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.

Moving? Check Out These Historic Homes Around Philadelphia, PA

There are thousands of historic homes in Philadelphia. It is one of the greatest cities in American history, where many of this nation’s greatest stories and figures once lived. Subsequently, history comes alive in its homes.

Elfreth’s Alley

Courtesy of BenFranske

Elfreth’s Alley is one of the oldest residential streets in Philadelphia. Constructed in 1706, this row of townhouses is a beautiful example of pre and post-Revolution architecture. The area remains a popular tourist destination in the heart of the city. In 1966, NPS designated the entire area a National Historic Landmark.

 

Strawberry Mansion

Strawberry Mansion, built in 1789 by judge and abolitionist William Lewis, is the largest of the Fairmount Park historic homes. Currently, it functions as a museum after being converted from a residence in the 1930s. The home is open for tours and frequently functions as a private rental space for events.

Edgar Allen Poe National Historic Site

The Edgar Allen Poe National Historic Site is preserved to reflect the writing environment  of author Edgar Allen Poe. It is one of several homes in Philadelphia that Poe lived in during his time in the city. Notably, it is the only of his former homes that still stands. The home is open on weekends for visitors, but remains closed otherwise.

Laurel Hill Mansion

Laurel Hill Mansion, also known as Randolph House, is another historic Fairmount Park home. It sits on the Schuylkill River, on a crest above the water. The central part of the house was constructed in 1767, with the northern addition being added almost a century later. At the moment, the home hosts concerts and private tours.

Pennsbury Manor

Courtesy of Shuvaev, Wikimedia

Pennsbury Manor maintains the expansive ambition of it’s former owner, William Penn. Penn was the founder of the Colony of Pennsylvania and his former home remains a thriving museum. History fans can come for tours of the 43-acre grounds and a monthly historical book club. Additionally, curious young minds can attend summer history camps. The camp curriculum centers around learning the skills like gardening and needlework. For adults, the annual Brews & Bites Festival brings together craft beer, cider, wine, and local flavors for a relaxing afternoon on the Delaware River.

 

Bartram’s Garden

Courtesy of Jtfry at English Wikipedia

North America’s oldest botanical garden rounds out our list. Unusually, the house on the premises is not the main attraction, the estate that Bartram’s Garden sits on remains one of the most beautiful in Pennsylvania. The grounds are home to outdoor classes, a horticultural society, weddings, and many other events. It’s original owner, John Bartram, began the garden’s botanical legacy in 1728 and passed it down through his family tree.

Owning Your Own

If you love history or the beauty of historic architecture, why not live in a historic home yourself? Although these examples are not residential homes, you can find hundreds of historic homes for sale in the Philadelphia area. For an updated list of available homes in Philadelphia, browse Redfin’s listings for vintage homes. Or, browse Zillow’s area-zoned collection of historic listings.

Moving Into History

If you want to move into a historic home, it’s crucial to understand the challenges and responsibilities of ownership. Particularly, understanding the challenge of protecting a history home from damage during a move. For more information, check out our blog post about Moving Into a Historic Home.

Olympia has the experience to move you into your own historic home. We can make your transition from a modern house into a piece of the past easy and seamless.

If you are planning on moving into a historic home, contact Olympia Moving and Storage today at 800-222-4744 or fill out our free estimate form.

Historic Homes Around Washington D.C

As our nation’s capitol, Washington D.C. has no shortage of historic homes. Much of America’s history ties directly to structures in this extraordinary city. From civil rights activists, to politicians, to brewmasters, a wide variety of stories converged in Washington, D.C after the founding of this country. If you’re considering moving to Washington D.C., perhaps you might consider owning your own historical residence. Here are a few of our favorites for inspiration:

Old Stone House

The aptly named Old Stone House is the oldest structure on its original foundation in Washington D.C. Constructed in 1766, Old Stone House was once an inn, then a clockmaker’s shop. Strangely, the house became a used car dealership until it was purchased by the National Park Service in the 1950’s.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tudor Place

Courtesy of Ron Cogswell

Once the home of Martha Washington’s granddaughter, Tudor Place hosted an array of wealthy Washington elite throughout the 1800’s. Unfortunately, it was originally purchased with profits from selling slaves. That fact is recognized by its historic preservers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mary McLeod Bethune Council House

Courtesy of IIP Photo Archive

Mary McLeod Bethune was an African American stateswoman, civil rights activist, and philanthropist who lived through the late 1800’s and into mid 1900’s. Her residence also hosted the National Council of Negro Women until 1949. It continued to serve as a headquarters for the NCNW after Bethune’s death. Today, it is open to the public for tours and educational programs. Its two-story carriage house holds the National Archives for Black Women’s History.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Clara Barton House

