Checklist for Moving With Pets

Moving with pets is a tricky situation for everyone, but if you or your pet has little or no experience moving, it is important to do your best to keep the move stress-free. Obviously moving companies cannot move animals inside the truck; however they can arrange to ship your pets through specialized pet relocation companies. Here are some tips to keep your pet happy and healthy during the transition.

Find a pet-friendly home

First and foremost, make sure your new place allows pets. Some landlords, apartment buildings, condominiums, and communities do not allow animals.  Often these details fall through the cracks in a transaction, so make sure you ask the listing agent during your search if your specific type of animal is allowed at the residence. If you are moving with pets to a new state, it is a good idea to look into pet regulations with the state’s department of agriculture.

Get new ID tags

Just as you and your family will all need your identification updated, your pet will too! Before moving your pet, get an ID tag made with your new address and contact information. Have your pet wear both tags in the time leading up to your move.

Reduce moving with pets stress

Packing, moving, and unpacking into a new home is stressful for animals too! If Snickers is always underfoot while you’re trying to pack, set up a space in the house where they won’t be bothered. Start packing far in advance. If you need to make interior changes to your home, like painting walls or rearranging furniture, do it over multiple days rather than all at once. Pets are very sensitive to sudden changes and will not react well if everything they know is different. Pay attention to your pet during this process. Keep feeding, walking, and play times as consistent as possible.

Pack an overnight box for the pet

Pack enough food, litter, treats, toys, and medications to get your pet through several days after the move. You won’t be able to fully unpack in one day, so make sure you have everything available to make your pet feel at home. If you need help packing your own first night box, check out our tips on what to pack for the first night. 

Moving day

The big day you have been waiting for has arrived! To avoid adding stress for yourself and your pet, see if you can arrange for Fido and Bubbles to stay with a friend, relative, or neighbor while the crew packs and loads the truck. This will also avoid any safety concerns for the crew, your pet, and your belongings! The less time you and the crew have to worry  about tripping over the dog, the more time and money you can save on your move.

Transporting your pet to their new home

If moving by car, be sure to bring food and water. Bring more than you think you’ll need, in case of delays, traffic, lunch stops, or any other unforeseen circumstance. If you will be staying in hotels, check that they are pet friendly in advance, and again, ask about your pet specifically.

Make sure you take the proper precautions when flying your pet. Bring the proper crates, supplies, pet records, and make sure you get to the airport early. Check out the Department of Transportation’s information on flying with pets, as well as your specific airline’s. Research which airlines treats pets the best in order to keep your pet as safe as possible.

If you need to transport your pet long distance or you are transporting larger animals like horses, consider a professional service that arranges for your pets to be moved and boarded via their professional services and network. Consider pet relocation services if you would prefer to pass the situation to the pros. Cosmopolitan Canine Carriers, Inc. and Air Animal Pet Movers are affiliated with the American Moving & Storage Association.

Unpacking with your pet

Adjusting to a new residence can be stressful for your pet. Your dog or cat may be more likely to run away during this time, so until they are comfortable be sure to always keep them on a leash while outside. Check your new yard to make sure it is safe and secure. Make the environment familiar by setting up a habitat that closely matches your old home.

Once you’re ready to plan moving with pets or just on your own, give Olympia a call at 800.222.4744 or fill out our form for a free moving estimate.

Calculating Interstate Moving Costs

Relocation puts everyone under a large amount of stress. It is not only hard to pull it off, but it can also cost you a lot. Especially if you don’t even try to downsize your moving costs. In this post with guest writer Moving Offices San Diego, we will try to explain how to do it and how to calculate interstate moving costs in advance. Because – the more prepared you come – the better!

Prepare yourself physically and mentally

You don’t have to prepare only your budget; you will have to prepare yourself as well! Getting informed is the best way to calculate interstate moving costs, so let’s start.

Get a pen and some paper

It is time to start writing everything down. Everything. Even if it sounds silly or unimportant. Write down your every thought regarding the move. Every expense, every idea and every task that needs to be done. Save receipts and calculate how much you are already spending.

Make a solid strategy

Having a plan is a must if you are planning on interstate moving without breaking the bank. So, wait no more and start strategizing. If you think about your every step in advance – not many things can surprise you. And remember – those surprises are what can cost you the most. Make a timetable, and try sticking to your schedule. Postponing tasks is not a good idea, so try to avoid it. The more you do at this stage – the easier it will be for you along the way.

