I had to come up with a plan. Here’s what I did. My friends at Bellhop Movers asked me to write this because they thought you may feel the same.

Create a Food Moving Plan

Your goal is to pack and move as little as possible to carry to your new home. Why you ask?

• The perishable food items may spoil and become hazardous.
• The weight of food items adds to moving costs.
• It can be time-consuming and expensive to deal with (lots of extra wrapping to do, plus cardboard and packing supplies).
• Some of the items are probably long-expired anyway.

Food Moving Strategies

Start early. It’s natural to procrastinate, particularly if you love your home ‘as is.’

Involve the Family and Best Friends: There is no rule that says one person must do it all. Kids can help find expired expiration dates on canned goods and cereal; turn it into a treasure hunt with a reward. Maybe offer a reward for each expired item found. Even small kids can learn to read the expiration dates. Invite friends over to help, but only the ones who can talk while working.

Plan it: If you have 8 sets of cabinets, plan to stretch it out. Tackle one at a time. Take on the canned goods, or condiments, or cereal.  Maybe whittle down the empty glass bottles.

Show It: Mark your progress around the kitchen with removable painter’s tape on the cabinets. Write notes on it. That tape gave me a sense of progress.

Break the big scary task down into micro-projects that can be handled in one or two hours. This helps with the inevitable panic that can come.

Learn from it: Looking at a pile of food waste like expired cereals, canned food may make you a better shopper and remind your family about food waste. We all adopted new habits during Covid. Maybe it’s time to drop some.

Seven Tips on What to Do with Food When Moving

1. Pre-Move – Break Old Food-Buying Habits

Stop Buying ‘Extra’ Food – Months before the Move

If you have two months of extra food in your pantry for that rainy day emergency like I did, stop buying two months before the moving date.

Breaking this routine is hard.

Stopping shopping it is harder than it sounds. But you have to. Use the extra time gained on the move or your family. Remember, this is temporary.

Don’t be tempted by discounts.  Stop thinking about the sale items. Forget about food for that rainy day. Stop stocking up.

Buy Only the ‘Easy’ Perishables

Switch the buying to a one-week horizon. The ‘usual’ suspects like milk and eggs, vegetables.

2. Keep Food Traditions Alive

Your family is likely to be stressed, kids particularly. Keep food routines going to show that life is going to be the same. Saturday mornings, my young daughters and I made pancakes together. We kept it up during the clean out, and it was what we made the first Saturday in our new home.

3. Use Up Your Perishables Before the Move

You can’t take perishables with you. The only real exception is a very short local move when frozen food items can be kept tightly sealed in an ice chest you carry in your car. Local food banks cannot accept frozen food.

Eat up what you have. Be like a bear in hibernation.

Find new recipes for what you have.

Engage the family. If they complain about the same old recipe, challenge them to use online apps to find new ways those pantry items. Apps like Supercook.com and My Fridge Food.

Limit Takeout Food

If Friday night was takeout night, think about cooking at home. Negotiate an extra night out after the move to get to know the new town.

4. Share. Throw a Party

Your friends will miss you. Throw a great dinner. Burgers and paper plates. Thank them. Make your ‘famous’ dishes. Maybe bake a pre-birthday cake for all the birthdays you’ll miss. Don’t make wild promises.

5. Give Away and Donate

You probably hate food waste as much as I do. Why not take them with me, you ask? Again, it’s worth repeating the three reasons.

• Each item must be handled (wrapped if in glass).
• They add to the cost of the move.
• Each item must be handled again at unpacking. (You may well be exhausted of unpacking by then; so, less is better.)

Food banks and other non-profit organizations cannot knowingly accept opened perishable food items. Set unopened items aside for donation.

Your moving company may be able to handle the donation drop-off for you. Many movers support Move for Hunger and can transport your donation free of charge.

Your friends may be glad to take that half-used box of oatmeal or other food items because they know you. This can be a bit risky. Maybe instead, bake up some oatmeal cookies and gift them.

Check your church, shelter or non-profit food bank. They may have food donation plans that meet local health requirements. For example if you cook up your food in their kitchen.

6. Recycle and Trash

Those outdated (expired) glass bottles of salad dressing and olive oil should go. Maybe all those little jars of spices. Rinse glass and recycle. Don’t argue with expiration dates.

7. Stock up on regional favorites you may not find in your new location

Buy and pack all-new items. Check the expirations too to keep from going crazy.

How to Pack Food for Moving | Tips

Your moving quote may include wrapping and packing. (Bellhop will be glad to provide a free moving quote). If so, you want to dispose of the perishable items before so the professional movers can be fast (and charge less).

Have pantry items separated for faster handling by the professional movers. We used painter’s tape on our countertops and cabinet shelves to separate spices and condiments from cereals and dry goods. Fragile items were separated too. This tape system eliminated questions and sped things up when packing.

Be sure to have extra supplies handy too. Packing paper, ziplock bags, bubble wrap, special cardboard boxes.

Put heavy items in small boxes: glass bottles of olive oil, glass jars and canned goods. Have a supply of carboard boxes handy, particularly small boxes for heavy glass containers.

Wrap glass bottles in bubble wrap.

Package dry goods like flour and sugar in sealable plastic bags.

Package likes with likes in the same box. Spices with spices, condiments with condiments. Don’t mix. It just makes unpacking more challenging.

Use blue painter’s tape to firmly seal cereals and other dry food goods like bags of walnuts or dried cranberries.

Label and number each cardboard box clearly. Or take a picture with your phone of the items in each box as you fill it. Mark the room name, summarize the contents, and number. Write on top and one side.

Create a packing list showing what’s in each box. Or create a shared photo album of all the photos everyone can reference.

With a longer-term moving plan, add disposable stuff to the weekly garbage pick up to whittle down the stuff going to the dump. This keeps costs down and frees up space to deal with the other items. Just seeing the pile will make you feel like you are making progress.

Have a Code: Blue painter’s tape sealing a box meant stuff could still be added. The clear professional movers wrapping tape meant the box was final-packed.

On Moving Day

Be kind to yourself. Maybe this is the time to get take-out food for you and the movers. Maybe drink less coffee. Drink more water with electrolytes. Now is the time to have recyclable plastic water bottles handy.

Calm the pets as best you can. Say goodbye to your vet, arrange to get the pet records, and maybe some calming meds.

Don’t forget to wheel out the trash bins as the final act!

Say Goodbye to the House: Gather everyone for a brief walkthrough and ceremony. Remember something memorable that happened. This place sheltered you, gave you room to grow.

During the Move

Cope, calm and stay hydrated. Now is the time for indulging in everyone’s favorite energy bars. If traveling with pets, remember their foods and allow for potty stops. If carrying perishable food in a sealed ice chest, this should be the first item unpacked.

After the move

Unpack the kitchen soon.

Make it a priority. Cook something. Fill the house with aromas of your families favorite meals. Paper plates, burgers on the grill will be ok. So much of our lives centers around food and food rituals. If the kids are used to cocoa at night, have it ready.

Thank the Movers!

The move can be stressful on them too.

Celebrate!

Congratulations you and your family have survived one of the biggest stressful life events imaginable. If you planned a special event like a cruise or trip to DIsneyland, you’ve earned it.

Meet the neighbors.

They will be curious.

Create new rituals and routines.

Before recreating old routines maybe try some new ones

Need More Help or Tips?

At Bellhop, there’s nothing we want more than for our customers to have a smooth move. We hope this article on how to pack food for the move saves you some time and worry. If you’re ready to get moving, their local and long-distance movers can be there in a jiffy. Give them a call, even if it’s just to ask how to pack olive oil. They can also tell you what packing supplies they carry and offer recommendations.

Bellhop offers a comprehensive set of articles on moving with tips and advice so you don’t have to reinvent how to move alone. Some are practical with titles like: When Should You Start Packing to Move? and THE Moving Checklist What to Check Off When You’re Moving. Others recognize the stress of the moment: Why Moving is So Stressful (And 3 Things You Can Do About It).

The post How to Pack Food for Moving appeared first on Bellhop.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. Seventy-five million Baby Boomers are expected to retire by 2030 into a health care system already under strain. Your parents are probably among them.

Full disclosure: I’m a 74-year-old single dad with an older brother, and two late-twenties daughters. I’ve lost friends to dementia. I’ve moved my parents, then disposed of their possessions, and will probably have to move myself someday into assisted living. I’m not an expert; nor do I make a living in the elder care community. I’m just an ‘old dude.’

Warning signs that it’s time to help parents move

“Today is the best day in the rest of your parent’s life.”

Most elders wish to ‘age in place.’ They probably won’t tell you when they need your help. You will have to be alert for signs:

• Accidents in the home (leaving stove top burners on)
• Forgetfulness
• Falls
• Memory issues
• Bills piling up / Problems with banking and finances
• Poor hygiene, home cleaning and maintenance Scammers

Your parents can’t outlast these. It’s best not to delay until later if you see these happening. You want to involve your parents sooner in the planning of their future, while they are most capable.

Get help moving your elderly parents from their home

There will be ‘baggage’ and boxes to deal with. You can’t do it all by yourself. Nor should you. Bellhop’s movers are pros at moving the boxes (the easy stuff). They can help with the wrapping and packing too. You can learn more about all their services here.

Hire a Senior-Specialized Move Manager

Having a neutral third party involved may be the best solution to deal with the small but tough issues related to down-sizing. Someone may have to remind your elderly parent that a favorite chair won’t fit, or that the new kitchen cabinets can’t hold all the glasses. Do you really want to have those conversations?

Service organizations like the National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers have 1,100 member companies that must undergo training and carry liability insurance. They can help with all the details, schedule and disposal of items that won’t fit in their new space. Their services are not cheap.

What you can expect in helping your elderly parents move

With the runup in home values, moving may help homeowners unlock needed funds.  Other than that, this move is probably not going to be a happy moment.

Elders may ‘waffle’ on the need to move – Expect to play an active role in keeping the process moving.

Most want to age in place –  where they have routines, memories, and community. The unknown can be scary.

The nearest child often carries the biggest burden – But this doesn’t mean that others can’t help or shouldn’t.

Your responsibilities in moving your elderly parents

Some are asking: am I responsible for my parents? Do I really need to help them move?! The short answer may be ‘yes,’ however, not necessarily when it comes to moving expenses.

A majority of states have what are called ‘Filial Responsibility Laws.’ The laws obligate family members, to the extent possible, to help care for their parents, though they are rarely enforced. It’s important to learn more as, in some cases, children may be financially liable.

Advice about where to move your elderly parents

Is now really the time to move?

They may not have to move, at least right now. Organizations like PACE exist “to provide and coordinate all the types of care your loved one needs, so you don’t have to place them in a nursing home.” They offer services in 32 states and D.C.  Here’s more info.

Start a search for assisted living early

These residences have limited space, and the best choices may have long waiting lists. An internet search ‘near me’ will show local opportunities. Companies that list these facilities nationwide include Caring.com and  A Place for Mom.

If moving in with family, expect to remodel

Bathroom grab-handle fixtures, the addition of ramps to replace stairs, dealing with falling hazards like loose carpets are all typical considerations that make homes safe for elders.

If moving long-distance, plan it out

Your parents may be unable to fly, or endure long car rides. It’s better to avoid these speed bumps with an early conversation.

15 Tips to help your elderly parents move from their home

#1. Find their important papers before packing when they may get lost. They may have written down internet passwords. Locate any will, healthcare power of attorney, advanced directives before packing. If they don’t have these basic documents, use the opportunity to start talking about them. Trustworthy, offers a way for families to safeguard and organize these docs, and offers suggestions for how to start conversations with your parents.

#2. Triage gently your parents’ possessions – Every object has a reason for being there. Objects become a gateway to memories of an active life, encounters, friends. I have a broken and glued pottery candlestick, collected while in college, that’s traveled with me everywhere, even when camping, and I would miss it horribly.

Divide into threes (1) objects making the move (2) “maybe-s” to pack and put into storage (3) give aways / donations.

#3. Ask – to pull out stories you will cherish later – My daughter surprised me by asking about my broken clay candlestick last night. And again this morning when she told me what she had learned online about this famous potter.

#4. Start a conversation early while they are fully competent. What do they want in their lives, and where to live? They may not have to move, at least right now. Organizations like PACE exist “to provide and coordinate all the types of care your loved one needs, so you don’t have to place them in a nursing home.” They offer services in 32 states and D.C.  Here’s more info.

#5. Figure out family roles and involvement – Elder care can fall disproportionately on the children. Often the closest carries the burden. Figure this out. Organizations like the Family Care Alliance have advice and documents that can help families tactfully and peacefully negotiate the details. They offer a directory of service agencies by state that can help.

#6. Reinforce the positive results of the move – Keep them looking (and moving) forward. They may be moving to be closer to family or friends. Or a warmer climate (most elders head somewhere south, if not to be near family).

#7. Ask about insurance, providers, prescriptions – Someone needs to make sure any new doctors in a new location are in-network and covered by their health insurance plan. A geriatric care manager in the destination city may be well worth it.

#8. It’s worth repeating – Expect elders’ emotions to flip-flop – Change is scary. Moving is a cold-shower reminder that they are aging and losing their independence. You must be the one to provide the consistent vision and message.