Courtesy of NPS

Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, lived in this home from 1897-1912. The American Red Cross staff office was briefly stationed here. A replica of the office is available for viewing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Heurich House

Courtesy of Wikimedia

Constructed between 1892-1894, this building was once the home of German brewer Christian Heurich. Interestingly, Heurich’s self-named brewing company was the longest-running brewery in Washington, D.C. After Heurich’s death, his widow donated the home to the Historical Society of Washington, who used it as a headquarters until 2003. The Society preserved the entirety of the home’s original interior.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dumbarton Oaks

https://www.flickr.com/photos/ncindc/7042816909
Courtesy of NCinDC

Dumbarton Oaks is home to the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection. The original owner, William Hammond Dorsey, built the first part of the structure in 1801. A century later, the Bliss family acquired the property and expanded it to its current size. Afterward, the family founded the research institute. Currently, Dumbarton Oaks sponsors fellowships and scholarships in Byzantine, Garden and Landscape, and Pre-Columbian studies.

 

 

 

Owning Your Own

If you love the beautiful historic homes of Washington DC, why not live in one yourself? Though these examples are open to the public, you can find hundreds of historic homes in the Washington, D.C area, just waiting for a new owner. For an updated list of available homes in Washington, D.C, browse Redfin’s listings for homes built before 1900. Or, read Curbed‘s curated selection of D.C homes.

Moving Into History

If you do decide to move into a historic home, make sure that you understand the challenges and responsibilities of ownership. For more information, check out our blog post about Moving Into a Historic Home.

Olympia has the experience to move you into your own historic home. We can make your transition from a modern house into a piece of the past easy and seamless.

If you are planning on moving into a historic home, contact Olympia Moving and Storage today at 800-222-4744 or fill out our free estimate form.

4 Tips For Moving Into a Historic Home

Old homes are filled with character and rich histories. For many, old homes are just as much a part of their family history as a part of the story of their location. There are many wonderful benefits to moving into a historic home, but there are also unique challenges.

Olympia has moved many historic homes in Boston, Washington DC, and Philadelphia – where there are an abundance of antique properties. Olympia Moving & Storage knows how to move in or out of a historic home quickly and efficiently, and use the best practices for you and your new home.

These are Olympia’s tips for moving into your own piece of history.

Your Furniture Might Not Fit

An extra-deep sofa or a king-sized bed may not fit through the door of a historic home. Tight spaces like doors, hallways, and unusual corner rooms can spell disaster for the unprepared. Measure the doorways and halls of your destination in advance, as well as the dimensions of your furniture.

If you find that your furniture doesn’t fit, a professional moving crew can offer solutions. One option is to disassemble the furniture piece so it can move through the tight space without damage. Then, the team can reassemble the piece in its new location.

Another option is to hoist or crane large items through a window. The team can pad and protect both the furniture and the window frame, then either hoist up the piece using rope and a ladder. If window is three or more stories high, the movers can utilize a crane to lift the piece.

 

Prep For Low Energy Efficiency

Moving into a historic home means giving up modern energy efficiency–at least for a little while. 1800’s architects did not design homes with energy costs in mind. Because of this, energy-saving appliances and fixtures are good options to reduce unavoidable energy waste. Understand what sort of wiring and plumbing you are dealing with prior to moving in so you can decide whether an upgrade is in order.

 

 

 

 

 

Antique Protecting

Protecting original furniture and fixtures is key during your move. Packing or protective padding and coverings are required for large, delicate objects like pianos, grandfather clocks, and glass tables. Some items may even need custom crates or special servicing. Again, a professional moving crew is the best defense against undue damage to antiques. For more on protecting furniture, see our blog post Protecting Furniture During a Move.

 

 

 

 

Protecting Your Home

The features of a historic house are works of art. Doors, original door frames, floors, windows, stained glass must also be protected from damage during a move. For example, intricate wood carving on walls can be nicked by other pieces of furniture moving past them. A professional crew can also take steps to protect against these kinds of damage as well. For more information, see our blog post Materials Movers Use to Protect Furniture & Your Home.

 

 

 

 

 

Know Your Home

Understand the history of your home. There are many barriers to making renovations and restorations to a historic home. Check the National Register of Historic Places for more information about general ownership. Individual states also have their own preservation laws. Fully understanding the responsibility of owning an historic home requires some research, so don’t wait to get started.

