Plan a No Contact Move During Coronavirus

If you need to move during the global coronavirus pandemic, safety is top of mind. Most reputable movers are utilizing rigorous sanitation and social distancing protocol. In addition, you may need to take further steps to maximize safety during these times. Olympia Moving & Storage has worked with vulnerable clients who requested we execute no contact moves. Thinking you need to take this measure to move safely during coronavirus? We break down how we perform a no contact move, the pros, and cons, and things to consider.

Pros and cons of no contact moves

Taking a virtual survey for a no contact move

There some scenarios where a no contact move might be the best choice for your family. As a client, you will have peace of mind knowing that the move is being executed while with the most distance possible. If you or a family member are at high risk for the virus’s symptoms, this is the best way to ensure everyone’s safety involved.

A major con to executing a no contact move is communication barriers. Historically, we have found that having the client on-site during the process gives us the best success in meeting their expectations. It is important to have a back and forth between the foreman and the client in regard to certain pieces being moved and any preferences during the process. Having the client on-site ensures everything is double-checked and executed to their liking. While we can perform virtual walkthroughs for no contact moves, it is more likely to have miscommunication. This can be especially tough if your home has a weak wifi or cell phone service.

The other negative is non contact moves create much more work for the client. If you’re considering delivering everything to a garage, you’re then faced with the challenge of moving everything to the proper place in the home yourself. The purpose of hiring a mover is to receive full service, have everything placed exactly where you’d like, avoid any heavy lifting yourself. In order to keep the crew out of your home for a no-contact move, it would be incumbent on the client to pack their items, move furniture and boxes to a pick-up area in the home. All this hassle and heavy lifting typically completed by Olympia’s move crew. In a no contact move, the crew would just provide the transportation of your belongings from home to home.

Instead of a full no contact move, you could request that the crew complete a full move while your family is off-site.  This plan would still entail some communication hassles but would allow your family to have a more re

How to plan a no contact move

Our no contact move protocol begins with our standard COVID-19 move procedures. To begin, a move consultant will schedule a guided or self-service virtual video survey. This will allow the move consultant to take inventory, provide you a detailed estimate, and schedule your move without meeting with you in your home.

If you’re a self-packing, Olympia can provide a pre-paid, no contact delivery of new packing materials before your move date. Also, if your family is concerned in this coronavirus environment, do not utilize used boxes for your move.

On the day of the move, your foreman will perform a virtual walkthrough of the home with you upon arrival, using video chat. This is your opportunity to explain any needs you may have during the process. The foreman will perform a second virtual walkthrough with you before they depart origin. This will be to ensure all work is done and nothing was left behind. Upon arrival at the destination home, a third virtual walkthrough is conducted to discuss details of unloading and placement. Your foreman will do a final virtual walkthrough when items are unloaded and unpacked.

If it is important that you minimize the number of people inside your home, you can ask Olympia to deliver items to a garage or only certain spaces as an extra measure of distancing. These practices allow you to move without ever having people outside your household enter your home.

Regardless of which no contact move measures you would like to take, you must notify your move consultant in advance. They will need to design your move quote and organize the team in comply with these requests.

Things to consider when doing no contact moves

You should consider the health risk factors of you and your family before requesting a no contact move. If you are at low risk, we highly recommend lifting furniture by yourself during a no contact movea traditional move with our extensive sanitation and distancing protocols in place. This will allow for the most efficient move possible. If you choose to not be on-site, make yourself available and engaged with the crew via video chat. Coordinate a drop off in your garage? it’s important to consider your ability to move larger items into your home. You may want to make sure you have someone to assist you with the final steps to the process.

Our crew has been working relentlessly to make sure we strictly follow guidelines to ensure safety for all. This also means executing no contacts move if necessary. If you are looking to schedule your no contact move, please click here for a free estimate.

Moving during the Coronavirus pandemic? Here are some things to consider

Moving under normal circumstances can be stressful, but the uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus pandemic has significantly elevated anxiety levels. For those of you with a closing, lease termination or work-related deadline, postponing the move is not always an option. Below are some suggestions for how to safely move during the coronavirus pandemic.

Pre-Move Health Check

Moving companies should be asking their employees on a daily basis how they and their family members are feeling. If anyone is showing signs of illness, the employee should be sent home immediately.

Clients also need to be vigilant and, if anyone in the home is feeling unwell, the move should be postponed. If there are higher risk individuals within the residence (those over the age of 65, or with immune deficiencies), they should be removed from the premises prior to the move or, if this is not possible, they should be quarantined within one room of the house.

Sanitizing for a move during the coronavirus pandemicProtective Gear and Sanitizing for Move Day

Movers have been doing their best to source PPE in the interest of protecting all stakeholders. They should be sanitizing truck interiors and facilities on a daily basis. Gloves and masks (as available) are becoming part of the standard uniform.

