How To Pack Books For Moving

Some consider books or a library collection among their home’s most prized possessions. For many, books are akin to cherished friends. It’s no fun to set up your new place and find books with torn pages, or twisted and scratched covers.

Packing and moving books cause damage if done incorrectly. Let us show you how to pack your books to arrive in the best shape possible.

Materials:

  • Boxes or crates
  • Packing paper
  • Packing tape
  • Markers

a box full of packed booksBefore You Start To Pack

Organize your books according to the sizes, including books, magazines, and periodicals. This will allow you to properly distribute them into cartons.

Decide which books to take

Now that you have your books in groups, assess what you need to move. If there are books that you no longer need, set them aside. Make piles for friends, neighbors, or donate to your local library or reading group. Keep in mind that some move pricing, especially for interstate moving, is weight-based. Since books are very heavy, part of your collection may not be worth moving.

Select the boxes you’ll need

Since books are very dense, book boxes can get heavy fast. Only use the smallest boxes, ideally 1.5 cubic feet, to pack books. Do not overstuff the boxes and make them too heavy to lift when moving. Aim for at most 50 pounds in each box.

Secure the boxes

Next, seal the base and sides of the box with packing tape to strengthen the package and ensures the box will not fall apart when lifted. Properly sealing boxes protects your books from damage from water or other liquids during moving.

Now you have the basics; it’s time to start to packing

  1. Begin unpacking the books from the bottom of the bookshelf and work your way to the top. It also helps minimize any back strain from constant bending.
  2. First, place some sheets of packing paper to the bottom of the moving crate.
  3. Start packing the heavier volumes, then the medium-sized, and finish with the lighter books at the top. Placing the light volumes at the top also helps reduce any damage from the weight of other volumes.

Here are a few methods of packing book boxes for you to consider:

Standing up Method

The standing up method of packing books is similar to how the books lie on your bookshelves. Pack the spines of the books next to the sides of the box or crate when packing. Continue stacking books spine to spine in at least two rows to start.

Cover the layers with packing paper before starting the next row. Use some newsprint or packing paper to plug any extra spaces, but not too tightly to cause friction.

Flat on the back Method

Packing books flat on their backs is an ideal way to get more books into your box and prevent pages from bending or tearing. It’s also the best way to pack books of similar sizes in one location for a snug fit. To avoid tearing or other damage, avoid placing books with their pages facing each other.

Packing precious tomes

Everybody has a set of unique books they like to keep for a lifetime. Packing costly or rare volumes will help ensure they arrive intact when moving. Wrap each book in sheets of packing paper. Fold each section to help create a buffer to minimize damage.

Continue to wrap each book and stack them inside the box or crate. Fill any open spaces with packing paper to help cushion the books during moving. Label the containers to help locate them quickly when unpacking.

packing magazines for your moveMagazines

Magazines can lie flat at the top of your regular books as you pack to fill up any remaining spaces. Organize them according to size and let the larger volumes lie flat in the box.

Sealing & Labeling

Place a sheet of packing paper to the top of each box: close, and seal, then label. Do not over-pack the boxes. Leave enough room to help seal the box on an even plane. When you seal the boxes, try lifting them to see if you can handle the weight of moving. Ensure the base of the box can handle the pressure.

Labeling helps keep track of what’s inside to help organize the moving and unpacking at your new place. Label as you go to ensure you give specific handling instructions to protect your books from damage.

You did it, your books are packed!

Moving is always a challenge, and protecting your books is paramount. Organizing your books in groups will help you pack them in the best possible way to avoid damage. Correctly packing your books ensures they arrive in good shape and are ready to sit comfortably in their new space. If you are looking to get your books packed and packed by professionals, click here and get a free estimate.

How To Pack Clothes For Moving

Packing and moving are never easy, and when moving clothes and shoes, it takes special care to prevent damage. Clothing and shoes represent a large portion of our belongings, as it includes a range of items for the entire family. Our packing tips will get your clothes and shoes in order. Let’s take a look at some proper strategies on how to pack clothes and shoes for moving.