If you are planning on moving into a historic home, contact Olympia Moving and Storage today at 800-222-4744 or fill out our free estimate form.

Countdown Checklist For Your Pre-Move Garage Sale

When it’s time to move to a new home, that could also mean its time to slim down on what you have in your home before the relocation.  A garage sale is the perfect way to do it & make some money while you’re at it! Here is a countdown checklist on how to execute the perfect garage sale!

One Month Before Garage Sale:

  • Get A Date in Mind. Once you have a target date, it will help you remain organized and work towards your goals for the big day.
  • Trash the Trash! As you begin to go through the things you no longer want, separate in to three piles. “Keep, Throw, Sell”
  • Look in to City Requirements & Regulations. Make sure your town or city does not have any specific restrictions that prohibit posting signs around town.
  • Do a some research. Do a little basic research, pricing on antique items and one of a kind pieces. The things you have could have more value than you expect them to!
  • Ask neighbors and friends for grocery bags. Also start to collect folding tables to display the items on.

Two Weeks Before the Garage Sale:

  • Go through the items in your “keep” pile, make sure you still want to keep them in your possession, if not move them over to the sell.
  • Begin to clean and organize your “sell” items – The better condition they are in, the more money they will be worth!
  • Start thinking about pricing – Buy pricing materials & stickers and start a tentative pricing list for the items.

One Week Before the Garage Sale:

  • Begin to distribute ads around town. Post on local town pages & Facebook. Let your friends and family know.
  • Finalize your pricing. Take the list you made a few weeks prior and begin to label all of your items.
  • Go to the bank. Make sure you have plenty of change, all size bills and coins should be in  your possession for the day of the sale.
  • Watch the weather. If rain looks like it could be a factor maybe make alternative plans
  • Have all your sales materials in order. Bags, change, newspaper wrapping, calculator & pens.

One Day Before the Garage Sale:

  • Make sure you have enough signs around town, the day before is the most important day for advertising!
  • Mark off things around the site of the sale as “Not for Sale” – you don’t want anyone trying to buy you potted plants!
  • Check the weather, again – make sure you are good to go for the next day!

The Day of the Garage Sale!

  • Wake up well before the start time of the sale to get everything arranged outside, put the small valuable things close to you so you can keep any eye on them.
  • Organize your items by category so it is easy for customers to browse your sale
  • Lock your home. When you’re busy selling you don’t want to have to worry about your home. Safety precaution!

The idea of a garage sale can be extremely overwhelming. When you break it down by week it can make the day of worry free! Once you know what you would like to move to your new home. We promise to provide you with exceptional service.

For more yard and garage tips, be sure to check out our other blog: Creating the Most Successful Yard Sale Possible

Done decluttering and ready to start moving? Request a free moving estimate online or give Olympia Moving & Storage a call at 800-222-4744

Epic Moving Fails Are Why You Should Hire a Boston Moving Company

“DIY” projects are all the rage these days. There are a number of things you can do yourself, and might even do them better, but….. moving is not one of those things. We’ve compiled some major moving fails for your entertainment between packing and we can assure you that if you move with Olympia Moving & Storage, you can avoid the situations illustrated below!

Yes… we do suggest you take your valuable electronics with you, but by that we mean smart phones and tablets, not your 40 inch flat screen! Let us take care of that!

Innovation at it’s finest we will say. We’re curious how he tied the two carts together and then attached them to the scooter. How is he pulling all that weight? Impressive for sure. Effective, not so much. (:

Home service to a whole new level- but not a level anyone wants to reach!! We promise to park as close as we can, OUTSIDE of your home.

Something above does not belong. Can you guess what? Pups don’t belong in the couch! Take the fluffy ones with you when you go, and we’ll take the couch.

 All hands and feet inside the car at all times…. AND BOXES! When you’re moving, safety is at the top of our list and nothing about having boxes hanging out of your car while driving is safe!

I think these “DIY” movers are going to need more than a gas fill up!

You know those situations that just are a disaster waiting to happen? This is one for sure. Dresser vs. two men. We’re betting on the dresser.

Excuse me sir….. This is Olympia, is your refrigerator running?

We hope we provided you with a good laugh and consider leaving it to us to take care of all your relocation needs. Call us today at 800-222-4744 to request an estimate, or request one online.

Olympia does not own any of the photos in this post.

8 ways to use empty cardboard boxes after your move (that kids will love!)

After you are moved into your new home and unpacked, you will to find yourself with an abundance of cardboard boxes! Before you break them down and leave them out for recycling, here are some fun ways to keep the kids happy when you continue to unpack (and a few for you too).

