Tag: residential moves

How To Pack For A Move – The Basics

Posted on by jstfort

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.

Cleaning A House Checklist

Posted on by jstfort

Pre- and Post-Move Cleaning Checklist

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

Moving out cleaning tips

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

Move Out Cleaning Checklist

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

Kitchen

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

Bathroomscleaning a bathroom before a move

Tiles

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

Tub and shower

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

Sinks

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

Countertops and vanities

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

Toilet

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

Clean the bathroom floor well.

Bedrooms and living room

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

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

Outside area

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

cleaning floor before you move in

Moving in cleaning checklist

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

Deep clean the house before your items are delivered

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

cleaning the kitchen counter top after a moveKitchen

Cabinets, drawers, and counters

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

Fridge and stovetop

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

Dishwasher

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

Bathroom

Toilets

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

General

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

Take pictures

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

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

Tips For Moving A Hot Tub

Posted on by jstfort

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.

Guide For Moving Paintings & Art

Posted on by jstfort

How To Move Art And Paintings

Art is an investment. A single painting can easily cost thousands of dollars – and could even have a value defined as something else than the monetary worth of the piece. The value of art or a painting can be defined by several factors, including ritualistic and cultural factors, as well as sentimental value.

When you decide to move, the transportation of any art and paintings in your house should be handled with care. Without the right approach, you might end up disappointed when you open up these pieces at your new house, only to find that your valued possessions have been damaged. We take a look at the most effective methods to move art and paintings to a new house, without risking damage.

Woman looking at a painting she is going to moveMoving Your Art And Paintings

Moving seems like a relatively simple process. You simply pack all of your possessions into boxes, load them up in the moving truck, and they are taken to your new home. Unfortunately, with some items, you do need to take a few extra steps – this is especially important with the items you own that have a lot of value to them. This includes both monetary and sentimental value.

Wrapping The Art

The process should start with packing. First, consider if the painting has a glass cover at its front. If it does, then you can skip ahead to wrapping it with paper or bubble wrap. If not, however, you need to get some plastic wrap first. Cover the entire painting with this wrap as it will help to prevent damage to the painting itself.a couple taking down a painting they are going to wrap and move

You need to get paper or bubble wrap, as well as a lot of cardboard. Start by wrapping your paintings in paper pads – add multiple layers to increase the protection. Each of your paintings or art pieces need to be enclosed with paper or bubble wrap, as well as cardboard. Make sure to add additional cardboard at the corners of the product, should it be a painting.

For paintings and are framed in glass, put a thick cardboard cover over the glass before wrapping it with the paper or bubble wrap. This will act as a protective layer to the glass to sure that your item is transported safely.

When you place the painting or art in a box, be sure to add multiple paper or bubble wrap layers at the bottom of the box. In addition to covering the bottom region of the box, make sure to add some paper or bubble wrap to the sides as well. You want to maximize the protection of the product.

It is also a good idea to consider adding some scrunched-up paper to the bottom of the box, as well as the sides as you place the paper in the box.

Taking Precaution

Be sure to make appropriate marks on the paintings. Use a permanent marker to add an “X” to the wrapping of paintings where glass is present. This will help you see which of the paintings are at risk of not only becoming damaged but also a glass panel breaking.

The same procedure should ideally be followed for sculptures and other art. Thoroughly cover the entire item in cling wrap. Follow this by many layers of bubble wrap. The more wrapping you add, the better the protection. Make sure to mark the boxes of sculptures and other art, particularly in cases where the sculpture is fragile.

Large and small boxes

Most likely you will be boxing your framed art. You need to box your items in a way that will maximize the protection of your art pieces. After wrapping your framed art you will want to put it in a smaller box. The smaller box will have rolled tissue paper in it at the bottom and the top. This will act as a bumper while for the art piece and provides extra cushioning while in the box. You will then put the small box in the larger box with rolled cushioning inside the larger box to provide the same protection as you did with the smaller box. Check out our video on packing with small and large boxes.

 

 

Valuables and Fragiles

Protecting your extremely valuable and fragile art is a priority when moving. These pieces require extra attention. Depending on the art piece, putting the item in a traditional box may not be the best move. Extremely valuable and fragile items can be crated to ensure no possible damage. There are many ways to crate valuable pieces of art. Whether its foam covering, layered crate walls, or heated shrink wrap, all of these are customized to your specific art piece. This customized protection will ensure that these very important pieces arrive at the destination safely.