#9. Be kind to yourself and the others – My mother and sister never settled their differences and it spilled into their mother’s care. The negativity hurt them all , particularly their mother. Find ways to separate, de-escalate, grow. If massages help you, indulge.

#10. Recognize this is a process, not an event – You are involved in a marathon, not a sprint. It takes as much mental stamina as physical endurance.

#11. Learn from the pros how to connect better – Read or listen to inspirational team builders. Winning coaches with a track-record of team building must know something, right? My fave is Duke basketball Coach K’s Leading with the Heart.  My daughter’s is women’s soccer champion Abby Wambach’s WOLFPACK: How to Come Together, Unleash Our Power, and Change the Game.

#12. Get more family more connected – Studies suggest that monthly visits with grandkids can extend elders’ lives. Maybe one wants to learn how to crochet, and a grandparent already knows how, or wants to learn also. This can make a great Zoom meeting and a reason for regularly scheduled visits

#13. Research the financial implications of caring for your elderly parents -Long-term, some may bring positive tax-related benefits to offset the costs. It’s worth researching these at the same time you help your parents with their planning. Talk with a knowledgeable estate-planning lawyer.

#14. If you don’t want to help move them, find other ways to help

There may be a lawyer in the family, or a nurse. How you divide the responsibility can be a delicate decision. In some states it’s common for caregivers to be reimbursed by agencies and other family members.

#15. Record videos and voice memos of them –Don’t miss the opportunity to capture laughter and stories you will cherish later. On my parents’ birthdays I replay a voicemail recording made 15 years ago.

Bellhop is here to help

Whew! This is a tough topic to cover. Like we said earlier, we’re here to help. Whether it’s a local move or cross-country, no company can help you more. Know that we care as much about your relations as we do about their stuff.

At Bellhop, there’s nothing we want more than for our customers to have a smooth move. We hope this article helped and saves you some time and research. If you’re ready to get moving, our local and long-distance movers can be there in a jiffy.  

The post Moving Elderly Parents from their Home appeared first on Bellhop.

How Do You Price Items for a Garage Sale?

Before you even start planning your garage sale, you might be wondering if it’ll be worth all the time and effort it’ll take. Can you make enough money from all your old stuff? If you price it right, you probably can make a pretty good profit, at least as long as you don’t set your expectations too high.

First-time garage sale planners often make the mistake of pricing their items above what people expect to pay for garage sale finds. A good rule of thumb is to price each item between 10% and 20% of its current retail value. If, for example, an item costs about $30 on today’s market, then you should price it between $3 and $6, depending on its condition.

Condition always makes a difference, too. If an item is well-used and rather worn, mark it down to the range of 10% of the retail price or even a bit below. If the item is in good condition or nearly new, you can price it higher. Just be consistent with your pricing. You might even check out a few other garage sales in your area to learn the going rates.

Remember, too, that garage sale shoppers are looking for deals. They aren’t going to pay high prices for any item most of the time (unless they have particular collections or really want something). You might think that you’re cheating yourself if you price too low, but really, you’re going to do better in the long run because people will be more willing to buy.

When Is the Best Time To Have a Garage Sale?

The best time to have a garage sale will depend partly on your schedule and partly on the typical garage sale seasons and days in your area. Most people choose to have their sales in the spring, summer, or early autumn, especially if they live in areas with cold winters. Watch the weather forecast, and try to select a day with moderate temperatures and sunshine. Choose an alternate date, too, in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Garage sales usually go better on weekends when people are off of work and have time to browse. You might schedule a Thursday, Friday, and Saturday sale to catch a wide variety of people. Start as early in the morning as you can. Even 7 or 8 a.m. is not too early, and you may find people lined up waiting for you to open, especially if you’ve publicized your sale well.

How Do You Publicize a Garage Sale?

This brings up another important garage sale consideration: publicizing your sale. You need to catch people’s attention and let them know what you have to offer. Start on Facebook with a public post advertising your sale. Give the dates and times you’ll be open and highlight some of the items for sale. You can list categories like toys, books, or clothing in various sizes, but also mention specifics like appliances or collectibles. Then ask your friends to share the post and keep it moving so that more people see it.

You can also publicize your sale by posting it on Craigslist and Nextdoor. And don’t hesitate to check out the other new garage sale apps popping up. You might attract a wider audience using several of these.

You may turn to more traditional advertising methods, too. Take out an ad in your local newspaper, for instance. You’ll have to pay for it, but many people still do watch for garage sales in this way. Put up a few posters around town as well, and never neglect good, old-fashioned word of mouth.

How Do You Make Garage Sale Signs?

In the few days before your garage sale, you should make signs directing shoppers to your sale. Use cardboard or heavy poster board and wide-tipped markers to create your signs. They don’t have to be fancy, but they should be clear, easy to read, and eye-catching.

Write “Garage Sale” or “Yard Sale” in large letters. Put your address underneath. You may also want to add the days and time of the sale. Make sure all this is legible, and add arrows based on the location of your home in relation to the signs.

As for posting your signs, you can use convenient light poles or attach metal or wooden yard stakes to your signs. Make sure you place them where people will be able to see them easily. Don’t ever put a sign on private property unless you ask for permission. Also, make one or two large signs for your own yard so that shoppers will know they’re at the right place.

What Are the Best Types of Objects to Sell at a Garage Sale?

You can actually sell nearly anything at a garage sale if you can find a person willing to buy, but some items do sell better than others. People expect things like clothing, household items, books, toys, DVDs, and furniture. You might offer collectibles or even antiques if you advertise well ahead of time and price them right.

Don’t, however, try to sell broken items, especially electronics or appliances, and don’t offer used beauty products or underclothing. Simply dispose of these. They likely won’t sell, and people might be turned off even looking at them. Make sure other items are at least in reasonably good condition.

How Do You Organize Clothes for a Garage Sale?

If you have a lot of clothes for sale, make sure they are clean. Then organize them by size and type. Separate women’s clothing, men’s clothing, and children’s clothing, and lay them out according to their styles. Hang up blouses and shirts together, and neatly fold pants and shorts. Make sure shoppers can easily see each piece. You might even want to make signs listing sizes for added convenience.

What Is the Most Essential Garage Sale Equipment?

Finally, in the days leading up to your sale, gather the essential equipment you’ll need to make it a success. Have enough tables to properly display your items, and include a card table and a chair for you to collect money. You’ll need a cash box and change as well as plastic shopping bags and newspaper and/or bubble wrap to protect fragile items.

Mark your items with price stickers, using a black marker for legibility. You can also use poster board to create price signs for groups of items. Watch out for price stickers, however. Sometimes they stick too well, so if you’re in doubt about whether they’ll come off easily, try tie-on tags instead.

Will Your Garage Sale Be a Success?

Your garage sale can certainly be a success if you plan carefully, offer quality items at reasonable prices, and provide a friendly atmosphere so that shoppers feel comfortable. Remember that you may not make huge amounts of money, but you’ll at least have more than you started, and you’ll be able to clean out your home’s nooks and crannies and get rid of stuff you don’t need so you can better enjoy what you have.

Getting Ready to Move? Let Us Help

If you’d like some help moving after your successful garage sale, let us help. We can help whether you’re looking to move long-distance, need some extra moving help, or are looking for a local move.

The post How To Organize Your First Garage Sale appeared first on Bellhop.

You’re not alone if you are considering renting a storage ‘container.’ Life is complicated, we get that. Surprises happen. And then there is all that ‘stuff.’

Nearly 40% of US households use storage units, according to STORAGEcafe, a nationwide, online search company for self-storage units. Most often it is because folks are down-sizing or moving or just need more free space at home.

If you’re thinking about renting a storage unit, one key decision is paying extra for climate-control. We’ve got some observations and tips that could save a lot of blame and misery later. By the way, we’re Bellhop – and we can help with moving your stuff in and out of storage. You can even book storage directly through us via our storage partners.

What is climate-controlled storage?

Climate-controlled storage measures the indoor temperature of the structure and adjusts, attempting generally to maintain a temperature range appropriate for items (not people), typically 55 degrees Fahrenheit to 85. Some properties may also attempt to control for humidity. This too is desirable, though more problematic in large buildings.

What are climate-controlled storage units?

These are storage units one may rent inside an enclosed storage facility. It’s important to note that one’s belongings ‘share’ the same indoor thermostat controls. Some units in a building may benefit more than others if they are close to ventilation ducts. (One more reason why it’s a good idea to walk the building before you commit to an individual unit).

Do I need climate-controlled storage?

The answer gets complicated and depends on your situation and an honest assessment of your belongings. Climate control is worth it if:

• You plan to store the following:
  • Temperature-sensitive items: art paintings, photograph albums, antiques, most wood furniture, most electronics
  • Humidity-sensitive items:  important papers, mementos
• Storing during seasonal weather changes and you live in a region with large temperature or humidity variations. (With today’s climate variations, that means just about everywhere).
• Longer term storage is likely. Rule of thumb – 7 months or longer. Think open-ended.
• Undefined storage period: Let’s say you put items in storage while remodeling your home. Remodels rarely go according to plan. Delays are inevitable.
• If damage would impact an important relationship:  Is your partner’s wrath worth it?
• How important is my stuff to me or us? Keepsakes or stuff I may donate later. This is tricky and requires some emotional honesty.

Tips for choosing climate-control storage (or not)

Tip #1: If unsure, one option is to rent two smaller units – one with climate-control and one without.

Tip #2: If undecided, get your household involved in the decision beforehand. This can save a lot of blame and finger pointing later.

Tip #3: If the replacement cost is significant (think furniture), go with climate-control.

Do I need climate-control storage for short term storage?

Most likely no. Most items will be okay for periods up to four to six months. Trouble can happen when ‘short’ turns into longer.

What’s safe to put in non-climate-controlled storage?

Rule of Thumb: If you would put the item in your attic where there is no temperature control, it will probably be okay in a ‘regular’ storage unit. You can see there’s a lot:

• Appliances (without a lot of electronics. Kitchen stuff. Not TVs, computers, game controllers)
• Hardware and tools
• Metal and plastic patio furniture
• General and business papers – maybe not that tax related info
• Clothing (securely boxed against rodents)
• Drapes and carpets (securely boxed against rodents)
• Holiday ornaments
• Kids memorabilia – Barbie collection (think about it)
• Your ex-partner’s stuff (maybe)
• Stuff you’re gonna (probably) get rid of but not now.

How to rent a climate-controlled storage unit

• Start early. Storage is in demand, particularly during ‘high move’ periods, e.g., end of school when families and students tend to move.
• Get on a waiting list. You may have to.
• State your preferences and stick to them. You may find the perfect unit but without climate-control. They may attempt to persuade you that it will be okay. Only you know for sure.

How can you best protect items in storage?

• Don’t place moldy or mildewed items in storage. It will get worse.
• Choose packaging appropriate for the items. Paper wrapping will absorb humidity and may accelerate damage to objects like framed art pieces. Better to wrap them in plastic bubble wrap.
• Don’t move items on rainy days when they may get wet, or protect them if you do. The moisture will linger inside your unit.
• Ensure airflow in the storage unit when you load it.
• Store items off the floor on palettes or cinderblocks
• Protect against pests.

Helpful storage unit tips and hacks

• Check your insurance to determine if they cover out-of-home scenarios. Rental of a unit may require a special rider and careful inventorying.
• Don’t place irreplaceable items in storage: This is your stuff. But it’s not under your control. What could go wrong?
  • Fire
  • Flood and other acts of nature
  • Pest damage
  • Theft.
• Don’t place items with lithium batteries in storage: These batteries are highly flammable and catch fire in extreme temperature environments. Wrapping them in clothing to insulate them only makes this worse.
• Fill the storage unit strategically with items you may need to access readily available.
• Have a layout strategy for item packing and placement in your unit.
  • Don’t mix items from separate rooms in the same box. Pack kitchen items with other kitchen items.
  • In the unit place room contents together and make a map so you know where you put the kitchen items, for example
• Photograph the box contents or make a list, and number the box.
• Visit your unit regularly to inspect the company site and your unit.

How to choose the best storage unit

These suggestions are mostly about finding units that may experience less radiant heat from outside walls or the roof.

• Find north-facing units. Think about the sun on the side of the storage unit. Remember people don’t live in these structures so climate control may be minimal. So may the air circulation inside. A north facing unit may remain cooler in some climates.
• Inside hallway-access units may stay cooler. Smaller space units may be on an inside hallway, meaning they don’t have an outside wall that will absorb heat.
• Lower level units are likely to stay cooler.
• What works for you: You may need an outside facing 10×20 with a garage door style entrance. These are more likely to get warmer but it may be a worthwhile tradeoff given the weight and quantity of items you need to move.

How to choose the best storage company

• How do you feel about driving to storage? This can feel like a chore at times. Finding one nearby is one solution. Another is an innovative solution like PODS, then removed. We partner with PODS.com and appreciate their innovative convenience.
• Price: We all like deals, but pricing is pretty comparable, as you will see if you shop online. Look for move-in deals that offer a free month or something similar.
• Location: Storage unit business models seek low-cost land. With recent weather extremes, maybe reconsider if the site may flood.
• Look for structural ventilation: Simple roof-style ventilation can promote air flow.
• Search online but decide on location. Ensure that online claims match up with reality. Look for mouse droppings, dirt or poorly swept floors.
• Trust your nose:  If it smells bad inside, your clothing will come out smelling bad too.
• Snoop: If storage is in open, mesh-walled cubicles, what do the neighbors’ items look like? How about theft through the mesh walls?
• Reputation: We hate to bring it up but read the reviews.
• Visit the storage company at night: How is the lighting, gate, and fencing? Does it feel secure or sketchy?
• On-site managers can add a sense of security and deter break-ins.