1. Mini house competition

Channel the inner creativity, set out two boxes with some materials such as markers, clip ons, and rubber bands – the most creative designer wins! For more decorating tips, check out our blog on building a box fort!


2. Design your own treasure chest

Decorate the outside and let the kids put their own personal treasures inside.

3. Halloween costumes

Everybody knows most creative wins the best costume competition. Robots and gumball machines, oh my!

4. Puppet Stage

Decorate boxes to use as a back drop, add a blanket or curtains, and put on a show!

5. Puzzle making

Paint a nice picture on the box then cut the pieces up for the kids to put together

6. Attic organizational system

Once everything is put away use the boxes, labeled, as an alternative storage system in the attic, basement, garage, or closets. If you start the organization right away it will avoid problems down the line when you can’t find the Christmas table cloth.


7. Homemade Stationary

Cut up cardboard boxes to make your own post cards. Use ink stamps to decorate and write a message. No envelope needed!


8. A Natural Embellishment

Dress up a cardboard box with a design of your choice, line it with a plastic bag, poke several draining holes, and you have a new home for a small plant!

Still have leftover boxes? Check out our blog on recycling or repurposing boxes.

Conserving Energy in Your New Home This Summer

Summer months see a rise in electric and cooling costs. Olympia Moving has some tips on how to set up your new home to keep costs down after your big move.


Moving is a process. You’re uprooting your life from one place to another and unpacking takes up time. Something that may be pushed to the back of your mind is your new energy bill. We have some tips on how you can save money this summer while you enjoy your new home!

Unplug things you aren’t using. Are you keeping your laptop or phone chargers plugged in when you’re not home? What about your toaster or coffee maker? All of these are contributors to your electric bill. Unplug electronics when you are done using them, and use a power strip to be able to efficiently unplug whatever is not in use. Unplugging your computer alone could save you around $75 per year.

Placement is key. Lights and televisions radiate a certain amount of heat, which can affect the reading on your thermostat or air conditioner. Your air conditioner will run longer and take longer for your home to heat up to your desired temperature. Place these heat-emitting electronics away from thermostats and anything gauging a temperature reading to evenly distribute heat and cooling.

 

Switch out your light bulbs. Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLS) use less energy than incandescent bulbs and are made to last up to twelve times longer than regular bulbs. The upfront cost will pay itself off quickly when you take into consideration the length of time between replacement.
You should also ask yourself about the temperature you need to feel comfortable in your home. Running your air conditioner at a higher temperature saves up to 18% on electricity costs over the summer. Higher settings require less power to run and having a ceiling or floor fan to circulate air will help keep your home cool. Just remember to turn both off when you leave to save money; fans cool people more than they cool rooms.

 

Consider adding solar panels. If you just moved into your dream home for the long haul, consider going the extra step to save on your energy bills and help the planet.  Get a consultation for adding solar panels to your home. Solar Power Authority and this guide from Forbes are good resources for getting started.

 

Still looking for your new home? Request a moving estimate from Olympia Moving & Storage online or give us a call at 800-222-4744

9 Week Move Checklist for a Smooth Relocation

Move day can be crazy. The weeks moving up to move day can be hectic and stressful. Making a moving checklist and checking it twice is always a good idea, but how do know if you have what you need on your list? In order to make your move as smooth as possible, we made a timeline moving checklist leading up to the big day.

 

8 to 9 weeks to move-in day:

  • Begin to look at your home, start sorting, and get rid of anything you don’t need anymore. If you know that the place you’re moving to is smaller than your current home, be sure to plan an aggressive declutter.
  • Sketch out a general floor plan of your new home including furniture placement so you know if there’s any furniture you can’t bring with you.
  • Research your packing options! Do I have the time to pack myself? Do I need help from the movers? How much are materials?

7 weeks to move-in day:

  • Purchase moving supplies 
  • Call a dumpster service, it’s time to cull the forgotten items in the attic and basement.
  • Plan a yard sale, sell things you don’t want to take with you, and make some extra cash. Check out our blog on planning a successful yard sale.
  • Research moving companies and schedule in-home or phone surveys in order to obtain pricing.
  • Call Olympia Moving & Storage to book your move! Booking a moving company 5 to 6 weeks in advance will allow you to have your choice of moving time and day.

4 weeks to move-in day:

  • Begin packing. The earlier you start the better. Add packing services to your move to have us check off this item for you!
  • If you are renting your current home make sure you notify your landlord, neighbors, and whoever else may need to know.
  • Make sure you have a primary care physician and schools set up for your kids and request a transfer of your records.