Required Materials:

  • Packing paper
  • Boxes of various sizes
  • Suitcases
  • Duffel Bags
  • Vacuum Seal bags
  • Shoe boxes
  • Markers
  • Sealing tape
  • Tissue Paper
  • Where to start

Categorize your closet

It’s necessary to have a plan in place to get your items of clothing and shoes ready for packing.

  1. Sort items of clothing in categories. For example:
  • immediate needs
  • long-term needs
  • short-term needs
  • seasonal
  1. Check the condition of the clothes for any tears, fraying, stains, or other damage.
  2. Launder everything and dry thoroughly before packing away.
  3. Making clothing piles can help get everything in order:
  • Keep
  • Donate
  • Toss
  • Repair or repurpose
  • Piles for each season
  • Piles for each family member

After making each category, pack off-season or storage items of clothing first. These are items you and your family will not likely wear soon. Store off-season items by vacuum sealing in bags to reduce bulk and save storage space. Make sure you pack with breathable material that helps let air in to reduce moisture and mold. Label each box to identify what will go into storage to unpack as needed.

Pack clothing you won’t be wearing soon, such as formal attire, in a waterproof suit or jacket bag to protect them from moths, mold, dust, dirt, and moisture.

Finally, pack the clothes you’ll need immediately as you settle into your new place. Packing these clothes separately will help you find clothing for each family member to use while unpacking and setting up your new home.

Set aside a complete set of clothing items for each member of the family:

  • Pants
  • Tops
  • Shoes
  • Pajamas
  • Socks
  • underwear

clothing for packing for moving

Packing delicate clothing items

Delicates can tear and suffer other damage during moving. Pack them in separate boxes to help reduce friction during transit. Use sheets of silk paper to wrap delicate clothing items to help protect them from heat, moisture, or damage.

Methods of Packing Clothes

The goal of any packing method is to prevent friction, save space, and ensure your items arrive in good condition. Each technique will ensure you pack each item appropriately to help minimize the risks.

Bundle packing

Start with a bulky item like a winter jacket or coat at the bottom. Next, place a smaller item of clothing atop the coat or jacket. Make the third layer with a smaller item of clothing. When full, wrap the coat or jacket’s ends around the smaller things to form a bundle.

Repeat for other items, and continue to place complete bundles in the packing boxes.

rolling clothes and for packingRolling Method

Fold and roll items like tee shirts, socks, light items and pack them side by side to help save space. You can also fold items within other clothing to save even more space. Rolling clothing also helps reduce wrinkles after unpacking.

Flat Packing

Laying items flat inside packing boxes will also help save space.

Wardrobe Boxes

Wardrobe boxes are an excellent way to store your clothing upright and avoid any wrinkles during moving. They are ideal for packing shirts, jackets, pants, coats, and dresses. They make  packing, unpacking, and re-hanging clothing a seamless exercise when you arrive at your new location.

  1. Place heavy items like blankets or pillows to the bottom of the box. Ensure there’s enough space to hang your clothes comfortably without any wrinkling.
  2. Wrap and store shoes to the base of the hanger boxes to help save storage space.

Sealing and labeling clothes boxes

  1. Ensure you have the right size box to help avoid overloading moving containers. 4.5 cubic foot boxes are the best size for most clothes.
  2. Assemble boxes carefully. Seal the bottom and edges to help prevent any spills while lifting.
  3. Form protective layers on the bottom and sides of boxes to help protect clothing from moving rigors.
  4. Always cover the top layer of clothing in each box with packing paper before closing the lid.
  5. Cover and seal each box with packing tape.
  6. Label each box to help locate clothing categories quickly when unpacking

Packing shoes

packing shoes for a move

Shoes can suffer from scruff marks easily, and especially when moving. Pack them in shoe boxes, shoe bags, suitcases, or at the bottom of regular packing boxes. First, wrap each shoe in packing paper and place them at the base of your moving boxes.

If you’re using a suitcase,  place small items like socks to help cushion the shoes in the suitcase. It also helps minimize any squashing or scratches on the shoes. Stuff shoes with items like foam, rolled up socks, newsprint, and other items to help keep their shape when moving.