Calculate your budget

Keep it real. No one knows your budget like you do, so stop for a moment and think about it. Hard. Calculate and then do it once more. Try to save as much as possible. Little things add up fast – and you should really make a choice here. Do you want to save or to overspend? It is really your choice – you are the one who will have to pay for it.

Piggy bank
Are you trying to save money on your interstate move? You are in the right place!

Get moving assistance

Even if you can handle your interstate move by yourself – it might be a good idea to hire professionals to take care of everything for you. Why? There are really many things that need to be taken into a consideration when we are talking about interstate relocation and its costs. So many paperwork, tasks, and worries can make you forget other aspects of your relocation project. What will happen if you do? You will make a mistake. And then what? Well, you will have to pay for it! Making mistakes isn’t bad only for your budget, but also for everything else.If you are moving to the NYC area, Moving Offices San Diego recommends contacting NYC moving professionals for some assistance.

 Try not to overspend

We have said this before, but it is really important you keep this in your mind. Interstate moving costs can get greater than you are expecting – simply because you forgot your main goal. And what is that? Not to overspend. Say it again. And then, once more. It will help, believe us!

Communication is the key

It is quite impossible to pull off an interstate moving project by yourself. Even if you don’t hire moving professionals to help you, you might have to get some other services from some other service providers. It is quite important you have good communication with them. Get informed. Ask your questions. Read paperwork. There is a problem? Contact them and get it solved. Communication is really a key to pulling off an interstate moving project hassle-free. Your service providers should be at your service at all times, and ready to help.

Get moving quotes

The best way to estimate your interstate moving costs is to ask a mover for one. You can get moving estimates in one of three ways:

  • Over the phone. You will need to tell your mover everything. Every single detail can change moving costs of your interstate move. But, if you are not looking for the most accurate estimate – over the phone quote is right for you!
  • Over the Internet. This kind of the moving estimate is a bit more accurate than over the phone ones, but it is still not the best way to estimate the price of your relocation. Its accuracy depends on many factors, but mostly on the calculator moving company offers on their website. The more detailed it is – the clearer picture of your interstate moving costs you will get.
  • At your house. This approach is the most reliable and accurate one. Moving specialists will come to your house and estimate your relocations costs. You might feel a bit uncomfortable with estimator going through your every drawer – but if you want an estimate that is guaranteed, this is your way to go!
 A truck on the road.
Rely on your mover for a help!

Interstate moving costs depend on many factors

Three main factors of your interstate moving costs are complexity, distance, and size of your relocation. Moving overseas costs more than moving to another state, and the more you have to move – the bigger the price will be. Also, if you are planning on transferring special items, such as pianos or pool tables – you should get ready to pay more.

Piano
Owning piano is great, but transferring one isn’t!

In the end, there is one more thing to consider – what services are you going to pay for? The more you need the moving company to provide you with – the more you will have to pay. If you are trying to save as much as possible on your relocation – maybe you should consider doing some tasks by yourself. You can try packing by yourself perhaps. Interstate moving costs depend on many factors, but your choices will decide the final number. So – be careful!

 

To book your interstate move, give Olympia a call at 800.222.4744 or fill out our form for a free moving estimate.

Questions To Ask A Moving Company

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Either during your in-home survey or over the phone, taking the time to thoroughly discuss your move with a potential moving company is the key to accurate pricing and a successful move. After all, the company will be coming into your home and handling everything you own, so it’s important to find a company you feel comfortable with, especially since there are unfortunately bad or rogue moving companies providing poor service.

When you’re discussing your move, be sure to ask questions about the company. How the company answers will tell you a lot about the quality of the moving company you are considering.

Olympia Moving & Storage compiled a list of questions to ask a moving company that can help you navigate through the mover selection process. By asking the following questions you can select a mover that will treat you and your home with respect.

Questions About Moving Costs

This is probably where customers have the most concern. Always make sure you get a written moving estimate for the costs of your move. Here are some questions that are good to clarify about the quote:

  • Are supplies such as mattress covers, extra boxes, tape, and moving blankets included in my quote? How much do they cost?
  • Is this a binding or non-binding moving estimate?
  • What insurance is included? How much does it cost for additional insurance?
  • If a deposit is required, is it refundable?
  • What forms of payment are accepted?  (A company that only accepts cash is a red flag!)
  • What are factors that could change the cost of the move? Would changing my move date affect the estiamted cost?