Need help finding storage? Or moving in or out of storage?

Bellhop partners with storage companies nationwide. Plus, we can help move your items in and out of storage to wherever: local or across the country. We make moving simple and pain-free. We provide several moving services to help you out, including hourly labor, local moving, last-minute moving, commercial moving, and more. If you need reliable movers who will be there as promised, we’re the ones for the job. 

Find movers near you today.

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A mattress can be one of the most personal items in your household. We spend one-third of our lives in bed. A good mattress is an investment in comfort and your well-being. Yet they are bulky to move and given their size can quickly fill up a moving van. So, deciding to move a mattress is a big deal. In this article we will cover both pros and cons of moving, or disposing of a mattress, plus give tips to help. 

If you decide to move your mattress, check with your local Bellhop Movers. They can help you move across the country, or simply across town. They are expert at moving mattresses, and the information you share will help them determine key metrics, like the size of the truck needed. 

5 Reasons to Move Your Mattress 

Best Night’s Sleep Ever! – This ranks high because it is so important. We all know how grumpy we can feel when we get a crummy night’s sleep. Why risk a change or a crabby partner? Stick with a winner and sleep baby sleep!  

Attachment – Memories matter, and families particularly know the joy that comes when young kids pile on the bed, at the right time, of course. Who when little, didn’t jump up and down on their parents’ bed?! 

Replacement Cost – A good mattress can easily cost $1,000 – $5,000, depending on size. Given the costs of moving, it may be better to not spend on a replacement at your new home, just now. 

Still in Great Shape – The average life of a mattress is seven to ten years. Better made can last longer. And we all sleep differently, so like they say with cars, ‘your mileage may vary.’ 

Yeah, it’s big, but honestly, not that hard – Movers always assume there are mattresses to deal with. Systems and supplies make it routine. Mattresses always want to flop over; two expert Bellhop movers make moving one easy. 

How to Dispose of a Mattress 

Maybe it’s time for a fresh start. Moving is a great reason to reconsider keeping all the items in your household. Decluttering makes sense and can save on moving costs. Disposing of a mattress can be an easy decision. Wherever you are moving, it seems like mattresses are always on sale. Not sure what to do with yours? Fortunately, you have options. 

Before you start, research your state’s and city’s rules. They can vary even by town. Be honest about the condition of your mattress. Is it heavily stained? Maybe a few years too old? Mattresses accumulate all sorts of yucky stuff like dead skin and mites that can limit your options if the mattress doesn’t look good. Give it a good vacuum or spot cleaning first before you decide. 

Worried about hauling it away? Call your local Bellhop Movers. When you hire our labor-only movers, you can pay by the hour for help hauling things outside, moving around your garage, preparing for furniture recycling, and hauling away. 

Note: While we are laser-focused on your mattress, the recommendations in this section can also be applied to all the extra items that together may make up your ‘bed’ – like a mattress topper, bed boards, box springs, frames, and slats.  

Donate Your Mattress

Local charities may be willing to take your mattress depending upon its condition. Check with your local Goodwill, Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, or other similar large charity. Many may come and pick up. (Typically, only the larger charities have the resources to handle mattresses). 

Selling Your Mattress

Used mattress sales between individuals are typically allowed. (Check online given your location.) Federal standards and labeling apply when a retailer wants to sell a used mattress. These don’t apply to peer-to-peer sales. Still presentation does matters. Spending a little time on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace can give you a better understanding of this option and suggested pricing. If listings are dated, (look old),  it may mean that used mattresses are a bit hard to sell where you live. 

Recycling Options for Mattresses

Depending upon the composition of your mattress, the components can be repurposed (always a good option!) Some municipalities support mattress recycling. If yours does, there are typically specific locations that will accept them. So check before loading it. 

Mattress Junk Removal

Last resort is to dispose of it at your dump center. Landfills are challenged now, and a mattress will add a lot of waste. If your mattress can have a second life, we recommend against this choice. 

Is a Mattress Bag Worth It? 

Yes! Your mattress is most likely white or cream colored. Moving exposes it to handling and conditions that can dirty it quickly. No one wants disappointing surprises like a dirty mattress after the move. 

We recommend spending a little more on a mattress bag with handles. Handles solve the biggest problem with moving a mattress: how do you grab it? Mattress bags are available at local big box and hardware stores, and online. You can save a little moving time and expense by putting the bag on yourself. Or your Bellhop Movers will be glad to. 

How to Move a Memory Foam Mattress 

Wasn’t it cool to watch your new memory foam mattress expand when you first opened its box?! Amazing. Now, you are wondering how to move it. 

Roll a mattress, don’t bend it.

Bending can leave creases that won’t come out when you later unroll it. Creases are as bad as ‘peas’ if you remember that fairy tale about the princess and the pea under her mattress. 

Squash it like a sleeping bag

If you ever camped, you know the challenge of getting that sleeping bag back in its much smaller stuff sack. Start on one end, pushing down to compress the foam, with elbows straight applying as much weight as possible. For a little fun add kids standing (and laughing) next to you to help. Slowly twist and curl up the compressed foam, then repeat. 

Don’t forget straps!

Have them handy to scoot underneath and around to keep it compressed. Consider wide, 2-inch straps, at least two. Stand it on end and then put it in a mattress bag. 

Consider a mattress vacuum bag

These sealable bags have a one-way valve that fits a standard vacuum cleaner tube. Connect and turn on the vacuum. It’s almost as magical watching the foam mattress shrink as when you first unrolled it. Then roll it up while still in the bag and secure. These bags aren’t that more expensive that a regular mattress bag and are definitely worth it.  

Be cautious with this if you have children in your home; they may wish to crawl inside if it is left unattended. 

What Not to Do When Moving a Mattress 

Don’t try and move it by yourself. Mattresses can weigh between 50 and 150 pounds. It looks easy to move when it’s flat. Stand a mattress up and it immediately starts fighting you. Get a friend or hire someone to help. Then it’s easy. 

Be extra careful on stairs and stair landings. Sliding a mattress on the stairs sounds good until it speeds up. Given its weight, a mattress quickly gains momentum. The person on the bottom can be knocked off balance and injured. Not good for friendship. To prevent this, the person on the top stairs needs to be braced in anticipation and holding it back. 

When You are Ready for the Big Move, Use Bellhop 

At Bellhop, there’s nothing we want more than for our customers to have a smooth move. We hope this article on how to move a mattress helps and saves you some time and research. If you’re ready to get moving, our local and long-distance movers can be there in a jiffy.  

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Prepare your cat for the journey

Preparing your cat for the journey is usually a busy time. You can pre-train your cat to be accustomed to long-distance travel road trips by getting them used to drive around regularly in their cat carrier(preferably a sturdy carrier). Rather than being an arduous trip the entire time, travel for your cat would be easier because of this preparation. The cat dislikes any kind of travel. However, it will increase their comfort as the car is recognized as a safe place to travel. So, car rides should be as comfortable for your cat as possible.

Think about the carrier’s comfort. Minimize the amount of sound and direct sunlight or a sunny spot. You should decrease the volume of your radio if possible. Honking horns and strange engine noises can also increase stress. Take with you bottles of water, containing plenty of water, to avoid giving different-tasting water to your cat. This estimate includes about a gallon of water for a one-way trip. And, it must be water from home. Different water may upset cats. Ride as smoothly as possible. Avoid hard braking, too. Drive smoothly and gently in general. This will make things a little more calming for moving long distance with your cat.

Let your cat get used to the carrier

Beyond ensuring that the acceptable carrier is suitable and comfortable for your cat, you must make sure it is large enough for it and has not to crate darkness. So, ensure that the cat must be able to stand in the crate or carrier without touching the ceiling. Adventures with kitty using hard plastic carriers are strongly recommended. With this, your cat is safe in case of an accident. Clearly, the carrier you choose should be ventilated. By getting your cat accustomed to the leash and carrier, it will be a useful exercise, and the familiarity it experiences will reduce the impact of stress.

Visit the vet

Before your trip, you should be sure to give your cat a health check up. Make sure that its health records are checked. Ensure the cat is checked for chronic health concerns and other chronic health issues, and there is nothing wrong with it that could affect the trip in any way! Tell your vet that you are moving long distance with your cat, and listen closely if they have advice on how best to get through the process. If not sedative medications are advised but do consult them first because different cats will react differently based on their age or temperament so make sure you know what’s safe for yours beforehand. Also, remember to get a pet first-aid kit at the vet clinic, if you don’t have it.

Plan for stopovers

Remember, cats do not travel well. Therefore, depending on the duration of your trip you will need to consider stopovers along the way. Let them have a break and investigate pet-friendly hotels before booking in advance. Your stopovers could also be for a food break.

Feed your cat before the trip

It is recommended that you feed your cat at least four hours before the trip, but it can be even longer. The ideal amount of time for cats to digest food properly and avoid getting car sick or developing a case of indigestion during their travels are between three-four hours. Feed them enough so they won’t get hungry on your way. Make sure your cat receives the right nutrition 24-48 hours before the trip.

Properly secure the carrier

Never forget that cats dislike traveling. A relaxed, stress-free, and safe experience is required. Make sure the carrier is secured using the seatbelt while ensuring the carrier doors are the right fit. This will make moving long distance with your cat a little easier. Prevent unnecessary movement and improve safety in the event of an accident. To ensure that the cat is not able to escape, make sure the carrier’s door is firmly shut. This will prevent mishaps.

Make the trip as comfortable as possible

With your carrier secure, you have to now focus on the actual driving. Try not to avoid any potholes or bumpy roads where possible! Keep in mind that this drive is a silent one. Cats love silence and detest loud noises so keep the radio off for best results; low volume will suffice if necessary but it’s always better when there are no distractions at all from outside noise sources as these may contribute uncontrollably with unpredictable reactions by cats during their long journey home.

Spread out your cat’s toys and other possessions

Making your cat’s new environment as comfortable and friendly as possible is important. Cats are naturally less accepting of change, so you want to make the transition for them easier by making it seem like home or at least not such a shock. Remember that cats have an inherent aversion to change due to their territorial nature – If they had been given choice, they would’ve preferred staying in familiar territory where there were fewer changes. This is why when welcoming your pet into its new surroundings be mindful of all aspects which may cause discomfort.

It can be tough when your cat has to move homes. One way you can make them feel at home is by bringing a sense of familiarity into their new place and surrounding them with his favorite things such as toys, a food bowl, or litter box where he feels most comfortable. By doing this they will take comfort in knowing what’s around the corner from getting back to feeling like themselves again.

Spend time with your cat

It’s no surprise that pets are often the most steadfast companions in our lives. Whether you’ve been a cat person your whole life or adopted one after moving into an apartment, there is something special about having them around – and it goes both ways! It might be worrisome if they don’t seem to like their new surroundings right away, but with some time spent talking, playing games together (and maybe even getting him/her used to his litter box), everything will come back for good as soon as he starts purring again.

What if you can’t drive your cat yourself?

For those who don’t have a car, or prefer not to drive when they’re driving their pet across the country; there’s a way out! There are many professional road pet shipping companies that could help you get your cat from anywhere to the destination address with no hassle and worry. All varieties of pets can be transported safely by these professionals at competitive prices too! Private drivers will work closely with you to provide safety measures for any extraordinary needs during this long journey so both the driver’s vehicle and your cat are safe on their way out there. Your cat can also enjoy an all-night ride if you so want.

Once you have found a driver that suits your needs, you can contact them through their email address or phone call, and they will help to make sure that the ride is smooth. You can arrange for an exact pick up and drop off time with them so there are no unpleasant surprises along the way. The drivers also stay in touch throughout the journey just like a family would do! In case you find yourself without high quality litter boxes or other necessary supplies for traveling cats, one of our top-notch professionals has what it takes to lend those necessities as well.

For those making a move with a cat that need additional help, Bellhop can help in these cities and more:

• New York City Movers
• Dallas Movers
• Boston Movers
• Philadelphia Movers
• Pittsburgh Movers
• Los Angeles Movers
• San Francisco Movers
• Washington DC Movers
• Charlotte Movers
• Las Vegas Movers
• Find Movers Near You

We’d also like to offer this guide for assistance on comparing moving company quotes.

Transporting your cat by air over a long distance

Many considerations come with transporting a cat by airline travel. First, do you have the proper carrier for flying or air in-cabin carrier? Air travel is stressful for your cat for the couple hours it will be on board, and it’s important to make them as comfortable as possible in their crate. It is particularly important to put the quality of the crate in mind, ensuring it has crate openings. And as long as the crates have been pre-approved by the airline company, then they would be fine the entire trip.

Transporting cats via airplane may seem like an overwhelming task but there are plenty of features that can help ease some of this stress such: having enough space at home or work before leaving so your cat feels safe in his new environment.