If possible, clients should also wear masks and gloves for the duration of the move. Clients also have the option to provide additional PPE to the moving crew. It is a good idea to sanitize door handles, railings, and bathrooms prior to the mover’s arrival and immediately following their departure. Some clients are taking extra precautions by cleaning furniture after the move.

Distancing Before and After the Move

Before the move, pre-move surveys for estimates can be conducted virtually using various mobile video solutions. This best practice is safe, efficient, and accurate.

During the move, refrain from any direct contact (shaking hands) with your crews. You should maintain 6 feet of distance at all times. It is best to only have one point of contact on move day. Once the initial walkthrough with the foreman is complete, it is recommended that family members remove themselves from the premises or isolate themselves in one area of the residence.

Identify one bathroom for the movers to use and leave soap and, as available, sanitizer and wipes for the movers.

Pre-Move Preparationboxes of items for a move during the coronavirus pandemic

Even under normal circumstances, the client’s preparation largely dictates the success of the move. If clients are packing themselves, it is preferable to use new moving boxes. You can avoid a trip to the store by asking your mover if they provide a packing materials delivery service. While packing, make a “first-night” box filled with immediate essentials such as clothes, linens, toilet paper, cleaning products, toiletries, and hand soap.

We want to minimize any potential confusion. Make sure that all boxes are completely sealed and clearly labeled on the top and two sides. Organize the space so that all items are accessible and, if you are able, stacked around the periphery of the room. Some clients are asking the crew to move boxes to or from a garage or having their belongings moved into their new home a few days before moving in themselves.

Communication Leading Up to Move Day

Communication is always the essential ingredient to a successful move. It is incumbent upon the client to keep the moving company apprised of any relevant developments (packing progress, potential date changes etc.). If you are moving to or from an apartment building during the coronavirus pandemic,  check first with your management, as some residences have revised moving rules during shelter-in-place. As much as possible, we want to avoid surprises on moving day.

Be Respectful of Your Moving Team

On a daily basis, movers make the impossible look easy. They expected to work incredibly hard and maintain a great attitude without exception. Many moving companies have been working around-the-clock to assist organizations with COVID-19 response efforts. Moving crews are doing their best, in uncertain times, to protect their families and their clients, so please be respectful and appreciative.

Staying safe while moving during coronavirus pandemicShared Responsibility for a Healthy Move

During this pandemic, it is incumbent upon moving companies to do everything within their power to protect both their clientele and employees. Similarly, you also need to take all available precautions to secure your own safety and that of the moving team.

We are all operating in unchartered territory. The above precautions will limit the potential for exposure.

If you need to move during the coronavirus pandemic, or any other time, call Olympia Moving & Storage at 800-222-4744 or click here for a free moving estimate. We can start with a virtual video survey.

Cleaning A House Checklist

Pre- and Post-Move Cleaning Checklist

Moving a house can be a challenging experience. You have to adequately plan it for everything to happen as per your schedule. When you are planning to move there are many things that you have to do and one of them is cleaning.  The idea of cleaning can be daunting to many but if it is done on time it will help you reduce unnecessary baggage when moving. When you clean your current house, you will ensure that the house is in good condition and your deposit will be guaranteed.  No matter how tired you are you should try to clean it so that your moving process will be easy. In addition, before you move, clean the house you are moving into. This way you will not be worried about any germs or dirt once you have settled. Besides, you will not have time to clean once your boxes are delivered.

Moving out cleaning tips

For the cleaning to be effective it is critical that you have cleaning supplies at hand. There are certain cleaning supplies that you cannot do without when moving your house. Some of these include white vinegar, glass cleaners, disinfecting cleaners, dusting cloths, cleaning cloths, nylon-bristled scrubbers, and different kinds of brushes. It is vital that you should not load these items on your moving truck because you want to clean your current house quickly and move. It is recommended that you clean the house by task and not by room this way you will handle your takes as fast you can. You will need to follow the checklist below to help you during the moving process.

Move Out Cleaning Checklist

Now that you have the basics on what cleaning should involve before and after the move the next aspect is to do a checklist that will guide you to do the cleaning effectively.

Kitchen

Empty all your drawers and cabinets out then wipe them clean with a mild cleaner and soft sponge. Do not forget to remove your liners and replace them with new ones, once they have dried completely. Clean countertops with warm soapy water and disinfect them to reduce bacterial and mold growth. Use specialized glass cleaner to make all the glass elements in your kitchen to shine. Scrub your sinks and faucets with appropriate cleaning products use chlorine-free bleach to make them shine. Drop lemon slices to remove any odors. Empty and clean the refrigerator by removing the drawers and shelves and wipe with the right appliance inside with soapy water. Remove the grills from the oven and racks and scrub them clean with soapy water. You can use steel wool to scrub and pay attention to the oven glass door. Remove all the grease and grime from the entire stove surface. For the dishwasher, shake baking soda and damp sponge and wipe down all the surfaces. Add a small amount of bleach to remove any bacteria. Finish the cleaning by sweeping and mopping the kitchen floor.