Shoeboxes: Seal the sides of the shoebox with tape or enclose it with a rubber band or string to help protect the box’s base.

Packing A Suitcase For A Long Distance Move

It is a good idea to pack a suitcase on a long-distance move. Depending on how your travel schedule works out, you may not receive your move inventory until a few days after you personally arrive at your new location. Packing a suitcase with enough clothing to make it through the few days while you are waiting for your inventory to arrive will be very important.

Now your clothes & shoes are ready to go!

Protecting valuable clothing and shoes when moving is essential to ensure they arrive without wrinkles or scratches. Each packing method in our useful guide will help equip you with everything you need to pack them properly. If you are looking for Olympia to do the packing and unpacking for you click here for a free estimate.

How to Pack A Computer and Electronics for Moving

Almost everything we do today is tech-driven. Computers and electronics play a significant role in our lives, whether at home or at the office. Electronic devices represent some of our most expensive and treasured items, and we should take special care to protect them, especially when moving. There are some best practices when it comes to how to pack a computer and electronic for moving.

These devices include laptops, Pcs, tablets, printers, cartridges, TVs, DVDs, CDs, VCRs, keyboards, remote controls, Blu-rays, speakers, video games, and consoles. Packing electronics and computers for moving can be seamless. Here are some crucial tips to guide you to avoid any damage or loss when you pack a computer and electronics for moving.

Packing Tools You Will Need

  • Packing boxes
  • Wrapping Paper
  • Packing Tape
  • Cardboard
  • Scissors
  • Markers
  • Colored Stickers
  • Plastic Storage Bags
  • Cushions or blankets

Where to Start

Keeping a range of cables, accessories, and other electronic parts together can be a challenge. Start by grouping items according to size and how you plan to pack them.

Unplug all cables. Remove any batteries from all equipment to reduce any chances of overheating during travel. Keep these items one location to assemble them later without hassle. It is important to keep in mind that lithium batteries are not allowed on your move because they are fire hazardous.

Disconnect any Blu-ray, DVDs, or CDs from your electronic devices. Use packing tape to keep any portals or print heads shut while moving. Make a list of the equipment and accessories so you can keep track of them during set up at the destination.

Packing a printer for movingPrinters

Remove toner cartridges from printers and wrap them in plastic to minimize dust or liquid damage.  Stack them from heavy to light, and keep the wires, cables, and other accessories together.

Wrap each item in wrapping paper. You can place the cables atop or to the side of the equipment as you wrap.

Packing Computer Monitors

Place rolls of packing paper to the bottom of the moving box. Wrap the monitor in wrapping paper or bubble wrap. Place the equipment in a side-standing position inside. Fill in any empty spaces to help protect sensitive parts when moving.

Computers

Office and home computers store highly sensitive information. Keep your data safe by backing it up to your cloud or rigid drive systems before the move.

Secure your passwords in the unlikely event your equipment becomes lost or stolen when moving. If you’re able, remove the card of your Pcs motherboard to help keep it safe.  If possible, it is recommended to move your laptop or computer yourself in your own vehicle due to the high value of both the device and its contents.

Clean your PC to ensure it is free of dust particles that can shift and clog your system during moving.

Disconnect any cables, dongles, and other accessories from your system before placing it in the moving box. Roll each wire and secure it with a band or twist tie. Place the cables in a storage bag for safe-keeping. You can also tape each cable to the device in the same package.

Wrap the PC in packing paper and place everything together in the box.

Additional Electronics Moving Tips

Avoid using Styrofoam packing chips around your computer. Some experts suggest the chips may allow static to form that can damage your equipment.

Do not use newsprint to wrap your monitor screens. The print may cause scratches that may be hard to remove.  It is better to use non-static padding or non-printed packing paper.

After packing each box, place a cushion, folded blanket, or balled-up packing paper atop the equipment to provide another buffer layer when in-transit. Close the lids, seal, and label the box, including any handling instructions. This is key when you pack a computer and electronics.