When flying, you have less control. You place your cat in a carrier and have it stowed in the cat into the cargo hold. Comfort, familiarity, and the personalized aspects of traveling in the vehicle will be eliminated. This is a huge disadvantage of transporting your cat by air, considering the previously mentioned fact that cats hate to travel. 

Other Long-Distance Moving Guides

Long-distance moves are undeniably tricky. We’ve put together a few guides to help you manage some of the thornier points of a long-distance move. And of course, if you need help with your long-distance move, just give us a call. 

• Tips to prepare for a long-distance move
• Moving long-distance with a piano
• Cheapest way to move furniture long-distance
• Moving long-distance with kids
• Moving a refrigerator long-distance
• Moving long-distance with a dog
• How to move saltwater/freshwater fish
• How to pack pots & pans for a long-distance move
• How to pack dishes for a long-distance move

The post Moving Long Distance with Your Cat appeared first on Bellhop.

Moving with fish

We’re going to be perfectly honest here. Moving your fish isn’t going to be easy on you or the fish. Of course, a small tank of freshwater, low-need fish will obviously be a lot easier to relocate than a huge saltwater tank with animals that need very stable conditions to thrive. But it’s difficult to maintain the right level of oxygen and temperature when your fish are in containers as opposed to their comfy tank. Depending on how emotionally invested you are in your fish, and how far away you’re moving (the risks rise fast when your fish are in transit for more than a few hours), it’s likely to be much kinder to find someone local to adopt your fish. 

Usually, a fish tank and its various accessories can go into the moving truck, but the fish and other living creatures (like corals) need to travel in a more controlled environment. In fact, movers typically aren’t allowed to transport pets.

So your fish may be traveling with you. Consider the logistics. If you are moving during the middle of summer or winter, you may have a really hard time keeping your fish comfortable during the trip. If you’ll need to drive for more than a day, consider boarding your fish at an aquarium supply store that is able to ship your fish to your new home after you arrive and get the tank set up. And if you’ve opted to move your fish on your own, we suggest that you still check with an expert for specific guidance on how to best move your fish. Different species have different needs, and we can’t cover them all in this article. 

Get your fish ready to go

You’ll want to stop feeding your fish 24-48 hours before moving day, so their current tank and new temporary containers will stay as clean as possible. Typically fish will be fine without food for about a week, if you have any doubts about this check with an expert. 

Figure that moving your fish from their tank should be the last moving chore you do – you want to limit their time out of their tank as much as possible. And your tank should be the first thing you set up when you get to your new home. 

If your fish are small and hardy, and your new home is about an hour away, you can transport them in plastic bags – probably the same set up as you used to bring them home from the pet store where you initially got them. You’ll want to fill the bag with water from their tank, leaving plenty of space for air on top. Place the bag/s in a study container – a cooler can work well. 

If your fish are bigger than 6 inches or so, or you’re moving small fish further than an hour away, you’ll want to put them in large buckets or containers such as a sturdy cooler. Containers need to be sparkling clean – and don’t use anything that previously contained chemicals or other potentially toxic contents.

Any of our Bellhop professional movers will tell you that you never, ever want to lift or transport an aquarium that has any water or gravel in it, even if it’s a small tank. The weight of the gravel and water, and the movement of water sloshing around is likely to damage the tank. 

Plus, as noted above, your fish will obviously need water to travel in, and will much prefer the water from their tank. 

Moving fish safely

Make sure you have what you need – a fish net, siphon hose, buckets or transport containers, and containers for your coral and live plants as well. You may need aeration and temperature control devices – like air rocks or battery-powered heating devices – to ensure your fish have what they need to survive. If you do adjust the temperature in containers, be very careful not to overheat the fish. It’s easy to do in a small container. 

Start by removing any decorative items from your tank, cleaning them off, and packing them away. 

Then fill the containers that you will use to transport the fish with water from the tank, using a siphon hose. Don’t fill containers to the top. Use the biggest containers that are practical.

When your containers are ready, slowly and calmly start removing your fish from the tank. Place them into the prepared containers. Don’t overcrowd them, and make sure any fish with attitudes are isolated from their more mellow tankmates. Fish in a small container can’t easily evade or hide from others, as they can in a properly set-up tank. 

Remove any coral, live plants, live rock and other creatures. Place them in containers that are filled with water from the tank. Then transfer any remaining aquarium water into plastic buckets, using the existing water will help your fish acclimate to their new home. 

Time to get moving! Position your fish in a safe, stable place in your vehicle – the back floor is likely best. Keep them out of the sun, and away from heat/AC vents. Try to limit sudden stops and starts, and keep the radio volume down, especially if you have a powerful sound system in your car. Vibrations can really stress out your fish. 

Check your fish periodically – but not every five minutes! You’ll freak them out if you disturb them too often – to make sure they aren’t in distress. If they are gasping or hanging at the surface they need more air.  Consider bringing a battery operated air pump along to aerate containers as needed, or add air rocks to the containers. And if you need to stop overnight, bring your fish with you. 

Packing and moving an aquarium

Let your movers know you need a fish tank moved (along with any other fragile, sizable or other items that need special care). Depending on your location, your Bellhop movers may be able to wrap the tank for you. Check to see if packing services are offered when you are booking your move. 

If you’d prefer to pack the tank on your own, use plenty of bubble wrap to protect it. Clear the tank of any random accessories unless they are very lightweight. The filter should be kept damp and packed in a sealed container. You can use moving blankets for additional protection if you can’t find a study box big enough for the tank. Ask your movers for tips on how best to pack the tank and other fragile items like covers and lights. 

Professional movers know how to secure tanks and other fragile items in moving trucks to reduce the risk of damage. But if you have a huge (over 300 pound) tank, you should seriously consider the benefits of selling it locally and purchasing a new one later. Remember that it’s best to have the tank set up right away, and move the fish into their new home as soon as possible. Maybe you can get the new tank ready to be filled prior to actually moving in, or have a friend or aquarium service help you. 

Setting up your fish tank after a move

Say a fast hello to your new home, and start setting up the tank ASAP. The process is different depending on what type of fish and animals live in your tank, so the following is just general advice – please ask an expert for specific guidance on how to re-establish your tank. 

• Get your tank situated and stabilized. 
• Add the non-living components – sand, gravel, rocks, décor, etc. 
• Transfer tank water and top off with de-chlorinated water, if needed. (Use the right mix/treatments for saltwater tanks).
• Get your filter, circulation pump and heater set up. Wait at least an hour before turning on the tank heater.
• Add the cover and lights, plug them in, and regularly check the temperature, PH balance, chlorine level, and ammonia level to make sure everything is back to normal before you move your fish and other living items back to the tank. 
• Don’t feed your fish for 24 hours, and then resume with a light feeding. They may refuse to eat for a day or two, this is normal. 

New Tank Syndrome

No matter how carefully you moved your tank, the biological balance has probably been disrupted. Check the temperature at least once daily for a week or so, and adjust the heater if necessary. Test for ammonia and nitrite levels 3 to 5 days after you’ve reestablished the tank, and correct if levels are elevated. If the water gets cloudy, continue feeding lightly and add additional carbon to the filter until the water clears up. 

Keep an eye on your fish for any signs of disease, and take the appropriate actions – isolation, medicine, tank water treatments, as needed. Sadly, some of your fish may not make it, so be prepared for that. Fish just don’t like moving. 

If you moved a saltwater tank, reestablishing it will be harder, as you probably have guessed. Now is a good time to make friends with the folks at a nearby, well-stocked and professional aquarium store.

Making moving easier

Moving fish is hard, so choose movers who will make everything else easier for you. Bellhop has spent a lot of time figuring out how to make moving as easy and pleasant as humanly possible – from your first contact with our company to the final handshake, whether you’re moving cross-country or across town (and anything in between). Find the best movers near you, today.

Other Long-Distance Moving Guides

Long-distance moves are undeniably tricky. We’ve put together a few guides to help you manage some of the thornier points of a long-distance move. And of course, if you need help with your long-distance move, just give us a call. 

• Tips to prepare for a long-distance move
• Moving long-distance with a piano
• Cheapest way to move furniture long-distance
• Moving long-distance with kids
• Moving a refrigerator long-distance
• Moving long-distance with a dog
• How to pack pots & pans for a long-distance move
• How to pack dishes for a long-distance move
• How to move long-distance with a cat

The post How to Move Saltwater Or Freshwater Fish to Your New Home appeared first on Bellhop.

However you received your china in the first place, it’s important to keep it safe if you decide to move. In this blog, we’ll share how to pack china for moving so that you can do just that. 

Let’s begin!

How to pack china for moving

Below is how to pack china for moving: 

Go shopping

China is delicate and not something you want to pack without precautions in place (and the right supplies). To get started, you’ll need packing paper, bubble wrap, packing tape, and a moving box or two, depending on how much china you have. You might also consider a dish pack box, which is often called one of the best boxes for moving fine china. 

Wrap the plates and bowls

This is where the packing paper comes in handy. Wrap the china piece by piece, using a light hand as you go. You’ll want to put each plate on packing paper, with the eating side pointed toward the table. 

The paper should exceed the dimensions of the china. Next, use your fingers to fold the corners toward the inside of the plate. Once you do all four corners, tape the center point. 

When it comes to packing supplies, you’ll want to put the dish in the middle of a sheet of packing paper. As with the plates, you’ll bring each edge of the paper toward the middle of the bowl, but you’ll want to do one extra step: including a wad of packing paper inside of the bowl for safety purposes during transit. 

Tip: Wrapping multiple pieces of china in the same sheet of packing paper might feel like it will save you time. However, it can lead to your dishes breaking. Always go dish by dish when packing fine china so that everything stays safe. 

Roll the cups in packing paper

What do we mean by this exactly? You’ll want to start wrapping the same way you do with plates: by setting the cup on packing paper on a table (specifically in one of the sheet’s four corners). 

Then, you’ll roll the cup from the top of the paper to the bottom, putting any remaining paper from the sheet inside of the cup. It’s truly that simple!

Put bubble wrap or packing paper in your box

This extra step is worth its weight in gold. Even though your china might be wrapped and ready for transit, you still have to put it in a moving box. 

What better way is there to secure that box than giving it extra durability with a layer of bubble wrap or packing paper at the base before putting a single dish inside? (Spoiler alert: there isn’t!)

Begin packing everything into boxes

The total number of boxes you need depends on the amount of china you have, plus the types of china. It’s usually a good idea to keep plates together, bowls together, and cups together, for instance. That means you might need three boxes if you have a small collection of each of those.

Try not to add more than a dozen dishes in your moving box so that they’re less prone to break. You can also add packing paper or bubble wrap around the dishes to give more cushion during the big move.

How do you pack the dishes for moving? For plates, you’ll want to put them gently in the box facing upward, with bubble wrap between each plate. You can also line packing paper around the edges of the box and over the dishes before you tape the box closed. 

For bowls, you’ll want to pile them on top of one another, separating them with bubble wrap. Cups can be packed on their side, filled with–you guessed it–packing paper or bubble wrap. 

Mark the box as fragile

Once everything is secure in the box, and it has packing paper and/or bubble wrap along the walls of the inside, the bottom of the box, and the top of the box, it’s time to close the box with some good ole packing tape. 

Of course, you can’t forget to write “fragile” on the box with a marker and label it based on your specific labeling color coding system. (It’s recommended to choose a different-colored label for all rooms in a house when moving.) That’s all it takes!

More things to know about packing china and crystal for a move

We get all sorts of questions about moving with fine china and how to pack dishes for moving. Here are some common questions and answers:

What is the best way to wrap china for moving?

The methods we mentioned above are the proper ways to wrap china for a move. All in all, it comes down to using a fresh piece of packing paper (preferably white), doing each dish or cup one by one, and wrapping it with more than one sheet of packing paper. 

What size of box do you need to pack china?

It’s best to get a small or medium box anytime you’re packing something breakable. That includes fine china, meaning plates, bowls, and cups. 

Why? It’s all too easy to put too many things in a large box, which can cause the box to break when you least expect it. So, make things easy on yourself, and opt for a small or medium box for packing china dishes. 

How do you pack china and crystal for moving?

We covered above how to pack china for moving. Crystal is much the same. You will want to go piece by piece and use plenty of bubble wrap. 

One difference with packing crystal and other glassware is that you should put the crystal in cardboard before inserting it into the moving box. That way, there’s an extra layer of support in case things get a little rocky during the move. 

Can you put multiple types of china in the same box?

It’s possible to pack different china in one box if everything is wrapped well with packing paper and bubble wrap. However, don’t forget one of the biggest rules about packing boxes: heavy items go to the bottom of a box. 
That means that if you do decide to pack the dishes in the same box, you’ll want to put the plates at the bottom, then the bowls on top, and so forth. Otherwise, you could be in for quite a disaster by the time you arrive at your new home and go to unbox your china.

Good luck with your move 

At Bellhop, there’s nothing we want more than for our customers to have a smooth move. We hope this guide on how to pack china for moving helps out a little in the moving process and saves you some time and research. If you’re ready to get moving, our local and long-distance movers can be there in a jiffy. 

Ready to start the conversation? Find movers near you today. 

The post How to Pack China for Moving appeared first on Bellhop.

Today, we’re going to explain how to pack silverware for moving so that you know exactly what to do and can move onto your new home with ease. Let’s get started!

