pianos, valuable artwork, or antiques? These needs can add complexity to your move, requiring extra care and expertise.

By considering these factors, you can better prepare for a smooth and efficient relocation process.

Research and Recommendations

Start by gathering recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have recently moved, as their personal experiences can offer valuable insights. Additionally, explore online reviews and ratings from credible sources, such as consumer protection websites and forums, to gauge the reliability and professionalism of different moving companies. By combining these resources, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision about which company to trust with your move.

Check Credentials

Ensure that the moving company you consider is licensed and insured. For interstate moves in the United States, check if the company has a USDOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) number. Local moves should adhere to state and local regulatory requirements.

Get Multiple Quotes

Obtain written estimates from at least three different moving companies. This will give you a clear idea of the cost structure and help you understand the price structure of different services. Make sure to ask each company about what is included in their estimate and whether there are any additional charges you should be aware of. Taking these extra steps can save you money and stress in the long run.

Ask the Right Questions

When speaking with potential movers, ask about their experience, the services offered, and any additional fees that may apply. Questions to consider include:

Are there extra charges for heavy or bulky items?
How do they handle fragile items?
What is their policy on cancellations or rescheduling?

Asking questions and getting answers upfront can help make your entire move seamless and stress-free.

Review the Contract Carefully

Before signing any agreement, read the contract thoroughly. Pay close attention to the terms and conditions, the estimated cost, and the company's liability in case of damage or loss. Make sure everything you discussed verbally is included in the written agreement.

Ensure Clear Communication

Good communication can prevent misunderstandings and ensure that the move goes as planned. Maintain regular contact with the moving company leading up to moving day to confirm details and address any last-minute changes.

Conclusion

Choosing the right moving service involves careful planning and research. By following these steps, you can find a reputable moving company that meets your needs and ensures a smooth transition to your new home. Remember, investing time and effort in selecting the best movers will pay off in a hassle-free move.

Contact our team today to get your move underway.

The Lifesaver of Relocation: Portable Storage Units

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 22:35:38 GMT

Relocating – whether across town or to the other side of the country – can be an overwhelming venture rife with stress, logistical puzzles, and exhaustion. Fortunately for the modern mover, a convenient and relatively new player in the game has emerged: the portable storage unit. This unassuming cuboid container offers a plethora of benefits that can dramatically simplify the relocation experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore why portable storage units are not only practical but potentially game-changing companions in the relocation process, and how they stack up against traditional moving methods. Whether you're a recent graduate moving into your first apartment or a family upsizing to your dream home, consider this post your guide for a smoother transition.

The Convenience of On-demand Storage

One of the star attributes of portable storage units is their convenience. With the traditional moving process, you often have to adhere to tight windows of time, making it challenging to pack and clean at a leisurely or strategic pace. Portable storage solutions bring the storage facility to you, allowing you to load and unload your items at your own discretion.

This flexibility is particularly valuable in the face of unforeseen circumstances that can crop up during a move. A delayed closing date, unexpected repairs, or just the simple need to take a breather can make traditional moving timelines feel more like shackles. Portable units give you control, ensuring that your items can be either secure on-site or stored until the time is right, without the need for frantic rescheduling.

Streamlining the Packing Process

The packing process is often cited as one of the most arduous tasks in the moving checklist. Portable storage units, with their ground-level loading and unloading, significantly reduce the labor and hassle typically associated with it. These units usually come with tie-downs, which further protect your belongings from shifting and potential damage.

More importantly, portable storage enables you to pack over time. You can load items from room to unit as you pack, reducing the need for a marathon packing session just before the moving truck arrives. With the ability to keep your container at a comfortable working distance from your old or new residence, you can also double-check forgotten items or make further adjustments to your packed belongings.

The Flexibility of Decision-Making

When using a portable storage unit, you have the luxury of time to make decisions. Not sure if your new couch will fit in your living room? Leave it in the portable unit until you're ready to move it in and assess the situation. This level of flexibility can prevent premature purchasing decisions and the added cost of multiple trips for belongings that don't quite fit.

On the other hand, if you're downsizing, a portable storage unit provides ample time and space to methodically sort through your possessions without the pressure to immediately determine what stays and what goes. You can downsize in stages if needed, ensuring you're not parting with something you might need in your new space.

Synchronized with Professional Services

Portable storage units are not exclusive to D.I.Y. movers. They can be a perfect complement to professional moving services as well. They allow you to pace the packing process to match the moving date. Furthermore, they enable a smoother transition for the movers. Items can be pre-loaded into the storage unit, brought to the new location, and only moved into your new home when it's absolutely ready, so you're free of chaos or tight scheduling.

The Sustainability Factor

In an age where environmental consciousness is becoming more significant, the sustainability benefits of portable storage shouldn't be overlooked. Portable units typically consume less fuel due to their compact size and being transported in bulk. The reduction in travel time and miles when compared to shuttling between a home and a storage facility is an added eco-friendly bonus that conscious consumers can appreciate.

A Cost-Effective Solution

Portable storage units offer competitive rates, often coming bundled with services like delivery and pick-up. They eliminate the need for renting multiple trucks and the associated driving and fueling costs. When time equates to money, as it often does in relocation, the savings in labor and the avoidance of late fees and overages can be significant.

In the maze of moving, portable storage units offer a modern and convenient solution that is flexible and cost-effective. It gives control back to the mover and streamlines the often chaotic process of packing and moving. While not a solution for every move, it's a tool worth considering if you're looking to take the stress out of your next relocation adventure. To learn more about portable storage units, contact us today.

Moving Abroad: A Comprehensive Guide

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 23:30:13 GMT

Embarking on an international move offers new beginnings, opportunities, and experiences. However, challenges exist beyond packing; moving involves preparation, legal requirements, cultural adjustments, and financial planning. This guide will equip you with knowledge for a seamless transition.

Research the country

Your research should involve delving into the country's culture, understanding local customs, and familiarizing yourself with the legal framework of your prospective new home. Additionally, gaining insight into the cost of living, exploring job opportunities, and investigating housing alternatives can significantly aid in making an informed and smooth transition.

Obtain necessary documents

Some of the documents you should bring with you may include a valid passport, a visa specific to the country you are moving to, any required permits, and additional paperwork as needed. It's crucial to begin this process early, considering that acquiring these documents can be time-consuming. Starting early allows for any unexpected delays in processing and ensures a smoother transition to your new destination.

Plan your budget

Moving to a new country can be a significant financial undertaking. It's crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of all the expenses you might encounter. These can include transportation costs to get there, shipping fees for your belongings, visa application fees, and potential relocation expenses like housing deposits or setting up utilities. By creating a detailed budget outlining these costs and committing to it, you can better manage your finances and prevent any unexpected financial challenges along the way.

Declutter and pack strategically

By going through your items and saying goodbye to things you no longer need or want, you'll not only lighten your load but also potentially save on shipping costs. Plus, decluttering can make the unpacking process in your new home much smoother and more organized. As you pack, consider labeling your boxes with detailed descriptions of their contents to make finding things later a breeze.

Consider hiring international movers

Moving internationally can indeed be a complex and stressful process. Therefore, it is highly recommended to consider hiring professional international movers who specialize specifically in overseas relocations. These experts have the knowledge and experience to efficiently manage every aspect of your move, from meticulously packing and safely shipping your belongings to expertly navigating the often intricate customs regulations of your new country. By entrusting your move to these professionals, you can alleviate a significant amount of the stress associated with such a major transition and ensure a smoother relocation experience overall.

Prepare for cultural differences

Living in a new country can be a transformative experience, requiring adaptation to diverse cultures and lifestyles. It's crucial to approach this journey with an open mind and a genuine curiosity to explore and understand the nuances of your new environment. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in the richness of different cultures and traditions before embarking on your new chapter in a foreign land.

Stay organized

Moving internationally is a significant endeavor that demands meticulous planning and exceptional organization. It's crucial to keep a detailed record of all essential documents, receipts, and correspondence with moving companies to guarantee a seamless transition to your new country. Remember to research the local customs, regulations, and amenities at your destination to ease your adjustment and make the most of your international relocation experience.

Moving to a new country is a monumental step that requires meticulous planning, preparation, and a willingness to adapt. By thoroughly researching your destination, securing necessary documentation, planning your budget, decluttering, and considering professional movers, you significantly increase the likelihood of a smooth transition. Additionally, preparing for cultural differences and keeping organized will help mitigate the challenges of international relocation. Ultimately, the effort and preparation you put into your move can pave the way for a successful and fulfilling experience in your new country. Remember, the journey to setting up a home abroad is not just about the physical move but about embracing new opportunities and growth along the way.

Reasons Why You Should Store Your Boat or RV for the Off-Season

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 21:06:32 GMT

Boats and RVs are perfect for Summer adventures, but as fall and winter months come along, many owners usually struggle with where to store their outdoor toys. Should you leave these expensive items outside and endure the harsh weather conditions or store them inside to protect them from damage? If you're one of those boat or RV owners, then this blog post is for you. We'll give you all the reasons why you should store your boat or RV for the winter or off-season.

Protects Your Boat or RV from Damage

One of the biggest reasons to store your boat or RV during the winter months is to protect it from damage. Harsh weather conditions such as wind, snow, ice, and low temperatures can cause serious damage to your outdoor toys. Prolonged sun exposure can cause fading and cracking of the exterior of your RV or boat as well.

Odds are, unless you store your RV or boat in a garage or carport on your property, these outdoor toys are vulnerable to theft and vandalism as well. Storing your boat or RV in a proper storage unit or facility not only keeps it safe from the elements but also provides security against theft or vandalism.

Frees Up Your Property

If you have restrictions in your city ordinances or a smaller property, storing a boat or RV on-site may not be feasible for you. Off-site storage at a secure storage facility can be a wise option and allow you to free up your property for other activities and functions.

Saves You Money in the Long Run

Storing your boat or RV may seem like an unnecessary expense, but leaving your boat or RV outside for extended periods exposes them to weather that can wear down their exterior and interiors. This wear and tear could cause significant damage to your boat or RV and translate into costly repairs. Some boat and RV storage unit facilities allow you to pay on a monthly basis for service, while others charge a flat rate for a set amount of time.

Choosing the Right Storage Option

When it comes to storing your boat or RV, you have two main options: covered or open storage. Covered storage options provide complete protection from the elements and are often temperature-controlled. This ensures that your boat or RV is protected from rust, mold, mildew, and other environmental damage. These storage options usually entail full enclosures and also offer even more protection for your outdoor toys on a security level.

On the other hand, open storage options are generally cheaper and may be adequate for a shorter storage period. They usually include at least a carport-style coverage and a fenced property so your RV or boat is not just left to the elements. Ultimately, the choice between a covered and uncovered option depends on how often you store your boat or RV and other factors like your budget and lifestyle.

Prepping Your Boat or RV for Storage

The preparation process varies depending on the type of vehicle, but some general tips include:

Drain all water systems and tanks
Remove all perishable and delicate items
Ensure your vehicle is clean and dry
Lubricate moving parts
Disconnect all batteries

A mechanic can help you prepare your boat or RV for long-term or seasonal storage.

Storing your boat or RV during the winter or off-season is an excellent way to protect your investment. Proper storage provides a range of benefits such as protection from damage, cost-saving in the long run, convenient maintenance options, and choosing the right storage option. By taking the time to properly prepare your vehicle for storage, you'll ensure that it's still in excellent condition when you're ready to hit the road or water again. For all your storage and moving needs, call United Moving & Storage today.

How To Properly Store Your Wooden Furniture In A Storage Unit

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 19:28:37 GMT

As someone who has invested heavily in high-quality wooden furniture, it's only natural that you would want to take good care of it to ensure that it lasts for generations to come. However, there may be times when you need to store your furniture in a storage unit, whether for a short or long-term period. When storing wooden furniture, it's essential to take certain measures to protect it from damage. In this blog post, we will go over crucial steps and measures you should take when storing your wooden furniture in a storage unit.

Clean Your Furniture Before Storing

The first and most important step to take before storing your wooden furniture in a storage unit is to give it a thorough cleaning. Make sure to remove all the dust and dirt using a soft cloth or brush. If there are any stains or blemishes on your furniture, use a mild detergent to clean it.

After cleaning, make sure that all the furniture is completely dry before storing. Any moisture left behind can cause damage to the wood and encourage the growth of mold and mildew. Use a dry cloth or dehumidifier to get rid of any residual moisture.

Disassemble Larger Furniture

Before storing your wooden furniture in a storage unit, disassemble any larger pieces to make it easier for you to move and store them. This will also help reduce the risk of damage during transportation. Make sure to keep all screws, nuts, and bolts in a labeled plastic bag and tape it to the furniture to avoid losing it.

If you're not comfortable with disassembling larger pieces yourself, consider hiring professional movers to help you do it. They will have the necessary equipment and experience to handle your furniture safely.

Wrap and Protect Your Furniture

Once you have disassembled your furniture, the next step is to wrap and protect it before storing. Use high-quality plastic wrap or bubble wrap to protect the furniture from scratches, dents, and other damage. Make sure to wrap each piece individually to avoid any contact between them. This will also help prevent any color transfer between the pieces.

For extra protection, you can also use moving blankets or furniture pads. These will cushion the furniture during transportation and provide extra protection against impact and other damages.

Use Climate-Controlled Storage Units

When storing wooden furniture, choosing a suitable storage unit is essential. Opt for climate-controlled units to protect your furniture from extreme temperature changes and humidity. Wooden furniture is sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, and exposure to extreme conditions can cause cracking, warping, and other damage.

Climate-controlled units are designed to maintain a stable temperature and humidity level, which is essential for the preservation of wooden furniture. They may be a bit more expensive than regular storage units, but they are worth the investment if you want to ensure the longevity of your furniture.

Store Your Furniture Properly

After cleaning, disassembling, wrapping, and choosing the right storage unit, the final step is to store your furniture properly. Make sure to keep your furniture off the floor and use pallets or boards to create a barrier between the furniture and the ground. This will protect them from any moisture or pests that may come from the ground.

Also, arrange the furniture in a way that maximizes space utilization and avoids any contact with the wall. This will prevent any damage to the furniture and make it easier for you to access them when needed.

When storing wooden furniture in a storage unit, it's best to take the right measures and precautions to ensure that your furniture stays in excellent condition for years to come. By following these simple steps, you can protect your furniture from damage, regardless of how long they remain in storage. To learn more about storing your furniture in storage units, contact our office.

5 Essential Items To Pack in Readily-Accessible Boxes

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 22:56:50 GMT

You've finally arrived at your destination, tired and possibly disoriented, but still need to unravel your labyrinthine packing system and need essential items right away. This stressful scene is common for many who don't prioritize creating an essential package. This blog article will help you put together a master list of the five essential items you should absolutely place in these life-saving packages.

1. Beddings and Sleeping Systems

Every member of the family should have clean, full bedding, including bed linens and bedding accessories. If you want to have a bed ready for you as soon as you get there, pack a comforter set in one of your essentials boxes.

Bring an air mattress with you if you will need more time to set up your mattresses right away. Air mattresses have substantially improved in terms of comfort and mobility, making them an excellent option for transitory sleeping arrangements. Choose an air mattress with a built-in pump and a high profile for extra comfort.

A sleeping bag is another option for a comfortable night's rest. These fold up nice and small, making them an appropriate substitute for air mattresses for youngsters' rooms.

2. Devices and Accessories

You should definitely include your phone in your basics bag, as it is bound to be among your most crucial technological devices while moving. In addition, mobile devices like laptops and tablets should be considered. These are must-haves for maintaining communication and order during the chaotic time of moving.

Make sure you have the chargers for all of your electronics so you can get the most out of your trip. This includes not only the main device chargers but also any additional cables or adapters required for your smaller gadgets.

3. Toiletries and Bathroom Kit

Remember to bring along the essentials like toothpaste, a toothbrush, and soap. After a long day of moving, the last thing you need to be doing is rummaging around for these things. Keep them in a toiletry bag that you can keep in your car or carry-on for quick access.

Also, bring along plenty of paper towels and toilet paper. Before the movers arrive, make sure each bathroom has a new roll of toilet paper and keep extras in the car. Whether it is a temporary or permanent one, make sure to bring a shower curtain in your first-day luggage to ensure you are ready for your first shower in your new home.

Pack some towels from your existing residence or buy a few sets to get you through the initial days. Additionally, be sure to carry essential amenities like lotion and deodorant in travel-sized variants.

4. Emergency Kit and Medication

Although seemingly inconsequential, a first-aid kit can make a significant impact when relocating bulky items. Keep these items on hand in case someone gets a cut, bruise, or sprain when packing or moving.

When moving a long distance, it can be tough to get supplies after you run out. Thus, store pharmaceuticals in their original containers to prevent dosing errors. Fill a pillbox with sufficient medication for one or two weeks, but bring the complete supply if you will need them for more than a week.

5. Extra Set of Clothes

Having a change of clothes handy is a need that sometimes goes unnoticed. Imagine your move as a vacation. It is crucial to have a few days' worth of clothing on hand in case you cannot get to your regular belongings straight soon.

In addition to your regular underwear, socks, and shoes, you should pack a set of pajamas, a change of clothes in case the weather changes, an umbrella, and a sweater.

In addition, pack a carry-on size luggage with enough clothing for a week and put it aside. If you do not have the time or energy to unpack all of your clothes during the first week after moving, this will come in handy. Having this luggage pre-packed will relieve the stress of scrambling through drawers and closets to find something to wear.

Car Shipping Made Easy: How Experts Ensure Your Vehicle's Protection

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 23:16:00 GMT

Imagine this—you're about to embark on an exciting new chapter in a city miles away from your current location. All your belongings are packed and ready to move, but there's one significant issue: your automobile.

It's not just a vehicle but a prized possession, a symbol of your hard-fought independence, or maybe even a family relic passed down through generations. You can't simply leave it behind, but the thought of it bearing the brunt of a long, grueling journey sends chills down your spine.

That's where a professional auto shipping service enters the picture, offering a safe and hassle-free solution to transport your car to its new home. But how do they actually pull it off? Read on to learn more.

Proper Vehicle Packaging

One of the key methods professional movers employ to properly package and secure the car is wheel straps and chains. These are placed over the tires and tightened to firmly anchor the vehicle to the transport trailer. This method ensures that the car remains stationary during transit, which eliminates the risk of movement-induced damage.