Bathroomscleaning a bathroom before a move

Tiles

Scrub the tiles and grout with a cleaner that contains bleach and rinse them well.

Tub and shower

Clean the tub, shower road, tub fixtures, shower head, and the shower enclose and ensure that all the soap scum is removed. Use adequate disinfectant to rinse all the surfaces well this will ensure that there is no bacteria build-up.

Sinks

Scour the sink and pay attention to the handles, faucets and chromed surfaces. Use an old toothbrush to get to areas that are hard to reach with a normal brush.

Countertops and vanities

Remove all the items and clean them with soapy water and a damp cloth.

Toilet

Sanitize the toilet tank, bowl, and seat and wipe the roll holder.

Clean the bathroom floor well.

Bedrooms and living room

Clean the window frames, sills, casings, tracks, blinds and glass panels. Clean all the flying screens inside and outside. Wash the curtains and wipe down air conditioners.

Empty wardrobes and polish the surfaces if possible. For any fabric or leather apply a protector to keep them clean and shiny. Wash the rugs and clean them well.

Outside area

It is not applicable if you are living in an apartment. However, if you have one clean all the storage areas and shed floor. remove all your possessions from your yard and eliminate dust and cobwebs from window sills and evens. Ensure the outdoor lighting is clean and in working condition.

cleaning floor before you move in

Moving in cleaning checklist

Apart from following the cleaning tips for the move out you should also follow the cleaning tips and embrace the checklist when moving into your new home. You can use the tips that we have indicated previously. However, this will depend on what you have in the area.

Deep clean the house before your items are delivered

It is important to note that you will not have to clean once your items arrive at your new destination. Cleaning them before you move helps a lot because once they are delivered you will be maintaining the cleanliness. You should take some time to clean the house that you are moving into because once you have all the items delivered with boxes crowding over you will not have a chance to do a deep cleaning.

cleaning the kitchen counter top after a moveKitchen

Cabinets, drawers, and counters

Wipe down all the drawers, countertops, and cabinets with disinfectant spray. Add a lining to the cabinets, countertops, drawers once they are disinfected and allow it to dry.

Fridge and stovetop

Remove all the top parts of the drawers, fridge shelves and clean them before moving into cleaning the fridge itself. Soak them in a tub filled with warm soapy water. After some time dry the parts once you have wiped all the surfaces of the fridge and stovetop. After cleaning to prevent any odors place a tray of fresh or used coffee grounds at the back.

Dishwasher

Pour a cup of white vinegar on a dishwasher container and place it on top of the rack of the washer. Run the washer for one cycle and you should have a clean washer.

Bathroom

Toilets

Replace all the toilet seats and covers. This is an inexpensive way to ensure that you have a fresh and clean start. Wipe down every surface including the medicine cabinets with disinfectant spray.

General

Once you have settled sage your home, this will give it a new start and clear any negative energy that may be lingering in space. Place the sage in a clay bowl or any other heatproof surface and light a match. Give the sage a few minutes to build some nice smoke before you begin to clean the house.

Take pictures

Before you unpack take some time to take pictures or videos of the entire home. This will help you track the cleanliness and how you can arrange your items.

Cleaning a home is very important when moving out and moving in. Everyone wants to feel at home in a new house and cleanliness is a big part of that. whether moving locally, out of state or international be sure you book the right moving company to help make the process as smooth as possible. Click here for a free estimate today.

Tips For Moving A Hot Tub

Is It Worth It To Move A Hot Tub? If So – How To Move A Hot Tub?

When it comes to moving there are a lot of challenges that we usually face a myriad of challenges and you should have the right team with you to make the process smooth and easy. Whether you are moving a hot tub to a new home or you are moving it to a new place it will not be an easy process if you do not have the right technique and proper tools. The good news is that with adequate planning and perfect supplies you can handle it with ease. The big question we want to know is how to moving a hot tub works. A typical hot tub without water can weigh around 900 pounds and this will require proper planning to avoid damage to the tub. If you can get the services of a professional company you can handle the process without thinking about damages or any other aspects. However, if you want to handle moving a hot tub by yourself here are the steps that you should follow.

woman laying in a hot tub before moving it

1.   Gather moving supplies

The first step to making a successful hot tub move is to ensure that you have all the necessary moving tools and supplies. The list should include two furniture dollies, moving straps, cleaning supplies and several large plywood pieces. You can find these supplies at your local hardware store.