3 weeks to move-in day:

  • Now is the time to contact your insurance company, car, and any other billing agencies that need to know that you are changing your address. If you move with Olympia you can use our free address change tool to help with this.
  • Schedule transfer or set up of utilities for your new home, including electricity, gas, water, internet, TV, and phone.
  • If you are traveling far to your new home make sure your car is in good shape or your flights or hotels are booked.
  • If you’re moving in or out of an apartment building, reserve the elevator for your move and check if the building requires a Certificate of Insurance from the moving company.
  • Confirm whether your current or new home need a parking permit for the move. If so, ask your moving company to order one.
  • Look at the food and perishables you have in your kitchen. Start to eat what is open, throw away what you can, and plan what you will need to buy for the last few weeks in your home.

2 weeks to move-in day:

  • If you are packing your home yourself, step on the gas. It’s close to go time and the last week to moving day is hectic.
  • Keep track of electronics and valuables. Don’t lose sight of them in the rush of packing.
  • Feel free to call Olympia with any questions you may have, we’re here to help! Be sure to let us know if the scope of your move changed, or if you think you need to add packing services.

1 week to move-in day:

  • We will be calling you to confirm your moving day and time.
  • Pack your overnight bag for your first night in your new home.
  • Towards the end of the week empty the refrigerator and freezer. The earlier you do this the easier and cleaner it will be to move.
  • Disconnect your appliances, or schedule a service to do so.
  • Confirm again that you have electronics and documents handy, we cannot stress enough that you don’t want to lose your essentials.

Moving day!!!

  • Communicate with your movers. They are there to help you! Make it clear to them what is fragile.  Since everything is clearly marked the delivery will be a breeze!
  • Walkthrough your home make sure everything is out.
  • Leave behind cleaning products for the post-move clean, or schedule a maid service, many have move-out cleaning specials.
  • Lock up
  • You are on your way! Congratulations!

Moving checklist complete!

Enjoy your new home!

Ready to get started on a major item on your moving checklist?  Call us for a free moving estimate at 800-222-4744 or request an estimate online.

Tips For Labeling Moving Boxes

During a move, the easiest way to keep track of your things is by labeling moving boxes. Olympia Moving & Storage has some tips on the most efficient ways to label.

Moving can be an exciting time. You’ve found a new home, a place to make new memories. Then comes the draining part: packing and labeling all of your boxes. Whether you purchased boxes online or from a moving company, your boxes will need some type of labeling system for transport between residences. How are you going to tell which box has your first night supplies and which box has your high school yearbooks? We have some tips for labeling your boxes so you can find your belongings easily during the move process.

To begin, you will need a pack of at least five permanent markers, preferably in different colors; clear and colored tape; and labels. The markers should be permanent and waterproof, if you can find them. Weather is unpredictable, and you don’t want your label to become illegible due to rain or normal wear and tear.  

You will want labels on at least two adjacent sides of the box, and one on top. It’s going to be easier to unpack or store boxes if you can see what is in it from at least one angle.

Use the same color for all boxes going to the same room, such as red for kitchen or brown for living room. Write the main things on each label, such as books, power cords or place settings. If you have colored tape to correspond with the markers, use the tape as an additional way to easily identify the box’s room by taping the corners of your box. Use clear tape over the labels to add another means of security to the marker. The clear tape will prevent water from getting on the label and block rips and tears. A great resource is to download Olympia’s free printable moving box labels which are color-coded and labeled by room and include an area to write a short inventory.

If you are packing a box of fragile items, make sure it is labeled “FRAGILE” on each side in marker or a fragile label sticker, with THIS END UP written near the top of the box.

You should also make sure to pack and label a First Night box filled with the essentials you will need right away.  Read our blog post for a checklist of items to put in this box.

Another great tip is to use a numbering system to easily find items and identify that all your boxes have been delivered safely.  Write a large number on your boxes or packing labels, then create a chart with each box number, the room it belongs in, and a brief description of its contents.  

Finally, make delivery smoother for your movers by taping a label next to bedroom doors and other rooms that might be easily confused.  You may know which bedroom is little Sally’s and which room is the library vs. the family room, but the movers won’t. Use the same colored marker, tape, or label on the sign as on the box to make it easily identifiable as well.

If you need help packing and labeling your belongings, Olympia Moving & Storage offers several packing plans from full or partial home to fragile items. You may reach Olympia at 800-222-4744 or request an estimate online.