Month: December 2011

Do you tip a moving company?

Posted on by olympiamoving

Based upon the numerous questions Olympia Moving has received since the release of this blog, we felt that we should address some of the most frequently asked questions relating to tipping protocols.

Tipping Movers at Your Discretion

Tipping is not mandatory, but if you feel your crew did a great job, a tip is certainly appreciated. Tipping is at your discretion and should be considered a reward for an exceptional performance, and you should never be made to feel otherwise. If you feel that your movers’ performance was not up to standard, then no tip is required.

How Much to Tip Movers

How much should we tip? There is no hard and fast rule on this and tips generally range anywhere from $20 to $100 per crew member; contingent upon the size and scope of the job. Typically, the larger the project, the larger the tip; however any tip is always appreciated. Here is a breakdown on what to do per each type of job:

  • For long distance moves, drivers can receive anywhere from $20 to $100, depending on if they service both ends or not. Helpers can receive $20 – $50.
  • Moving locally, a small move would receive $20 – $40, while a larger move, a multiple day move, or a multiple truck move could receive $20 – $50 per day.
  • A standard rate for Boston movers is typically at least $40, but usually in the range of $50 – $100. Other cities like New York City and Chicago usually tip from $100 – $250.
  • For short jobs, our movers report that their tips are usually $20 – $40. For just packing, they usually are given around $30, and sometimes the client makes the crew lunch.
  • Movers per day in Boston usually are tipped $20 – $50.
  • Piano movers are tipped at least $20, and from $30-$50 if the piano is moved up stairs.

Which Moving Crew to Tip

Do we just tip the driver, or the whole crew? Most people just tip the driver, and then the driver distributes the money to the rest of the crew. Some clients prefer to tip each individual crew member (which is also fine). Occasionally, clients will tip each crew member a different amount; however given that the crews work together as a team; this approach is not advisable.

Who gets the tip? The crew retains 100% of the tip.

Moving Tips: Essential Tips for After You Move

Posted on by olympiamoving

So much time, energy and resources go into moving, that people often forget about all the hard work required to settle into your new home. In addition to unpacking, after you move there are often a range of service providers that need to be contracted.

Finding Service Providers

Following are some tips for identifying quality service providers in your area:

1) If possible, schedule a day or two off of work after you move, so that you can begin the unpacking process.
2) Create a list of the service providers you used at your old residence (cleaning person, contractor etc).
3) Talk to new neighbors to get recommendations for service providers in your area.
4) Use online vetting resources such as: Angies List, Service Magic, and Checkbook.
5) Identify local resources for your area, such as: MA services.
6) Talk to your realtor to obtain a list of trusted service providers.
7) Start with your most pressing needs and work your way towards the least pressing needs.

Remember, if you need assistance settling into your new home after you move, Olympia Moving offers an economical and comprehensive unpacking service.

Best Time of Year to Move

Posted on by olympiamoving

Although most people do not have the luxury of being able to determine when they are moving, there are, in fact, worst and best times to move.

Northeast Best Times to Move

If you live in the Northeast, or anywhere where inclement weather is potentially an issue, it is preferable to avoid the middle of the winter. Moving companies operate regardless of weather conditions (unless there are safety concerns); however moving in the middle of a snow storm invariably creates additional stress and may add extra timeBest Time of Year to Move Moving Calendar Olympia Moving Boston MA to the move. The one positive aspect of moving during the winter is that you are likely to get the best quality movers. This is because moving companies expand their labor force during the summer months to account for demand. Therefore during the winter months you are usually working exclusively with the most experienced full-time movers.

Avoid Peak Moving Times

If possible, avoid the end of the month. Moving coincides with lease dates, and therefore the end of the month is always the busiest time (especially in the summer season). Movers with a positive reputation are usually at or near capacity during this time and often they charge a small premium during the end of the month.

Best Times to Move Interstate

If you are moving interstate, June through August represents the single busiest time where capacity issues become a factor. If it is possible to move outside of these months it is preferable and, if not, we suggest scheduling your move as far in advance as possible.

 

If you need help with your move, give us a call at 800-222-4744 or fill out our form online for a free moving estimate!

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A Quick and Easy Solution for Finding Moving Boxes

Posted on by olympiamoving

So you have contracted a mover and have a scheduled moving date…what next?

Moving Supplies Delivery

If you have not already done so, setup a moving supplies delivery through your moving company. Deliveries are free (provided you are within a certain radius of the office), and obtaining materials from a moving company is usually less expensive than one of the “big box stores”. Most moving companies will also be willing to deliver materials to your residence; even if you are moving yourself. Moving Supplies Boston MA

Ordering Moving Supplies

When ordering materials, consider the following:

1) People always underestimate the number of boxes required to complete their packing. Be conservative in your estimation.
2) Find moving supplies here to help you determine what kinds of boxes you will need. The basic rule of thumb is that heavier items (books, canned goods) should be placed in smaller boxes.
3) Order one role of tape for every 8-10 boxes.
4) Order one “ream” of paper for every 10-15 boxes (the more fragile items you have, the more paper will be required).
5) Ask whether the moving company has any used or recycled packing supplies that they could provide at a discounted rate. This is an environmentally friendly way to save money.

Organize Your Moving Boxes

Once you receive your packing supplies, keep them organized in a specific area to avoid unwanted clutter. Label each box carefully and stack the boxes in tiers against the wall so that the movers have access to all of your goods.

Now that you know where to find moving boxes, let us help you pack them. We have quite a few videos that show you how to pack common household items.

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