2.   Reserve a moving truck

Before you begin the process of moving your hot tub you must have a moving truck ready to help you with moving a tub. Depending on the size of your hot tub you can rent a box truck that is at least 15 feet. It is important that you should measure the hot tub before moving it. Your rental truck should have a loading ramp to make the process smooth and easy. There are plenty of companies that can allow you to rent trucks.

3.   Recruit moving help

It is vital to note that you cannot move the hot tub alone. You must choose a moving company to help you during the move, or a team of friends/family. When you hire professionals in the field you will be sure that they will do a good job. You do not have to worry about damage because they are experienced in the field. It will be necessary to have at least three people with serious muscles to help you move the tub. However, you can increase the number to five or six to allow you to handle the process smoothly.

4.   Evaluate your surroundings

One of the main aspects when you are trying to move your hot tub you should check the surrounding landscape. If you have a tight spot or an area that will give you a wiggle room to make it easy to turn when moving the hot tub. If moving the hot tub is going to damage your yard’s landscaping then it is important that you find a moving technique that will make the process seamless.

5.   Disconnect the hot tuba hot tub disconnected being ready to move

Before you begin the process, you must disconnect the hot tub before draining it. You should unplug the spa from the electrical components. Ensure that you have put all the cords away and water will not reach the electrical units to prevent shocks. If possible, place all the cords in waterproof bags to prevent them from getting wet during the moving process.

6.   Drain your tub

Once you have unplugged all the cords the next and important aspect is to drain the tub, this is dumping out all the water.  Drain the hot tub by following your manufacturer’s instructions. You do not want to flood your yard with water. You can use a pump to drain the water. Once you have drained it clean the hot tub.

7.   Carry out a route planning

One of the fundamental things when moving a hot tub is to plan your route. Whether it is a small gate opening, stairs or narrow pathway you should come up with a plan that will make your process easy. Plan ahead of time to prevent any complication during the day of the move.

8.   Place the plywood under the hot tub

It is important to note that placing plywood underneath the hot tub will help in creating a smooth and flat surface during the move. it will also make it easier to roll the furniture dollies underneath the tub. You will need at least three people to help in lifting each corner before placing the wood.

9.   Sliding the furniture dollies underneath the hot tub

The next step is to slide the dollies underneath the tub. This is assuming that the pathway of the moving truck is flat. However, if the path is narrow you should carefully turn to the hot tub on the side with the help of several people before sliding the dollies underneath. To ensure that your hot tub does not fall off during transit, you should try to secure it using moving straps.

10. Roll the hot tub into the loading ramp and load it into the moving truck

This is the last step and once you have secured your hot tub to the dollies, carefully and slowly roll it towards the moving truck. You will need at least four people to push it into the truck. Thereafter ensure that one person gets into the truck to secure the hot tub into the truck. The dollies should be in place to make it easy to unload and roll the hot tub into a new position once you reach your new destination.

It is always important to do your homework before you move. Plan and get all your moving supplies before moving any item, especially one that is tricky such as a hot tub. This will answer most questions on how to move a hot tub. To ensure that your hot tub arrives at your destination safely, strongly consider hiring professionals. Click here to get a free estimate.

Tips For Moving Out Of State

Tips For Moving Out of State

You are getting ready to move out of state. Moving to a new state means new people, a new community, and a new environment. This can be of a very big deal if you’ve never done it before. There are a lot of things to consider. You will want to take the right steps to make this new move as smooth as possible. So we put together some tips for moving out of state.

Visit FirstNavigating through the new state your moving to

If you can find the time, visit the state and city you will be living in. Explore the city. Take the time to check out the sites. Identify some things you may need such as a gym, a supermarket, a bank, and other services you use frequently. It is important to know that you will have everything you’ll need nearby.

As you are exploring your new town/city, take some time to meet some locals. This could be key for your loop transition. They will be able to give you the inside scoop on what you need to know before settling in your new city. This will help you get a good sense of what the community is like so you will have no problem adjusting come move-in day.

Keep in mind as well, there are some states that will pay you to move there, believe it or not! Take a read though on which states will provide an incentive program if you relocate there.

Get Familiar With State Laws

Laws vary from state to state. Be sure to get familiar with the laws that are enforced in the new state that you will be living in. Some of the most common laws to consider are

  • Gun control Laws
  • Marriage Laws
  • Business Laws
  • Trucking and Automotive Laws
  • Child Custody Laws
  • Tax Laws

Consider these if they apply to your current situation. Take action sooner than later. Make sure that you have everything you need to be compliant with the state laws. Keep in mind that registrations and licenses can take a significant amount of time to process. Contact an attorney for any legal advice.