Chains are particularly useful in securing heavy vehicles due to their strength and durability. They are usually fastened to strong points on the vehicle's chassis, providing an additional layer of security. Experienced movers also use proper padding together with the chains to prevent any potential scratching or damage to the car.

In addition to wheel straps and chains, soft straps might also be deployed in certain situations. These straps are perfect for cars with low ground clearance or unique body designs, where traditional methods might not be suitable.

For example, high-end sports cars with low front bumpers or vintage vehicles with fragile bodywork can be secured using soft straps to ensure maximum protection. The straps are gentle on the vehicle's exterior and provide a snug fit without causing any damage.

The goal, regardless of the method used, is to ensure that the vehicle reaches its destination in the exact condition it was in when loaded onto the trailer.

Use of Specialized Trailers

Specialized trailers are another crucial tool in the arsenal of professional movers, offering unique safety features tailored for vehicle transport. These trailers are designed with both function and security in mind.

Firstly, they have specialized hydraulic ramps that allow for easy and secure loading and unloading of vehicles. You can adjust the ramps to suit vehicles of different sizes and weights. This ensures that every car, from saloon cars to SUVs, is loaded and secured in the most suitable position possible.

Additionally, the trailers are often fitted with advanced suspension systems. These systems work to absorb shocks and vibrations during transit, providing a smoother ride and reducing the risk of damage caused by road bumps or potholes. This feature is especially crucial when transporting classic or high-performance vehicles that require extra care.

These specialized trailers also offer other added layers of protection that regular trailers lack. They are often enclosed, offering shelter from weather elements, dust, debris, and other potential hazards encountered en route. Some high-end trailers even have climate control systems to maintain optimal conditions for sensitive or antique vehicles. The enclosed design also provides a degree of privacy, so prying eyes don't see what you're transporting.

In some cases, the trailers may have in-built securing mechanisms, like wheel nets or tie-down rings, that couple with chains and straps to further secure the car in place. Combined with experienced drivers who know how to drive these trailers, the chances of any damage or accidents are next to none.

Car shipping isn't just about loading a vehicle onto a trailer and driving off into the sunset. It requires careful planning, specialized equipment, and experienced professionals like United Moving & Storage . Let us handle all your vehicle-shipping needs so you can focus on starting your new adventure with peace of mind.

6 Ways to Make a Rainy Move Easier In Washington

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 22:56:23 GMT

What do you need to know about moving on a rainy fall day? Washington's annual rainfall varies from between 32 and 35 inches between the Canadian border and Seattle to up to 45 inches near Centralia, according to the Western Regional Climate Center. With plenty of chilly, wet days on the way, take a look at the top ways to make an autumn move easier.

Pay Attention to the Weather Forecast

Keep a close eye on the weather forecast for your moving day. While you can't control the weather, having advance notice provides you with an easy way to prepare. If the forecast calls for rain, you may need to make adjustments to minimize the impact of the weather.

Ideally, you could change your move date to a day that calls for sun. But it's unlikely that your moving contractor will have an opening available on short notice. This means you need to take the right steps to keep your belongings dry and safe during the moving process.

Protect Your Belongings with Waterproof Packing Supplies

Invest in high-quality waterproof packing materials. Even though these will come at a cost to you, it's possible to reuse many of these items during your next move or in other ways (such as for in-home or off-site storage). The top materials to consider include heavy-duty plastic bins with tight-fitting lids, waterproof tarps, plastic wrap, and sturdy plastic bags.

Cardboard boxes are low-cost (or sometimes free) moving c containers that are easy to use, lightweight, and are recyclable. But cardboard isn't waterproof.

When left out in the rain, your cardboard boxes will get soggy and could crumble during the move. If you can't get plastic bins and have to use cardboard boxes, securely seal the seams with packing tape to prevent moisture from seeping in. Wrap the boxes in plastic, place them inside of large waterproof plastic bags, or cover them with waterproof tarps.

Cover Furniture and Electronics

Larger items, such as furniture and electronics, won't easily fit into heavy-duty plastic bins. This could leave your leather sofa, large-screen TV, or other sensitive item exposed to the elements. Instead of moving these items as-is, use heavy-duty plastic covers or furniture pads to shield them from rain.

Cover the items before the movers arrive to increase efficiency and decrease the likelihood of moisture damage.

If possible, disassemble furniture ahead of time. This makes it easier to protect and transport items such as tables or bed frames. Some smaller parts can fit into sealable plastic bins for your move. Make sure to keep these items together and label the bins properly to make assembly easier.

Create a Rain-Proof Pathway for the Movers

Minimize the likelihood that the movers will track mud and water through your home by creating a protected pathway from the moving truck to your front door. Lay down waterproof drop cloths or plastic sheets, and secure them in place to prevent slipping accidents.

You can also use pop-up tents to cover the outdoor area. This will shield the movers and your belongings. Recreate the rain-proof pathway at your new home too.

Dress Appropriately for the Weather

Even though the movers will do the bulk of the work, you will still need to venture outdoors to provide directions or oversee the process. Wear appropriate clothing for the rainy weather, such as a waterproof rain jacket, boots, and waterproof gloves. You may also want to keep a change of clothes handy in case you get wet during the move.

Keep Towels and Rags Nearby

You've made the best efforts to create a rain-proof pathway and have covered your floors in tarps or plastic sheeting. But this doesn't mean the rain, mud, and muck can't get in or can't get on you. Have a supply of towels, rags, and absorbent materials readily available to quickly dry off any items or surfaces that get wet during the move. Wipe down items as they come inside to prevent water damage.

Do you want to learn more about the moving process or do you need to schedule a moving service? Contact United Moving and Storage for more information.

Importance Of Labeling Your Boxes During A Move

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 21:17:24 GMT

Moving to a new home can be an exciting but challenging experience. There's much to consider, from packing your belongings to transporting them safely. One often underestimated yet crucial aspect of a successful move is properly labeling your moving boxes. Labeling your boxes might seem simple, but its significance must be balanced.

This blog will explore why labeling your boxes during a move is important and how it can make your moving process smoother and more organized.

Organization and Efficiency

Moving can be both an exciting adventure and a daunting task. As you stand surrounded by a towering stack of boxes, finding your toothbrush, those cherished pajamas, or even your beloved coffee maker might seem impossible. This is where labeling comes into play, transforming chaos into a seamlessly organized process.

When you label each box with its contents and designated room, you're engineering a smart and efficient system that acts as a beacon amid the moving frenzy. With a glance at the labels, you'll instantly understand what each box holds and precisely where to find what you need.

Protect Fragile Items

Amid the hustle and bustle of a move, fragile items can often end up as unintended casualties if not handled with utmost care. Imagine the heartache of discovering that Grandma's treasured antique vase or those exquisite wine glasses have been damaged in transit. This is where labeling steps in and offers protection for your most delicate possessions.

By clearly marking boxes as containing fragile items, you're sending a powerful signal to yourself and your movers that these contents demand special attention. It's akin to affixing a "handle with care" sign on every box, emphasizing the need for gentle handling.

Streamline Unpacking

As you unlock the door to your new abode, the prospect of unpacking can appear overwhelming. The sea of boxes before you seems like an unsolvable puzzle. However, the power of labeling transforms this daunting task into an organized and streamlined process that turns chaos into order.

Imagine effortlessly placing each box in its designated room, guided by the labels that specify their contents and intended location. This approach brings a sense of order to the unpacking process as if you're assembling a puzzle with each piece falling perfectly into place.

Minimize Stress

There's no denying that moving can be a stressful experience. The whirlwind of tasks, the adjustments to a new environment, and the emotional toll can easily take their toll. However, labeling your boxes is a powerful stress-relieving tool amidst the chaos. When you can easily locate your essentials, you gain control and familiarity.

This directed focus on unpacking the items that bring you comfort and functionality in your new space creates a haven of tranquillity amid the storm of change. Labeling streamlines your move and offers psychological relief, making the transition more manageable.

Clear Communication

In the grand symphony of moving, clear communication is the conductor that ensures harmony among all involved. Whether coordinating with professional movers or enlisting the support of friends and family, a shared understanding of the moving process is essential. Labeling becomes the universal language that bridges gaps and fosters collaboration in this context.

As you label your boxes, you're creating a common vocabulary that everyone can comprehend. The labels provide crucial information about where each box belongs and how to handle its contents. This simple yet powerful practice minimizes the risk of mix-ups, accidents, and confusion.

At United Moving and Storage, we understand the intricacies of a seamless move and are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to discover how our expert team can help you easily navigate the moving process.

Everything You Need To Know About Moving With, Choosing, and Using Plastic Storage Bins

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 22:36:41 GMT

Why should you use and how can you pack plastic storage bins? As you prepare to move, take a look at what you need to know about choosing and using plastic storage pins to pack.

What Are Storage Bins?

Don't let the name fool you. Even though plastic bins are commonly referred to as storage bins or storage containers, you don't have to store anything in these sturdy boxes. Bins are able to be useful as moving bins as well.

Storage bins are made from a rigid type of plastic that doesn't allow water into the container. Some bins, depending on the material makeup, can also keep the sun, air, or heat out.

Along with the bottom part of the container, these bins also have a lid. The lid should fit tightly onto the bin. It may snap shut or have latches on the side to hold the top and bottom of the bin together. This helps to keep the elements out of the bin and away from your belongings.

Are All Storage Bins the Same?

No, all bins are not the same. Plastic storage bins all share some of the same characteristics. These include the plastic material they’re made from, the overall shape, and the top and bottom (base and lid) design. But this is where the similarities end. The most common differences between bins include:

The color. Storage bins are available in a variety of color choices or with clear sides. You can use different hues of bins to organize your move with a color coding system. Clear bins allow you to easily see what is inside, while opaque bins protect light-sensitive items.
The size. As with color, bins are available in an array of different sizes. Pack larger items in oversized bins. Use smaller bins for dishware, books, or children's toys.
The quality. Bins also vary in quality. Instead of choosing the cheapest bins for sale, select high-quality containers that you can use now and reuse for years after your move.

Plastic bins are also available in designer patterns and stylish designs. If you plan to reuse the bin as in-home storage—for example, as a child's toy chest—you may want to select a decorative option.

How Should You Use Plastic Storage Bins To Move?

After choosing plastic bins, it's time to take the next step and pack for your move. Leave yourself plenty of time or gradually pack in increments. If you plan to pack during the months or weeks before your move, start with items that you rarely use or that are out of season—such as Christmas decorations during a July move or water toys during a mid-winter move.

To organize everything for the move and pack your haul efficiently and effectively:

Don't overload the bins. Even though the plastic material is sturdy, it can't hold everything. Not only could a heavy item crack the bin, but it could also make the container almost impossible for the mover to lift and carry.
Use towels or bubble wrap for protection. Stop items from shifting and spilling inside the bins with a few sheets of protective padding. Roll towels or use bubble wrap to create cushions on the sides and at the top of each bin.
Label the bins. Use sticker labels and permanent markers to write what is inside. If you choose clear bins, you may not need this type of label.

As you pack for your move, think about what you won't need right away or might store. Add the words "for storage" to the container's label and either contract the mover to bring the bins to your self-storage unit if you’ve rented one or choose a space in your new home to store the items.

Do you need help with your next move? Contact United Moving and Storage for more information.

How Can You Prepare For a Move With Kids?

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 17:38:26 GMT

Moving to a new home can be an exciting life chapter full of new beginnings and fresh opportunities. However, moving becomes more than just packing boxes and changing addresses when you have children. You must help your little ones navigate the emotional and practical aspects of leaving behind familiar surroundings and embarking on a new adventure. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for a move with kids, ensuring a smooth transition and creating positive memories.

Be Honest

Be honest with your kids when you are planning to move. Tell them the truth about the move as soon as you know it will happen. Make sure they understand why it is happening and how it will affect them. Involve them in the process. Bring them along to view the house so they can give their opinion and help make the final decision.

Explain the move's timeline to them so they know what to expect. Let them know how they can help with the process. Also, be aware of their special needs during the transition. Allow them to express their feelings and concerns. Reassure them that their voices matter and that you will help them through this significant life change.

Visit the Neighborhood and School

You should take the kids to the new house as soon as possible after you decide to relocate there. Take them on a tour of the area and show them where their new home is. This will facilitate their adjustment to their new environment. Talk about the neighborhood's high points, like its parks, stores, and other attractions. Give them a chance to step inside the house and see themselves living there.

If the kids also have to switch schools, a tour can help them get to know the faculty and other students before the big day. The children can use this visit to the school as an opportunity to learn more about the school and to prepare themselves for the upcoming school year.

Ensure you address the kids' concerns during visits to their new home and school. Be forthright and truthful with them. Tell them that trying something new is both thrilling and terrifying. Help them get ready for the relocation by suggesting that they investigate the neighborhood on their own. This involvement will allow them to make initial steps toward assimilating into their new community.

Involve Them in Decision Making

Involving children in the relocation process is a great way to help them adjust and give them a feeling of agency. One option is to provide them with a say in their room's color. If you let kids have some say in how their space looks and functions, they will develop a stronger feeling of pride in it. Allow your children the opportunity to voice their worries. If you can calm their fears, it will make them feel safer.

Gather the family to give them the latest on the relocation, hear their thoughts, and maybe even get them pumped up by letting them help design their new bedroom. Also, drawing up floor plans might be a great way to ramp up the anticipation. You can collaborate with younger children to bring their vision to life and then surprise your loved ones with the finished product.

Arrange Childcare

Daycare plans can ease the stress of moving with kids. Keep small kids from helping with the relocation because it can be stressful. Even if your kids are older, they could still become tired of helping and need a break.

You can arrange childcare in advance to free up some time from managing the kids or on the moving day to ensure that someone will supervise the kids while you pack and unpack. While you focus on other elements of the move, you may give your older children a positive and enriching experience in their new community by enrolling them in summer programs there.

Streamline Your Move with United Moving and Storage's Comprehensive Inventory List

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 17:04:45 GMT

Moving to a new home or office is an exciting yet challenging endeavor. The thought of starting afresh in a new space is invigorating, but the logistics of the move can often be overwhelming. That's where United Moving and Storage comes to the rescue! With their exceptional expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction, United Moving and Storage has established itself as a leading moving company. One of the key elements that sets them apart is their inventory list. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of utilizing United Moving and Storage's comprehensive inventory list and how it simplifies the moving process.

Organizational Excellence:

United Moving and Storage understands the importance of organization when it comes to moving. Their inventory list serves as a vital tool to ensure everything is accounted for, from the smallest trinkets to the largest furniture pieces. By providing an itemized breakdown of your possessions, the inventory list offers unparalleled clarity and helps maintain order throughout the moving process.

Accurate Documentation:

Moving can be a chaotic time, and it's easy to misplace or forget important items. United Moving and Storage's inventory list minimizes the risk of losing or misplacing your belongings. Each item is carefully recorded, including descriptions, quantities, and any special handling instructions. This level of attention to detail not only ensures that all your belongings arrive safely at the destination but also provides peace of mind during the entire moving journey.

Efficient Packing and Unpacking:

The inventory list plays a pivotal role in the packing and unpacking process. United Moving and Storage's professional movers can refer to the list to identify the specific location of each item in your home or office. This streamlines the packing process, allowing for a more efficient use of time and resources. During unpacking, the inventory list acts as a reference guide, enabling movers to quickly and accurately place items in their designated spots. This attention to detail ensures that your new space is set up in an organized and functional manner.

Simplified Post-Move Process:

The inventory list is not only beneficial during the move itself but also serves as a valuable resource in the post-move phase. Once all your belongings have been safely transported to your new location, the list can be used to ensure that everything has been accounted for. This makes the process of unpacking and settling into your new space much easier, as you can quickly cross-reference the inventory list to ensure all items are in their rightful place.

By providing an itemized breakdown of your possessions, accurate documentation, and streamlined processes, this moving company ensures that your move is as smooth and stress-free as possible. From efficient packing and unpacking to damage control and simplified post-move processes, the inventory list serves as a valuable tool at every step of your moving journey. Entrust your move to United Moving and Storage, and experience the difference that their comprehensive inventory list can make.

Essential Tips to Prioritize During a Long-Distance Move

Wed, 03 May 2023 20:00:18 GMT

If you need to move across the country, you may have concerns about the moving process. A long-distance move can be exhausting and challenging, particularly if you don't know how to prepare. Therefore, before you search for a long-distance moving company, plan several aspects of the move.

Tackling a big move with good old-fashioned organization and planning can make the process easier, even if you face unexpected challenges. Here is a guide that can equip you to manage the fundamental aspects of the upcoming move.

1. Take Control of the Preparation Period

One vital aspect you need to manage well to have a successful long-distance move is your time. You need to manage your time properly until the move-out day.

Start by creating a personal moving checklist to guide you during the preparation. Then allocate the specific tasks to undertake in the moving calendar. For instance, you can indicate when to move, declutter, and pack.

Consider sorting the tasks according to their importance—prioritize the jobs you must do first. If you decide to pack yourself, you have to set adequate time for the job to avoid delays.

2. Start Downsizing

If you like accumulating stuff in your home, you may need to downsize before relocating. This is particularly vital if you are moving to a smaller house or want to reduce costs.

Whether you need to sort your belongings out of necessity or lighten the burden, declutter before or during packing. Start the decluttering process early to have enough time to review your belongings. Also, tackle one room at a go to avoid creating a big mess or feeling overwhelmed.

If you have to let go of some items with sentimental value, take a photo or video. You may also scan some paper clutter and photos and dispose of the hard copies. You can store or discard all the expired, broken, or items you didn't know you had.

3. Make Preparations for Your New Home

Each time you change an address, particularly to another state, there are many things you have to handle. You must look into public transportation, driver's licenses, voter registration, and utility companies in the new area.

You can set up electricity, water, sewer, internet, cable TV, trash disposal or recycling, and natural gas. So, gather information on these services and keep the details safe during the move. Don't forget to cancel services or memberships in your old residence on time to avoid inconveniences on the moving day.

4. Get a Valuation Plan

Your belongings can be exposed to numerous risks during a long-distance move. One way to protect them against risks of theft or damage is to buy moving valuation.

Generally, the moving companies are responsible for your belongings, but if you're relocating to a different state, the service provider needs to offer coverage. The plan you pick determines the settlement you get if an item is damaged or lost.