How to pack silverware for moving

These are the steps on how to pack silverware for moving: 

Tip #1: Purchase your supplies

When it comes to packing silverware, you’ll need a silverware tray, moving box, packing paper, packing tape, and a label. You can often get these at your local grocery store or craft store. You can also ask convenience stores if they have any small moving boxes so that you’re not left trying to find something at the last minute. 

(Note: A large or medium moving box could work, but you’ll have to make sure to pack it full of packing paper or bubble wrap so that nothing moves around and gets damaged during the move. See tip #4.)

Tip #2: Use a silverware tray

Before you get started, make sure your silverware is washed and fully dry. Then, you’ll want to gather groups of spoons, forks, and knives, covering them in packing paper. 

Next, add those to the silverware tray. Cover the tray a few times with packing paper, and seal it with tape. It’s then safe to add that tray to a moving box with the rest of your kitchenware, including cups and bowls. 

Tip #3: Pay special attention to the knives

How do you pack knives for moving? Going back to tip #2 for a second, using a silverware tray is one of the easiest ways to pack silverware for moving. However, you have to be careful during the knife packing process, as knives are sharp and dangerous. (The same can also be said for forks.) 

When you pack your knives, put them first on packing paper, and fold that paper, pointing the blades away or close to your person every other knife. Make sure to label the knives with their respective name so that it’s crystal clear what’s inside that section of the tray.

Tip #4: Fill up the empty areas in the tray

Have open spots in the silverware tray that are causing the silverware to move around? Packing paper is your friend.

Make small balls with the paper, and add those balls to the empty areas to keep everything secure during the move. This is an easy step that you will thank yourself for later. Trust us!

Tip #5: Tape the box closed

Once your silverware is packed in the box, it’s time to shut the box and get it ready for the moving truck. Packing tape is a great resource for this. Carefully tape the top of the box (and bottom–if it’s flimsy) to make sure everything stays in place.

After the box is taped shut, make sure you don’t hear anything shifting inside. Then, add a label that reads “kitchen” and “fragile” or “dangerous – knives inside.”  

More questions about moving with silverware

Here are some answers for you:

What do you do if you don’t have room for large kitchen utensils in the silverware tray?

Don’t worry! It’s easy to pack these items. What you can do is wrap them one by one and set them on the tray. You can also bundle them in groups, similar to what you did with the forks, knives, and spoons. 

Can you pack silverware without a tray?

Yes, you can. You will still want to group the different kitchen utensils together, and wrap them with several sheets of packing paper. Then, you’ll want to tape up those sets, add them into a box with packing paper, and tape the box shut. 

How should you pack old and valuable silver?

Let’s say you were gifted spoons or silverware set by a family member. Maybe they have been passed down for generations, and you’re the newest lucky recipient. If so, you have to be careful with these items to keep them safe. It’s not a bad idea to polish them first. 

Then, you’ll want to put the silver in white packing paper, tissue paper, or cloth. Once everything is wrapped, add it to an appropriately sized moving box with bubble wrap and/or packing paper inside. Label the box as “fragile” so that whoever you have helping you move will use extra caution during the loading and unloading process. 

Ready to get this move on the road?

Things are moving along better than ever now that you know the steps on how to pack silverware for moving. If you haven’t already, feel free to reach out to Bellhop for local or long-distance moving help. Our movers are vetted, background-checked, affordable, and available to assist with moves to multiple states throughout the U.S. You can trust us to get the job done quickly and at a great price.

Find movers near you today. 

The post How to Pack Silverware for Moving appeared first on Bellhop.

If you’re moving and are a wine drinker, you want to ensure your glasses make it to your new home safe and sound. Below, we’ll share how to pack wine glasses for moving so that you cut down on the chance of something going wrong during transit. 

We hope this helps you out!

How to pack wine glasses

There are many ways on how to pack wine glasses, but today, we’re going to show you the easiest and safest option. Below is what you’ll want to do:

Get your supplies

When you run out of that extra roll of packing tape and head to the store, make sure you bring a shopping list. For moving wine glasses, that includes a banker’s box (some call this the best wine glass packing box), packing paper, cardboard dividers, bubble wrap, packing tape, and labels. 

Try to avoid adding “another bottle of wine” to your shopping list. We know. We know. Easier said than done, right? But you’re best off going through your current collection first before buying more, especially while moving.

Start wrapping your wine glasses

Once you have your supplies ready, that’s when the fun starts. First, wad up packing paper so that it goes inside each wine glass (up to the top). Then, set another sheet of packing paper or bubble wrap down on your kitchen table. 

You’ll want to put the glass down in a diagonal direction so that the base of the glass is at one of the packing paper’s four edges. Begin wrapping, similar to how you would do a burrito, but make sure there’s still enough paper left over in that sheet at the end so that you can gently stuff it into the glass’s end and opening. 

Roll away until the sheet is gone. Then, do this process again a few times to make sure the glass is best protected. Once you’re done with one wine glass, repeat for all of the remaining glasses. 

Box up the wine glasses

Now that your glasses are ready to go, it’s time to add packing paper to the bottom of the bone, then add the dividers. Put each glass into a divider. 

How do you pack wine glasses for moving without dividers? You’ll want to make sure the glasses are upright in the moving box. At least, that’s what most experts recommend!

Add bubble wrap to the packing process

If needed, you can put packing paper and bubble wrap on top of those glasses and dividers, add another divider, and do more glasses. However, if you don’t have the space, it’s a good idea to lay a few sheets of bubble wrap over the glasses and divider, double-checking that everything is secure. 

Packing paper can also be used if there are any open spots, or you hear shuffling around once you’re done packing everything inside. Always do a double-take to make sure all is good to go. 

Use tape, and label your boxes

Let’s say everything is looking good and sounds secure in the box. If so, it’s time to shut the box, and add some packing tape so that it doesn’t break open during transit. 

Just don’t forget to label the box as “fragile” and include what’s inside so that everyone is cautious when transporting it from one location to another. 

Other questions about packing wine glasses

These are some more questions that come up regarding wine glasses and moving:

Do you pack wine glasses upside down?

It’s possible to pack glasses upside down. It can prevent dust from accumulating on the glasses, for one. However, there’s a chance of breakage if you don’t cushion the glasses properly with packing paper and bubble wrap. 

Some experts recommend packing wine glasses upright to lower the chance of something happening during transit. The one thing you won’t want to do is pack them into the boxes on their sides since that can cause them to shatter if dropped too hard or placed in a compromising position. 

How do you pack glasses without breaking them?

Follow the steps to pack wine glasses above, and that should help. That means using plenty of packing paper and bubble wrap (several layers are what you want) and making sure there is no movement within the boxes after the glasses are inside and packed up. 

Need moving help?

Knowing how to pack wine glasses is one piece of your move. If you need help with transporting your items from point A to point B, coordinating your move, setting up storage, or something else, Bellhop has you covered. We have local and long-distance movers in multiple states who are ready to help when you need us.

Find movers near you today. 

The post All You Need to Know About How to Pack Wine Glasses appeared first on Bellhop.

However, moving to a different city or state is another ballpark. That means you’ll want to take precautions if you’re transporting alcohol of any kind–but especially your go-to bottles you love so much. (After all, no one wants those to break!)

Read on to find out just how to pack liquor and wine bottles for moving. We’ve got you covered, friend. 

How to pack liquor and wine bottles for moving 

Here are some suggestions on how to pack liquor and wine bottles for moving. Follow these tips, and feel a little more relaxed about transporting wine and liquor from your old home to your new home. 

Tip #1: Declutter your alcohol stash

Have many opened bottles you haven’t touched in years? Maybe a collection of wine bottles you received at holiday parties that you forgot about? Got several bottles of red wine that you never drink since you’re more of a white wine person? 

A declutter could do you some good (and also make moving your liquor and wine bottles more affordable since there won’t be as much weight). So, when it comes time to pack your alcohol, put all of your bottles on the table first. 

If they haven’t been opened yet, ask yourself if you could see yourself drinking them in the next two months or whether you’d be better off giving them to a friend or dumping them down the drain. (If you do dump your alcohol, just remember to recycle the glass afterward!)

Tip #2: Invest in a wine shipping box or cell divider box

What are the ways on how to pack liquor bottles for moving? How about wine? While you can use a regular moving box to transport alcohol if you pack it right, it’s worth the extra dollars to get a wine shipping box or cell divider box. 

The first has styrofoam dividers that prevent your bottles from shifting around. The latter has dividers made of cardboard, which also help keep things in place, though cell divider boxes are generally less durable than wine shipping boxes. (Keep in mind that cell divider boxes can be more affordable than wine shipping boxes, though. If you’re on a budget, this can be a great option that you’ll just need to take the time to pack right.)

Add cardboard to the bottom if needed

A moving box can make or break things (literally). If the box you choose for your alcohol bottles feels flimsy at all, tape a supportive piece of cardboard to the bottom of the box. Then, tape over that multiple times to make sure the box is secure. 

Put your wine and liquor bottles into the moving boxes

…And don’t forget your packing paper! That adds a little extra cushion to your bottles to prevent them from breaking during the moving process. Gently wrap the packing paper around each bottle, and place it in the respective spot within the divider for peace of mind.

Start labeling

Don’t want your favorite liquor or wine to go missing during the move? Labeling can help! Write down what is within each moving box, alcohol or not. 

Of course, if you are transporting alcohol, you’re dealing with a lot of glass. That means that you will want to label the box “fragile” so that everyone who comes into contact with it is extra careful. 

More questions about transporting wine and liquor for a move

Here are some other things you might be curious to know about packing liquor and wine bottles:

What are the best moving boxes for liquor bottles?

As long as the liquor bottles are small enough, a wine shipping box is often your best moving box. The styrofoam dividers are a huge help since they can keep the bottles in place and prevent them from getting damaged. 

How do you go about moving alcohol across state lines?

Every state has different laws. The easiest way to find out how to move alcohol between states is to look up the requirements in your specific state.

How can you transport wine bottles in a car?

Using a wine shipping box is important. You can also set the box on the floor behind one of the seats or the floor of the passenger seat (never the trunk). Turn your air conditioner on while the wine is in the car.

The post Top 5 Tips: How to Pack Liquor and Wine Bottles for Moving appeared first on Bellhop.

While this is convenient and makes sure you never run out of items while cooking, the big question is: how do you get those pots and pans ready for moving?

Stay tuned to find out all you need to know about how to pack pots and pans in preparation for your big move. We hope you find this information useful!

How to pack pots and pans 

Here are the basics of how to pack pots and pans for moving:

Wash and dry your cooking ware

Even if you’re moving out fast, one thing you don’t want to skimp on is properly washing your pots and pans. Otherwise, there could be food remnants and bacteria left behind, which could lead to mold and mildew. The same thing can happen if you forget to dry your pots and pans. 

Our suggestion? Save yourself time and stress, and just wash your cooking ware now. Otherwise, you might regret it and may ultimately end up having to purchase all-new baking dishes, casserole dishes, cookie sheets, and more (which, as you know, isn’t cheap).

Prep your moving boxes 

You can get away with packing pots and pans in a thick bag or even a pillowcase. However, packing them in a moving box is usually the way to go since it can lower the chance of damage. 

First, make sure the boxes are sturdy and high quality. Next, tape the base of the box to ensure it doesn’t open during transit, and lightly squeeze a bunch of paper to line the bottom of the inside of the box. You don’t want actual balls of paper—just crinkled enough that it gives a little extra support to the contents inside of the box.

Stack the pots and pans gently

This might seem self-explanatory. However, there are some rules of thumb you’ll want to follow to make sure the box is stable as you move from one location to another. First, try not to put more than three pots or pans on top of one another. 

Otherwise, your box might be too heavy and hard to lift, which can cause something to break or force you to have to repack your items before moving. When you’re packing and stacking, you’ll want to put newspaper, packing paper, or even a handy-dandy washcloth in between the cooking ware. That can help keep things from getting scratched. (Tip: Always stick the largest or heaviest items at the bottom of the box.)

Use a different box for glass lids

Packing glass lids in the same box as their respective pots and baking dishes might be handy so that you keep everything together. However, it can be a nightmare if you’re moving far, as the pots and pans are heavy, and glass is extra fragile. 

To prevent a disaster, use packing paper or bubble wrap to pack your glass lids, and add those lids to a new box labeled as “fragile.”

Add lighter items on top of the pans and pots

When you’re moving, it’s inevitable that you’ll put more than one box on top of another. That’s because you have to make do with space—or cause yourself to have to make multiple trips to deliver the contents of a half-empty moving truck or trunk of your car (for those small moves). 

Once your pots and pans are in place in the box, cover them with more packing paper or newspaper, and feel free to add some extra things on top. Think: silverware, kitchen utensils, and other not-so-heavy things you might find in the heart of the house. 

Label Your Pots & Pans Boxes

Last but not least, don’t forget to label your boxes so that you know what’s inside. We recommend using a different-colored label for each room in the house when it comes to packing. Your kitchenware could go in boxes with a yellow label, for instance. 

Just don’t forget to write clearly on the outside of the box what pots and pans are in there, in addition to the word “fragile” if there’s any glass inside the box. That way, you don’t have to spend hours tracking down your kitchen items when you move in and are craving something homemade for dinner. 

Need help with loading and unloading?