Tv being packed for moving Moving Flat Screen TVs

It’s best to re-pack flat-screen TVs in the original box, if possible. The styrophon modeling will secure the TV in the box so it doesn’t move or slide. It will also protect from some impact it will take while moving.

Your second alternative is to purchase a TV box from your mover. These boxes are specially designed for TVs and will provide similar protection to your TV as the original box.

Labeling

Labeling will help locate your items when you begin to unpack at your new worksite or home.

Label each box after sealing it to ensure you can quickly identify the items and where you plan to set them up.

It’s a good idea to color-code each item and all accompanying parts or accessories to organize them and minimize loss or displacement.

Place color-coded markers or stickers on each piece of equipment and its other parts and group them. Use stickers to mark the tips of cables to help you remember which device they will fit.

Attach color-coded marks on the sockets for each device and cables to help re-attach them easily.

Setting Up At Your New Place

Re-connecting electronics and computer equipment can be tricky. Always refer to your manuals to ensure you understand how to set up at your new location.

Unpack one packing box at a time, beginning with the more oversized items like your PC or television.

Remove the cables and accessories for each item. Set the equipment in place, and connect the cables to the power supply. Refer to the color marker or stickers to guide you when re-assembling parts.

Afterwards, run the system to ensure it’s working correctly. After you’re satisfied, move on to the next packing box. Repeat the setup steps until you complete the process.

Finishing Touches

Many people rely heavily on technology to drive their day-to-day activities at home and work. Therefore, computer and electronic equipment constitute a considerable investment that requires protection when moving from one location to the next.

Securing your valuable equipment is easy if you plan to organize the assembling, packing, and re-assembling of each item. These activities will help keep parts and accessories together and ensure your entire relocation process goes off without a hitch. These methods can be extremely affective when you have to pack a computer and electronics. If you are looking to have professionals pack your computer and electronics, click here for a free quote today.

How to Move a Home Gym

For fitness enthusiasts, your home gym is your hub. However, moving your gym equipment may pose some challenges if you don’t know where to start. Figuring out how to move a home gym can be a breeze or a major headache. We share your concerns and can help you make a workable plan that is stress-free. Whether you hire a moving company or choose to pack it yourself, here’s how to get started.

If a Mover is Handling the Gym

The most painless way to move a home gym is by utilizing a moving company. Since exercise equipment is often heavy, fragile, and valuable, the best choice may be to leave it to the professionals. When you are getting a moving quote, be sure to point out the gym equipment to the moving company’s representative, and ask how they will handle it.

A good mover will work with a specialized tech to disassemble and reassemble your home gym equipment. This will cost a bit more, but you will have the convenience of not having to disassemble complicated gym machines. This is also the best financial protection if your equipment is damaged during the relocation. A moving company is not liable for broken gym equipment if the customer does not choose to use a recommended tech. If you are looking to save money on your move and would like to disassemble your equipment on your own, your mover will ask you to sign a waiver clearing them from any liability of the equipment.

Have a plan

Organizing your gym pieces will help you track the items and figure out a plan to pack and move.

packing small items from your home gym

Start by grouping by larger equipment such as:

  • Rowing machines
  • Elliptical
  • Treadmill
  • Weight lifting machine
  • Weights
  • Weight benches

Smaller pieces include

  • Jump ropes
  • Indoor cycles
  • Steppers
  • Kettle balls
  • Hand weights
  • Portable steps
  • Yoga mats
  • Barbells
  • Dumbells
  • Free weights

Prep, Clean, Repair

Clean each piece of gym equipment before you begin to box up or disassemble them. Give each item a thorough wipe down with multi-purpose cleaner and fresh rags to remove any dust or dirt. Clean the hand and foot supports, and every surface your body touches while exercising.

Next, check each piece or parts that may be loose, broken, or missing. Locate any extra parts and label them for easy retrieval and assembling.

Select the right packaging for your home gym

Choosing the correct packing containers is essential to ensure your equipment will not roll or break the packaging. While ordinary packing boxes may not work for heavy pieces, use them for lighter items like yoga mats and jump ropes.