When you buy the full value protection plan, the long-distance mover becomes accountable for the whole replacement value of the possessions in the shipment. If anything is broken or lost, they can repair or replace it or provide an equivalent cash settlement.

Another coverage type is a released value protection that offers minimal protection. With this plan, you get a certain percentage of the settlement if the items become faulty or get lost. You may also buy liability coverage from any third-party valuation provider.

Although the inevitable changes associated with a long-distance move, like a new home, school, neighborhood, job, and friends, may be stressful, you can prepare and have a seamless move.

At United Moving and Storage, we offer customized services that suit your relocation. We aim to ensure all our customers have a successful move regardless of the distance or weather. Contact us today for inquiries or to book an appointment.

What Determines the Cost of Moving?

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 17:05:29 GMT

Numerous situations may necessitate a house move. Perhaps you got a job in a different city or are undergoing a relationship or lifestyle change that requires you to relocate.

Whichever your reason for moving is, the idea can be exciting. But the thought of moving costs can easily discourage you. Luckily, you don't need to break the bank to facilitate a successful move. By understanding the various factors that dictate the cost of moving, you can make informed decisions that help you save on your move.

Quantity of Items

Most movers calculate moving costs based on the size of the move. The calculations are primarily in cubic feet. The larger the cubic footage, the more you'll likely spend on your move.

The reason is that the more items you have, the more time the movers will spend loading and unloading. Also, larger moves may require more workforce, leading to higher costs.

Furthermore, the volume of your goods will determine the type of moving truck used. For instance, large moves might require a large truck instead of a small van.

Moving Distance

Longer distances will cost more than short ones since you'll need to spend on fuel and other resources for a more extended period. Also, if you are moving internationally, you may account for additional costs, such as custom clearance fees.

Note that the packing requirements for international moves differ from local move packing needs. For international travel, you may need crates and other special packing materials, which add to the moving costs.

Storage Needs

Suppose you wish to downsize from a spacious house to a smaller one. A storage unit might be handy for that extra furniture, especially if you don't wish to part with it yet.

Storage services will come in at an additional cost, depending on how long you plan to store and the size of your items.

Additional Services

A full-service move involves various processes such as packing and unpacking services and furniture disassembly and assembly. If you choose these options, you must be ready to cater to their extra cost.

In the same way, some companies offer insurance coverage, especially for fragile items, so that if anything breaks while in transit, the movers take responsibility. But such privilege comes at an extra cost.

Accessibility of the Moving Site

If you live in an area that is hard to access, the cost of moving will increase. For example, if your current house is on the fifth floor, and the movers have to use stairs to get the items in and out, you may account for extra labor costs.

The same applies if your hallway or doors are too narrow to allow the movers to navigate freely. And if the roads leading to your new residence are narrow, the movers may require extra equipment to ensure a smooth move, which means additional costs.

Time of Moving

Movers usually have peak and off-peak seasons. The peak season is when the demand for moving services is high, mostly around the end of the month. Most individuals also prefer to move in the summer season during school breaks.

Therefore, if you opt to move during peak season, book the movers early to avoid high rates due to last-minute bookings.

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to getting the best moving rates, understanding what affects moving costs can help you save. Take time to set a budget, research moving companies, and conduct a price comparison until you land the best deal. Most importantly, choose a reputable and reliable moving company.

You can count on us at United Moving & Storage to get you where you need to go safely, securely, and on time. We offer competitive rates without compromising the quality of our services. Contact us for a consultation.

Top Tips for the Best Move

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 02:00:55 GMT

How can you make this your best move yet? This isn't likely your first time lifting, carrying, and transporting everything you own from point A to point B. But you can make it the easiest, most efficient move to date. If you're not sure how to improve your move, take a look at the top tips to follow.

Hire a Professional

This is the easiest way to make your move almost effortless. Whether your to-move haul is too heavy to lift without help, you have awkwardly shaped items, you have an injury that restricts movement, or you're just not a fan of moving, a contractor will do the work for you. This gives you time to focus on anything else in your life (such as your family or your job) or just relax.

Choose a Full-Service Move

A mover can do more than lift, carry, and transport your belongings. A full-service contractor can provide the packing materials you need (such as boxes, crates, packing paper, bubble wrap, and labels), box or crate your to-move haul, and organize everything for you. This means you won't need to waste time ordering packing products online or spend the day loading everything into boxes.

Not only will a full-service mover save you time, but they may do a better job packing than you would. Movers are experts in the packing process. The contractor's knowledge and experience provides them with the skills necessary to select the best packing materials for each item and securely pack everything into boxes, bins, creates, or bags.

Declutter Your Home

The less you need to move, the easier the process. Instead of packing items you barely or rarely use, declutter them. Recycle, give away, donate, sell, or throw away items that you don't need. This leaves less to pack, lift, carry, and transport.

Organize Everything Ahead of Time

A clear organizational strategy can help you to make this a smooth move — whether you choose a full-service mover or not. Before you can effectively organize everything you own, you will need to choose a strategy that works for you or fits your needs. This strategy could include:

A room-by-room approach . This strategy requires you to start in one room (such as the kitchen or the bedroom). You will group together like items, place them into containers (if you don't have a full-service move scheduled), and label everything by room.
A size-by-size approach . Group similarly sized items together. You can place several smaller-sized items into one box or container and leave the larger pieces out to move solo.
A mixed-weight approach . You don't always have to place like items together. Organize everything by weight to create easy-to-handle container loads. Too many heavy items in one container could break a box or damage a bin.

Complete your organizational steps at least a few days before the movers arrive. This gives you time to assess the approach, make changes, and even create a packing inventory to use during and after your move.

Get Excited for the Move

Your move isn't a task or duty to check off a list. Go into your move day with a positive attitude and outlook. Get excited for the move and focus on your amazing new home (instead of thinking about the hard work necessary to get there).

If you're struggling to motivate yourself, plug in your favorite playlist, get up, and start your day with a pre-move dance party. This is also an easy way to help younger children to feel more comfortable with or excited about a move.

Do you need to hire a professional mover? Contact United Moving & Storage for more information.

7 Things to Do on Moving Day

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 19:36:55 GMT

Hiring movers is usually the best move to ensure the safe transport of your possessions. However, you must do a few things on moving day to help the movers do their jobs and keep themselves from getting overwhelmed. Below are seven things to do on relocation day.

1. Wake Up Early

The moving day often arrives with numerous last-minute tasks to complete. So, rise with the dawn to finish everything before the movers arrive and avoid rushing through things. A healthy breakfast is also necessary because you need plenty of stamina to get through the day. If your morning coffee prepares you for the day, squeeze in time to enjoy one before you start.

2. Keep Children and Pets Away

While teenagers can help with moving-day activities, smaller children are typically a distraction. Children and pets could also get injured playing with moving supplies, and you should keep away from the movers' path as they carry heavy items.

Organize for friends and families to look after your kids and pets and get them to the agreed areas before movers arrive. You can also keep the children in a safe space and get a sitter to watch and engage them.

3. Wear Appropriate Clothes

Appropriate clothes reduce the risk of injury and make you more productive. So, wear sturdy shoes with anti-slip soles and ankle support, and avoid baggy clothes that can snag on something and cause falls.

Long-sleeved t-shirts and long pants are great because they protect from scrapes and bumps. Choose a breathable fabric to keep you cool through the day, and wear work gloves. You will also find it easier to work if you have long hair and tie it back.

4. Finish Up Packing

If you only hired the movers to load, transport, and unload your stuff, finish packing before they get into your home. Pack the bedding and pajamas your family slept in and the toiletries you used in the morning.

Then, go to the kitchen, pack perishable items, and throw away anything that will go bad or melt before you get to your new home. Resist the urge to throw kitchen utensils in a box without proper wrapping because they may get damaged during the move. Go through each area in the home, including the guest house, attic, basement, cabinets, and storage nooks, to ensure you have left nothing behind.

5. Set Your Essentials Bag Aside

An essentials bag contains things you require on moving day and the next day, including electronics, chargers, toiletries, medications, extra clothes, keys, and documents. Also, keep valuable items in the bag, such as family heirlooms and jewelry.

However, movers can accidentally load your essentials suitcase into the truck if you keep it together with other boxes. Keep your personal items in a separate, locked room to control access.

6. Greet and Moderate Your Movers

When your movers arrive, take them on a walk-through of your home, identifying fragile boxes and appliances and showing them the bathroom. Also, clear the movers' pathway, as they need enough space to maneuver boxes.

Stay around to give your movers extra instructions, such as neighborhood parking restrictions, the furniture they should disassemble, and the boxes that need loading first. Additionally, provide water and snacks, and tip your movers if you are happy with the service.

7. Do a Final Walk-Through

Once the movers have loaded your boxes, furniture, and appliances in the moving trucks, walk around the house and open all drawers and closets. No matter how meticulous you are, you may forget some overlooked items in little-used areas. If you have to clean the house, put cleaning supplies aside before your movers start packing or hire a cleaning company.

Moving day shouldn't be stressful with a reliable and experienced mover by your side. Contact us at United Moving & Storage today for a seamless moving experience.

Helpful Tips for Moving Houses While Pregnant

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 15:17:46 GMT

Perhaps you secured a job opportunity in another city or want to move to a bigger house to accommodate your growing family. Whichever the reason for moving houses is, moving can be both exciting and stressful. And things can be even more intense when you're pregnant.

Pregnancy affects your daily life in multiple ways, from how you feel to what type of activities you can do. But that doesn't mean moving houses has to be a daunting task for an expecting mother. With some planning and organization, you can have a smooth moving experience. Discover some helpful tips for moving homes while pregnant.

Start Planning Early

Don't wait till the last minute to start your moving preparations. Instead, start planning your move a few months in advance. This tip will give you enough time to make a list of all the tasks you need to do and help you spread things like packing, organizing, and cleaning bit by bit.

Talk to Your Doctor About the Move

Your health is delicate during pregnancy, so take all the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. One wrong move could harm you and the unborn baby.

So, consult your doctor, especially if you plan to lift heavy items or drive long distances. The doctor will provide the necessary insights, such as the maximum weight you can lift based on your pregnancy condition.

Search for a Doctor in the New Neighborhood

Ensure you have a doctor in the new neighborhood who you can visit after your move. You don't want to look for a doctor when you need an appointment now. So, start searching for one before leaving, and ask your current doctor for recommendations or do some research online.

Rest When Your Body Says So

You will likely get tired easily when you're pregnant, and that's your body's telling you it needs rest. Even if you have so many things to do, stay calm and take a break whenever you feel exhausted.

For instance, you may take naps between packing or delegate some other tasks to your partner and stay hydrated to keep your energy levels up.

Get a Moving Kit

Prepare a moving kit to make all your items accessible during the move. The kit could include essential things such as medications, electrolytes, snacks, and enough water to hydrate. Pregnancy may make you more prone to illnesses, so be prepared in case of an emergency.

Buy Huge Baby Items After the Move

Unless you are only a few days to delivery, buy big baby items such as the crib and stroller after moving into the new house. This tip will help you save money on moving costs and minimize packing stress.

However, you can buy some other smaller items, such as diapers and toys, before the move. And even pack your hospital bag just in case of an emergency.

Get Help

Moving is a tedious process, and you shouldn't handle all the work alone. Get help from family and friends when packing, loading boxes into a moving truck, unpacking, and cleaning up at your new home.

Most importantly, hire the services of a reliable moving company to handle the heavy lifting. An experienced and reputable mover will make your move less stressful, reduce the chance of losing items, and ensure the safe transportation of all your valuables.

Moving houses while pregnant can be nerve-wracking, but with the tips above, you can have a smooth and stress-free move. Remember to always take care of yourself.

You can count on us at United Moving & Storage to help make your moving experience a success. We offer comprehensive services, including packing and unpacking, to ensure a hassle-free move for our clients. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

Helpful Tips for an Easier Move With Pets

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 17:39:23 GMT

Pets are beloved family members, and when it's time to move, you want to ensure you take great care of them during this stressful time. Pets may get anxious and have a hard time adjusting to new surroundings. As such, moving house with pets will add to the stress levels, but things get easier with these tips.

Understand State Law

This tip is primarily applicable if you plan to relocate to a different state. Some states have different rules and regulations regarding pets. For instance, some states require you to show certification that your pet is free of disease before you can cross the border with them.

As such, learning the state's law allows you to plan beforehand. As a result, you will have enough time to get the required documents in order and avoid any legal trouble or last-minute rush.

Let Your Pet Play with Packing Supplies

You will most likely need packing supplies such as cardboard boxes and tape. Let your pet play with these items to quench the furry friend's curiosity.

This tip helps your pet to get used to packing supplies and see them as ordinary objects. Additionally, the tip will prevent your pet from getting anxious or stressed when you start packing boxes closer to the move date.

Let your pet sniff and explore the packing supplies. You can also place a few toys in the box, so your pet associates it with something positive.

Start to Pack Early

Packing changes the house environment and can be stressful for your pet. To help your pet adjust, start packing early and do it gradually.

This idea will give your pet time to get used to the changes in the house. Seeing you pack a few items each day will eventually become the norm for your pet and lessen any anxiety caused by the packing process.

Pack the pet's items last. This way, your pet will still have their familiar things around until it's time to move. And once you move to your new home, unpack the pet's items first to help them feel settled in more quickly.

Keep Your Pet's Routine the Same

Pets are creatures of habit and do best when their routine is consistent. Therefore, when moving house with pets, keep the pet's daily routine as consistent as possible. The routine includes feeding times, walks, and playtime.

If possible, walk your pet at the same time each day. Feed them regularly and try to stick to their regular feeding schedule. Playing with your pet will also help ease their anxiety and provide normalcy during the move.

Create a Safe Space for Your Pet

A safe space is a place where your pet can go to feel calm and secure. Such space is critical during the moving process when many changes happen in the house.

Your pet's safe space should be quiet and away from the main activity. Stock the room with your pet's favorite toys, blankets, and anything else that will make them feel comfortable.

Allow your pet to spend time in their safe space whenever needed. This step will help them to relax and feel more at ease during the stressful move.

Get Checkup and Update Your Pet's Records

You will also have enough time for a pet health checkup. Ensure the pet is up to date with vaccinations. Get a copy of their medical records and keep them in a safe place.

While moving with pets is stressful, hiring a moving company can help to make the process smoother. With their experience and expertise, the movers will ease the transition for you and the pet. In addition, the specialists have all the necessary supplies and equipment to move your pet safely.

You can trust us at United Moving & Storage to provide a hassle-free moving experience. We have extensive experience handling pet moves and will work with you to ensure your pet is comfortable. Contact us today for a quote.

Frequently Asked Questions About Interstate Moves

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 16:51:27 GMT

A long-distance move across state lines can offer new opportunities, new scenery, or even a whole new life. At the same time, however, it can also pose numerous potential problems, from the possibility of property damage in transit to the logistical difficulties of storing transported items.

The more you understand in advance about the potential challenges of an upcoming interstate move, the more effectively you can plan for those contingencies, giving you greater peace of mind even as you ensure a smoother overall move. Check out the following frequently asked interstate moving questions and their answers.

What valuation Details Should You Think About?

Your homeowners or auto insurance may protect your possessions both at home and in transit, but only to a certain extent. While your policy may cover these items during transportation and storage, it doesn't cover any accidental loss or damage that might occur as the movers handle them. That level of coverage calls for valuation.

Your moving company should offer you several coverage options to help safeguard your possessions. Valuation acts as an extension of your homeowner’s coverage, protecting items against accidents and natural disasters. You can also get extra coverage against breakage, high-value item coverage, and coverage for stored items.

With interstate movers, liability coverage typically defaults to full value protection. Although it costs more than other options, this comprehensive form of protection covers your possessions for their full replacement value. By contrast, released value protection, while free of charge, offers a mere 60 cents of coverage per pound.

What Assistance Can Your Employer Offer?

If you relocating to another state for work, find out whether your employer offers relocation assistance to its employees.

Whether your current employer relocates you to another branch of the same company or a new company has offered you a position out of state, the employer's relocation package can greatly ease the hassle of the move. Your employer may pay your transportation, storage, shipping, and even temporary housing expenses.

If you qualify for a relocation package as a condition of your employment, ask your employer whether it already maintains a relationship with an interstate mover and related resources. Even if they don't, you may still get permission to engage your own choice of moving, shipping, and storage providers.

When and How Should You Plan Your Move?

No matter how much help you enlist for your upcoming interstate move, bear in mind that the overall process will still require considerable time, thought, and planning on your part. To ensure that everything gets done without a mad scramble, you should start taking action at least eight weeks in advance of your move-in date.

Start by selecting an interstate mover that suits your budget and schedule. This step not only lets you lock in the mover's availability on the needed dates, but it will also give you a clearer picture of what services the mover will provide and what additional details you might need to handle on your own.

If possible, you should visit your new home and community early on to get a feel for details such as square footage, street parking access, and potential challenges such as stairs. Measure the home's interior space so you can start planning where your possessions will fit, based on your own detailed inventory of items.

You'll have plenty to do in the final weeks counting down to your move. Plan time to sell, donate, or discard any items you don't want or need to transport. Schedule the transfers of your electricity, water, gas, and other utilities. Submit address change information to the post office. Start packing those mover-supplied boxes and crates.

Why Should You Consider Renting Storage Space?

Even the most well-planned interstate moves can present surprises. For instance, you might run into last-minute problems that delay the closing date on your new home, or you might need to sit out some final property renovations before you can move in. Rented storage space can protect your possessions in the meantime.

As you shop for interstate moving companies, make sure to choose one that provides a variety of storage options. You might need basic storage for only a few possessions, a climate-controlled storage unit for temperature-sensitive items, or indoor or outdoor storage facilities that can accommodate a car or even a boat.

When you need to make an interstate move, United Moving and Storage can help you make that move simpler, more secure, and more efficient. Our team can move you across state lines, across the U.S., or even to another country. Contact us today to learn more about our services, tell us about your needs, and request a free estimate.

5 Ways to Use Excess Paper to Help With Your Move

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 18:28:34 GMT

As you go from room to room in your house to plan a move, you are bound to run into a lot of clutter. Among the clutter, you will most likely find a lot of different papers. Papers could include old junk mail, papers you no longer need, and random items you've gathered through the years.

Before you just recycle the excess paper, consider ways to use excess paper with your move. Essentially, you can upcycle paper to help you through the move and then recycle the leftover paper once you get settled in your new home. As you clean out your house and gather extra paper, learn some useful ways to get the most out of the paper.