Questions About Moving Pick Up and Deliver Times

  • If the company charges an hourly rate ask, when does the chargeable time begin and end? Is travel time included in my estimate?
  • If the company does not charge by the hour, how long does the company anticipate being there each day?
  • Will my delivery be on a specific day or a delivery spread?
  • What happens if I’m not available to receive my delivery?

Questions to Ask About the Moving Service

About the Moving Company

  • Who will be my point of contact leading up to and during move day?
  • Are your movers trained and background checked? Are they on the company payroll or hired from a third-party or day labor?
  • Is your company licensed and an AMSA ProMover?
  • If needed, could your company provide a Certificate of Insurance?
  • Can you provide me with references from previous clients?
  • What makes you different from other moving companies? Why should I choose your company?

Asking these questions will give you the confidence you need to know you are choosing a great moving company to take care of your relocation!

If you are looking for an exceptional moving company for your upcoming move, contact Olympia Moving & Storage for a free moving estimate at 800-222-4744 or request an estimate online.  We are happy to answer any of your questions about the company and service!

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Helpful Moving Apps

Moving is tough and apps are convenient so it makes total sense that developers would create a moving app to help you through your relocation. We went ahead and reviewed 3 free moving apps that might help make your relocation easier…in addition to using Olympia Moving & Storage, of course.

anthropoligie platesortly folders

Sortly:

Aesthetically pleasing and easy to use, Sortly is an app that helps you do exactly what it sounds like.. sort your life! The moving app offers folders to narrow down your needs and work from specific lists in order to keep you more organized. Even better, within each folder you can create sub-folders for each room in your house, making it easier to sort and eventually find your belongings.

When adding items to your folders, Sortly gives the option of adding the quantity of items as well as value AND a photo.  So, if you’re worried about keeping track of the condition of your belongings in the case of damage or missing items, you’re all set!

Sortly also includes a great moving checklist with the option to mark tasks as “irrelevant” or “done,” so you can be sure to get all of your prep work done before moving day. Handy!

If you’re feeling fancy, another added bonus of using Sortly is the option to make your own QR labels. If you aren’t the tech-type and this doesn’t appeal to you you can always stick with our free printable labels and still stay organized.

A moving app like Sortly would definitely be helping when planning your move, think estimating the number of boxes you’ll need and putting together an inventory to get a quote, and would be a huge help when unpacking your belongings once you’ve moved into your new home. Learn more about Sortly here.

MoveAdvisor:

MoveAdvisor is different than Sortly, but it’s a great moving app option if you’re looking for moving companies in your area. It’s user friendly and is sort of like playing a Sims game with your belongings.

By clicking and dragging items, you can easily obtain a general idea of the weight of the items you’re looking to move, and everything you need to plan is in the palm of your hand. MoveAdvisor can be found here.

moveadvisor appmymove inventorymove details

My Move:

mymove menu

It seems like the developers of this moving app haven’t quite worked out the bugs. MyMove does ask for your origin zip and destination zip, but the app bases your approximate weight on the type of house you live in but doesn’t take your actual belongings into account, which means you’ll want to give a more detailed idea of your belongings when speaking with moving company.

Unfortunately, the “calculate moving cost” button brings you to a secondary page asking for your origin and destination again but doesn’t allow for destination state selection so this moving app isn’t the most useful if you’re looking for an accurate estimate for moving services.

The MyMove moving app would be most useful if you’re looking for moving checklists and  moving tips.

After checking out these three moving apps, we would suggest trying both Sortly and MoveAdvisor. Each moving app carries their own list of benefits and helpfulness but a mixture of the two could be even better. When planning a move it’s always better to speak to a professional about questions that are specific to your relocation. Moving apps are certainly helpful when organizing, but more information is better to get an accurate idea of your moving costs. Find more resources on MyMove here.

Ready to plan your move? We’re here to help.
Call us at 800.222.4744 today for your free estimate or request an estimate online.

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Non-Binding Moving Estimates vs. Binding Moving Estimates

EstimatesSo you’re almost ready to hire a moving company! You’ve done your research, 2-3 companies have met with you to perform a pre-move survey, and now these reputable movers have sent you itemized moving estimates. As you compare these companies’ move plans, proposed services, and the bottom lines, be sure you’re clear on which of the three kinds of moving estimates you are reviewing: a non-binding moving estimate, a binding moving estimate, or a not-to-exceed moving estimate.

So what are the differences between these three types of interstate moving estimates?