Here are some items that may be useful for packing your gym:

  • Newspaper
  • Packing paper
  • Unused towels, blankets, and bedding
  • Bubble wrap
  • Plastic tubs or bins
  • Milk crates
  • Plastic bags
  • Zip ties
  • Rope
  • Furniture dolly
  • Tie-down straps
  • Bungee cords
  • Packaging tape

Moving Stationary Bikes

While moving a stationary bike is somewhat easy, there are a few things you need to know. Disconnect the current, and place the power cables in bags with labels. Next, cover the bike with a sheet or blanket and protect your flooring with items like towels, furniture slides, towels, or cardboard sheets. Movers will use floor protection made from polynite or similar material.

Get some extra hands and wheel the stationary bike out and onto the moving van.

How to move an elliptical machine

Moving and packing your elliptical

Deciding how you’re going to move the machine helps determine how much help you will need. You will need:

  • Blankets, sheets, or towels
  • Ratchet ties
  • Tie-down straps
  • Furniture dolly

First, switch off the machine and remove the plug from the socket. Tip the machine to a side and push the tie-down straps under it. Next, bring the straps over the footholds and legs. Fasten the straps with the ratchet tie to keep the machine steady when moving.

Place the furniture dolly alongside the elliptical. You and your helper will now flank the machine on either side. Get a firm hold and move in sync with your helper to lift it onto the furniture dolly. Secure padding like blankets, sheets, or towels over the machine to protect it from scratching walls, doors, or other surfaces.

You’ll also need some help if you have to maneuver the machine down the stairs. Slowly lift the machine from the dolly and place it on the moving van. Take off the covering and ratchet tie and check to see if the legs are moving freely.

How to pack collapsible gym equipment

If your machine parts are collapsible, fold them down and set them in the lock position to avoid movement during transport. For power cords and other electrical components, use  masking tape or packaging tape to stick them onto the machine for safe keeping.

Moving lightweight home gym items

Use storage boxes for packing up your gym bags, yoga blocks, mats, blankets, and towels. Newspaper or bubble wrap is ideal for covering items like barbells, kettle balls, hand weights, and barbells. Make sure you use several sized containers to balance the importance of the things you place in the crates, and that you pack items like weights in the smallest possible boxes for easier lifting.

Moving Free Weights

Make sure that the crate or box you are using is strong and sturdy so your weights do not fall through. Depending on how much weight you have in your container, a cardboard box may not be suitable for the job. Pack these separate from other gym equipment and materials to avoid damages. Be mindful of how much free weights you are putting into a single container. The box will be too heavy to lift if your weights are not distributed evenly. Wrap the weights will bubble wrap or newspaper to protect the weights. Fill the container will towels or some type of cushioning to prevent the weights from shifting and sliding in the container.

packing and moving a treadmillHow to pack your treadmill

Before you start, switch off the power supply and unplug or detach any electrical wiring nearby. Fold each section of the treadmill following the instructions in your manual. If there’s a belt on your machine, roll it up and secure it to help reduce any scratching.

Lock any moving parts to avoid shifting while on the road. Now you have the treadmill ready, lift it onto the furniture dolly, and then to the moving vehicle. When lifting off the van, slide it onto the furniture dolly and carefully roll it into your new location. To re-assemble, unlock the moving parts and set up according to your manual.

How to move weight machines

Weight machines can be a bit tricky to move, but quite doable. Some parts may have uneven shapes that may not fit into traditional packing boxes. First, follow the instructions in your manual to ensure you detach the parts correctly.

Use storage bags to pack smaller items like bolts, screws, and nuts. Use some tape to stick them onto the appropriate piece of furniture to re-attach when setting up in your new place. Wrap any bulky items in old sheets, blankets, or towels if they cannot fit into moving crates.

The padding will help reduce any friction that may cause damage to other items during transport. Likewise, use some padding to wrap metal bars and weights to help protect against scratches.

Wrap It Up

Your home gym is a considerable investment in trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle from the comfort of your home. Always check your manual to ensure you secure each item to avoid damage during transport. This can help you a ton when figuring out how to move a home gym.