1. Packing Material

Paper will provide a nice protective cushion for some of your fragile items. Avoid the purchase of bubble wrap and get the most out of the extra paper you have. Use multiple layers of paper to wrap mugs, glasses, vases, and collectible items you can display in your home. For mugs and cups, follow basic gift-wrapping techniques to ensure they get fully covered.

If you have a lot of paper, use the pages generously with the items you pack. For example, you could wrap a mug in three to four layers of paper to add extra protection. The paper will help protect smaller items as well. For example, children can wrap their toys up in paper to add some extra protection.

2. Retractable Cord Wraps

If you wrap up a lot of electronics, then you want to protect the cords, especially if the cords retract. You do not want cords to tangle or have outlet plugs bend or warp in any way. Wrap a paper around the end of a cord and tape the paper down to keep the cord covered. The ball of paper on the end will help prevent cord tangles and damage.

Once you reach your new home, you can easily pull off the paper and connect the electronic device as needed. Along with traditional electronic cords, you could add a layer of paper protection on other cords like USB cords and phone chargers. Just wrap the cords up completely and label the paper so you know what the cords go to.

3. Shredded Paper Padding

If you have a paper shredder, then you could transform shreds of paper into protective padding for your moving boxes. Shredded paper can replace supplies like bubble wrap and packing peanuts. Shred all of the extra papers you have in the home. As you shred paper, save the shreds in a large garbage bag or box.

You can place the shreds in moving boxes to add a cushion of protection. For example, you could surround an appliance like a coffee maker with some shredded paper. The paper can create a cushion for electronics like video game consoles or laptop computers.

Once you place an item on a bottom layer of shredded paper, toss in some more shredded paper on the top so your items remain protected on all sides. Once you are all moved into your new home, you can recycle the shredded paper. The shredded paper will take up less space and keep any personal information confidential.

4. Paper Labels & Lists

Use leftover paper to easily label items and stay organized during your move. You can tape pieces of paper on boxes for basic room labels. If you use a moving service, the movers can easily read the labels and help keep all of your boxes organized.

Use extra paper to add checklists and reminders on the top inside of a box. For example, you could open the top of a box and see a full list of what you have inside. You could write out detailed things or general items like "kitchen utensils and cooking accessories". The quick little notes allow you to know what boxes you open without the need to dig through the whole box.

The notes will make it a lot easier to unpack items and speed up the unpacking process.

5. Clothing Layers

As you pack clothes, you could eliminate excess wrinkles and keep clothes organized. For example, you could put a single sheet of paper between clothes. The papers will keep the clothes smooth and allow you to easily separate items. You could also use paper to label areas of clothes.

For example, you could write "Winter Closet Clothes" and place the piece of paper above a pile of sweaters. If you have a lot of shoes, then you could crumble papers up into small balls. Shove the small paper balls into the shoes to help maintain the shape and prevent any squishing. Fit as many balls as you can into each shoe and then pack them all together in a box.

For all of your moving service needs, contact us at United Moving & Storage . We can provide you with moving trucks, white glove moving services, and moving supplies. As you prepare your scrap paper for your move, we can help with each additional step of the way.

4 Advantages of Mobile Storage Containers for Newly Constructed Homes

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 16:31:56 GMT

The construction of a new home brings a lot of excitement and anticipation. As you prepare to move into the newly constructed home, you need to decide the best way to bring items from one home to the next.

One method you can use is a mobile storage unit. A mobile storage unit comes in multiple sizes and gets dropped off where you need it. Once filled, a moving company picks up the storage unit and drops it off at your new home for easy unloading. As opposed to traditional moving trucks, storage containers come with many advantages for newly constructed homes.

Check out some of these benefits and ways to maximize the use of a mobile storage container.

1. Longer Rental Options

A new home includes empty rooms and a lot of space to make the home truly your own. The last thing you want to do is load box after box into the home and create a cluttered mess. A mobile storage unit will help you reduce the clutter and take your time with the move. A mobile unit comes with long-term rental options so you can keep the unit on your property.

Take your time to move in items room by room and reduce the amount of clutter you have as you enjoy the new home. You will not feel rushed as you choose what items to decorate with and which items you no longer need. For safety and protection, a mobile unit includes a padlock so you can lock up the unit every night.

2. Less Transportation

As your new home goes through the final stages of building, you may visit the home often and start moving stuff in. With a mobile storage unit, you do not need to worry about the constant hassle of driving back and forth with a moving truck. A mobile storage unit gets picked up from your old location and dropped off at the new one.

You do not need to be there for the transfer and do not need to worry about meeting the moving company for the drop-off. The elimination of extra trips can make a big difference on your travels to the new house, especially if the house is located far away from the old one.

You also do not need to worry about the logistics of multiple vehicles. For example, with a moving truck, you would have to drive a moving truck to a location, empty out the truck, drive the truck back, and then bring your regular vehicle to the house. Or you would have to arrange for help to drive multiple vehicles to one location.

With a mobile container, you can drive your regular vehicle and enjoy access to the items you need to move in.

3. Storage Facilities

New home construction can come with a lot of pitfalls and delays. Home contractors could fall behind, materials could be on back order, and you could run into other issues along the way. In some cases, you may have to be out of your old residence before you can move into the new home.

Mobile storage units often come with the option to use storage facilities while you wait for the completion of your home. Once you have the unit packed, a moving company can pick up the unit and bring it to their secure storage facility until the new home is ready. The storage facility is private so only company employees have access to the property.

The extra security measure ensures your items remain safe and protected. You will not feel the same time crunch to have your home completed and the unit will get delivered on your schedule.

4. Moisture Resistant Climate Protection

As you prepare to move into a new home, you may have slight delays with the climate control and electricity in the location. Instead of bringing boxes and items into a home with no heat or air conditioning, you could leave the items inside the storage unit. The unit provides you with moisture protection from humidity, heat, or poor weather like rain.

If you have poor weather, you do not want to move items through the wetness and get your new home all wet and dirty. Simply wait out the storms and trust that the climate protection from the storage units will keep your items dry. With no rush to move the items out of the unit, you can avoid any water damage, stains, or mud in the new home.

For pricing and estimates on our mobile storage units, contact us at United Moving & Storage . We have multiple sizes available to accommodate your needs. Schedule the drop-off and pick-up locations to receive the most accurate estimate. We can also showcase the features in the units and provide picture galleries so you know what to expect.

Moving? 8 Ways to Maximize the Benefit of Available Help

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 20:31:15 GMT

Most households need help from others when they move. The longer you've lived in one place, the more stuff you have, and the busier you are, the more you need to rely on that outside help. But how can you maximize the sources of assistance you have all around you? Here are a few ways to do this without alienating anyone and with less stress for you.

1. Ask for Help

One important step that some are hesitant to do is to simply reach out and ask for help. Even if you live alone, packing up your entire life is a big job. You might be busy with your work and personal life. And you might just need moral support in getting the work done. No matter what your personal challenges, start conquering them by not being too proud to ask your loved ones for help.

2. Accept Help

When help is offered, don't be shy about accepting it. While you don't want to inconvenience your friends and family, moving is too big a task to brush off any assistance. Accept help and then make specific arrangements — places, dates, times, and assigned tasks. Doing so allows helpers to know what they're being asked to do and keeps you on schedule.

3. Target Your Needs

While most people assume that help during a move means packing boxes or loading a truck, it can actually take many forms. Moving help is anything that frees up time for you to focus on things only you can do. It may mean hiring landscapers to care for your yard while you pack, asking co-workers to take on some taxing project at work, or having a friend make a donation drop-off for you.

4. Get Sitters

Do you have children or animals? Then consider asking for sitters to watch and care for them.

Parents often struggle to get work done while caring for and wrangling small children. Those kids may also make it harder to clean out old stuff, pack toys, or prepare donation boxes. And your well-meaning dog or cat might simply get in the way too often. Asking others to watch them for short or long periods gives you the ability to focus and is safer for children and pets alike.

5. Hire Movers

At a minimum, hire professional movers for the actual physical transportation. Moving a house full of stuff is potentially dangerous for amateurs. Most people don't have the tools and equipment necessary to prevent injury. Nor do they know how to safely carry and navigate with bulky furnishings and equipment.

In addition, this is the task that many friends and family may try to avoid. So if you've outsourced it, everyone will be relieved. They may be more likely to show up when asked to help with other things. And they can focus on helping you with more personal tasks that you may not want movers to do.

6. Ask About Services

When you engage a professional moving company, ask about their other services. Most moving services do a wide variety of tasks — including packing boxes, disassembling and reassembling items, unpacking and placement, final cleaning, and storage of your goods between homes. The more you can contract with them to do, the less you have to worry about the more difficult jobs.

7. Solicit Recommendations

Not everyone in your circle can physically help with the move, but they still have a lot to offer. Ask those who have moved in the past for tips and insights. Ask your friends, family, co-workers, and acquaintances about tricks that helped them make successful moves. And, perhaps more importantly, ask them what mistakes they made or what they wish they had done differently and why.

8. Be Ready

When any sort of help arrives to work toward your move — whether it's hired movers, personal friends, or other vendors — be ready to go.

Are they packing up the kitchen today? Have boxes, tape, packing material, and labels ready to be used. Hiring a house cleaner to help you out? Prep the house so they can walk in and get started. Are the movers coming? Make unobstructed paths, move vehicles out of the way, and corral your pets. And when friends or family arrive to help pack, don't chat your time away or get sidetracked.

Start Today

The best help you will find is from your professional movers. Start by learning what they can do for you and how you can budget for the most important services you need.

United Moving & Storage offers many services to make light work of any size move. Call today to speak with one of the members of our trained moving team or get an estimate for what you need to have done. No matter how much we can take off your plate, you'll be less stressed and have more time for the things that matter.

Pros and Cons of 5 Packing Materials

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 21:46:24 GMT

Few moving mishaps can cause more frustration, anger, or heartbreak than preventable damage to beloved possessions. No matter how much time and effort you put into packing your belongings, delicate items can easily chip, dent, bend, or break unless you choose the right packing materials to safeguard those items.

The more you understand the different benefits and limitations of specific types of packing materials, the more you can easily choose the right material for various packing challenges. Take a moment to study the pros and cons of the following five common types of packing materials and structures.

1. Cardboard Boxes

When you envision a home all packed up for a move, your mental image probably includes stacks of cardboard boxes. This popular, traditional type of container offers some obvious attractions, from its relatively lightweight to the variety of sizes and shapes available. You can also write directly on the cardboard with ease.

Cardboard offers another important benefit: flexibility. For instance, cardboard banker boxes unfold into a flat configuration so they take up less space in your storage area or disposal bin. You can break down other kinds of cardboard boxes almost as easily by cutting the panels apart with a knife and squashing the whole assembly flat.

As convenient as cardboard boxes may prove, keep in mind that cardboard suffers from the same vulnerabilities as other paper products. Water exposure can quickly turn it into mush, with the water penetrating the items within. Cockroaches and other pests may view cardboard as a food source and chew holes in it.

2. Plastic Containers

Plastic containers come in a variety of forms, including sealed tubs and ventilated milk crates with open tops. If you worry about moisture or pests infiltrating your cardboard boxes, plastic tubs make a smart alternative. Clear tubs also let you see exactly what each tub contains, even if you forgot to attach identifying labels.

Plastic milk crates don't offer the same degree of protection for their contents, but they can still prove highly practical in other ways. For example, the holes and handles on these kinds of containers allow for easy lifting, while multiple crates of the same type stack easily and securely. They also let you see exactly what they hold.

Unfortunately, plastic tends to weigh more than cardboard, which may make your move more effortful than necessary. If you want to fold your plastic containers down for flat storage, you must buy containers specifically designed for that application. Don't forget that milk crates offer little protection against the elements.

3. Newspaper

Newspaper counts as one of the most convenient of all packing materials to obtain and use as stuffing to cushion your belongings. Even if you don't subscribe to daily newspapers or magazines, you may have piles of old issues hidden in your garage, or your friends and neighbors will happily let you take old papers off their hands.

However, newspaper and other printed paper materials pose their own potential problem: ink transfer. The inks used in these publications can easily smear and rub onto your possessions, especially if you move during hot and/or damp weather. If this risk worries you, use plain paper or old clothes as a substitute for newspaper.

4. Styrofoam and Packing Peanuts

Styrofoam can provide excellent cushioning for items vulnerable to breakage during shifting. If you kept the styrofoam cushioning panels that came with your various electronics items, you'll find that they encase those items perfectly for optimal protection. Loose packing peanuts fill gaps between items and their containers handily.

One downside of styrofoam involves the mess it can make during unboxing. You may wind up with packing peanuts or bits of stray foam all over your residence, necessitating extra cleanup. Styrofoam also poses concerns for environmentally conscious movers because it tends to sit in landfills for years without degrading.

You can use packing peanuts without harming the environment by choosing biodegradable alternatives to traditional styrofoam. These peanuts, made from recycled starches, can cushion your possessions quite effectively. However, they weigh more and cost more than styrofoam.

5. Air-Filled Cushioning Materials

Air-filled cushioning materials can help you keep delicate belongings safe and sound in their containers throughout your move. Two popular options include bubble wrap and air pillows. Bubble wrap consists of plastic sheets dotted with tiny air-filled chambers, while a typical air pillow features a larger, individual air-filled chamber.

If you decide to wrap your paintings, glassware, and other delicate items with bubble wrap, bear in mind that this packing material can't provide total protection by itself; it works better when combined with other packing methods. Air pillows will burst and deflate if you place them next to jagged or sharp belongings.

You'll never have to worry about what packing materials to use in your next move, or how to protect specific belongings against damage during the move when you enlist the aid of United Moving & Storage. Our experienced team at United Moving & Storage can pack, crate, and transport even the most challenging items with professional skills. Contact us today.

How to Decide Which Items to Keep While You Move

Mon, 23 May 2022 16:30:01 GMT

Most people look at moving as a chance to downsize. You can get rid of the things you don't need and start fresh with a more curated collection of items when you move into your new home. However, deciding what to bring with you and what to leave behind is not always easy. Here are five questions you can ask yourself about an item to determine whether to keep it.

1. Will It Fit?

If the item is a piece of furniture, then make sure it will fit in your new home before you spend time and money moving it. Visit the new home and measure the dimensions of all doors and rooms. This way, you can quickly measure larger furnishings and determine if they'll fit through the doors and look proportional to your new rooms.

Sell anything that won't fit, this way you can get rid of stuff and make some money which you can use for your moving expenses.

2. Is It Safe to Move?

Some items are not safe to transport in a moving truck. In fact, if you hire a moving company, they won't even permit these items in the truck because hauling them is dangerous. Some of these items include:

Products in aerosol cans
Cleaning agents like bleach and ammonia
Fuels such as gasoline, diesel, and propane
Guns and ammunition

If you have these items and would like to keep them, then transport them to your new home in your personal vehicle. Otherwise, find a friend who would like them or contact your town to find out where you can dispose of hazardous waste.

3. Is It Still Your Style?

This is a good question to ask when it comes to clothing, decorations, linens, and more. Just because something still works does not mean you have to keep it when you move. In fact, moving might be a good opportunity to get rid of things you no longer love. If an item does not feel like you anymore, then donate it rather than bringing it to your new home where it will continue to sit unused.

Also, ask whether an item fits the style of your new home. For instance, you might have some wicker planters that look lovely in your current home but would look out of place in a home with a modern design. Our styles can change and evolve with time, and a move can be a great time to reinvent yourself and your style.

Consider the look and feel of your new home so that you can downsize the decorations, clothing, and furniture items that you will not need with the new style you are hoping to create for yourself. This can help you walk into this new and exciting chapter of your life with added confidence and freedom to create the aesthetic that you would like for your new home.

4. When Was the Last Time You Used It?

Sometimes, people have a tendency to hang onto things because they think someday they’ll use the item — but that day never comes. When you come across something you're not sure if you need, ask yourself when you last used it. If you have not used it in the last six months, then you should probably part with it — especially if it would only cost a few dollars to replace.

This can also be a great question to ask yourself because where you may be moving to will not require certain items. For example, if you are moving from a snowy climate to a more balmy one, you will not need to pack snow shovels, winter coats, and the like. You can effectively downsize your amount of items with just a few quick questions. This will save you time, energy, and money for your move.

5. Will Moving It Cost More Than It's Worth?

Some items are simply not worth moving because they are large, yet not valuable. For instance, if you have old, worn out patio furniture, then you may want to leave it behind rather than allowing it to take up room in the moving truck. If needed, you can find a similar set at a garage sale once you move in. Old appliances and extra drapes also fit into this category.

By getting rid of items you do not need, you ensure everything fits in the moving truck, keep moving expenses down, and minimize the time it takes to unpack.

And by downsizing your amount of items, you can give yourself the breathing room to create the new home of your dreams. Simple and effective downsizing behaviors can save you time and money that you can then devote to creating the living space that you have envisioned for your new chapter of life.

If you are looking for a moving company in the Baton Rouge area, then contact United Moving & Storage . We offer customizable packing plans to suit your specific needs.

Moving Guide: 3 Items That Require Extra Care

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 16:04:39 GMT

Before you move, you need to be aware of the items that require extra care. These items can easily sustain damage during the moving process without proper handling.

This blog post outlines three of the most delicate items that require special handling during a move.

1. Glassware

Glass is a brittle material that can easily break if you accidentally drop it or knock it against something. Extra care is necessary, especially when you want to pack and move glassware.

In addition, glass is a smooth material that can easily scratch or chip if you do not pack it properly. The scratches happen when the glass rubs against other items in the box. You need to use soft materials like bubble wrap to cushion and protect glassware during your move.

Glass is also transparent and can show fingerprints and smudges relatively easily. This problem is more noticeable when you unpack the glassware at your new home. You will need to clean the exterior properly before use to get rid of the smudges.

A professional moving company will consider all the relevant factors before they pack and move your glassware. They will use clean materials to cushion and protect your glassware so it arrives at your new home free of any damage.

In addition, your moving expert will wrap each piece of glassware individually and then pack everything in a box with soft materials like bubble wrap or foam peanuts. These protective materials ensure that the glassware does not move around or break inside the box during transport.

As an added protective measure, an experienced mover can label the box as fragile so that you and the rest of the moving staff will know to handle the box with care.