 

Crating Items Sculptures

If you do find that your sculptures are not appropriate for wrapping and fitting in a box, then you should consider crating them. This can be an effective method for keeping the sculpture in pristine condition while it is being transported. Many sculptures can have on angles and points that won’t fit into a traditional box. On top of this, some sculptures are extremely fragile. Packing these sculptures in a crate will be the best strategy for protecting this kind of art piece

When moving with art and paintings, you need to ensure you take special precautions during the packaging and transit of these items. We looked at a step-by-step guide to help preserve your precious possessions and ensure they come out in pristine condition at your new home. To hire a professional mover trained to pack for safety, click here for a free estimate.

The best social media buzz on Allston Christmas 2019

Posted on by olympiamoving

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

Posted on by rhunt

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.

Moving? Check Out These Historic Homes Around Philadelphia, PA

Posted on by rhunt

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.

Moving With Pets

Posted on by rhunt

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

Moving Lizards and Snakes

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

Check State Restrictions

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

Get a Carrier

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

Acclimate

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

Doctor’s Visit

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

Moving Fish

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

Clean Water

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

Last Minute

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

48-Hour Fast

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

Container Environment

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

Tanks

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

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

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

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

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

Moving Birds

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

Check State Restrictions

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

Strapped Down

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

Acclimatize

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

Pack Snacks

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

Grab a Harness

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

Monitor Temperature

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

Safety First

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

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

Your Moving Crew

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

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

On the Move: Cambridge, MA

Posted on by rhunt

Location: Cambridge, MA Moving Services

A Cambridge, MA to Cambridge, MA move | June 2019

Move Overview

A four-man crew went out to this two-story, four bedroom home in Cambridge. The house is 3,974 square feet on the edge of Cambridge’s Observatory Hill neighborhood, where many homes list for $1 million+. Olympia completed a partial pack for the homeowner the day before the move, then loaded and delivered the next day.

The positioning of the house gave our crew a logistics challenge. All of the home’s entrances were raised above the street, so a bridge had to be made from the truck to the upper walkway. The crew needed to use extra caution when transporting the heaviest items out of the house.

Partial Packing

Prior to our crews arriving, the homeowner packed the majority of their smaller personal and brought them to the destination. Save for a few dishes and decorations, all that remained in the home large furniture and similar items. The crew packed these the day before the move with boxes and moving blankets. Then, the next day, they returned to load and deliver the pre-packed items.

Cambridge Moving: All the Wrong Angles

Like many homes in Cambridge, this home had some tough angles for our crew to maneuver around. A spiral staircase lead to a third floor loft with a bed and a few other pieces of furniture. Once the pieces were guided through there, a tight doorway and another staircase greeted the crew. Plenty of protective measure went in to preserving the homeowner’s belongings in these cramped spaces.

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.

On The Move: Boston, MA

Posted on by rhunt

Location: Boston, MA Moving Services

A Boston, MA to Duxbury, MA move | May 2019

Move Overview

This move took place on stately Commonwealth Ave in the heart of Boston, MA. It featured the full pack and load of a three-story townhouse, culminating in a stint of overnight storage before delivery to Duxbury, MA. Boston moving is no easy feat while the city is rushing around you. Fortunately, our crew had a plan in place to get the job done. In just one day, they emptied the townhouse from top to bottom and got the owners on their way to their new home.

Full Packing

The crew brought packing supplies galore with them when they arrived at the townhouse. Though some of the homeowner’s belongs were packed when we arrived, a large portion of the home was packed by the crew. Dishes, toys, and knick-knacks went into boxes while large items were securely wrapped in moving blankets. Special care and extra moving blankets wrapped a large bed frame headed to Duxbury. The remainder protected glass coffee table tops.

For more on Olympia’s packing services, read about Hiring Packing Services on our blog.

Challenges of Boston Moving

Moving is difficult not matter where you are, but moving in Boston presents distinctive challenges. Our crew needed parking permits for the truck outside of the home. Thankfully the move was scheduled to skip the early morning traffic.

Inside, tight corners prompted to crew to put plenty of protective padding on door frames and walls. Two different staircases led to the second floor, and both were covered with floor protection from wet feet and sharp edges. Large items like the bed frame inched through tight hallways and the tighter staircase. The crew took it slow and steady, especially with the homeowner’s delicate glass items.

Boston Storage in Transit

The bulk of the load will be stored for a short time in our Watertown warehouse. Once the new home is ready for move-in, we will deliver to Duxbury and assist the owner with setting up their new home.

A move like this is an excellent example of how Olympia can ease the process of a move. We can take the pressure of packing, storage, and delivery off the shoulders of the homeowner. Whether it is temporary storage or packing services or simply a high quality of service, Olympia has what your move needs to succeed.

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.