Set Up Your Service Beforehand

You will likely need to find new service providers for your new location. Some of these services may consist of car insurance providers, phone and internet service, healthcare providers, and more. Some providers only service certain areas. If you plan on carrying over your current providers to your new state, check that they service that area.  Therefore, set this up before your moving out of state so that you are not stuck waiting to use these services. Check out this list of services you may need to get started in your new home.

Planning a road trip for an out of state moveRoad Trip Or Ship

Decide whether it will be smarter to drive to your new state or to have your car shipped. Keep the time frame that you’re working within mind and understand whether the option you choose will get the vehicle to the destination when you need it. Pay attention to how many miles are on your car. Racking up a lot of miles can decrease the value of your car. Learn more about what to consider when planning to move your vehicle.

Establish Residency  

When moving to a new state, you’re going to have update a lot of current documentation at the state and federal level. One of these being your license and automobile registration. You must update your license and register your vehicle to comply with all local laws. Your mailing address is another important change. Be sure to contact the post office before you move to get all mail forwarded to your new address. Be sure to also update your voter’s registration and IRS address. These can help you transition as quickly and smoothly as possible. Olympia offers services with Updater to make this process easier. 

Book Interstate Mover 

It is very important to book your move around 4-6 weeks in advance. Moving companies need ample time ahead to coordinate an interstate move. Also, be sure your interstate mover is licensed with the Department of Transportation. Keep in mind that interstate moves are weight-based pricing. Therefore, consider your budget when choosing the items you are taking or leaving. Ensure you are protecting yourself from scams and choosing a professional mover. Click here for more advice on protecting your move from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Adminstration. 

Schedule your car shipment with plenty of time in advance. Movers can hit capacity in their schedule, especially during the busy season. This will make any last-minute car shipment very difficult.

In conclusion, moving out of state can be extremely exciting. New beginnings are always something to look forward to. Moving can be daunting. Make sure to hire the right professionals for the job. Click here to get a free moving and storage estimate.

Tips For Moving On Short Notice

So, you must move on short notice and you’re freaking out. The task seems overwhelming and at some point, impossible. There are a few things you should know before embarking on this time crunching journey. Creating a checklist can help keep you organized in a hectic time. Here are some key tips for moving on short notice.

Storage for moving on short noticeConsider Short Notice Storage

You might not have the time, ability, or space to fit all your new things into your new place as soon as you arrive. It may be necessary to store your items if have temporary housing while looking for your new permanent residence. You’ll want to consider storage space to keep your things until they can deliver to your new house. Storage units can be very convenient especially on short notice when you need a place to put stuff fast. Ask your moving company if they provide storage.

Packing Services May Be Helpful

It always seems like everyone you know is busy when you are looking for help to move. Packing may be the most time-consuming of all the things on your checklist, and if you don’t have some assistance, this could take forever. Hiring movers to provide a packing service can get rid of some of that headache and make for an easier move.

Ask for Help and Resources 

Calendar for when schedule time off for your move You’re preparing for a big job ahead of you. There’s a lot to do in little time. To make this quick move successful, consider reaching out for help to complete these tasks ahead of you. Time is of the essence. It may be a good idea to get someone to babysit your children while you knock things off your checklist. You also should consider getting in touch with friends and family who can help lend a helping hand when it comes to packing and organizing for your move. These tips for moving on short notice can make a big difference while you’re in this time crunch.

Take Care Of Bills

 You’re going to want to make sure you cancel any of your current services. Whether it’s the cable bill, light bill, or electric bill, you’re going to want to contact these service providers to cancel them. You do not need any extra expenses following you to your new residence. A service like Updater can help you complete this quickly.

Move Manage

A move manager helping a client plan their short notice move

Hiring a move manager can be a huge help to this process. A move manager is responsible for overseeing and handling your entire move process. While you’re handling things at work and situating your new place of residence, a move manager takes care of the move process for you from top to bottom, as well as work with any time constraints you may be dealing with. This is one way to make moving on short notice much less stressful.

These are some serious things to consider as soon as you get the news that you will have to move on short notice. You should now have a good idea on the necessary steps to a successful move. Be sure to book your moving services as soon as possible. Moving companies tend to hit capacity in their schedule during busy seasons. It would be good to think about booking a moving service as far ahead in advance as you can. Start by getting a free estimate by clicking here.

 

Moving With Pets

The challenge of moving pets has not changed since Olympia posted our Checklist for Moving With Pets. However, there are more factors to consider when moving pets other than dogs and cats. Fido and Streaky can be crated without too much fuss, but Nemo the fish and Treeko the lizard will need more specialized care. Here are Olympia’s tips for moving with small pets.