2. Artwork

Most pieces of art are often valuable, delicate, and sentimental. But unfortunately, they can just as easily sustain damage if you are not careful. For this reason, special care is necessary for different types of art during your move.

For example, you should only use acid-free packaging materials like bubble wrap or wax paper for paintings or other flat artwork to prevent scratches. Three-dimensional artwork requires even more care due to the higher risk of breakage. You can wrap each piece individually in soft materials such as blankets or towels and then use a sturdy box for storage.

Some pieces of art are also quite bulky and awkward to move. You might need to disassemble some of these larger pieces for a safer move. If you are not sure how to dismantle them, a professional mover can do the job for you and ensure that your artwork arrives at your new home in the same condition as before.

Generally, you need to take special care to avoid bumps during transport. Once you arrive at your destination, unpack the art pieces carefully and promptly so that you can address any damage right away.

3. Electronics

You and your family probably own multiple electronic devices. Besides large TVs, electronics usually consist of laptops, smartphones, tablets, or desktops. All of these are important, but they can require special handling to ensure they do not fall, break, or become damaged during the move. Also, electronics also come with wires that can tangle, cause tripping, or become lost without proper handling.

How can you ensure the proper handling of your electronics? First, you might want to take extensive photographs of all devices to ensure nothing gets lost in the move. Make sure to take clear pictures of where the wires go to avoid mixing them up and not being able to turn electronic devices on after your move.

After this, know what packing materials that are best for each electronic. While laptops or tablets might be easy to store in small backpacks or bags, TVs and desktops are best stored in either their original packaging or cardboard boxes with enough cushioning. TVs and desktops often require additional disassembling and cushioning for various components, such as monitors, towers, or speakers.

Also, to ensure that your electronics all have their proper wires once you’ve moved, take care to carefully label and store all wires with their respective electronics to easily identify and reassemble every electronic device.

A moving company can easily recommend what packaging and cushioning materials your electronics need and might even provide them themselves. Once you have the right materials ready, they can easily disassemble most electronics, pack and load them carefully, and reassemble them upon arrival to your new home.

We hope you found this blog post helpful! If you want to move, our experienced staff at United Moving & Storage can help you take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your delicate items. Contact us today for a detailed moving quote. We look forward to helping you move safely and successfully.

5 Situations When a Mobile Container Is Better Than Other Moving Options

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 23:31:15 GMT

Although many home and business owners rely on the services of traditional moving companies and trucks, an increasing number of Americans are discovering the benefits of mobile storage containers as well. How can a mobile storage container help you as you move? Why might it be a better fit than a moving truck? Read on to learn five of the best times to consider mobile storage options.

1. When You Are Remodeling

A commercial or personal renovation is the perfect time to try out mobile storage containers. The container service will deliver the container to your home or business and leave it there for you to fill and organize. Many owners then leave the container on their property for convenience until the renovation is complete.

With all the chaos inherent in a big remodel, a mobile container makes things easier for everyone. You save money by managing your own temporary move. You (and your family or employees) have access to the container if you do need something. You can rotate things in and out as construction moves through different stages. And you can always change your mind and have the container moved offsite.

A container also allows families or companies to continue as much as possible with business as usual. It keeps the construction area safer and neater. It allows you to conduct operations with the public and still present a clean and neat appearance. It also frees up space in all your structures by moving storage out of your way.

2. When You Want a Budget Compromise

While most people agree that a full-service move is the best way to go, it is not always within the budget. Traditionally, that has meant relegation to a DIY move with the homeowner or business owner doing all the loading, unloading, transportation, storage, and more.

Now, you can find a compromise that saves money and still provides some benefits. While you generally load and unload the mobile container yourself, you do not have to move it or store it. This cost-effective modern solution comes with budget-friendly prices for all these services — so even the broke college student or struggling entrepreneur can afford to get help.

3. When You Don't Want to Drive

Some home and business owners prefer to pack up and load their own belongings. You might want to ensure that your belongings are handled with care. Perhaps you want to work at your own pace, or maybe you are just someone who likes to do things their way.

Unfortunately, packing your own goods generally also means driving large moving trucks — something many people are not comfortable or familiar with. A long-distance move or tight city traffic makes this challenge even more intimidating. With storage container-based moving, you can handle as much of the packing and loading as you want and still let professionals handle the maneuvering and transportation.

4. When Your Plans Change

Mobile containers reduce stress and cost when your moving or renovation plans do not really include a firm timeline, specific locations, or a definite inventory. When you hire a moving truck, for instance, you must be ready to go on that one day, and you will get a set schedule when you must unload at the other end. But what if your plans are still up in the air?

Even before you finalize your plans, you can move forward more easily with a mobile container. You often need little information about the final destination of your belongings when arranging for services. You may keep the container on-site for longer periods and even move it between multiple destinations. If you need to extend storage, this is often a simple process.

5. When It Includes Sensitive Items

Many businesses have concerns about security and privacy. A big company move may include sensitive company information, proprietary technology or equipment, personal or protected customer data, or expensive prototypes. If you are not comfortable with outside individuals handling such items throughout the moving process, a mobile container may assuage all your concerns.

With a mobile container, your own people fill the container and close it up. You will not have to share that container with others, and no one will see your items as they are being transported. The moving company simply handles transportation and lets you control the rest of the move.

Where to Learn More

Could a mobile storage container help you through any of these challenging situations? No matter whether you are renovating, relocating, rearranging, or facing an uncertain future, this could be a budget solution with many conveniences.

Start by learning more from the team at United Moving and Storage . We will work with you to understand all your options and choices so you find the moving or storage answer that fits best. Call or visit today.

8 Ways to Use Attrition to Reduce Belongings Before Moving

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 01:21:51 GMT

Do you need to purge or de-clutter your belongings before moving? While this is one of the most common pieces of advice from moving professionals, it can be hard to actually do. Many people struggle with sentimental attachment, a lack of time to devote to purging, or confusion about how to do this massive project. If you find yourself facing these challenges, one thing that can help is to make use of attrition.

How can attrition — the wearing down or thinning of something through gradual, often natural, forces — help with purging? Here are a few ways to use it in your own life to make moving day easier and simpler.

1. Eat Your Food

One of the most logical places to whittle down belongings before moving is the kitchen. Make a determined effort to reduce your pantry, refrigerator, and freezer goods by eating them.

Look up recipes online for less common staples like canned goods. Use baking supplies to bake gifts to give to coworkers and friends as a goodbye present. Take baked goods to neighbors. And eat at home as much as is feasible to use up food supplies. As a bonus, you're likely to save money in the run-up to moving as well.

2. Use Up Toiletries

Assess your household's toiletries. A large and busy household may end up with quite an array of toiletries scattered throughout the home. Bring all these together and make an inventory. Then do your best to empty everything you have at home before buying any more. Make it a family game and offer rewards to those who do the best at consolidating and using up everything they can.

3. Get Rid of Duplicates

Duplication often occurs unnoticed over a long period of time. You might accumulate a whole cabinet of travel mugs over the years or have a broom closet filled with similar brooms. Whatever the duplication, this is an easy way to use attrition as a guide to toss the oldest and least effective in favor of the newer and more useful versions.

4. Talk with Friends

Talk with your circle of friends, family, and co-workers about items you're considering getting rid of. Many times, others are happy to take stuff that you don't use any more. This doesn't have to be a formal process like a yard sale or online posting. Send photos of items to group texts or chats or post them on personal social media. This will result in naturally and easily purging many of your larger goods.

5. Look at Expiration Dates

Go through your pantry, refrigerator, medicine cabinets, and garage to see what perishable items have expiration dates. Anything past its expiration date — or even just really old — is likely less effective and may even be hazardous. These things, therefore, are easy to purge without any guilt or second-guessing.

6. Go Digital

Want to reduce your physical goods organically without actually losing them? Then look for ways to go digital. Replace hardcopy books with digital versions — especially those which are in the public domain. Stream movies and use online music services, then get rid of the physical media. Scan household or home office documents. Switch to online invoicing. And ask for virtual gifts instead of physical ones.

7. Make It Into Gifts

Gifting belongings to friends and family is an excellent method to let go of things in a way that's positive and meaningful. Has your sibling admired a piece of art, a lamp, or a small kitchen appliance? Is your young niece or nephew furnishing an apartment for the first time? Is a coworker always commenting on a piece of jewelry you wear? Think about who might like things you have and make gifts of them.

8. Set a No-Buy Pledge

As a family, sit down together and make a pact to minimize or avoid buying new goods before the move. Decide not to go out to eat unnecessarily, not to buy new clothing or toys, to temporarily forgo replacement products, or to have purchases shipped directly to the new house. Cancel automatic deliveries and subscriptions. And designate certain days or weeks for skipping online shopping.

The less you purchase or replace now, the less you'll need to move. And because it's temporary, even the inconveniences will feel more manageable. Over time, this add-nothing approach will naturally reduce excesses throughout the house.

Want more tips for reducing what's in your home to be moved? Need to know what will have the most impact on the complexity or cost of your move? Start by meeting with the moving pros at United Moving and Storage . We will work with you to streamline your move and make it as stress-free as possible. Call today to make an appointment or find answers to your burning questions.

Moving to the Pacific Northwest? 7 Reasons to Choose Bremerton

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 21:49:57 GMT

Are you thinking of a move to the Pacific Northwest? While many people automatically think of larger metro areas like Seattle and Portland, looking a bit farther afield may yield better choices that better fit your lifestyle.

One such location is Bremerton, Washington. What does Bremerton offer that can make your life even fuller and more enjoyable? Here are a few of the best reasons to make it your new home.

1. Housing Is More Affordable

One common problem with large metropolitan cities like Seattle is the very high cost of living. According to bestplaces.net, the average cost of a home in Seattle is estimated to be $851,400 — well above the national average of $291,700. But if you look outside Seattle itself, you can get a home for less than half the price: $418,800. Similarly, food, entertainment, transportation, and health care can be much more reasonably priced.

2. You Get the Small Town Feel

As certain areas get more popular, they also get more crowded, busier, and more spread out. For many who want to move to the Pacific Northwest, though, the goal is to enjoy a quieter and more rural small-town life. Sadly, many formerly quiet areas are now busier than ever.

Located across the Sound from Seattle, Bremerton can still provide that cozy, small-town feeling. From local stores and markets to small theaters and volunteer-led festivals, you'll be able to get to know your neighbors and support local businesses. In addition, the remoteness of the natural world surrounding you makes it even easier to feel like you're in another world.

3. It's Close to Seattle

Bremerton may feel a world away from the bustling streets of Seattle, but it really isn’t. You can hop on a ferry and be in downtown Seattle in about 30 minutes. Prefer to drive? Go around the peninsula and be there in a little over an hour. Biking is even a popular way to travel to the big city.

Whatever transportation you choose, you can go into the city to enjoy its nightlife, museums, markets, and shopping while returning to your quiet little home whenever you want.

4. The Peninsula Is an Outdoor Paradise

Kitsap Peninsula is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts of all types. Dressed in the lush greenery of the Pacific Northwest, this area boasts access to the ocean and Puget Sound as well as interior lakes and trails.

Popular activities include hiking around forests and rivers, bicycle riding (both leisure and off-road), bird and whale watching, collecting seashells along the beaches, and water sports of all varieties. It's also a great gateway to nearby outdoor treasures like the Olympic National Park and the San Juan Islands.

5. It's a Naval Town

One of the most important elements of Bremerton's atmosphere is its naval base. Certainly, this means military families can enjoy a great place for kids and spouses while staying close to each other.

The naval environment also benefits nonmilitary households as it opens up this relatively quiet area to fascinating people and influences from all over the country. The naval influence is a proud tradition for Bremerton and builds on the community spirit.

6. You Can Still Wine and Dine

A big draw for cities like Seattle and Portland is the dining scene. The good news is that you don't have to live in a crowded downtown to enjoy great food and drink options. Like many modern towns, Bremerton is home to great restaurants featuring cuisine from all over the world. Better yet, its proximity to the ocean means fresh ocean oysters, clams, and trademark Pacific Northwest salmon.

What about the winery or brewery scene? Microbreweries are plentiful throughout the Peninsula just as they are in Seattle. Look for Columbia Winery, Bainbridge Brewing, Deep Draft Brewing, and Silver City, just to name a few.

7. It's On Its Way Up

The exodus of people from high-cost and crowded areas like Seattle's metro region means that communities like Bremerton are growing in the right ways. In recent years, the city has enjoyed a reduction in crime rates, a boost of new businesses, and increases in tourism. The shift to more remote work after the Covid-19 pandemic will assuredly help keep this trend going for many years.

While many people want to avoid too much gentrification, choosing a rural locale that is experiencing positive and balanced growth helps your family in many ways. Home prices will continue to appreciate, nightlife and activities will grow, services will remain funded, and opportunities for your kids will be better.

Where to Learn More

Want to know more about the many ways that Bremerton, Washington could be a perfect place to call home? Start by visiting this area and talking with the locals for first-hand experiences. The local moving team at United Moving & Storage can help. We're ready to assist newcomers in finding answers to all their questions and feeling welcomed to the Bremerton area. Call today to learn more.

How to Make Moving Less Stressful

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 21:14:35 GMT

The many unknowns in the relocation process can make you stressed and anxious. Moving involves a lot of factors, including money, paperwork, planning, research, and organization, which trigger complex emotions like fear, self-doubt, sadness, and anxiety. Here are some things that can protect your mental health as you move.

Adopt a Positive Mindset

You can swiftly get caught up in the stressful aspects of moving, such as how much you have to pack. Instead, get excited about the fresh chapter in your life and focus on exploring your new neighborhood. Make a list of all the adventures and activities you look forward to once you settle in the new place.

However, don't blame yourself if you aren't in a good mood the whole time. Accept that stress is part of the moving process and acknowledge negative feelings when they happen.

Start Early

If you're a procrastinator, you may take a while to pack, declutter, and sort your belongings. However, you're likely to get anxious if you feel like you're running out of time. Keep in mind that you need more time than you think you do. For example, if you figure that you require two weeks to pack up your three-bedroom home, start at least a month before.

A two-month schedule gives you enough time to declutter, create an inventory, set up a budget, host a garage sale, pack, and switch utilities. You should have done most of the tasks by the moving week to maintain low stress levels.

Draft a Moving Checklist

You have to remember so much when you move, and you can forget important things. A moving checklist establishes a moving timeline and defines your responsibilities. If you hire movers, include their roles too to simplify the relocation process. Print out the compilation and have it with you during the entire experience.

A moving checklist keeps you organized as you can get overwhelmed without a point of reference. The step-by-step approach ensures you remember everything, even if you have a limited timeline.

Declutter

When you walk around your home, you may discover that you have hoarded more stuff than you thought. The more cluttered your current residence is, the more anxious you are about packing. Thus, get rid of all unwanted items before you pack up your home.

Sort all your stuff into things to keep, sell, donate, or throw away. If you have many items in good condition that you don't need, organize a yard sale or post them on online marketplaces. Another tip is to digitize anything you can, such as photographs, documents, and home movies.

Enlist Help

Moving interferes with your routine, and you likely need help with babysitting, carpooling, and other tasks. Ask friends and family for moving help to shorten the moving process. However, don't let them move large appliances that can cause injuries.

A top-rated local mover relocates furniture, electronics, hot tubs, and other specialty assets safely and packs, loads, unpacks, and arranges your items. A moving company also completes the move in a short time, thanks to years of experience and special equipment. You can relax as the moving experts protect your assets during the entire move.

Stay on Budget

The thought of how much money you spend on your move is enough to make anyone anxious. Additionally, financial surprises along the way can stress you out if you don't set aside enough money. Set a moving budget and find ways to save on costs. For example, check local grocery stores for high-quality boxes instead of buying them. Also, don't spend money on unnecessary things to stay on budget.

Make Time for Self-Care

People forget to take care of themselves when they move as they worry about the mess, sleep poorly, or eat unhealthy foods. Moving isn't the time to binge on pizza, skip meals, or avoid exercise. Instead, keep up a healthy routine that includes enough sleep, healthy food, and physical activities.

Take breaks as you declutter, and listen to music or walk around the neighborhood. You should also keep up your usual routine as much as possible, whether it's a night out or family dinner every week.

Keep Important Documents and Valuables with You

Moving is hectic, and you can lose important stuff during the confusion. You'll get frustrated if you can't find passports, insurance papers, house deeds, and other essential documents on moving day. Thus, store such documents in one file and keep them in an accessible place.

Get a box to store small valuables like jewelry, keys, and electronics and transport them in your vehicle. For large valuables like family heirlooms and antique furniture, entrust them to a reliable mover.

The secret to a stress-free mover is a seasoned mover who understands your moving needs. At United Moving & Storage, we appreciate that moving is a bittersweet process, and we provide everything you need for a smooth transition. Contact us today to enjoy an outstanding relocation experience.

Moving Services & Guides You Couldn't Use 15 Years Ago

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 18:27:28 GMT

If it's been a long time since you've moved, you will quickly notice the whole industry is full of change. While the basic supplies like boxes and tape are the same, modern technology has helped moving as a whole. In the past fifteen years, there have been numerous innovations and changes to make your move go seamlessly.

Learn about some of the changes so you can take advantage and make the most of your move. Each change will help you save time and make the moving process easy.

Online Quotes

When you hire professional movers, a quote is essential to know the price of the move and budget your resources. Today, you can get quotes online directly from many moving companies. An online quote will typically include a set of questions. You will need your old address, new address, and how many rooms within the home you need to move.

You have the option to see moving quotes for different services like storage units, unpacking services, and the moving of delicate furniture. In some cases, you may supply pictures to showcase specific pieces of furniture or appliances you need to be moved. The digital quote process goes faster and doesn't require a moving company to go to your house.

Mobile Storage Containers

Back in the day, when a moving truck showed up with your items, you had to be there to help move them out and direct movers. Now people with time constraints have the option to help the moving process with mobile storage containers.

When you use this service, a mobile storage container is dropped off at your current house. You’ll fill the container on your schedule and set a pick-up time. The mobile container is then brought to your new home and dropped off. There, you can take your time to unpack all of the items at your convenience. Once completely unpacked, the empty container is picked up.

You have the option to select different-sized containers based on your needs. The containers sit flat on the ground and make it easy to walk in bulkier items like furniture, appliances, and electronics.