Knowing how to pack pots and pans is half the battle. Now it’s time to situate them in your car or moving truck. If you need a hand with moving, remember that your friends at Bellhop are here for you. We offer everything from local moving and hourly labor to long-distance moving. Let us know what day you need help, and we’d love to be of service. 

Book a move online today.

Other Long-Distance Moving Guides

Long-distance moves are undeniably tricky. We’ve put together a few guides to help you manage some of the thornier points of a long-distance move. And of course, if you need help with your long-distance move, just give us a call. 

• Tips to prepare for a long-distance move
• Moving long-distance with a piano
• Cheapest way to move furniture long-distance
• Moving long-distance with kids
• Moving a refrigerator long-distance
• Moving long-distance with a dog
• How to move saltwater/freshwater fish
• How to pack dishes for a long-distance move
• How to move long-distance with a cat

The post How to Pack Pots and Pans for a long-distance move  appeared first on Bellhop.

It’s a great idea to put aside a duffel bag, backpack, or small suitcase with a few days’ worth of outfits (plus toiletries and other essentials) before moving day. That way, you can pack up the remaining clothing without having it affect your moving timeline. 

Where do you start, though? In this guide, we’re going to explain how to pack clothes efficiently and quickly so that you can finish up this move and enjoy your new home before you know it.

Let’s get right into it. Shall we? 

How to pack clothes for moving

Here’s how to pack clothes and some other tips to get ready for moving day:

Get rid of unwanted clothing before packing

We’ve all been there. There’s an outfit you bought a year or two ago that you just love, and you can’t bring yourself to give it up, even though you haven’t had an occasion to wear it to since the first month you owned it. Here’s our advice: just do it. 

There’s a good chance you’ll forget about that outfit once it’s out of your closet. On the other hand, if you aren’t ready to give it up, try to book your schedule with events where that outfit makes sense, or incorporate pieces of it into your everyday wardrobe. That way, it gets put to good use.

While you’re going through your closet, here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Does this article of clothing fit?
• Does it go with more than one outfit?
• Does it bring me joy?
• Can I see myself wearing it again?
• Does it match my aesthetic?

If the answer to these is “no,” consider donating the clothing to a friend, selling it online, or donating it to a local shelter. The clothing will be out of your hands and in the hands of someone else who will get good use out of it in no time. Remember: one (wo)man’s junk is another (wo)man’s treasure!

Separate clothing that’s not in season

The weather changes drastically depending on where you are in the U.S. If you’re moving from New York to Florida, it might not make sense to bring winter clothing–unless you plan to travel back to New York often for work purposes or to visit family. 

What you can do is go through this seasonal clothing (winter jackets, snow pants, long-sleeve shirts, pants, shorts, swimsuits, etc.), and see what you could realistically see yourself wearing while living in your new city or state. If the place you’re moving to has all four seasons (think: the Pacific Northwest), you might want to bring it all, but you can pack up the out-of-season items ahead of schedule since you probably won’t need those for a while. 

Roll your clothes

How do you pack clothes to take up the least space? Try rolling them! There are tons of ways to pack clothes for moving, and rolling is one of our personal favorites. (Typically, it’s better to roll clothes than fold them because rolled clothes are space savers.) 

How do you roll clothes for packing? Essentially, you flatten out your clothing while you roll it with your hands. That cuts down on wrinkling and makes your clothes not take up a lot of room. 

If you’re going to roll clothes, practice on your socks, shirts, and shorts. To roll a t-shirt, fold the sleeves so that they go to the middle of the shirt. Then, fold one sleeve to the middle, and follow suit with the other sleeve. Use your hands to rub the shirt and get rid of wrinkles (if applicable). (Note: For long-sleeve shirts, it’s usually best to fold the sleeves toward the back of the shirt in a cross pattern.)

Then, roll it out from the bottom to the top, rubbing it to ward off those pesky wrinkles as you see fit. It’s that easy! If you’re rolling pants, start by folding them with one pant leg over the other. Use your hands on those wrinkles, and roll from the top of the pants to the bottom of the pants. (You can also use packing cubes if you wish after the clothing is rolled.)

Use what you have

You already know the most effective way to pack clothes. Now it’s about finding a place for those clothes! Here’s a secret: you don’t necessarily need to get new moving boxes for clothing. 

This is a good time to put all those backpacks, suitcases, and duffel bags in your closet to good use. Using what you have is a great way to save money and time, as well as keep things organized. 

If you don’t have any suitcases, you can use dresser drawers. Simply make sure your clothing is all clean beforehand, pack your dresser accordingly, and cover the clothing with plastic if needed. 

Pack similar items together

…And be sure to put the heaviest items at the bottom of the box, duffel bag, or suitcase–whatever you choose! You might find the packing process goes faster if you toss all of your clothing into cases or boxes without a rhyme or reason. 

However, it’s worth taking a few extra minutes to sort through things and put similar items together. That can prevent you from losing your favorite articles of clothing and help you track down pieces faster. (For instance, consider packing your blazers together, suits together, and workout clothing together.)

When it comes to the actual packing, put the items in their box, container, or bag carefully, setting the heavy stuff in first. Then, add items as needed, making sure all the space is used. Things like undergarments should go at the top since they’re lightweight. (It also makes them easy to access!)

More dos and don’ts for packing clothes, shoes, and accessories 

Do:

• Make sure your clothing and shoes are clean before packing. 
• Cover your shoes with plastic or in a shoe box so that they don’t get your clothing dirty if you decide to pack them in the same bag. 
• Put something inside your shoes to help them maintain their shape during the moving process. 
• Store your accessories in a different container so that they don’t get broken or lost during the move.
• Layer items on top of one another to make use of all of the space.

Don’t:

• Save packing your clothing, shoes, and accessories until the last hour.
• Use a wardrobe box for everyday clothes. Save this for the bigger items that you 100% don’t want to get wrinkled. 
• Forget to declutter before packing–including going through your shoe collection.
• Put your clothes in a garbage bag if you have a suitcase or duffel bag handy and want to avoid wrinkling. 
• Just put the clothing in boxes (if that’s the route you choose), and call it good. Make sure to label the boxes so that you know what’s inside.

Happy moving!

Customers ask us all the time how to pack clothes for moving. As you might have noticed, it’s not as hard or time-consuming as it sounds! We hope our guide pointed you in the right direction and made the task seem less daunting. As always, if you need local or long-distance movers, Bellhop is here for you. 

Find movers near you today. 

The post Top Tips and Tricks: How to Pack Clothes appeared first on Bellhop.

Get organized ahead of time

Be sure to have all the important details of move day noted, including the date(s) and time slots available. Creating a packing list or excel spreadsheet can help you keep track of everything that you may need to bring with you. You can organize this list by category: clothes, toiletries, electronics, etc. 

Coordinate and communicate with your roommate 

If you have your future roommate’s contact information, reach out ahead of time to compare notes and clarify which items you each plan on bringing. This will help prevent bringing any duplicates, and therefore save money (and space!). 

Don’t wait to pack

Packing is one of the most dreaded components of the moving process, but we advise you to get started right away. Gradually crossing tasks off your list over a period of time is a lot less stressful than panic-packing at the last minute.  

Start with essential documents

A good place to start is with important documents, such as your medical insurance card, driver’s license, social security card, etc. If you plan on holding a part-time job while in school, these documents are necessary for employment. 

Focus on seasonal clothing

When it comes to clothes, pack seasonally. You might be tempted to bring your entire wardrobe, but it’ll take up a lot of your (limited) space! Assuming you’ll have the chance to go home at least once or twice over the course of the school year,  you can take the opportunity to swap out your ‘fits for the appropriate season.

No matter the season, consider bringing a business-appropriate outfit.  Colleges and universities often hold career fairs, and you’ll be grateful to have your professional attire on hand if given the opportunity to meet potential employers. 

Don’t forget cleaning supplies and toiletries

CollegiateParent.com advises bringing basic cleaning supplies (e.g. wipes, sprays, a mini vacuum) to keep your space clean. You’ll be especially grateful for these items if/when your roommate catches a cold! It’s also good to stock up on toiletries at the beginning of the semester, especially if you don’t have easy access to transportation for a quick trip to the store. 

What not to bring

Carefully consider the amount of actual living space you’ll have in your dorm. Will you really have room for that appliance (microwave, mini fridge, etc.)? Can you justify bringing a full-size ironing board if you only plan to iron a few articles of clothing? If you don’t anticipate using certain items on a daily basis, you may be better off leaving them at home. 

Going out of state for school? Think carefully about what you might be better off purchasing locally (e.g. supplemental furniture). 

Packing hacks to maximize space

Now that you’ve figured out what you’re bringing, it’s time to do the packing. Bellhop recommends leaving your hanging clothes on their hangers for easy unpacking. Slip a garbage bag over groupings of clothes to protect them in transit, or transport them in wardrobe boxes. 

Instead of wasting another box on bulky shoes, pack them in your laundry hamper. This saves on some space and doesn’t dirty up the rest of your things. Packing some of your clothes into one or two large suitcases and sending the luggage back with your parents will help you save space. We suggest keeping at least one small suitcase with you for a quick weekend trip or visiting home!

Packing up your car

If you’re driving to school, it’s a good idea to pack your car the night before you plan to move so that you’re not scrambling the day of. Moving.com says the best way to pack your car is to place the large, heavy items in first, situated toward the center and sides of the car. Everything else can be piled around the open spots. 

It can be helpful to pack a separate box or tote bag with items that you may need immediately (e.g. while unpacking),  and have it readily accessible.  Common items for this “open first” box may include toilet paper, pens, trash bags, box cutters, phone chargers, etc.

The post What (and how) to pack for your first college dorm! appeared first on Bellhop.

In this blog, we’ll share the safest ways to move a couch so that you can prevent injuries and keep your home safe. Let’s get started!

Getting started: how to move a couch 

When it comes to the best ways to move a couch, it’s important to start by breaking out your tape measure and measuring the length and width of the couch. That will tell you what size of couch will fit through your doors and hallways, or whether you’ll need to donate the couch and opt for something new to make sure it fits indoors. (Also, it can help to measure the size of your entrances and windows if needed to know how much room you’re working with.)

After you measure the sofa, the next step is figuring out whether you’re going to do it yourself or with a few friends or movers. It may only take you and a buddy to move a loveseat or small couch. However, sectional couches require more moving help. (Fewer people are required if you can take the couch apart, but you still need to be able to support the couch on all sides so that it doesn’t get damaged or damage anything when you’re transporting it from one location to another.) 

Finally, once you have your measurements done and the team in order, it’s time to get your supplies. Movers will generally have a truck, dolly, straps, and other supplies on hand. However, if you’re moving the couch without the help of professional movers, you’ll need to get these supplies yourself. 

Now that you know what to do to get ready to move your couch, let’s chat about the proper techniques on how to move a couch.

How to move a sofa by yourself

It’s generally recommended to have someone help you when moving a couch. However, that’s not an option for everyone. So, if you have a small, light couch and don’t have help, what you can do is lift up the end of your couch, and put it on a dolly. 

You can do the same thing to the other side if you have two dollies. Next, tie down the couch so that it doesn’t fall off, and it’s easy to maneuver. Then, push it slowly to the final destination. 

Another option for moving a couch without help is taking it apart first to make it less weight, which can make it easier to relocate. (Psst… Be sure to add any small parts to a bag so that they don’t go missing!)

Floor sliders are also helpful so that you can simply slide the couch if you have room between locations and keep the floor in good condition while you’re at it. That way, you can save time from taking it apart and don’t have to borrow a dolly (or two). 

How to lift the couch safely

To keep your back safe, use your legs and squat to lift the sofa. Do not bend over at your waist. Also, make sure to wear boots or tennis shoes and not sandals so that you have less of a chance of hurting your feet if the couch were to fall. 

How to move it around corners without damaging walls

The easiest way to transport a couch around a corner without damaging walls is to set aside any plastic packaging or cardboard (assuming it’s wrapped). You can also take off the arms and legs if it has them, or disassemble the couch if it’s too big to fit. 

If your couch is fluffy, give it a squeeze to make it smaller, and see if that gives you enough room to get it around the corner safely. Try not to change the direction of your sofa if you’re moving it around a tight corner to prevent any damage. 

How to safely secure the sofa to your vehicle

As a general rule, it’s best to have a truck to move your couch. However, if you have a sedan and a small loveseat or couch and are wondering how to move a couch without a truck, it may still be possible. Just be sure to check your car’s weight limit first.

Otherwise, let’s talk about how to move a couch with a car. You’ll want to start by measuring the couch and determining if it will fit in your truck or the backseat if you fold the seats down. Some professionals also say that it is possible to strap a small sofa to the top of a vehicle. If this is an option you want to explore, be sure to put blankets on the top of your car first and foremost. 

Then, ask at least one person for help, and lift the sofa on top of the car together. Next, tie down the couch with bungee cords, straps, or rope. If you have a truck, you can simply lift the couch in the bed of your truck, and strap it down with ratchet straps or something similar. Make sure everything is secure, drive slowly, and you should be good to go. 

Good luck with moving!

Now that you know how to move a couch, DIYing your move will be easier than ever. Don’t forget that there are many trucks you can rent to help your move go off without a hitch. That includes companies like U-Haul, Enterprise, Penske, and Budget Truck. 

