Miki Markovich of Ground, Path, and Fruition used U-Pack for her personal move a few years back and had a great experience. So when it came time for Miki to help move her 86-year-old grandmother more than 2,200 miles across the United States, Miki knew U-Pack was the moving company she would trust once more. Here's the awesome part: because U-Pack does the driving, Miki and her grandmother Regina were able to take the road trip of a lifetime without worrying about their household goods. Miki and crew were able to visit some of the most famous landmarks and popular hotspots in America! Read on as Miki shares the story of their stop in the Lonestar State.
Another day, another couple of states on our cross-country, moving-vacation adventure. Although we stopped for a night in Miami, Oklahoma and had a nice visit with family, Grandma-ma really wanted to get to Texas to unwind and relax. We also wanted to relive some of our previous Texan adventures, considering we did call it 'home' for some time.
I've made this trip countless times for birthdays, holidays and emergencies. Whenever I make this 6,000-mile roundtrip journey to see to my grandmother, I always stop by The Big Texan in Amarillo, TX to get sweet tea and Howlers (deep fried jalapeños). It has always been one of my favorite stop spots! This moving road trip was my opportunity to finally share this cheesy experience with my grandmother.
We checked into the western-themed motel, walked the dog about, and headed over to the restaurant. Although not a huge fan of the Howlers, Grandma-ma did love the motel, Texas-shaped pool and giant restaurant! We shot Western zombies, played some slots, took a ton of pictures, and just relaxed.
I know that I tend to gush about ABF U-Pack Moving, but I can't help it. Two years ago, my experience moving from Missouri to Oregon was so stellar, I wanted Grandma-ma to use them for her move from Tennessee. For the next leg of our trip, we're on our way to Albuquerque to visit my best friend from college and enjoy the 4th of July fireworks. Woohoo—road trip!
If you choose a ReloCube move, this is what is what you can expect to have delivered right to your door:
An empty, shiny 6' x 7' x 8' (DWH) container that sits flat on the ground for easy loading and unloading.
The ReloCube's interior dimensions are 70" x 82" x 93". You can reserve as many as you need and pay only for what you use. That means if you reserve three, but you can fit everything into two, you only pay for two—a benefit U-Pack customers LOVE!
The ReloCube is custom-built and constructed of steel or aluminum. Each weatherproof container is equipped with tie-down points so you can easily secure your goods for transit. For added security, you can provide your own lock – which remains on the Cube until you remove it at your destination (another benefit customers love!) The lock should be 3/8" – 1/2" diameter and have at least a 2" shank.
ReloCube Capacity Each ReloCube is approximately 320 cubic feet. Its maximum weight limit is 2,500 lbs. One ReloCube will typically hold the contents of a small studio-size apartment (and the loading space is similar to 5 linear feet of our moving trailer). To help determine how many ReloCubes you'll need for your move, consider using a U-Pack space estimator tool, specifically the Room-By-Room Space Estimator.
Delivering the ReloCube The equipment used to deliver the ReloCube varies depending on where you live. We'll use a 43' flatbed trailer (can deliver 4 at a time), a 39' drop-deck trailer (can deliver 2 at a time), a 40' liftgate van (can deliver 4 at a time) or a 56' liftgate van (can deliver 5 at a time). Click here to see photos of the delivery equipment. Your U-Pack representative can tell you what type of delivery equipment to expect in your specific area – 800-413-4799.
ReloCube Parking Requirements Prior to your moving you should verify temporary parking is available for the ReloCube delivery equipment while the Cubes are being offloaded and placed. You'll also want to verify parking availability for your ReloCube(s) while they're being loaded/unloaded. The amount of space needed for the delivery equipment depends on the type of equipment being used for delivery. The ReloCubes themselves need one standard parking space per two ReloCubes, just make sure there is a level, paved surface available to place them on (and if you have two in one space, make sure vehicles parked beside the space don't block you from opening the Cube doors). Keep in mind that they will not fit in a garage or under a carport.
Like with our moving trailers, we recommend checking with your local parking authority, HOA, storage facility or apartment management to determine how long the ReloCube(s) can be at your location. You can typically have up to three business days for loading and unloading. If there are parking restrictions in your area, talk to your U-Pack representative about the possibility of a same day drop-off and pick-up or a live load/unload – 800-413-4799.