GPS Tracking

Moving companies rely on the trust and confidence of consumers to get the job done in a professional and proficient manner. One of the newest ways to provide customers with such trust is through GPS tracking services. During your move, you can gain access to a GPS tracking website that allows you to follow the progress of the moving truck.

Follow the GPS as the truck arrives or when the truck is in transit to your new home. The GPS tracking system will help you time trips and know when to meet the movers at your destination. Tracking is available for all vehicles, including services like a mobile storage container. If there are issues like traffic or detours, you can stay up to date with tracking information.

Advanced Map Tools

Online map tools have gone through many advancements over the years. New features like street view and satellite view will give you a clear picture of your moving journey. With street view, you can plan your move and see different areas to park and coordinate the move. The street view allows you to take screenshots and showcase specific locations.

You can direct moving companies to park in specific areas and see nearby locations to help plan the move.

Moving Apps

The rise of smartphones in the last 15 years has dramatically changed the way people plan moves. Basic web browsers allow you to search for moving companies and contact them directly. Dedicated apps will also help you plan your move. One of the simplest apps to consider is a checklist app. Write out your moving checklist and use reminder notifications.

QR codes used with apps will help you stay organized. For example, you can attach a QR code to a box and then link the QR code to a complete list of items packed inside the box. Instead of digging through box after box to look for an item, you can simply scan the code and see a list of the items packed inside.

As you plan to unpack in a new house, you have the opportunity to plan out rooms with floor plan apps. Apps use advanced graphics and augmented reality to showcase how furniture and decorations will look in the space. The apps will give you clear visuals and help you stay organized as you plan out the new space.

In many cases, you will have items you do not want to bring to the new home. Rely on various apps to sell your items and arrange for pick-ups in the local area. With a phone app, you can take pictures, create a listing, and sell your items with ease. The process allows you to make a little money and get rid of items without the need to host a big yard sale.

For more information on modern moves and the services available, contact us at United Moving & Storage . We will help you with each step of the way and can guide you through all of the new services available.

Everything You Should Know About Packing Paper Before Your Move

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 06:57:34 GMT

How can paper help your next move? You've stocked up on bubble wrap, cardboard boxes, and heavy-duty tape. But what about paper? Before you prep for your next local move, take a look at everything you need to know about packing with paper.

What Type of Paper Should You Use?

Not all paper is equal—especially when it comes to your move. It's likely you already have a variety of paper products in your home. These could include newspaper, magazine pages, your child's old school assignments, construction paper, loose-leaf notebook pages, or wrapping paper. Even though these options all serve a purpose, some of them won't help during a move.

The specific type of paper you choose depends on a few factors. To select the best paper for a move, consider:

Ink or dyes. Newsprint and newspaper are heavy with ink. The color on the pages can transfer from the paper to anything you pack in it. This can result in permeant stains on fabric or delicate items. Avoid any paper with an inky print to reduce the risks during your move.
The weight. Thicker-weight papers are difficult to bend or crumple. The ability to ball or crumple is necessary to effectively cushion some types of moving boxes. Skip heavy card stock, cardboard, or poster board types of paper.
The overall size. Do you need to wrap wide dinner plates with packing paper? A small sheet won't help you to protect this type of item. Select paper that's large enough to completely wrap around the item you need to pack.
Sensitivity issues. Photographs, paintings, and other artwork may require acid-free or archival paper. These types of paper can protect sensitive items—minus the fear of chemical damage.

While you can use almost any type of paper that fits your needs, specialty packing paper is a top pick. You can buy packing paper at most shipping supply stores or online retailers. This paper is plain, ink-free newsprint and comes in sheets large enough to fit around many household items.

What Can You Wrap with Paper?

Now that you know more about what types of paper to use (or not use), it's time to take the next step and decide what to pack. Paper is an easy to use packing material. But it's not ideal for every item. Some of the most common items to pack with paper include:

Dishware. You can place packaging paper in between plates to reduce the risk of friction-related damage during your move. Along with this type of use, you can also crumble paper to place inside bowls or fill empty spaces with balled packing paper.
Glassware. Like dishware, you can also pack glassware with paper. Crumple or ball the paper to fit inside the glasses and fill them completely to the top. Wrap wine glass stems or the entire exterior with paper for added protection.
Decorative items. Use packing paper to wrap small-sized sculptures and other knick-knacks. You may need to cut or tear the paper to fit around awkwardly shaped decorative objects.
Photos and some types of art. Keep these light-, heat-, and moisture-sensitive items safe during your next move. You can layer paper in between photos or flat paintings or cover an entire album.

Along with these common uses, you can also stuff the sides or top of almost any type of box or bin with packing paper. Crumbled paper provides a cushion that can stop anything from books to beauty products from crashing into the container's walls, sides, or the top, mid-move.

How Do You Use Paper to Pack?

You already know you can wrap, layer, and crumble paper. But what else do you need to know about packing with this supply? To make the most of the material:

Use scissors or tear the paper. Newsprint and other paper sheets won't always fit neatly around every object. If you need to wrap the arms of a porcelain figurine or the stem of a champagne flute, tear or cut the paper to size.
Use multiple layers. One layer of paper won't always protect delicate or fragile items. You may need to cover dishware, knick-knacks, or other similar belongings with a double-wrap or more than one piece of packing paper.
Use tape. Paper isn't self-adhesive and can easily fall off mid-move. Use masking tape to secure everything you wrap in paper. You don't need to tape crumbled or balled paper that you use as extra box filling material.

After your move, unwrap everything and save the paper for the next time you need to pack. In 2018 Americans generated 67.4 million tons of paper waste, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Instead of tossing the leftover packing paper into the trash, reuse it.

Do you need help with your move? Contact United Moving and Storage for more information.

Best and Worst Days of Summer to Schedule a Move

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 26 May 2021 14:13:36 GMT

Are you ready to schedule your summer-time move? The warmer weather, longer days, increased home sales, and time off from work and school make the summer the peak moving season. Before you schedule your move, take a look at the best (and worst) days of the summer to choose.

The Best Summer Days of the Week to Move

In general, the best days of the week to schedule a move are Monday through Thursday. While these weekdays aren't always the top choice for everyone who needs to move, they are typically the easiest days to schedule an appointment with a moving contractor. This can give you the freedom to choose the week you want to move.

A mid-week move is also ideal for anyone who is on a tight timeline or if you waited until the last minute to schedule a moving service. An increased number of moves during the summer months may mean your last-minute weekend move is a no-go. If the mover is completely booked through the fall, ask about a Monday through Thursday option.

The Best Summer Days of the Month to Move

Again, summer moves aren't always easy to schedule — especially if you want to book a moving service after the peak season has already started. Along with the best days of the week to move, you also need to consider the time of the month.

Like mid-week moves, mid-month moves are also typically easier to schedule. Think about popular lease and rental schedules. Many leases start at the beginning of the month and end on the last day. This makes the first and last few days of each month busier for professional movers. If you want more freedom to schedule your summer move, you may need to choose a day in the second or third weeks of the month.

The Worst Summer Holidays to Move

You already know the weekends, beginning of the month, and end of the month are the busiest times of the peak moving season. Now that you've ruled out these days, what other times should you watch out for?

Whether you're on a strict schedule or you just want to reduce move-related stress, you need to know all the days to avoid. Along with weekends and the beginning and end of the month days, stay away from holiday and near-holiday times. Even though you may have time off from work for Memorial Day, July Fourth, or Labor Day, these holiday days are not the best times of the summer to move.

You aren't the only person who has these summer holidays off from work. It's likely that many other people who need to move are also on vacation for these days too. This could potentially make these days popular picks. Even if you can schedule a July third or day before Memorial Day move, you may not want to.

If you have holiday party plans, family coming to visit, or a trip to take out of town, you may want to wait until the holiday is over to move. Not only do you have plenty of other things on your mind during the days leading up to the holiday, it's likely you won't have the time to carefully prep and pack your entire home and move from point A to point B.

Beyond the ability to easily book a move and the time you'll have leftover to devote to this major life transition, a summer-time holiday professional moving service isn't always possible. Most moving contractors (like other businesses) close on major holidays. If your contractor of choice doesn't work on holidays, you've already eliminated Memorial Day, July Fourth, and Labor Day from the potential options.

Given the difficulty (or impossibility) of planning and booking a summer holiday move, the post-holiday days are often some of the best times to schedule this service. While you may not want to move immediately after a holiday, the following day is a realistic possibility. If you're already on a work or school vacation, you won't need to take off extra days. You'll also have the holiday time (and the day after) to rest, recharge, and get ready for your move.

The Worst Summer Days of the Season to Move

What other non-holiday days should you avoid? Ideally, you would book your moving service weeks or months ahead of time. But this doesn't always happen. If you need to move quickly, review the seven or 14-day weather forecast before you book an appointment with a contractor. Avoid excessively hot or stormy days.

Hot, humid, or wild weather can put you, your family, the movers, and your belongings at risk. While the weather won't always follow the forecast, the potential projections to provide one way to choose a moving day out of several different options.

Do you need to move this summer? Contact United Moving & Storage for more information.

A Guide to Creating Your Moving Day Kit

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 18:36:10 GMT

The day of your move is filled with a lot of excitement and emotions. You are mourning of the loss of one location and the memories you built there. At the same time, you are excited for the new hope and possibilities in another home. No matter what part of the emotional spectrum you find yourself on, you will likely feel stressed and overwhelmed.

A moving day kit will supply you with items and accessories to get through the process and ensure the move goes smoothly. Learn exactly what to prepare in the kit and how to have a positive moving day experience.

Kit Container

The versatility of a moving day kit gives you opportunities to choose multiple kit options. You may have an extra box or plastic tote lying around to use as a kit. Reusable shopping bags are durable and can handle a lot of weight for your moving kit items. Ensure you have something that can hold multiple items and is easy to transport from one home to the next.

Once you select the storage option, label the kit so you do not mix the container with other moving boxes and supplies.

Dining Items

As you go from one house to the next, you will probably get hungry and have limited access to your kitchen cutlery, pots, pans, and food. Also, the last thing you want to do on your first day in a new house is worry about getting extra dishes done. Your kit should contain disposable forks, knives, spoons, paper plates, and napkins.

The amount of items depends on how many people are involved with the move. Consider the use of biodegradable cutlery if you can find the items. The extra effort will reduce waste buildup in landfills. You should also include some quick snack options within the kit. Individual bags of chips, granola bars, or fresh fruits will give everyone some grab-and-go snack items.

The quick snacks will reduce hunger and give you an extra boost of energy. Add in small bottles of water as well so you have beverages when needed. You will not need to delay the move to go to a grocery store or make a quick snack run.

Magnetic Checklists

Simple in design, a magnetic checklist will provide you with easy ways to jot down notes and see reminders. Once you arrive at your new home, you can place the magnetic checklist notepad right on the fridge and see the list every time you enter the new kitchen.

The upfront visuals are more ideal than a list on your phone, and everyone involved with the move can easily read the list. Write down things you need to do, accomplish, and unpack. With each completed item, you will feel a sense of satisfaction and will keep the process moving along.

Small Tool Sets

As you settle down in the home, you may need access to tools to set up some items quickly. A kit doesn't need to have your whole tool box, but a few smaller tools are useful for some of the items you need to set up.

For example, you may need to take a door off its hinges to move larger items into a house or a specific room. You may need to set up a small shelf or attach pieces to a desk. A small flashlight will help you see dark areas as you plug in devices, connect cables, or access areas like deep closets and basements.

Ideally, your kit should include a small multi-bit screwdriver, an Allen wrench set, a flashlight, and a small hammer. After your move, you can keep the kit in a kitchen drawer so you can use it for small repairs in the future.

Moving Accessories

A kit should also include small accessories. Labels and markers allow you to keep track of items like boxes. Write out quick labels for specific rooms and keep all the boxes properly organized. A roll of duct tape or packing tape will provide extra reinforcements if you need to secure a box and keep it closed.

A pair of gloves will make it easier to lift and grip items like boxes or electronics. Extra gloves allow helpers to have a pair if needed. Consider the use of disposable shoe booties so you do not drag dirt or mud inside a new house. If you have to move during bad weather, the booties will add extra protection.

First-Aid Kits

A small first-aid kit is useful in case of cuts, scratches, and other small injuries. As you move and unpack items, you never know when an injury will occur. The last thing you want is to have blood drip on the surface of a new flood. A first-aid kit will provide you and others with bandages and cleaning wipes to cover up cuts and quickly move on with the unpacking process.

Plan your move with our professional services at United Moving & Storage . We will ease the stress of your move and have multiple options, including mobile storage containers and large moving trucks.

5 Ways to Save Time During a Move

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 17:07:39 GMT

There is no denying it, moving takes a lot of time. As you plan a move, you want to waste as little time as possible so you can settle down into a new home. Thankfully, some tips and shortcuts can help you save time, do things at your own pace, and worry less about any delays.

Follow the tips below to speed up a move and cut out wasted time on the journey to your new home.

1. Expert Packing & Moving

Even if you are capable of heavy lifting, you can save a lot of time with the use of professional movers for your packing and unpacking needs. With years of experience, a moving company knows the logistics of how to move items, especially bigger pieces of furniture. Do not waste time figuring out which way to turn and position a couch when a mover already knows.

Professional movers can move items out of an old house and into a new one. You can select which rooms to place items and do not need to waste time switching items or rearranging pieces of furniture. The expertise from trained movers will also help with packing up a truck and fitting extra items inside.

You do not need to worry about taking extra trips and wasting time going back and forth when a truck is packed efficiently.

2. Access to Moving Accessories

Not only can professional movers help carry items, but a moving company can supply some moving accessories to save time. One of the biggest time savers is a dolly. Instead of straining to carry individual boxes back and forth, you can stack multiple boxes on a dolly and roll them right up to a moving truck.

If you have multiple dollies, then multiple people can help with the move and save time carrying items on and off a truck. A moving truck often has a large ramp that you can pull out and use to climb up inside. A dolly rolls right up the ramp to provide easy access as you push items.

3. Moving Truck Tracking

Moving involves a lot of tasks, so the last thing you want to do is wait around for a moving truck to arrive. Keep the momentum going with moving truck tracking services. Many moving trucks are equipped with GPS systems, and customers are provided with digital access to the GPS tracking.

Using an overhead map, you can see exactly where a moving truck is and the estimated time of arrival. With the information, you can get tasks done and do not need to guess when a truck will arrive. When you know the truck is close, you can have items ready to load onto the moving truck.

4. Container Moving

Another option to help save time is through mobile container moving services. Instead of a moving truck, a portable storage container is placed on your property. You can fill the container with your moving items and then schedule a pickup time for it. One of the biggest benefits of a container is working at your own pace.

You can save time during the day and focus on moving during night hours. You do not have to rush and can sneak in little moments to add items to the container. While the process may include more overall days, you do not need to dedicate a huge chunk of time just to moving. You can remain focused on other tasks like work or hobbies.

The container drop-off also helps save time. You do not need to rush and meet a moving truck. The container is placed down and will wait until you are ready to unpack for your new home.

5. Extended Storage

When you use moving services, not everything needs to be delivered directly to a new home. You can save time by only having essential items moved there first. The rest of the items can remain at a storage facility until you are ready. By starting out with just the essentials, you can have the basic layout of the home set up and good to go.

You do not need to worry about sifting through multiple boxes or weaving your way through a maze of boxes to reach specific rooms. Once the core of the home is set up, you can have the rest of the storage delivered and unpack all the little items you have stored up.

When you break down each part of the move, you will remain more organized and save a lot of time. You will procrastinate less and have time to focus on specific rooms.

If you want to save time with the moving process, contact us at United Moving & Storage. We will help you plan out your move and provide services to help save as much time as possible. Every situation is different, so we can evaluate and provide additional tips and advice.

5 Ways to Organize Items Inside a Moving Container

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 17:16:50 GMT

Renting a moving truck requires you to drive, operate, and park the large truck in an ideal unloading location. As you plan your move, you can save a lot of time and hassle with a moving container instead of a truck. The container is parked right in front of the home. Once filled, a truck picks up the container and drops it off at your new home for easy unloading options.

As you plan out your container use, you want to make the most out of the available space. Follow tips and trick to organize items, save a lot of space, and get the full value out of the container rental.

1. Pack Carpets First

Before you begin to load the container, the first thing you should focus on are the carpets. If you are moving throw carpets, area rugs, or floor mats, you can save a lot of space by placing the items flat down on the bottom of the container. If you were to roll up the carpets, you would take up a lot of space and the carpets would suddenly become bulky.

Once you lay the carpets flat, add a little protection with a plastic protective cover or film. You could also lay out a large sheet you don't mind getting stepped on or dirty. Once you unload the container, the carpets will remain flat, and you do not have to worry about any curled edges or creases that may occur when the carpet is rolled up.

2. Place Furniture Face-Up

After you lay the carpets inside the moving container, your next focus should be on bulky furniture. When you place furniture inside the moving container, try to keep the furniture facing straight up. The open spaces on couches, tables, and chairs will give you plenty of room to stack boxes and other small items on.

Fill the whole bottom layer of the moving container with the furniture. Save a little extra space by removing cushions from couches and chairs. You can easily fit the cushions inside the backseat of a vehicle and use the extra space to store additional items.

3. Use Open Totes

As you fill up a moving container, you should keep an open plastic tote right on the outside of the container. The plastic tote will help you store little items as you go. Also keep plastic zip-up baggies with the container. For example, if you have a computer to pack, you can place power cords into a plastic bag, label the bag, and toss the bag into the tote.

As you move furniture and other items, small parts might fall off or you may remove them to save space. For example, you may remove plastic bed risers from the bottom of a bed frame. By labeling and placing the items in a single tote, you will easily find the items as you unpack your home.

When you keep the tote next to the container, you can stay organized and do not have to delay your packing.

4. Hang Magnetic Hooks

The inside of a moving container is often reinforced with protective steel beams to keep items safe while the container travels from one destination to another. Take advantage of the steel beams with the use of heavy duty magnetic hooks. As you pack up the container, you can use the hooks to hang items and keep them secure for the duration of the move.

For example, if you pack extension cords, charging cables, or other cords, you can hang them directly on the hooks and not worry about tangles or issues. The magnetic hooks can also hold lighter bags with items.

Larger hooks will help you organize and keep track of long items. You can evenly space out three hooks across the side of the moving container. The hooks can hold items like pool cues, weed trimmers, rakes, shovels, and other long tools. Utilize the magnetic system on both sides of the container to fit more items.