Moving Lizards and Snakes

You know better than anyone what your reptile needs to thrive. Most pet shops give a comprehensive overview on the environment a reptile requires to live, but if you are unsure you can always call and ask. Heat lamps, humidifiers, and live bugs are are often necessary when it comes to scaly best friends. So, how do you move a reptile?

Check State Restrictions

Not all reptiles are legal in every state. This applies especially to snakes, which often can face city and state laws restricting their presence in certain areas. Make sure that your pet is legally allowed to cross state lines before bringing it to your destination.

Get a Carrier

Ensure that your reptile carrier is the right size for your pet. Clean it, label it, and make it comfortable for a long trip. (Tip: Venomous reptiles need additional protective measures. Ask you veterinarian about the best methods for protecting you, your family, and pet.)

Acclimate

Get your reptile used to its carrier prior to the move. The goal is to reduce stress from an unfamiliar environment. Ideally, the best move would be to keep your reptile in its terrarium for the duration of the journey, but if it is traveling by air, make its temporary housing comfortable.

Doctor’s Visit

Get your reptile checked by its veterinarian within ten days of your move. Current health information is important to have when moving in case any complications arise during the process.

Moving Fish

The last thing fish are meant to do is move across land. Moving for over 24 hours can cause health issues in many fish, while moving for over 48 hours can be fatal. You will need an airtight plan to make sure that Nemo has a comfortable journey.

Clean Water

Replace about 20% of the water in your fishes tank a few days prior to your move. Then, whether you choose to use a bag, a container, or a five gallon bucket, you should use that water to transport your fish. Pull from the top of the tank where the water is cleanest. And, if you do use a bucket, make sure it is completely clean of any chemicals before you place your fish in it.

Last Minute

Don’t remove your fish from it’s tank until absolutely necessary. If possible, it should be the last thing to cross the threshold of your old home.

48-Hour Fast

It’s recommended that you not feed your fish 24-48 hours prior to you’re move. This lessens the need to clean their container/water while traveling.

Container Environment

Regardless of the container you use, make sure that your fish’s ride has 1) enough oxygen and 2) the proper temperature. Fish can die from being shut into their containers or from increased cold or heat. If you are moving a fish that requires warmth, a hot water bottle pressed to the outside of the container can help maintain warmth (this works for lizards, too!). For fish the thrive in room temperature, pay close attention to their water temps while travelling, especially in hot climates.

Tanks

Keep anything that was in the tank in the same tank water. This applies to decorations, filters, and any other objects. Do not clean them, or you will risk losing the good bacteria that helps keep your fish alive in its habitat.

Additionally, you can protect the tank by wrapping it in moving blankets or having it crated. Make sure to cover up the mouth of the tank to protect it from outside debris and contamination. Inform your movers about the care that the tank needs to move if you are not loading the truck yourself.

Moving Rodents (Hamsters, Guinea Pigs, Rats, Mice)

Thankfully, moving rodents is more similar to moving a dog or a cat than a reptile or fish. Read Checklist For Moving With Pets for some good general tips on moving furry friends.

In general, a trip to the vet prior to moving, a clean, airy moving container, plenty of food and water, and proper temperatures will ensure a good move. The main goal is to reduce stress as much as possible, so take as many precautions as you can prior to moving to keep from disturbing your pet.

Moving Birds

Wouldn’t it be nice if we could all fly to where we need to be? Unfortunately, your pet bird cannot fly to meet you at your new home (unless it’s on an airplane). Birds can be very sensitive to change and thus need to be looked after with special care.

Check State Restrictions

Like reptiles, certain birds are restricted from crossing state or city lines. Understand what category of bird your pet is classified under before bringing it to your destination.

Strapped Down

If you are moving your bird in a car, buckle it’s cage into the back seat of your car. Unlike a snake or small rodent, a bird can knock it’s own cage over very easily. This can lead to injury for the animal or damage to the other items in your car. Make sure your bird is secure before you pull out of the driveway.

Acclimatize

Get your bird used to it’s travel cage and the car in small stints at least a week before your move. Purchase a cover to lay over the cage in there is too much direct sunlight or activity outside of the car, but make sure it will not overheat the bird during the journey.

Pack Snacks

Bring a surplus of water, food, and treats for your bird. Depending on what your bird eats, a cooler might be a good investment.

Grab a Harness

An avian harness can allow you to take certain birds out of their cage on long drives. You don’t need to constantly change the bird’s environment, but if you are getting out of the car to sightsee, you won’t have to worry about leaving your pet behind.

Monitor Temperature

Keep an eye on the temperature as you transport your bird. Birds are highly sensitive to changes in temperature, so make sure that you have a plan in place for maintaining a comfortable environment.

Safety First

Keep in mind, NO animal should ever be transported in a moving truck. This is not safe for the animal or the movers. Your pets should travel with you or with a professional pet relocation service.