Of course, if you need professional movers, Bellhop is here to help, too! Book a move online today.

The post How to Move a Couch appeared first on Bellhop.

Today, we’re going to talk about the how-to behind moving out quickly, including what to do when you have a month, three weeks, one week, and one day to move. Let’s get this move on the road!

How to move out fast (one month or less)

If you need to move out fast, we’ve got you covered. Below is what to do based on how much time you have before moving day:

1 day to move

How do you move out in one day? As hectic as moving day might be, you can move in a single day (if you do it right). Below are some tips: 

#1: Call in a favor. 

Have a few friends who could lend you a hand? Ask for help. Even if it pains you to ask for a helping hand, moving in one day is a hard task, and a few extra hands might be just what you need. Repay your friends with pizza, water, soda, high-fives, or even an IOU. Everyone wins! (Also, don’t forget that last-minute movers can also help with your move, sometimes with as little as a day’s notice.)

#2: Begin early in the day.

There are only so many hours in a day. Brew a pot of coffee, and try to get a head-start on your move before the sun comes up. You’ll be done faster, leaving you time to rest and unwind toward the end of the day. (Let’s be honest. After a long day of moving, everyone needs some unwinding time!)

#3: Donate. Donate. Donate.

There’s no time to sell anything if you have a day to move. So, instead of spending your time finding a buyer for your old dirt bike or book collection, take those items to Goodwill or another local donation spot. That means fewer items to worry about during the move, which can make it easier to pack up what’s left and get out of your house fast. 

#4: Go room by room. 

Single-tasking is key when it comes to moving (and the secret behind how to pack fast for moving). It’ll keep you from getting distracted as you switch from bedroom to bathroom to game room, helping you stay on track. So, grab your packing supplies, and pack each room one at a time until you’re finished to maximize productivity on moving day. 

1 week to move

If you have one week to move, that gives you a little more time than one day, but it’s still not much time. All of the tips above apply, as well as the following:

#1: Ask friends for boxes.

One week gives you some time to find moving boxes–not a lot of time but time nonetheless. So, talk to your friends, family, coworkers, and hey, even your barista to see if anyone has moving boxes. That will save you money in the back end so that you don’t have to buy all of your packing supplies brand new. 

#2: Create a moving checklist.

Moving out in one week is not for the faint of heart. If you want to know how to move quickly and efficiently, it’s all in a moving checklist. Use a moving checklist to help keep you on track and ensure no detail goes unnoticed. Some things to add include: (1) pack an overnight bag, (2) pack important documents, (3) pack medications, (4) pack each room, and (5) clean each room afterward. 

#3: Label boxes by room.

You might not have time to label boxes if you’re moving in one day. However, one week should give you time for that so that you don’t have to spend hours tracking things down at a later date. Our recommendation? Pick a different label color for each room, and bring those boxes into the designated room once you get to your new home. 

#4: Hire cleaners.

If you only have a week, that doesn’t leave you a lot of time to deep-clean your house after all the boxes are out. So, if you can, consider hiring a professional cleaning company or a family member or two to clean your house for you. That way, you have a better chance of getting your security deposit back and will have one less task to worry about.

3 weeks to move

Need to move out in three weeks? Here are some quick pointers:

#1: Get your moving supplies.

There are many different packing supplies you might need, including boxes, packing paper, tape, bubble wraps, markers, labels, bags, blankets, and a dolly. If you don’t have these items already, now’s the time to get them.

#2: Start packing right away. 

If there’s one thing you don’t want to procrastinate on when it comes to moving, it’s packing. Most movers recommend beginning the packing process three weeks before you move so that you can get everything crossed off before the big moving day. If you finish early, that’s okay! It just means there will be more time leftover to take care of other parts of your move, such as coordinating with movers or setting up a forwarding address. 

#3: Double-check on your utilities. 

Three weeks should afford you plenty of time to coordinate with your garage, internet, and electric companies. Talk to them to ensure that your services are out of your name as of the day after your moving date (unless you’ve worked out something with your landlord). Then, schedule a time to set these services up at your new house or apartment. 

#4: Set up storage. 

In case you end up needing extra space for your items, storage is helpful. You can either arrange movers to transport your items to storage for you or drive them yourself. (If you drive them yourself, remember to ask your movers for recommendations to ensure you find a quality short-term or long-term storage provider that will fit your needs.)

#5: Deep-clean your home. 

Once your home is empty, it’s time to clean. This is a good time to wash the baseboards, vacuum, steam the carpets, scrub your shower, and clean out your oven. If you have a friend who can help you out, that’s even better! (It’s best not to have your kids or pets home for this part in case you’re cleaning with any toxic chemicals.)

1 month to move

Need to move out fast? Have a month to do it? Here’s what you should do:

#1: Notify your landlord. 

If you’re moving out of a rental, one of the first things to do is alert your landlord. A month in advance is generally a good time to provide your notice to vacate, but don’t forget to check your lease just in case. 

#2: Sort through your paperwork. 

You’d be surprised how much room paper can take up during a move. Save some space, and sort your papers to prepare to move out. Once you have a pile of keepers and shredders, you’ll know what to do. (Just remember to create a binder for important documents, including marriage certificates, life insurance information, Social Security cards, passports, immigration paperwork, etc.) 

#3: Disassemble your furniture. 

Did you know that you can take apart most furniture? It’s true! And doing so before moving day can save you a ton of time. When you disassemble your sofas, recliners, and other furniture, you can rest assured that it will fit better when in transit and stay safe. (It’ll also be easier to carry into your new home.)

#4: Pack your kitchen last.

Most of us use our kitchen every day, which is why it’s best to hold off on packing it until the last minute. You can always pack up small appliances, dishes, and utensils you don’t plan to use over the next month. However, save the bulk of the kitchen for last to be most efficient. 

#5: Clean after the movers finish.

Just as you’d want to deep-clean your home with three weeks to move out, the same applies for one month. So, gather your cleaning supplies, and give your home a thorough cleaning after the movers’ jobs are done. Your home will be spic and span when you’re done and ready for the next tenants. (Also, the cleaner your home is upon leaving, the better the chances are that you’ll get your security deposit back after moving out.)

How can I move out fast with no money?

If something happens and you don’t have a month or even a day to move, here are some tips: 

• Bunk with a friend for the night while you get things in order.
• Make a plan, and adjust your plan accordingly. 
• Ask your friend or family member to borrow their car for a day.
• Only pack the essentials (up to a week’s worth of clothing, medication, toiletries, cell phone, charger, and laptop if you need it for work)
• Set up a time to pick up your remaining items from the house when the dust settles. Bring a friend if you need to do so. 

How do I move out of my house ASAP?

There are many ways to relocate in a hurry. Here are some suggestions:

• Figure out your financial situation. Talk to a local financial advisor if you need help getting your money in order.
• Talk to the other person you’re living with so that they can make arrangements.
• Put in a notice to vacate if necessary.
• Get rid of what you don’t need. This will just create clutter, which will accumulate in your new place. 
• Couch-hop, or get a roommate. You can find shared housing options on Craigslist. 
• Ask your friends or loved ones to help with the move. 
• Work with last-minute movers.
• Pack your items into what you have first (suitcases, dressers, etc.). Then, put the rest in moving boxes.
• Place your items in temporary storage if needed. 

How do I move out of my parents’ house ASAP?

If you want to move out fast at 18, there are a few steps you can take. Here are our suggestions:

• Talk to your parents. Let them know timelines so that they know how to plan.
• Get a job.
• Create a budget, and follow it. 
• Start building up your credit. 
• Save up to pay for your first and last month’s rent and a security deposit or a down payment on a home. 
• Get a roommate, or look into shared housing. 
• Set up alerts for apartments in your price range and target neighborhood. 
• Sell unwanted items. Put that money toward your moving expenses (or in savings). 

Need last-minute movers?

At Bellhop, we understand things happen. If you must move out fast, we can help. Our team offers multiple last-minute moving services, including unloading, delivery, and much more. As a bonus, we offer flexible scheduling and great prices!

Find movers near you today. 

The post Need to Move in One Month or Less? Here’s How to Move Out Fast appeared first on Bellhop.

In this blog, we’re going to cover how many weeks before your move you should pack your things in boxes, as well as a few other steps to get ready. 

We hope it helps make the moving experience a little smoother!

When should you start packing to move?

A common question movers get is, “When should you start packing to move?” And that’s a great question! 

As a general rule, it’s best to pack three weeks or so before your move date after you’ve taken the time to declutter. That way, you’re not scrambling at the eleventh hour to pack up every bedroom and bathroom.

Of course, if you have years and years of items stored in your home and are packing multiple rooms, you may need more time than someone packing up an apartment. So, consider how large your home is, and think realistically about how long it’s going to take to pack. Then, plan accordingly. 
The Bottom Line: While how far in advance you should start packing to move can vary based on the size of your move, three weeks is usually sufficient.

How to start packing to move

Are you wondering, “Where do I start when packing to move?” If so, we recommend creating a packing checklist. Here’s what to add:

• Buy packing supplies and equipment. The type of packing supplies you’ll need depends on what you’re moving. For instance, do you have a lot of glassware and breakables? If so, box dividers, packing paper, and newspapers are your friends. Moving a lot of electronics? It’s worth investing in some bubble wrap, plastic bags, twist ties, and PVC tape. Some other general packing supplies you may want to add to your shopping list include tape, box cutters, markers, labels in different colors, dollies, and heavy-duty moving boxes (especially if you plan to move a lot of heavy items – which should always go on the bottom of a box, by the way).
• Declutter each room. You can either sell or donate what you don’t want. If you choose to sell your items, you could put that money toward other moving costs. (Although, it can take longer to sell items vs. donating, so bear this in mind.) If you decide to donate your items instead, you can get them out of your house in as little as an hour. You can donate to a local homeless shelter, animal shelter, Goodwill, or other organizations. You can also ask a friend first before donating if you think they’d find the item handy. 
• Start packing three weeks before your move. A date when you should start packing is helpful so that you stay on target and don’t lose track of time. It’s okay if you don’t start that exact day. However, try to pack two to three weeks before your move at least so that you can get everything done in time for moving day, and you’re not left tossing stuff into boxes at the last minute or donating items you actually want and use. 
• Disassemble furniture. Won’t need that game room sectional couch by the time you move? It’s time to take it apart while you have the time. The same applies to any extra bed frames, office furniture, and recliners that you won’t be using before moving day. Once you get a week to a few days from your moving date, you can work on taking apart the rest of the furniture. Unless you have a few air mattresses lying around, you probably want to at least keep your mattress out until you move so that you have a place to sleep. 
• Pack a suitcase or bag with a week’s worth of clothes and essentials. Clothes take up a surprising amount of room on a moving truck. Depending on your location, you probably have two to four seasons of clothing, which means that some of it can be packed up weeks before your move while others you might need up until moving day. Do yourself a favor, and pack seven days of clothes and essential items so that you can pack everything else up. That will save you time and stress, and help you stay organized. 
• Pack an overnight bag. Even if you have seven days of clothing set aside, don’t forget your overnight bag. That should include any important documents, laptops, iPads, cell phones (and chargers), medication, toiletries, one to two outfits, and undergarments. That ensures that you don’t have to sort through a huge suitcase but can instead turn to a simple backpack or carry-on for everything you need for a day. 

Pack the kitchen. It’s usually recommended to pack your kitchen last. While you can pack up kitchen appliances, pantry items, dishes, and utensils you won’t need before your move, you usually want to save a handful of plates and essential items so that you don’t have to go out to eat for every meal before an already-expensive move.

How to pack for a move in one day

If your moving date sneaks up on you, and you don’t have three weeks to pack, it is possible to pack in a day. (Of course, this depends on how many helpers you have, what you’re moving, and whether you have a moving truck.)

Here are some packing tips to help things go faster:

• Do one room at a time. Better yet, if you have enough helpers, have each person box up one to two rooms. Heavy items should also go at the bottom of a box and lighter items on the top. Use bubble wrap and packing paper for any breakable items, and don’t forget to label the boxes as fragile so that you know to be careful with them during the move. Soon enough, everything will be in boxes and ready to go to the moving truck. 
• Put someone on declutter duty. Have a trusted family member go through and collect items to donate while everyone else is packing. That will help things go much faster. You can also take care of this early in the day before packing if you only have one day to get everything done. 
• Write down what’s in each box on the outside. Use a different colored label for each room’s moving boxes so that they know where to unload them in your new house or apartment. Also, jotting down what’s in the box can make it easier to figure out where everything needs to go. 

What should I do 2 weeks before moving?

At this point, you should have your packing supplies and have gotten rid of any unwanted items. Now, it’s time to pack up your closets (we’re looking at you, out-of-season clothes), garage, guest bedrooms, and any other room with items you won’t need again before your move.

Should you pack a month before moving?

For the average home, three weeks is all you need to pack. However, you can create a strategy for packing a month or more before moving. To start, go through each room in your house with a box. Toss in any items that you no longer have a use for or that you haven’t used in at least six months. 

This could be anything from trinkets, clothes, and office supplies to kitchen appliances. Also, larger items like desks and bed frames aren’t off limits. You’d be surprised how much the average person accumulates and how much easier it is to clean once you’ve decluttered. 