When you hang items on the side, you will save a lot of room in the middle to fit bulkier items.

5. Place Mattresses Last

At first, you may feel inclined to place a mattress on the bottom of the moving container. Not only does a thick mattress take up a lot of space, but other furniture could impact mattress springs and cause possible warping. If you leave a little ceiling space inside the moving container, then you can place the mattress right on top of the other items.

The mattress will not have pressure and can slide right into the top. Once the container is delivered to your new location, you can easily pull out the mattress first, place it in the home and continue the rest of the unpacking process. If you have a box spring to pack, place the box spring first and then the mattress on top.

For all of your moving needs, contact us at United Moving & Storage . We will help set you up with a moving container and make your move easier with our pickup and drop-off services.

Beyond the Truck: 7 Valuable Services Moving Companies Provide

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 16:34:49 GMT

Moving to a new house can be a stressful event for many people. In addition to your normal activities of working, going to school, keeping your family fed, and recreating, you also have to pack up your house, organize it, and trek it all to a new location — only to face the same tasks on the other side.

One thing that can make this often-dreaded experience better is to utilize all the services of a professional moving company. But do you know all the services and assistance a mover can really provide? Chances are that you don't. To help you take advantage of this valuable resource, discover seven of the many ways movers can take the load off your shoulders.

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1. Packing Up

Trained movers make short work of the task of packing up your belongings into boxes and preparing them for transport. This process normally takes most homeowners weeks or longer — a time few people have available. Not only can professionals shorten the time frame, but they're also trained in the best techniques for safety and security. Most also provide high-quality packing products to handle the job.

2. Disassembling and Reassembling

Do you have large furnishings or other items that need taking apart and then reassembling in their new locations? Disassembly and reassembly can be particularly tricky because they involve a detailed process that requires you to note all the parts involved, store them safely with the unit, and know how to put them back together again. Ask your moving service about handling this job for anything unusual, sensitive, or complex.

3. Transporting

Obviously, movers' primary role is to transport your goods from one house to another. Moving companies train their employees in the safest methods to move heavy or fragile items. They know how best to secure goods inside trucks or cargo containers to avoid damage. And they will track your goods throughout the journey. All you need to do is get yourself and your family to the new house.

4. Vehicle Transporting

During most domestic moves, the householder drives at least one vehicle to their new home. But if you have several vehicles, it may not be cost-effective — or even possible — to drive all of them across the country.

Most moving services can also prepare and transport various vehicles for you. This includes cars, trucks, trailers, recreational vehicles, and off-road vehicles. And if your new home isn't ready to receive them yet, they can often store vehicles securely as well.

5. Unpacking and Placing

Packing up your home is only half of the job when you move houses. The other half is to decide where everything goes and get it all unpacked for use again. And you have to do this while getting used to a new location.

Unpacking and placement of furniture and boxes is one of the most valuable services you can get from a company. When professionals carry and place heavy furniture and boxes, this prevents injury to you. This is also a time-saver because multiple trained professionals make things go quickly. And you can handle other tasks — like setting up the kids' rooms or focusing on your new job — while they handle unpacking.

6. Cleaning Up

Be sure to ask your moving company if they provide cleanup services for your old home. As the arduous work of packing up and clearing out the old house is done, few homeowners then want to go back through to thoroughly clean it. If moving out with a deadline or in a long-distance move, you may not even have time to handle this part. Outsourcing it to professionals can be the best investment you'll make at this stage.

7. Storing

Not every move happens in an ideal time frame. For instance, if you have to sell a house before buying a new one or you need to remodel your new space, you may not be able to put your belongings straight into their new home. In situations like this, you'll need a safe place to store things en masse. Many moving services can offer their own storage facilities or work with partners who provide secure storage.

Storing your stuff with the moving company is a smart and economical way to do it. You'll work with just one company the entire time so you have more confidence and easier communication. They can also bundle this service with other services for a better price. And your goods will be subject to only one organizational system the whole way.

Do you need help with any of these jobs during your big move? If so, start by consulting with a qualified moving company to learn more. United Moving & Storage can help. From local moves to interstate or even international ones, our logistics team offers a wide array of valuable services. Call today to talk to a moving professional.

Do You Really Need a Professional for a Local Move?

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 18:46:43 GMT

Are you moving across town — or even across the street? Even though your move isn't far, you may still need to hire a professional company to help. If you're not sure whether you need to hire a moving service for your local move or how this service can help to make the process easier, take a look at the questions to ask right now.

Does Distance Matter?

A local move may not come with the same logistical issues as a long-distance one. But that doesn't mean a 10-mile move is any less stressful than one that takes you across the country. Whether you move 1, 10, 100, or 1,000 miles, your move will require:

Transportation. Unless you plan to carry every box, bin, bag, or piece of furniture by hand, you need a vehicle to transport these items from your old home to the new one.
Heavy lifting. Your couch won't get lighter or easier to carry just because you plan to move five miles away. Whether you have a large family or plenty of friends to help, or you need to hire a professional, you'll need assistance with the heavy lifting.
Time and energy. While a local move may not require days of travel, the process will still take time and energy. This means you'll need to take time off work or arrange for child care during your local move.

Between the transportation needs, lifting issues, and the time a move takes, this isn't a solo process to tackle without professional help. If you're still not sure whether your short-distance move really requires the assistance of an expert, talk to the moving contractor. The moving company's staff can help you to better understand what they can do for you, your family, and your move.

Is a Moving Service Cost Prohibitive?

Do you want to save money on your local move? A do-it-yourself job isn't the only answer. While a local move may seem easier than the long-distance version, you'll still have costs associated with the transportation and other related issues.

A professional company can help you save money on your local move and:

Provide the transportation. Again, you need some way to transport everything from point A to point B. You could make a dozen trips back and forth in your car or rent your own truck. But these options may cost more overall in the price of gas and lost time.
Provide the equipment. Do you have an appliance dolly or a truck lift for heavy furniture? If you don't have the right equipment, you'll need to rent or buy these items. For a one-time local move, these costs could outweigh the price you'll pay to hire a professional for the job.
Provide the lifting power. Not only can heavy lifting raise the risk of strain or injury, but it can take precious time away from your day. A DIY move could cost you money in lost work time or other similar productivity losses.

Get estimates from two or three different moving companies in your area. To save money, ask about (and decline) unnecessary extra services. Some, but not all, moving companies may include packing or organizational charges.

Is the Extra Help Necessary?

A long-distance move may take you to an area where you have no friends or family to help. This means you'll need to rely on a professional to help with the transportation and unpacking processes. But do you need this assistance for your local move?

Even though you may have plenty of friends and family who live in your local area, you likely still need extra help. If you're not sure whether you need help from a professional, consider:

The number of items you need to move. Without a multi-state trip, you may not feel the need to declutter and trim down the number of items you plan to move. This means you may have more to move locally. The larger quantity requires the extra assistance of a pro.
The amount of help you will have. Even though you're moving locally, friends and family who live in the area may not have the ability (or desire) to help you move. Before you assume your friends will carry furniture or drive a truck, ask. If they can't help, you need to hire a mover.
The types of items you need to move. A heavy couch, piano, or other awkwardly-shaped item requires extra help to move. You may need the help of a professional to transport items your friends and family can't lift or carry on their own.

Along with the heavy lifting and carrying, a professional mover provides transportation. While a local friend or family member may have a van, SUV, or pickup, you may need a larger, full-sized truck for your move. The moving company will provide the vehicle that your friends or family can't.

Do you need help with your move? Contact United Moving & Storage for more information.

Planning a Move? What to Do Before the Big Day

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 18:56:01 GMT

Are you moving in a few weeks or months? Even though your move isn't an immediate event, you can start the planning and packing processes right now. Take a look at how you can prepare well in advance of your move-out/move-in day.

Hire a Moving Company

Do you need professional help with your move? A moving company can save you money in lost time, truck rentals, and other related costs. Beyond the price of the move, a professional provides the experience, expertise, and equipment necessary for a stress-free moving day. Before you hire a moving company, ask your would-be contractor:

How far in advance do you schedule moves? The sooner you can schedule your move, the better. If your move isn't for months, ask the company if they'll allow you to choose a day right now. This guarantees you'll get the date and time you need for your move.
What types of items do you move? Some moving contractors specialize in items such as pianos or oversized appliances. If you have special, fragile, or other items that may require extra attention, make sure the movers know how to handle your belongings.
How do you charge? Does the moving company charge one flat fee, by the truckload, or by weight? Ask the mover for a written estimate that includes all the costs before you sign a contract.
How long have you served the local community? Ask the contractor about their experience. Look for a contractor who has a long-standing history of working in one community. Constant location or company name changes are red flags to watch for.

After you hire a moving company you can take the next step and begin the packing process.

Plan to Pack

You may still have weeks or longer until your moving day arrives. But that doesn't mean you should wait until the last minute to pack. Even though you don't need to completely box or bin everything in your home immediately, you can still create and start working on a plan.

As you plan to pack, consider:

The packing materials. Do you have the right packing materials? You may need boxes, bins, bags, bubble wrap, tape, newsprint, or specialized containers such as wardrobe boxes, divided corrugated cardboard containers, and garment bags.
A moving inventory. This written or typed list should include everything you need to move. Organize the inventory by room, type of item, season, or another category. You can start the inventory weeks or months before your move and continuously add to it.
A schedule. When should you pack? Create a timeline for all packing activities. Include time points for when you'll organize packing materials, complete your inventory, and pack each type of item.

The more items you need to move, the more complex the planning phase may become. Start early to make this phase manageable. A longer planning phase allows you to take a relaxed approach to the move and can reduce your overall stress level.

Pack Some of Your Items

What should you pack in the time leading up to your move? Again, you don't need to pack everything weeks ahead of your move-out date. If you pack items you need daily or may use before you move, you'll have to undo your efforts and repack some things. Instead of these types of packing picks, start with:

Out of season items. Pack opposite season items (such as skis in the summer or bathing suits in the winter) first. Chances are you won't need these items in months or longer. This means you won't need to unpack the items anytime soon.
Holiday décor. Along with larger seasonal items, you can also safely pack holiday décor. Christmas ornaments, an Easter wreath, or a St. Patrick's Day display can go into boxes and bins long before your kitchen or dining room items.
In-storage items. You don't use the furniture, home accents, papers, and other items you already have in storage regularly. Either keep these items in the boxes or bins they're stored in or re-pack them in sturdier (movable) containers.
Guest items. The bed linens and towels in your guest room aren't likely to get much use in the weeks before your move. Pack these items, along with guest room furniture and accents, as soon as you schedule the move-out/move-in day.
Entertaining items. I f you don't have a party planned in the weeks before your move, pack fine china, serving-ware, and other similar items. These pieces often require special protection and may take longer to pack.
Home décor. A neutral or blank space can help to sell a home. If you haven't sold your soon-to-be old home, pack decorative items (such as knick-knacks, photos, and artwork) as soon as possible.

The closer you get to your move, the more you can pack. Some items, such as clothing and toiletries, should wait until the day before or even the day of your move.

Do you need help with your next move? Contact United Moving & Storage for more information.

Moving Services Ideal for Senior Citizens

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 19:00:09 GMT

Moving services are created to serve different needs, including specific options put in place for senior citizens. Without the right amount of strength and mobility, a move can be exhausting and stressful for a senior citizen. Eliminate all the stress with the use of moving services. Read below to see what options a moving company can offer to help you.

Downsizing Options

When you decide to downsize, you’ll probably need to get rid of a fair amount of items from your home. Even if you do not want the items in the home any longer, a moving company can still help with the transportation process. For example, one of the services offered by moving companies is donation delivery.

Donation delivery could include clothes, books, or old pieces of furniture you no longer need. A moving company will help box up, sort, and manage the items you no longer need. A truck will provide the transportation and help select the proper donation locations the company has worked with for numerous years.

You can feel good knowing your donation will help others while you downsize your home. In some cases, you may have items you do not want to donate, but eventually want to sell through other means like a yard sale. Before you transport the items to your new home, consider the use of a moving company storage facility.

The storage facility can house your unwanted items until you're ready to sell them or gift the items to others. Once you are ready for the items, a moving company will deliver all your storage contents to your new location.

Move-In Ready Options

As a senior, packing and unpacking takes up a lot of energy and could present multiple challenges. A full-service moving company will provide move-in ready options to handle most of the work and ensure the move goes smoothly.

You can guide a moving company and tell them your exact plan for furniture, appliances, and other items in the home. The move-in ready process allows you to show up in your home with everything all set up and good to go. You will save a lot of time and effort, allowing you to enjoy your home without so much unpacking.

The move-in ready options include services for little items as well. For example, a mover will unpack all of your dishes and put them away in cabinets. You will settle in your new home quickly and have extra time to get used to the layout.

Electronic Connections

Along with unpacking items for your home, a moving company will help with any electronic connections you need. Bending over, reaching for cords, and mounting televisions may present multiple challenges. With an electronic connection service, the movers will hook up televisions, connect computers, and test out the connections to ensure everything is good to go.

The connections may also include any appliances you bring with you for the move. Examples include stoves, refrigerators, washers, dryers, or coffee makers. As you do an inventory of the items you need to move, consider the various electronics you would like connected, and make sure to find a moving company that will help you with that.

Furniture Moving and Protection

Not only do moving companies provide you with the services to move your home, but the movers will use specific methods to provide protection for your furniture. For example, the movers will rely on furniture pads and carpet runners for larger and delicate items. The protective measures will protect both the furniture and the floors of the new home.

Special packing techniques and protective methods will help with sensitive items like paintings or antiques. The movers also have years of experience packing trucks so you will feel confident that items are not just shoved and jammed into the back of the truck.

Health-Aware Services

Cleanliness is another important aspect of a professional moving companies. Senior citizens are more prone to catching diseases, and movers provide ways to limit contact and still provide full service needs. The first step is to open all the windows and doors in a residence. The air flow will prevent germ contact and allow a circulation of fresh air to flow through the home.

The open window process will be done in both homes and the movers will ensure windows and doors are shut and secure once the packing or unpacking completes. They can also sanitize door handles, knobs, and commonly touched areas to help prevent the spread of germs.

Gear like gloves and masks provide an extra step in the cleaning process and will add extra reassurance that the moving process remains germ-free.

For more information on our moving services, contact us at United Moving & Storage . We will accommodate to your needs and provide services to help with every aspect of your move.

How to Move Without Harming Your Health: 5 Strategies to Consider

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 19:31:46 GMT

Moving inevitably requires some planning and effort, even if you choose to hand over most of the physical workload to a professional mover. To ensure a happier, healthier experience, you must safeguard yourself against potential threats to your well-being such as injuries, respiratory problems, or sheer exhaustion.

The more awareness you develop about moving-related health concerns, the more easily you can plan around them and avoid them. Take the following five strategies to heart as you plan your upcoming move.

1. Off-Load the Hardest Work to the Professionals

One simple way to avoid moving-related health issues involves letting professional movers do as much of the work as possible. A full-service move may include everything from downsizing your current list of items to packing, transporting, unpacking, moving items to the appropriate locations, and disassembling and reassembling items.

This strategy may prove especially helpful, or even crucial, for seniors with mobility issues and individuals with disabilities or other health conditions. Your physician can help you decide which moving activities you can safely perform and which require outside aid.

2. Lift From the Legs and With a Friend

Back injuries occur with depressing regularity, affecting over one million workers each year. Heavy lifting errors account for some 75 percent of those injuries. However, you can sustain such an injury either in the workplace or at home if you lift heavy items improperly during a move.

The most common heavy lifting injuries affect the lower back. Muscular strain in this area can debilitate you for several weeks, placing your move in jeopardy while leaving you in agony. You may sustain joint or ligament damage at the same time. If you have a spinal misalignment, a lumbar vertebral disc may dislodge and rupture.

To avoid this kind of injury, never stoop over an object or try to lift it with your back muscles. Instead, bend your knees while keeping your back straight. Have someone else on hand to help you if the load seems too heavy, unbalanced, or awkward to handle by yourself.

Proper care of your back begins before you ever attempt to lift any heavy object. Limber up your back muscles and joints by performing rotational and stretching exercises before engaging in heavy lifting. Make sure you have a clear, safe pathway and good visibility before you start moving that heavy object.

3. Protect Your Respiratory System

When you start moving items that have remained tucked away in closets or corners for years, you may get a face full of dust, dust mites, discarded insect parts, dander, and mold. These substances naturally collect on long-neglected items. Dust mites and mold thrive in warm, humid environments.

Many people suffer allergic reactions to the dust and debris kicked up during a move. Symptoms include runny eyes and nose, itching, sneezing, coughing, and breathing difficulties. If you have asthma or eczema, you may experience an acute flare-up of your condition.

If you must disturb or handle dusty, moldy items, wear a protective mask. While an ordinary dust mask will keep nuisance dust (non-toxic particulate matter) out of your mouth, nose, and lungs, you may need a more elaborate respirator-type mask to keep yourself safe against mold and other allergens.

Don't forget to protect other sensitive parts of your body against irritating substances as needed. Consider wearing long sleeves, long pants, gloves, or goggles if you plan on spending much time around known allergens.

4. Watch Out for Sharp Objects

A razor-sharp kitchen knife, icepick, pair of scissors, meat skewer, or other household implement can give you a painful surprise if you have failed to pack it with the proper care. These items not only pose a danger when unloading them from packages, but they can also poke their way through cardboard boxes.

You can protect yourself (and anyone else involved in your move) from these threats by grouping your sharp items and packing them together in properly labeled boxes. Bind all your kitchen knives together and wrap them in multiple layers of bubble wrap, packing them in a single block.

If you must pack sharp objects separately, wrap each object in multiple layers of packing paper. Stuff additional paper or other material into the box to prevent the sharp objects from touching each other (and potentially cutting each other's packing materials open).

5. Stay Rested and Hydrated

Don't let the excitement of your move deprive you of the sleep you need. Schedule additional bedtime hours if necessary to ensure healthy amounts of sleep both before and during your move. This rest will help you stay alert and energized so you can move more safely and efficiently.

Hydration also plays an important role in good health, especially during long hours of sweaty physical activity. Even a small drop in hydration can affect your mental and physical processes. Drink plenty of water, with the occasional sports drink to restore electrolytes.

Whether you want to deal with most of your move yourself or you'd rather leave it all to the experts, United Moving & Storage can make your experience safer, easier, and more enjoyable. Contact us today.