If moving your pet seems like too big an undertaking, make sure the pet relocation service you choose is right for you. Just like anything else involving your pet, proper care should be the first priory of the organization you pick. Air Animal Pet Movers can transport your pet through air travel while Happy Tails Travel can assist with ground transportation.  There are many other options but, regardless, your pet should be transported by caring professionals. Check with the IPATA to ensure that you’ve chosen a registered relocation service.

Your Moving Crew

Talk to your moving crew prior to your move if you are loading specialized items like tanks and terrariums into your moving truck. These items require special packing and loading, so it is important to give the crew as much information as you can. Open communication is key to getting your pet’s home into your new home intact.

If you are looking to move, contact Olympia Moving and Storage today at 800-222-4744 or fill out our free estimate form.

6 Reasons to Move to the Country

You might think that city living is where it’s at. However, cookie-cutter suburbs and grey concrete shopping malls have lost their luster for a growing faction of the population. Cities have it all; restaurants, bars, escape rooms, and more festivals than a person could ever attend. But what if the fast pace of urban life isn’t for you?

Olympia is seeing a trend of our clients ditching city living. Many individuals and families are skipping right over suburban living and heading out to rolling hills and lush forests. Have you considered leaving downtown? Well, here are a few reasons a move to the countryside might be good for you.

Slower Pace of Life

Sometimes, the real key to reducing stress is simply doing less. Although that sounds difficult with the responsibilities of work, family, and friends, it actually has a lot to do with where you live. It can be hard to say no to things when you are surrounded by the activity of the city. A birthday party at your friend’s favorite bar, an art festival, a new restaurant opening up that you have to try…the pressure of “doing” can creep up on anyone.

Better Prices for More Space

Some cities require you to pay an arm and a leg for a space not much bigger than a closet. While the median rental price outside of the city tends to be higher, the trade-off comes in sheer square footage. Space versus price become especially relevant in cities like New York and Los Angeles, where rent prices have long been a matter of public protest. Outside of those cities, the average individual is much more likely to get more bang for their buck.

Less Pollution

Forget air pollution–cities are also home to the largest amounts of light and noise pollution. Light pollution refers to the ambient light put off by human activity in cities. Lamps, cars, billboards, sky lights, and any other source of artificial light contribute to light pollution, which dims and dulls our view of the stars and messes with our Circadian rhythms. Noise pollution works in a similar way, except it can have even more adverse affects on mental health, sleep, and focus.

Countryside living strips away these forms of pollution, as well as a majority of physical pollution like trash and fumes.

Fresh Air

Numerous studies have proven the positive benefits of being outdoors. Country living bucks the air pollution and crowding of cities in favor of rolling green spaces and cleaner air. It opens up the opportunity to explore outdoor hobbies and bring along any gear that’s been collecting dust.

Fresher Food

Although many cities have become the home of vegans, vegetarians, and organic eaters, the easy way to get fresh food is to live where it’s grown. Local farms are gaining ground against large agricultural firms. Many local farms offer CSA (community-supported agriculture) programs that allow you to sign up to receive a weekly selection of produce for just you or you and a group of friends.

Community

Although cities are known for the diversity of their communities, country living offers a different kind of community. Though you may not be able to find the sheer variety of groups, living with less creates a community of more. Small towns are tight-knit by definition and come with their own set of traditions for you to become a part of.

New Skills

City livers need to know how to parallel park and use the subway. Moving away from the city means that you get to learn a new set of skills. Depending on how you live, it could be attaching snow chains to your tires or learning how to care for a yard. Having your own patch of land offers the potential for a garden. Olympia has a few tips for gardening beginners.

More Pets

Looking to add to your collection of furry friends? Country living doesn’t suffer from the restrictions of a city apartment. It doesn’t have to be just furry friends either. Throw in some feathers with a coop of chickens and start your days with your own fresh eggs.

New Perspectives

You don’t have to travel abroad to see the world through new eyes. Where we live affects how we see the world. Even if you find that country living isn’t for you, the experience of trying it will leave you with a new perspective.

Move to These Great Towns

Here are some of the popular country towns Olympia moves families to:

Boston:

Scituate, MA

Duxbury, MA

Cohassett, MA

Austin:

Dripping Springs, TX

Lakeway, TX

Philadelphia:

Malvern, PA

Media, PA

Considering a countryside move? Contact Olympia Moving and Storage at 800-222-4744 or get an instant moving estimate!

What is an Interstate Move Overflow Shipment?

Space is major concern when you’re moving. Fitting your whole life into a truck is a daunting task. If you are moving interstate or internationally, sometimes an overflow shipment can occur. However, with the right planning and communication, your move can still go smoothly if an overflow happens.

What is an Overflow Shipment?