After you’ve sold or donated unwanted items, then it’s time to clean. To do so, you may need cleaning supplies, scrubbers, a duster, a vacuum, and a steam cleaner. Straighten up the room first, and start cleaning once you have everything in order to save yourself time at the end of your move.

Need a hand with your move?

Two hands are better than one! Now that you know when you should start packing to move, consider hiring movers like your friends at Bellhop. Our experienced local and long-distance movers can help you move to multiple cities and states across the U.S., taking care of all the loading, unloading, and delivery from point A to B. Additionally, here’s an article with a few tips on comparing moving company quotes that you may find useful.
Find movers near you today.

The post When Should You Start Packing to Move? appeared first on Bellhop.

Today, we’re going to spill our best tips for finding a provider. We hope this helps your moving day go smoothly.

9 tips for choosing the best moving and storage company

When it comes to movers, you’ve got many choices. Here are some suggestions for choosing the right moving and storage company: 

#1: Find out about all their moving services and capabilities. 

Not all local and long-distance moving and storage companies are the same. If you need help loading items onto a moving truck and delivering them to a storage unit, ask if the provider can take care of those tasks for you. 

Knowing the types of moving services offered before moving day can help the move go much more efficiently. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. That’s what customer service teams are there for. 

#2: Consult your friends and family members. 

A great way to find a reliable moving and storage company is to talk to your loved ones. They generally won’t steer you wrong. Instead, they’ll be more likely to share the good and the bad about the companies they’ve hired.

That will save you time in figuring out those things yourself. Instead, you can put that time toward packing your items so that they’re ready to go come moving day. 

#3: Get an estimate from at least three companies. 

The cost of moving varies greatly depending on your needs. You can be looking at anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars depending on the scope of your move. Then, you have storage to consider, which can range from $90 to $300 a month or so. 

To get the best bang for your buck, talk to a few certified moving companies. That will help you stay within budget so that you’re not spending more than necessary for your big move and storage needs. Here is an article with a few additional tips on comparing moving quotes.

#4: See if they offer long-term and short-term storage. 

How long will moving companies store your stuff? That depends on whether they offer short-term and long-term storage. If you only need storage for a week or two, short-term storage might be sufficient.

However, if you’re not sure how long you need your items stored, it’d be worth it to find a storage provider that offers long-term storage so that you don’t have to move your items once they’re in the storage unit (at least not until you’re ready to do so). 

#5: Verify that they are licensed and insured. 

Moving and storage companies have a lot of responsibility, including transporting breakable items and safely loading them on and off a delivery truck to the end location (whether that’s a storage unit or your home). 

If you’re going to work with a company for your moving and storage needs, don’t forget to ask about their licensing and insurance. That will ease your mind about problems during the move and give you the reassurance that something can be done in case there is any damage or loss. 

#6: Figure out their availability.

You don’t want to wait forever to get a moving company out, and the same goes for storage. If the storage provider can’t fit your items for one to two months, it’s best to go with another provider so that you don’t have to delay your move simply for the sake of storage. 

When you call the company, find out how soon they can get a mover out and how quickly your items can be stored. That will give you peace of mind that your move can go off without a hitch and not stay in limbo. 

#7: Ask about security and climate control. 

Some examples of security elements in a storage unit include good lighting, video surveillance, padlocks, gates, and keycards. Talk to the provider about what security measures they have in place so that you know your items will be safe while in their hands.

Climate control is also important to keep your belongings from getting damaged while in storage. The reason for this is that summer temperatures can impact your furniture, causing it to break or bend in unnatural positions. That can affect the overall quality and require you to purchase a new set of furniture in the future, costing you money. 

#8: Ensure you get 24/7 access to your storage unit. 

Imagine needing something that you know is in your storage unit, but the unit is closed. While it might not be a big deal at the moment, you never know when you’ll need something inside, and it’s better to have 24/7 access just in case.

The best storage providers require a keycard or code to get inside. That ensures that no one needs to be on-site for you to enter your storage unit. You can go in anytime that works for your schedule, which is especially helpful for busy people. 

#9: Make sure the storage unit is in a convenient location.

It can be challenging if your items are in a different city or far from your house or place of business. If you’re going to get storage, see if you can find something in close proximity to you. 

That way, you don’t have to spend hours in traffic trying to get one or two units from your unit. Also, if you’re wondering whether movers will go to a storage unit, the answer is that they’re a lot more likely to be able to if it’s nearby. 

Ask about Bellhop Partners Self-Storage Solutions

While Bellhop isn’t a moving and storage company, we are movers who work with many reputable storage partners who can service all of your storage needs. Bellhop partners with Self-Storage Solutions who provide secure, 24/7-access self-storage solutions that can keep your items safe. From short-term to long-term storage, they offer it all.

Learn more about self-storage today.

The post 9 Tips for Choosing the Right Moving and Storage Company appeared first on Bellhop.

In this blog, we’ll cover how to choose the right junk removal company so that (A) you can feel confident in your choice and (B) you can trust that the job will be completed affordably and in a timely manner. 

Let’s get started. Shall we? 

How to choose the right junk removal company

With so many rubbish removal services to choose from, it can be challenging to know which one is best for you. Below are some tips on how to choose the right junk removal company:

#1: Ask about licensing and insurance.

The right waste removal service provider should be licensed, especially if you need to declutter paint, oils, or any dangerous chemicals. That way, you can ensure the items will be safely removed and disposed of–and that the service providers will be safe. 

Insurance is also important. In general, a junk removal company should have commercial liability insurance, vehicle insurance, and workers’ comp. That means that if anything happens to your items or the workers transporting them, everything should be covered. 

#2: Compare junk removal prices.

The average cost for junk removal is about $1.50 for each square foot of junk. That equates to $70 to $570 for most waste removal jobs, but of course, the final price depends on the number of items you have to declutter. 

If you’re looking for a quality junk removal company, one of the best things you can do is get a quote from a few providers or use their junk removal cost calculator (if they have one). Then, you can compare the pricing with the service offerings to see which company makes sense for you. 

#3: Evaluate their professionalism. 

The chances are that you’re going to have the best experience with a company if they prioritize customer service. So, ask yourself whether they’ve been communicative, friendly, and helpful so far. If not, that could be a red flag, and you may want to look elsewhere.

If they are professional, on the other hand, give them a go. The right junk removal company–a professional junk removal company–will go out of their way to help you get the highest quality experience, and they won’t be difficult to reach if you have any questions. 

#4: Make sure they have the appropriate equipment and tools.

The types of rubbish removal equipment might vary based on your needs. However, the following list includes some of the equipment and tools used by reputable junk removal providers: trucks, safety goggles, gloves, masks, shovels, rakes, and garbage containers. 

Already have this equipment? Great! If not, the fact that the service provider already has it on hand can save you significant time and money since you won’t need to buy it, loan it from a friend, or ensure it’s in proper working condition. The right provider should have all the equipment and tools ready and available. 

#5: Ask what items they accept. 

One of our best tips on how to choose a junk removal company is to make sure they’ll take your items. Always provide a breakdown of the types of items you’re decluttering. That could include couches, beds, shelves, cabinets, TVs, digital devices, glassware, carpets, rugs, or treadmills. 

Most junk removal companies accept all of these items. However, if you need help decluttering something such as cars, paint cans, or oil, you’ll want to double-check that the company can help before the big day. That way, you won’t waste your time. 

#6: Find out what they do with the junk after it’s removed. 

You don’t want your things going to a landfill. Ask the companies you’re vetting whether they recycle to minimize your items’ environmental impact. If they don’t recycle, see if they’re partnered with any charities or other organizations where they donate items that are still in usable condition (e.g., sofas or winter clothes). 

If you go on the company’s website, do they talk about eco-friendliness? If so, that’s great news if you value sustainability, as they will likely do all they can to rehome your items or recycle them so that they don’t wind up in a landfill. 

#7: See what all they offer. 

While working with a professional junk removal company is helpful as is, it can be extra helpful if they offer other services, too. Ask them what all they can help you with. You may find that they offer other services that you had planned to hire out to someone else, and you may save yourself time by working with them.

One example of a service you may find useful is cleaning. After they remove the junk, can they clean the space, or is that your job? If they can take care of that for you, that will save you a few precious hours (or more), which you can spend doing something else instead. 

#8: Read the reviews.

It always helps to see what other people’s experiences have been like with a company. Check out the testimonials on their website, as well as Google Reviews, Yelp, and Facebook to learn more. 

If you see a lot of four and five-star reviews, that’s a green light. Don’t feel like you have to read every review. However, try to read at least a handful of reviews so that you get a representative idea of what it will be like to work with the waste removal company. 

Good luck with decluttering

We hope our tips on how to choose the right junk removal company are helpful. If you’re decluttering because you’re getting ready to move, and you need movers to help you out, Bellhop is here for you. We provide reliable local and long-distance moving services in 24 states and the District of Columbia. Here is a quick guide on how to compare moving quotes so that you can help confirm that we are the best movers for the job!

Find movers near you today.

The post How to Choose the Right Junk Removal Company appeared first on Bellhop.

We hope they help!

Top 10 tips for moving across state lines

If you’re moving across state lines, here are some suggestions:

#1: Donate or sell unwanted items before your move

While this is not essential to a smooth move, it can make things easier when you’re moving to another state, as you won’t be taking as much with you. Moving to a new state can add up in cost. Declutter beforehand, and save yourself some money where you can. 

Here are a few ideas on what to declutter:

• Household appliances
• Furniture
• Desks
• Tables
• Clothing
• Cosmetics
• Exercise equipment

#2: Pack early on 

If you wait to pack, you may have to do everything at the last minute. Instead of scrambling, consider packing now. You can make a plan for each room in the house, select a color to label boxes by room, and get your house ready for moving day. 

#3: Shred old documents, and store important documents in a safe container

Both home offices and commercial offices can quickly get overrun with old papers you may never need to look at again. So, consider sorting your documents and shredding anything you no longer have a use for. Alternatively, if you think you may need it again, you can scan the document, upload the scan onto your computer, and then shred the document.

Here are some documents you will want to store somewhere safe:

• Marriage license
• Driver’s license
• Birth certificate
• Passports
• Adoption paperwork 
• Immigration paperwork 
• Social Security paperwork
• Social Security cards
• Wills and trusts
• Car insurance
• Registration information

#4: Schedule your moving date on a weekday

In general, movers’ schedules are more open Monday through Thursday. So, if you’re looking to move quickly and affordably, try to book a move in the afternoon on one of these days of the week if you can. 

#5: Hire experienced long-distance movers

The right long-distance movers can save you a great deal of stress and time. As long as you pack, we’ll take care of everything else. We make moving a breeze. 

Why should you hire long-distance movers?

• Our movers have years of experience with residential and commercial long-distance moves. You can trust that your items are in good hands and safe for transit. 
• We can provide you with multiple moving services and even help with furniture reassembly if needed. 
• We can drive the moving vehicle so that it’s one less thing for you to worry about.
• With Bellhop, you won’t break the bank–even if you’re hiring movers for a move across state lines. 

For more information on hiring the right movers for the job, check out this guide.

#6: See if your employer will cover your moving costs

Are you making an intrastate move for work? If so, find out if your employee will compensate you for your move. It can’t hurt to ask. That may save you thousands and a lot of stress at the end of the day. 

#7: Make plans for your vehicles

Whether you have one car or three cars to worry about, the time to make a plan is now. Make sure all your vehicles are serviced and your insurance is up to date so that you don’t run into any unexpected problems on the road. 

Here are some things to look into:

• Do you need new windshield wipers?
• Do you have insurance and registration information handy for each vehicle? 
• Is your car due for an oil change?
• Do you need new transmission fluid?
• Do you need new tires?
• Are your hazard lights on?
• Do you need to fix your brakes?
• How will you get all of your cars to the new location? 

#8: Find self-storage (if needed)

If you need a place for your items, self-storage is a great option. Bellhop, for one, partners with multiple affordable and convenient self-storage providers that can help you get storage for your belongings when you need it the most. Learn more about self-storage here. 

#9: Double-check all details before moving day

There’s a lot to do with any move and particularly when moving across state lines. To help your move go smoothly, always double-check the little details so that you’re not left doing everything and stressing out at the last minute. 

Below are some things to look into:

• The time and date movers are set to arrive
• What you need to do before moving (any last-minute errands, bills, etc.)
• Setting up mail forwarding and change of addresses, as well as closing your PO box
• Going in person to cancel your gym membership (if required) 
• Canceling any automatically monthly recurring expenses that you won’t need at your new home
• Returning any books to the library
• Closing your Internet account
• Switching your utilities back to your landlord (if applicable)

#10: Pack an overnight bag 

While you can always pick up items on the road, stocking an overnight bag can keep you from needing to stop as much while you’re traveling and ensure you have everything you need. Grab a backpack or small suitcase, and stock it with toiletries, snacks, water, a few outfits, medication, and any important documents so that they’re all within reach. You might also include a first-aid kit in case you’re traveling to a remote part of the state or somewhere without cell reception. 

Hire “movers near me” today

Ready to start moving across state lines? Bellhop has your back. We can help with long-distance moving, local moving, last-minute moving, commercial moving, apartment moving, and more. If you need dependable movers to take you from one state to another, we can help. 

Find movers near you today. 

The post Top 10 Tips for Moving Across State Lines appeared first on Bellhop.