4 Eco-Friendly Moving Tips

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 19:34:30 GMT

Even if you take every step you can to live an eco-friendly lifestyle, you may not know how to relocate while keeping the environment in mind. Thankfully, the moving industry is becoming greener than ever, and you can take many steps to make the moving process as environmentally friendly as possible.

Read on to learn four tips for making an eco-friendly move to help reduce the environmental impact of your next relocation.

1. Lighten Your Load to Reduce Moving Truck Fuel Consumption

Vehicles that get good gas mileage are considered more environmentally friendly than those that require more gasoline because they burn less gasoline at once and create less pollution.

Smaller moving trucks get much better gas mileage than larger moving trucks because they are lighter in weight. For example, a small moving truck that is about 10 to 14 feet long uses up to 10 MPG while a larger moving truck that is over 20 feet long uses only about 4 to 6 MPG.

You can minimize the size of the moving truck you need by getting rid items that you never or rarely use. Since clothing can be so bulky, you may be surprised that you can reduce your moving load greatly just by sorting through all of your family's closets and selling or donating clothing your family no longer wears.

In addition, since heavy truck loads require more gasoline to than lighter loads, also focus on getting rid of heavy items around your home, such as heavy old furniture or outdated home décor. You can then use the money you obtain selling these items to purchase modern versions you love after you move.

2. Skip the Cardboard Moving Boxes

You may think that packing your home items into cardboard boxes and then recycling these boxes after you unpack them at your new home is a great way to minimize the environmental impact of your move.

Unfortunately, while recycling cardboard does help preserve trees, the recycling process requires about 75 percent of the energy it takes to produce brand-new cardboard, according to moving.com. You can eliminate this energy waste altogether by opting for reusable plastic moving bins instead of cardboard boxes.

You can rent these plastic bins from many companies that now provide them all over the country. Typically, you simply pick up the bins before you move and then return them to the nearest company drop-off location after you unpack at your new home. However, some companies will drop the bins off at your current home and pick them up at your new home after you move.

These plastic bins are created out of recycled plastic and recycled to create new plastic bins. However, unlike cardboard boxes, plastic bins are so sturdy that they can potentially be sanitized and reused hundreds of times before they develop enough wear and tear that they need to be recycled.

In addition, plastic bins close securely on their own with no need for the packing tape that cardboard boxes need to stay shut during the moving process. Packing tape is rarely recyclable or biodegradable and simply accumulates in landfills after it is thrown in the trash can.

3. Choose Eco-Friendly Packing Materials

Many packing materials are very environmentally unfriendly. Traditional packing peanuts are made from non-recyclable Styrofoam, and traditional bubble wrap is made from plastic that can be very difficult to recycle. Thankfully, many environmentally friendly packing materials are now available that help protect your fragile items just as well as traditional packing materials.

Biodegradable packing peanuts are made from corn and/or wheat starch. These packing peanuts simply dissolve when soaked in water or after being added to a compost bin. Corrugated bubble wrap is made from re-purposed cardboard that can be recycled just as traditional cardboard can be.

You can also wrap fragile items with soft towels and blankets you already own and plan to continue to use at your new home to eliminate packing waste altogether.

4. Leave the Moving Truck Driving to the Professionals

No matter what size moving truck you use, you can reduce your moving truck's fuel consumption by leaving the truck driving to the experienced professionals. Experienced moving truck drivers know how to drive the trucks efficiently in a way that preserves gasoline.

Inexperienced drivers tend to accelerate very quickly, brake more often than necessary, and fail to maintain a steady speed. All are habits that greatly increase truck fuel consumption and the resulting air pollution. In fact, studies have shown that increasing and decreasing the speed of a vehicle by just over 6 mph (10 kph) every 18 seconds can increase fuel consumption by about 20 percent.

If you plan to relocate soon and would like to keep the moving process as environmentally friendly as possible, then keep these four tips in mind. Contact the moving experts at United Moving & Storage to schedule your upcoming move today.

Simple Tips for Moving With Lots of Books

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 19:51:19 GMT

You might be a bibliophile if you think more about the well-being of your books during a move than your furniture. All book lovers know what it means to fret about beloved books making it safely from one home's bookshelf to another. Luckily, you can protect your volumes. Consider these tips for moving with lots of books.

Declutter Your Books Before Packing

Just the idea of getting rid of books can make a book collector cringe. However, you have no better time for a move to reassess which tomes truly deserve to be in your book collection. You may also realize that you have two copies of some beloved books, and you might want to pass on a copy to someone else who would love it.

Separate your book into specific piles while you pack. Make one pile for the books you definitely want to keep. You might want to start packing those first, in fact. Make another pile for books that you are on the fence about. You can always revisit whether you really want to get rid of them later.

Set aside another pile for books that you want to give away to certain people. Place a sticky note on each book with the name of the intended recipient. That can help you keep things in perspective and feel reassured that the books you plan to part with will go to a good home. Make yet another pile for books that you want to sell. Set aside another pile of books that you want to donate.

Choose Sturdy, Professional Moving Boxes

Although it can be tempting to pick up free boxes from grocery stores, those boxes will always be used. As a result, they are likely to be well-worn. They may also not be designed to be sturdy enough to protect heavy items like books. Be wise, and choose sturdy professional moving boxes to ensure that the books are protected in transit.

Utilize Padding and Other Packing Supplies

A very common mistake that book lovers make when moving is simply putting books in boxes without protecting them. They may feel they can get more books in each box that way. However, books can easily be scratched and otherwise damaged if they're just in a box. Gather the following packing supplies:

Moving boxes
Packing tape
Box labels
Marker
Tissue paper
Bubble wrap
Scissors
Cardboard sheets

To best protect books in transit, wrap each book in tissue paper, then also put a layer of bubble wrap around each book. Place a piece of cardboard between books to help ensure they aren't damaged during the move. You may also want to put an extra layer of cardboard at the bottom and top of each box for a little extra protection.

Take the time to label each box so that you can easily identify your book boxes after the move. For extra help in reassembling the contents of your bookshelves once you're in your new home, be detailed with labeling your boxes. If you place books on the shelves in alphabetical order, try to pack each box according to that order, then label them with where they fit in the alphabet.

Pack Books Together in Separate Boxes

People often make the mistake of packing books with other items. They may think that books can go in the bottom of any box since they are both heavy and sturdy by nature. Yes, books are heavier than many other things you'll pack, but they are fragile in many ways. Don't try stuffing them in with other items. Instead, designate specific boxes just for your books.

Stack Inexpensive Books

If you have inexpensive paperback books, pack them by placing them flat and stacking them in the box until each stack nears the top of the box. Hardback books that are well-loved but not valuable may also be stacked. For more valuable hardcover books, place them in the box as though they were being set on a bookshelf. Just be sure to pad the bottom and top of each book.

Fill Extra Spaces in the Boxes

Books can easily move around and shift during a move, so they should be as snugly fit in the boxes as possible without risking damage to them. You are likely to have extra space in boxes since you can’t always get a perfect fit of books in each box. Fill the extra space with tissue paper and bubble wrap to protect your books.

Enlist the Help of Moving Professionals

Unless you are trained in weight lifting, you probably shouldn't even consider moving your own stuff if you have many books. Book boxes are likely to be among the heaviest you will have, and multiple book boxes can be especially difficult to move. Professional movers are used to dealing with heavy boxes, and they may offer other expert advice about protecting your books.

Finally, contact United Moving & Storage today for all your local and long-distance moving services. Whether you have questions about moving with your books or other aspects of the move, we are happy to help. With our free estimate and high level of customer satisfaction, our caring team will make your move as easy as possible.

What You Need to Know About Moving During Winter

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 19:47:46 GMT

Since the winter months are generally considered the slow season for home-buying and moving, you will have fewer fellow movers to compete with. That means you can save money and have fewer hassles. Here's what you should know about moving during wintertime.

Clear Your Walkway and Sidewalk

An hour or so before the moving activities are scheduled to begin, take the time to thoroughly clear your front walkway and sidewalk. Also, clear your driveway and other areas where you and the movers may walk. Using a shovel and snowblower, double check to make sure that the walkways are still free of snow before you or the movers start transporting your belongings.

Prepare Your New Home for Comfort

With the weather extremes during the winter months, you don't want to have a miserable first few days in your new home. Take steps to winterize it before your moving day. Have the heating system serviced and checked. Turn on all utilities before the big day. Test your smoke detectors and your carbon monoxide detectors.

Caulk around windows and doors if there are any gaps that will allow cold air into your home. Call a professional to clean and inspect your chimney. Buy cold weather tools if you're not planning to move them from your old home. Make sure that you will have everything from a snowblower to ice melt in your new house.

Also, don't turn off power or other utilities in your current home yet. Although you may want to arrange for the home to be ready for the new residents, keep utilities turned on and keep them in your name until after you've moved out to avoid any surprise interruptions.

Board Your Cats and Dogs

Board your pets for the full moving day, then pick them up and take them to your new home once the move is complete. Cats and dogs can easily escape when doors keep opening and closing, and an escape during cold weather could be life-threatening for some pets. Also, you and the movers can work more easily when pets aren't underfoot.

Enlist the Services of a Professional Mover

Do-it-yourself moving is challenging even in perfect weather, but it can be downright dangerous during the winter months. Walking on an icy surface is tough, especially if you also have to carry heavy electronics. That can easily lead to slips and falls where you could potentially injure yourself and ruin the expensive electronics.

A professional mover will have the right equipment to move all your furniture and electronics safely to your new home. They can also help you avoid the stress of trying to coordinate a move during brief windows of warmer weather. Professional moving services can also ultimately save you both money and time

Have Warm Beverages on Hand

Plan to make coffee or hot cocoa to keep on hand throughout your moving day. When you're doing a lot of work out in the cold, having the comfort of a warm beverage can help you feel warm and refreshed every time you take a break.

Take Extra Precautions for Fragile Items

When fragile things are being moved during the winter months, wrap them two or three times to protect them from worst-case scenario situations. If it's something that is valuable to you for sentimental reasons, that's especially important. Professional movers are sure to have insurance to protect fragile things, but sentimental items may not be replaceable.

Also, consider whether the things you're moving could be damaged by cold weather. If water damage would ruin some things, wrap those items with a plastic covering if you think they may get rained or snowed on. Let your movers know about any antique furniture and discuss the transportation of any exceptionally valuable or fragile belongings.

Plan to Give Your Children a Day Out

Plan to give your kids a fun day out with a relative, friend, or babysitter on your moving day. Alternately, take them to daycare for the day. If you have the added stress of watching children and keeping them warm and protected from cold weather, you will have to battle unnecessary stress. Instead, do what you can to eliminate probable stress on moving day.

Create a Little Winter Haven in Your Car

Most people who hire movers take a separate car with a few things as they from their old home to a new one. Make your car a winter haven with any cold weather necessities you may need in the first few days in your new home.

Instead of packing things like ice scrapers, tow ropes, flashlights, snow shovels, and other things that make life easier in the snow, put them in your car, along with blankets and a first aid kit. Make sure to wear extra layers.

Are you interested in hiring professional movers? contact United Moving & Storage today for a free moving estimate. Our caring staff will also help answer any questions you have about our moving services. As experts in moving in the Pacific Northwest and beyond, we can help ensure that you winter move goes smoothly. Before you know it, you could be relaxing and enjoying your new home.

Moving Your Small Company? 6 Tips to Prepare

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 08:59:00 GMT

Moving is an involved process and a rare occasion. When the time comes to go through a commercial move, many business owners don't know what to expect. If you're a business owner who will soon go through a commercial relocation, here's what you need to know to plan your upcoming move.

1. Pick the Right Time of Year

Move at a time of year when it makes the most sense for your company. Avoid busy times when your company is most likely to be overwhelmed with orders. This is because you’ll want to set aside at least a couple weeks for packing, a few days for loading and unloading the truck, and a few more weeks for unpacking the boxes.

2. Put Someone in Charge

Someone at your company needs to be the point person for your move. This is the person who is responsible for informing the affected parties, establishing a moving timeline, and ensuring everyone knows their roles.

This person may need to work with other people in your company to consider all the potential problems and put into place workable solutions. This person will coordinate with movers, staff, and clients to keep the relocation moving forward.

3. Inform and Involve Staff

People in your staff must plan their work activities around the relocation, so keep them informed. They need to know when the relocation will take place, where their new workspace will be, and how this new location will affect them and their work. When talking to staff, answer questions like:

How will parking change?
How will staff workstations be different, and how will they stay the same?
Will more or less storage space be at the new location?
Will company policies be different in the new location?
Will the company scale back work production during the relocation?

Many people are resistant to change, so you may need to put in extra effort to convince them that the relocation is a good move for your company. Describe to staff how your relocation will solve problems, pave the way for company growth, and improve their quality of life while they're at work.

Give staff the chance to raise concerns in periodic meetings so you can alleviate those concerns. Your staff may come up with new questions as the relocation progresses, so give them multiple opportunities to express their thoughts.

Establish a moving timeline and keep it in a location where all staff people are able to access it. If your staff is responsible for packing their own belongings, establish deadlines and communicate their role in the move clearly.

4. Budget Properly

Commercial relocations are a major expense. Work with your staff and people from the moving company to establish a workable budget.

Your moving company should give you a bid up front so you'll know how much the move will cost. The cost may come with a margin of error, so find out what that margin of error is and budget for the maximum amount possible.

When budgeting for your relocation, this may impact your ability to pay from a reduction in productivity while the relocation takes place. Work with staff to ensure that your company can continue to make sales goals throughout the relocation.

5. Update Clients

Clients need informing almost as much as staff. If your relocation will impact your hours or availability, tell clients about your updated hours. If contact information will change, this too needs communicating to clients. If you have a store, put up signs around the shop months in advance of your move. Clearly outline where your company is moving and on what date.

Some businesses lose clients when they move because their customers think the business closed instead of relocated. You can prevent this from happening to your business by gathering contact information for your clients and then sending the word around to everyone who the move will impact.

Start a newsletter. Ask customers to sign up. Give discounts to people who give their email address for your newsletter. Distribute flyers. Finally, make a big deal of your grand opening at the new location to give people an incentive to check out your new location.

6. Find the Right Mover

Most important of all is to find the right mover for your upcoming relocation. Work with a moving company that has commercial relocation experience and expertise. When meeting with potential movers and before signing a contract, ask each mover about what strategies they use to make commercial relocations a better experience for clients.

The mover you sign a contract with should be able to discuss in detail what they can do to make your move successful. They should also be able to discuss the type of insurance they offer for commercial clients and what they can do to minimize problems while the relocation takes place.

For more information about how you can make your upcoming commercial relocation a success, talk to United Moving & Storage . We're happy to answer your questions and give helpful tips.

4 Hacks to Successfully Complete Your Home or Business Relocation

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 09:02:57 GMT

Whether you move to a new home or relocate your business, a few details need attention. Manage these four details to complete your move successfully.

1. Meet Your Landlord's Move-Out Expectations

If you renting an apartment, home, or office space, you may be entitled to a security deposit when you vacate the residence or commercial space. On the other hand, you could have extra fees after you move out if you left your rental unit in disrepair.

Most states' security-deposit laws don't allow landlords to retain your deposit for normal wear and tear on your rental unit. However, if you've broken any light fixtures, burned the carpet, or put large holes in the walls, your landlord may dock or keep your security deposit refund entirely to cover your damages.

Read over your rental agreement covering your current unit. Pay close attention to the fine print concerning the move-out condition expected in the rental unit. A business rental may include extra move-out requirements regarding built-in office equipment or communications gear. Go over the details carefully and make a list of move-out tasks you need to do for your move.

Set aside extra time in your relocation schedule to restore your rental unit to clean, repaired condition. You're much more likely to get all of your security deposit back if you leave your rental residence or business in the same condition as when you first rented the unit.

2. Notify Everyone Who Needs to Know Your New Address

Movers and real estate companies often have printed whom-to-notify checklists. Obtain a checklist or make your own list to help you keep track of the officials, businesses, and personal contacts whom you've notified about your new address.

Notify the following entities about your change-of-address:

Utility providers including power, water, and gas
Schools and universities attended by household members
Trash collection services
Home, auto, and health insurance providers
Financial institutions including banks, creditors, and investment firms
Social Security Administration
Internal Revenue Service
Phone and internet service providers
Magazine and newspaper subscription services
Alumni association and other groups and clubs

Your employer needs your new contact information to send important work-related documents and correspondence to your new home. Notify your human resources department directly about your address change as soon as possible so you have no delays in processing your paychecks.

If you move a business, update your articles of incorporation to show your new business, mailing, and contact addresses. Make your company's registered agent aware of your move as soon as possible so the registered agent can assist in changing addresses on all of your business-related legal documents.

3. Update Your Driver's License and Other Credentials

Most states allow you a short grace period to update your driver's license information after you move to a new address. After that short grace period, you can be issued a citation in some areas if you don't update your license.

As soon as possible after you settle in your new home, head over to the local Department Of Motor Vehicles and have them a new driver's license with your new address. Call ahead to make sure you have all of the documents you need to prove your identity and obtain your license.

If you wear glasses or contacts to drive, be sure to wear them when you go to your driver's license location. You may have to take a new vision test at the new location to receive your new license.

Update the address on the following credentials that apply to you:

Nursing, medical, and other health care licenses
Business license
Beautician license
CDL license
Teaching certificate
Specialty certificates and permits

Update your pet's credentials, too. Make sure your pet is up to date on all shots when you move. Put your new contact info on your pet's collar tag in case your dog or cat runs away in the confusion of the move.

4. Create an Updated Emergency Contact List

If you move far from your old home or business, you can't count on immediate emergency assistance from your old contacts. Update your emergency contact list to include new household members' phone numbers and the local emergency contacts you know in your new area.

For example, if you have family or friends in your new town, they can become your new emergency contacts for situations that arise. When your child is sent home from school early due to weather, your emergency contact can pick up your child for you so you don't miss work or leave your child waiting too long for a pickup. However, you must give your child's school approval to contact your emergency person.

As you meet more people and become involved in your new community, it becomes easier to find trusted people to help you and your family (or business) when trouble occurs. Reach out to your neighbors and your local community to engage with others and learn more about the helpful resources in your new town.

When you plant to relocate to a new home or business in the Pacific Northwest region, contact United Moving & Storage to schedule a full range of moving services you can trust.