Make an inventory and stick smaller parts to their appropriate attachments. Cover each item to avoid damage to your flooring, walls, and other equipment and furniture pieces.

While moving can be stressful, our handy guide is a sure way to make it as seamless as possible. If you are looking for a team of professionals to handle the move for, you can get a free estimate by clicking here.

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.

How To Pack For A Move – The Basics

How To Pack For A Move

Packing up and moving away to a new home or location can be very stressful. The secret to successful moving is in organizing your valuables to make it easy to pack, move, unpack, and re-stock. We will layout some how to pack for a move basics to help get you going in the right direction. Now keep in mind, packing for a move is complex due to the variety of items that you need to pack. Depending on the item, the packing process may vary greatly.

Packaging Materials Required:

Tape

Markers

Boxes of varying sizes

Bubble wrap

Blanket packing paper

Newsprint

Let’s Look At The Types Of Packing Materials:

BoxesHow to pack for a move

Boxes are a great way to store items to help protect them from the rigors of moving while shipping. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit almost every type of thing you need to pack.

3 cubic feet

This size box is ideal for packing canned foods, books, and more substantial items.

4.5 cubic feet

These slightly larger boxes are suitable for packing small lamps, lampshades, clothing, and shoes. You can also pack coats, quilts, blankets, children’s toys, and some lamps and lampshades depending on their height.

Dish boxes

They are taller and bigger than the other boxes and offer lots of protection for dishes, plates, glasses, and other fragile items. They come with dual-enforced walls for things that need additional cushioning during transport.

Paper

Paper is also another good source of packing material. You can choose a range of paper products to suit the item you wish to pack. Here are two good options:

How to pack for a moveNewsprint

Newsprint comprises over 95 percent wood pulp and is eco-friendly. It is ideal for wrapping fragile items like china, crystal, and other valuables. The paper is also highly absorbent and will protect your items from moisture during shipping.

Blanket paper

This type of wrapping paper consists of layers of high-quality, durable, breathable material. Blanket paper is excellent for wrapping picture frames, and large items like mirrors, televisions, computer monitors, and antiques. Besides, you can also wrap bedroom, living room and dining room furniture, fridges, washing machines, and freezers.

The layers help protect large items from scratches and bumps, and even damp, humid shipping conditions.

bubble wrap for packing and moving basics - Hwo to pack for a moveBubble Wrap

This is a type of clear, flexible wrapping solution that provides loft of cushioning for a wide range of packing needs. It consists of sheets of film with air bubbles trapped inside the layers. Bubble wrap is lightweight and comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and thicknesses.

It is one of the best packing materials available. It’s highly durable, affordable, recyclable and reusable, and offers excellent protection for all your valuables. The eco-friendly material also provides lots of insulation and extra cushioning to help reduce friction on impact when shipping.

Bubble wrap is also very versatile and suitable for wrapping items of almost any shape or size. You can also use the sheets to help provide layers of lining in your packing boxes. The lining acts as a protective barrier for delicate items.

Tapes

Taping is essential to seal your boxes to help protect the boxes from opening during transport. You can seal the items before placing them in the boxes and also around the seams of the boxes for extra reinforcement.

Tapes are available in brown or transparent colors, among others. Choose a durable sticky tape that can withstand hot and cold temperatures as well as moisture.

Before You Begin To Pack:

  • Have all of your packing materials close to hand.
  • Set up your workstation with paper, bubble wrap, tape, scissors, and markers.
  • Select a table or countertop with adequate space for comfort and convenience.
  • Lay your wrapping material on a flat surface.
  • Select the size box for the item you wish to pack.
  • Proceed to wrap, seal, and box the items according to instructions.

Packing Tips:

  1. Make a list of each item by room
  2. Label each box as you pack
  3. Place heavier items at the bottom of each box
  4. Fill up extra spaces in the box to avoid friction
  5. Seal each box when full

Wrap UP

Moving and packing can be an exciting and daunting task all at the same time. Taking care of your valuables is essential and needs special attention to keep them intact during transport. Make sure you use the correct packing materials and procedures for each item you wish to store.