Non-Binding Moving Estimate

The non-binding moving estimate is the most common kind of interstate estimate. It means that the price that is presented to you is a projected cost for your move, provided to help you anticipate the cost, select a company, and plan a budget. It is not a contracted or guaranteed price, it is simply what the company thinks the final price of your move will be based on the inventory and services you discussed. If the actual services end up totaling less than your estimate, then you will pay less than the estimated price. If the actual services end up totaling a little more than your estimate, then you will pay a little more.

If you’re looking to pay the lowest price for your move, a non-binding estimate is your best choice, as your final bill can potentially be lower than estimated.

Most interstate move estimates are non-binding. The main components of the interstate estimate are the weight of your move and number of packing materials. The company will estimate what your total weight will be based on the inventory they created with you. After everything is loaded, the truck will be weighed to determine the actual weight. If the actual weight and materials used are less than estimated, then you will pay less. If the actual weight and materials used are more than estimated, then you will pay a little more.

A common question about non-binding estimates is whether the client can expect their moving estimate to be accurate. The answer is, absolutely! As long as what you end up moving and packing is what was agreed on the estimated inventory, the estimate should be very accurate. Estimate accuracy plays a large role in a client’s satisfaction, so every reputable moving company strives to provide the most accurate estimate possible, otherwise they risk losing their good reputation and future business!

Also keep in mind that an interstate moving company cannot require you to pay more than 110% more than a non-binding estimate prior to interstate delivery, and the client is not obligated to pay any charges exceeding 110% until 30 days after delivery. So it is certainly in the company’s interest to be accurate.

Binding Moving Estimate

A binding moving estimate may sometimes be quoted for an interstate move. A binding estimate means that you must pay the transportation price listed in the estimate, even if the final weight of your move is more or less than estimated.

The benefit of the binding moving estimate is that the transportation price is guaranteed, so you know exactly what your bill will be after the move. However, binding estimates may result in the client paying a little more for that guarantee. You may notice that the majority of binding estimates have a higher bottom line than non-binding estimates.

Keep in mind that for most binding estimates only the transportation part of the estimate is binding (the bulk of the estimate, which is based on the shipment’s weight). For example, if your binding estimate was based on self pack, the client packing everything, but then on move day you choose to have the moving company pack everything, then the packing was an additional service you requested and will be added on top of the binding transportation cost on the final bill.

Local Moving Estimate

Almost every local move estimate is a non-binding estimate, it is very rare for a local move estimate to be binding or not-to-exceed. The main components of local estimates are an hourly rate for the labor and truck plus the packing materials used. Therefore, for a non-binding estimate, you will pay less if the actual move requires less time and materials than estimated, and conversely, you will pay a little more if the actual move requires more time and materials than estimated.

Are you ready to get your interstate moving estimate? Call Olympia Moving & Storage at 800.222.4744 or fill out the estimate request form. Olympia moved families to every state in the USA last year!

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Why is a Moving Company In-Home Survey Important?

After you’ve done your research and selected a few moving companies you want to pursue, the next step is to call the company to schedule a moving company in-home survey appointment. We’ll review what an in-home survey appointment is, and why it’s important to have one before you select a moving company.

What should I expect during the in-home survey?

During the in-home survey, a representative from the moving company will visit your home. Together you will do a walk through of the property so the representative can take an inventory of what needs to be moved. The inventory is the key to estimating your moving costs, click here to learn more about inventories.

After the survey, you and the representative will discuss which services are required, the move plan, pricing, and any of your questions. The in-home survey usually takes about 25-45 minutes depending on the size of your property and how many questions you have.

What is the purpose of an in-home survey?

Every move is unique, but the factors of every move are the same: what needs to be moved, what are the specifications of the locations of the move, and what do you need from your mover. These are the basics that the moving company needs to plan the move and provide you with an estimated price. Without this information, the company has no idea how many crew members and trucks to send, what equipment to bring, how long the move will take, and which services you need. The best and most accurate way to obtain this information is to meet with you in your home.

How does an in-home survey benefit me?

Most importantly, an in-home survey is the best way to get the most accurate estimate of costs, bar none. The in-home survey is also your opportunity to interview and get to know the moving company. It’s also the perfect time to ask the moving company all your questions and better understand the moving process. Many of our clients say that the in-home survey experience is the reason they choose Olympia!

What should I be evaluating during the in-home survey?

Throughout the survey, ask yourself:

  • Did the representative arrive on time?
  • Is the representative dressed professionally?
  • Do you feel comfortable and trust the company’s representative?
  • Is the presented move plan comprehensive and specific to your move?
  • Is the representative able to confidently and expertly answer your questions?