An overflow shipment occurs when there is not enough room on the truck to fit all of your belongings. This means a second truck will have to be brought in to ship the remaining inventory.

For an interstate move, if a driver realizes that everything won’t fit, he will call in a second truck to load the remainder. This truck will bring your belongings to temporary warehouse storage until it can be loaded onto a truck heading to your destination. This is to ensure that all of your belongings will still be packed and removed from your old home on time on load day, and does not cause  delays in clearing your origin home.

What Causes an Overflow Shipment?

An overflow shipment can have multiple causes.

The primary cause of overflow shipments generally occurs when either you or one of the other homeowners on the same shipment exceed the space estimate determined by your moving company.

Some people like to get a head start on their new home before they’ve arrived, but do not realize the effect of taking up extra space. Try to avoid buying items in advance that you will have to transport to your new home. Or, you may decide to bring items that you originally planned on tossing or selling. It can be tempting to add to the amount of items you are shipping, but we recommend avoiding adding to your inventory once your estimation is complete. If you decide to move additional items above what was originally discussed with your estimator, give the moving a company a call to let them know in case they need to adjust the planning for your shipment.

The second most common cause of overflow shipments is inefficient packing. Even with an accurate volume estimation, if your belongings are poorly packed, you will have more boxes than needed. Ensure that you pack smart–too much in one box can be as much of a problem as too little. For more information on packing, head over to our Move Planning Center, watch our How to Pack Video Series, or consider Hiring Packing Services.

I Need an Overflow Shipment, What Now?

An overflow shipment is rare, but sometimes unavoidable. The moving team will work with you to minimize the hassle. Ensure that the items you really need–beds, clothes, kitchen utensils–are in the first truck. Everything you pack will still arrive at your door, but make sure the important stuff arrives first. A professional moving company will stay in contact with you about your send shipment and work with you to make the process as easy as possible. Clear communication is the key to making sure that all of your belongings end up where they need to be.

For all of your moving needs, contact Olympia Moving & Storage to plan your move. Fill out our estimate form online or give us a call at 800-222-4474 for a free estimate.

Moving? Get Rid of the Plastic in Your New Home

Moving often reveals just how much junk we accumulate in our homes. Because of this, a move is the best time to get rid of the plastics weighing you down. By making a few simple changes alongside the major change of your move, you can reduce the amount of waste you generate on a daily basis. Evaluate the plastic in your home has you pack and declutter. Make a resolution to ditch these plastics and make it a greener start in your new home.

Plastic Water Bottles

Cleaning up reminds everyone just how many plastic bottles they go through. If you’re shocked to find mountains of Poland Spring in the nooks and crannies of your home, it’s time to switch to a reusable bottle. Hydro Flask, S’well, and Nalgene are some of the most popular kinds of reusable water bottles. You could also install a water filter in your new home, or use a pitcher filter like Brita.

Plastic Baggies

Most people, especially families, go through thousands of plastic baggies a year. Packing sandwiches and saving leftovers consumes a lot of plastic, but it doesn’t have to. Products like Juco sandwich bags, Bee’s Wrap, and (re)zip washable, resealable baggie can all replace the Ziplock in your cupboard. You can also replace plastic and aluminum wrap with reusable wax wraps like Bees Wrap.

Tupperware

Similar to baggies, plastic tupperware can be recycled and replaced with an alternative. Glass containers are easy to clean and last longer than their plastic counterparts. They are also readily available in most grocery stores.

Trash Bags

Sometimes, it’s not just the trash itself that is the problem. Trash bags are their own source of waste. Biodegradable trash bags eliminate a little-considered source of plastic waste. Biobag and If You Care are two examples of eco-friendly trash bags available to consumers.

Toothbrushes

Plastic toothbrushes are actually one of the biggest sources of ocean plastic waste. Bamboo toothbrushes are a better, anti-microbial alternative to the chemical-filled plastics most people use. Check out Bustle’s review of the 5 Best Bamboo Toothbrushes.

Floss

Yeah, floss! Floss and plastic floss containers build up in your garbage over time. Cocofloss, Eco-dent, and Humble Co. floss picks can be great substitutes for the classic plastic case and fiber.

Moving With New Habits in Mind

Moving is a big change. It can be very scary to leave the home you’ve known for a new one, even if it is just five minutes down the street. That newness, however, doesn’t have to be just about adjusting to new surroundings. Making a major change in your life leaved you receptive to new habits. Use this period of time to make changes for the better and you’ll feel better, too.

For more on eco-friendly moving, take a look at our blog posts Eco-Friendly Moving Tips and How to Recycle or Repurpose Your Moving Boxes.

If you have an upcoming move, contact Olympia Moving and Storage today at 800-222-4744 or fill out our free estimate form.