Finally, label each box and make a list of all items according to the rooms they will go in when you relocate. It will help make unpacking and setting up a more enjoyable and stress-free experience. To hire a professional and to help with all your moving packing needs click here.

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.

The best social media buzz on Allston Christmas 2019

In Boston, the end of summer is marked by a city-wide holiday. No, not Labor Day. September 1st is Allston Christmas, the day that 79% of leases turn over in the city, resulting in a gridlock of moving trucks and sidewalks littered with abandoned trash. As a Boston moving company, the folks at Olympia Moving & Storage are Allston Christmas experts. We have 25 of of them under our belt. This year we teamed up with NBC 10 Boston to educate the city about the dangers of driving a moving truck on Storrow Drive.

Per usual, Boston’s residents took to Twitter and Instagram to share their moving pains, celebrate their curbside finds, and ask the void – what the heck is going on out there?

The Best Tweets & Instagrams of Allston Christmas 2019

Allston Christmas is a holiday highly anticipated across the city

The season was ushered in with carols

Some tried to avoid moving in Boston altogether

Not sure which was more coveted this year, a new coffee table on the sidewalk, or these two excellent beer releases by Harpoon Brewery and Trillium Brewing

Sleighs & rental trucks took to the streets to spread good cheer

Not all Allston Christmas finds are merry, some are better left for Allston Christmas Boxing Day

When your Allston Christmas move is over, just remember that moving companies have to go through this every day. Olympia contributed to Boston Magazine’s compilation of funny and touching stories from Boston moving companies.

Whether you’re moving on Allston Christmas 2020 or any other time of year, contact Boston moving company Olympia Moving & Storage for a free moving estimate, or give a ring at 800-222-4744.

On the Move: Boston MA, Beacon Street

Location: Boston, MA Moving Services

Boston, MA to long-term storage move | June 2019

Move Overview

On one of the city’s busiest streets, the Olympia team handled the partial pack and load of this third floor, four bedroom condo. This $6.9 million dollar home sits on Beacon Street, overlooking the Charles River and esplanade in downtown Boston. The homes that line this street are home to tech innovators, artists, musicians, journalists, and many Boston’s brightest minds. Our crew spent two days helping the family move out of this beautiful space.

The crew faced a few challenges unique to city moving and high-end historic brownstones. Of course, parking is always a challenge in Boston. Thankfully, posted parking permits saved the team from that particular headache. The real challenges was the with space and value of the homeowners belongings.

Art Packing & Crating

The crew performed a full pack for the customer. Although it was a two-day move, the crew planned their work so the family was still able to sleep in the home after the first day of the move. The packing included several oil paintings. Custom crates were built to protect several pieces of valuable art.

Challenging Load

Interestingly, the this beautiful condo lacked the tight corners of a classic Boston space. Although the bedrooms shared a narrow hallway, the rest of the space was wide open for our crew to easily maneuver. This made protecting the homeowner’s most expensive and valuable items easier, including large belongings like paintings, couches, and tables.

The true challenge was the use of the elevator to transport everything from the third floor. The elevator was relatively small, and the design of the building meant that once the furniture was shimmied out of the elevator, it had to be carried several yards through the lobby and across the sidewalk. Despite the added difficulty, the crew tackled the day with high energy and were rewarded for their hard work by the homeowner with a freshly delivered lunch.

Long-term Storage

This shipment was not going to a destination home. Instead, it bustled down the Pike to our Watertown warehouse, where it will be stored for about a year while the family’s new home is being renovated.

Olympia offers a variety of storage solutions to our customers. We can hold your belongings for a few days while you get your new home ready or for a full year if you’ve decided to spend some time abroad or need time to prep your dream home. Our warehouse utilizes unit storage, rack storage, and pallet storage in our secure, convenient facility. Regardless of your needs, we have options for every situation. For more on the storage services we provide, check out our Full Service Storage page or our Watertown warehouse.

 

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