When is it okay to do a phone survey?

The process for a phone survey is exactly like an in-home survey, except you will list the furniture room by room over the phone with the guidance of the representative. If you have a smaller move, such as a two bedroom apartment or less, the moving company can do a very accurate survey over the phone instead of in your home. However, if you request to do an in-home survey instead, we are happy to oblige.

If your home is larger than a two bedroom apartment, it is much more difficult to create an accurate inventory over the phone, so the in-home survey is highly recommended.

What if the moving company will not do a survey?

There are some red flags to watch for when asking for a survey. Do not hire a moving company if:

  • The company quotes you a price without a taking a detailed inventory or going through the move details with you. This means they don’t have enough information to quote you a price, therefore, they probably are not quoting you an accurate price.
  • The company wants to do a phone survey for single family home or large move. This means they do not want to take the time that is necessary to gather the information needed for an accurate quote.
  • The company refuses your request for a representative to meet with you for an in-home survey. This means they do not have a representative available to meet with you who would be a good reflection on the company.

How should I prepare for the in-home survey?

For the most part, the representative will guide you through the survey process. However, the more clarity you have on what the move entails, the more productive the survey will be. Make sure you know:

  • Which pieces are being moved
  • What you are selling or donating before the move
  • Whether you’re moving anything yourself
  • What the movers are packing vs. what your family is packing
  • Have a short list of questions for your mover to help you make a decision

When should I schedule the in-home survey?

As soon as you know what you want to move and when you’re moving, you’re ready to schedule your in-home survey. This is usually right after you sell or purchase your home, and preferably about 3-4 weeks before your preferred move date.

Looking for more information on choosing a mover? Be sure to check out:
Choosing a Better Business Bureau Moving Company
What is a Cube Sheet?
Tips for Cleaning Out Belongings Before a Move

Are you ready for your in-home estimate?
Request an estimate with Olympia Moving & Storage

Smart Packing with Adam of Benezra Boxes

Benezra BoxesWhen it comes to moving, Adam Benezra, entrepreneur and owner of Benezra Boxes, is an expert. He was a mover for Gentle Giant for four years, but even after a back injury, Adam wasn’t ready to leave the moving industry.  Instead, he started his own business.

Says Adam “At the time, recycling was really gaining steam and using used moving boxes wasn’t anything new.  I just decided to market it more aggressively and also add my moving knowledge to help give customers free advice.”

Benezra Boxes was born.  Fifteen years later Adam still maintains his business in Winchester, MA.   Benezra Boxes focuses on picking up and selling used moving boxes.  Adam also leverages his industry expertise to offer relocation management services.  Customers who utilize Adam’s service can sit back and let Adam plan their move and procure estimates, as well as managing their packing.

When our clients ask us how to get obtain or get rid of used boxes we know to send them to Adam. It’s great to see someone conquer this needed niche in the moving industry.

How did you come up with the idea of Benezra Boxes?

“When I was a kid, I was raised by my aunt and uncle and my aunt started the recycling program in Melrose. And my uncle was always encouraging me to start my own business, they were very supportive.”

Continue reading “Smart Packing with Adam of Benezra Boxes”

What is a Moving Shuttle?

Smaller Shuttle Truck

There’s usually a few components to interstate moves that are industry standards, but unfamiliar to moving newbies.  One such component is a moving shuttle.  Below are some of our frequently asked questions and answers around shuttles to help our customers understand why they’re a necessary element to many interstate moves.

What is a shuttle?

A shuttle service allows us to serve customers who are moving into or out of homes that are difficult to access with a tractor trailer truck.  The shuttle is a smaller truck that the customer’s goods are loaded onto at their home.  A shuttle truck allows the driver and crew to bring the vehicle close to the residence and load or unload your possessions as safely and efficiently as possible.  A shuttle is sometimes also called an auxiliary service.

How does it work?

Before the pick up or delivery occurs, the moving consultant or driver will scope out the residence to determine if a shuttle is needed.  If it is determined that the tractor trailer cannot access the home, the driver will rent a smaller truck.  He will leave his tractor trailer in a safe location (usually at a fellow Wheaton agent’s secure warehouse), and bring the small truck to the residence to expertly move the household goods out.  The driver then drives the loaded shuttle truck back to his tractor trailer, and offloads everything onto the tractor trailer truck.  Now that the customer’s items are safely loaded onto his truck, the driver can hit the road and make his way to the customer’s destination.  The process is the same but reverse if the shuttle occurs at the destination address.

What are situations in which a shuttle would be used? 

Movers need to use shuttles in any situation where the tractor trailer cannot access the home.  Most shuttles are needed for urban residences due to the narrow streets, lack of parking, and limited space to maneuver in cities.  Some neighborhoods and apartment complexes do not allow tractor trailers on the premises.  However, sometimes shuttles are also needed in even the most rural areas due to unpaved driveways with wet or loose ground, access that is too steep or includes a tight bend, or clearance problems due to tree branches or power lines.

Why are there extra costs associated with shuttles?  If I don’t use it, do I get charged?

Yes, using a shuttle adds additional costs to the price of the move, the cost is based on a per hundred rate and dependent on the size (weight) of your move.  Shuttles cost money because it’s almost like adding a local move on top of your interstate move, renting the truck and the additional time and labor to transfer everything from the small truck to the tractor trailer can all be costly.  For this reason, drivers like to avoid using shuttles unless they are absolutely necessary, shuttles are not profitable for drivers, and the extra time slows down their trip.  It is ultimately up to a driver whether or not a shuttle will be used.  Even if your moving consultant includes a shuttle charge on your estimate, you will only be charged if the shuttle actually occurs.

Why doesn’t the driver use a smaller truck for the move instead?

In order to make interstate moving cost effective for both customers and moving companies, an interstate driver and moving truck almost always has multiple customers’ shipments on his truck at the same time.  If the driver used a smaller truck, he could only bring one customer’s shipment from Massachusetts to Florida.  With a large tractor trailer, he can also services several other customers along that route, making moving much more inexpensive for everyone.

If  you have any other questions about shuttles, reach out to your moving coordinator.

Now that you have a better understanding of shuttles, request your free estimate for your interstate move.

Other great tips for Interstate Moving

Moving Tips in our Resource Center

When is the Delivery Date For My Interstate Move?

Moving Appliances & Special Furniture

How to Deduct Moving Expenses From Your Taxes

There are a lot of expenses inherent to the relocation process. These expenses are, however, tax deductible in certain scenarios.  You can deduct moving expenses if you are moving for the following reasons:

  • You are a retiree moving from another country
  • You are a member of the army relocating due to military adjustment
  • You are moving in order to start a new job
    • AND you work full time for at least 39 weeks during the first 12 months after your move
    • AND the distance between your new home and old home is at least 50 miles more than the distance between your old house and old job (i.e. if you were to commute from your old house to your new job, it would be 50 miles further than your old commute).

You can claim moving expenses on your taxes if the expenses exceed moving reimbursements from your company.

Here are examples of moving expenses that you can deduct from your taxes:

Talk to a tax consultant about the specifics of deducting these expenses. The forms for deducting these expenses are:

Packing Preparation Essentials

Proper preparation is essential to a successful move and one of the biggest factors in determining final cost.  This is especially true if you are doing your own packing.  The following tips will help you to be fully prepared on moving day and, by extension, to keep your costs down.

Packing:  Basic moving boxes and supplies are key. The basic rule of thumb is that if it can fit inside a box, it should be in a box.  Loose items are difficult to load into a truck and create unnecessary delays.  If possible, use standard moving boxes as opposed to smaller boxes that may not be structurally sound.

Labeling:  All boxes should be labeled with your name, the room that the items came out of, and a word or two about the contents.  Boxes should be labeled on two adjacent sides plus the top.  This is especially helpful during the delivery process; as it allows you to direct the movers and make sure that boxes are placed in the appropriate place at your new residence.  The more detailed you are with your labeling; the easier it will be for you to locate items during the unpacking process.

preparing to pack to move

Organization:  As boxes are packed they should be stacked against the perimeter of the room.  Do not leave boxes in the middle of the floor; as this is hazardous to the movers.  Ideally you want to organize your space so that the movers have easy access to everything within a given room.  Trucks are loaded in tiers and it adds time if the movers have to re-organize in order to get access to specific pieces.

If you are planning on moving some of the items yourself in a car, focus on items that are not boxed; such as lamp shades.  The movers are very efficient in moving furniture and boxes, but loose items have the potential to cause delays.

For more preparation tips see the Olympia Moving moving resource page with downloadable PDF files to help you with your next move. Contact Olympia Moving or call 800.222.4744 for an moving estimate.