If you're planning a ReloCube move, we hope you find this info helpful. Let me know if you have additional questions or if you need a moving quote. I'll be happy to help!
It’s Flashback Friday! Each week we revisit a blog topic that has proven helpful to our readers. Today’s flashback: Get Cross-Country Moving Rates. It’s that time of year again; people are starting to plan for their big spring/summer moves, so it’s a perfect time to repost this one! Though there are several options for moving cross country, we’ll always recommend that you “Go U-Pack!”.
Lately we've received several questions regarding cross-country moving rates through the "Ask the Experts" blog tool. So, this seems like a good time to re-visit the issue (we talked about how much it costs to move cross country in a previous post). So, let’s take a look at ways you can get the best rates AND all of the services your move requires.
Tips for getting the best cross-country moving rates First, getting moving rates from U-Pack is easy. Just enter your move specifics into the quote form to the right, and you’ll see your price instantly (and we think you’ll like what you see)!
Now, I understand that you'll probably want to get cross country moving rates from other moving companies too – and there are several to choose from, including full-service movers, rental truck companies and other self moving services. As you’re doing this, just keep in mind that first impressions mean a lot. If you happen onto a website that looks less than professional, or you get correspondence (whether by email or phone) that causes you to question the reputation or integrity of the mover, it’s a good idea to trust your instinct, and reconsider (especially if the price seems too-good-to-be-true). You can also check out consumer review sites like epinions.com to get mover reviews.
Once you’re comfortable with a few movers and their rates for moving cross country, begin comparing prices and value (or service offerings). I recommend making a list of “must have” services/features and “can do without” services/features: Are you looking for lowest price; fastest transit time; a guaranteed delivery day; a superior safety record; storage options; small containers due to parking issues; someone else to drive; someone else to pack, load and unload? What are the deal-breakers?
In the process, make sure you ask about discounted moving days (sometimes called "off-peak" days)… moving on an off-peak day can sometimes take $50-$150 off your cross country moving rate!
Here’s how U-Pack stacks up in the categories features/offerings that may be important to you:
Low prices: U-Pack is known for offering some of the most competitive prices in the industry.
Fast transit times: Where most full-service moving companies take 2 to 3 weeks for delivery, U-Pack can deliver virtually anywhere in the U.S. within 2-5 business days.
Guaranteed delivery days: When you reserve a move with U-Pack, your moving day is the exact day we’ll deliver your moving trailer or ReloCube to your home for loading. Guaranteed. You even have the option of guarantying your time for delivery and the exact day we’ll deliver to your destination.
Superior safety Record: 99% of U-Pack customers moved claim-free in 2011; a record unmatched by other moving companies in the industry. And a record that’s made possible thanks to ABF Freight System’s record of safety; they’re the only six-time winner of the American Trucking Association’s Excellence in Security Award.
Small containers: U-Pack’s ReloCubes are custom-built to fit perfectly into a standard-size parking space. Reserve one, or as many as you need; pay only for what you use.
Drivers: U-Pack shipments are driven cross country by professional ABF drivers. Pack/load/unload help: U-Pack gladly recommends Moving Staffers for packing, loading or unloading help. Or choose MoveBuilder for a more comprehensive full-service move.
So there you have it! U-Pack is a great option for moving cross-country. For a free, no obligation cross-country moving rate, just call or click – 800-413-4799.
Military life has its ups and downs, but sometimes the adventure can outweigh the adversity. Take moving, for example. Frequently pulling up roots is part of the job, but sometimes service members can hit the jackpot with an exotic locale. For many, the ideal duty station can be found in the tropical isles of Hawaii.
PCSing to Hawaii sounds like a dream assignment for many, but when the orders arrive, some families can feel overwhelmed with questions about moving to the islands and island living.
Before the surfing, snorkeling, hiking and volcano exploring can begin, the service family has to find a way to move all their belongings across the ocean. Many opt for the military’s full-service option, paid entirely by the military. Some, however, can’t resist the urge to pocket some of the payout by going the route of a DITY move (do-it-yourself, obviously).
But how do you drive a moving truck over the ocean? Simple answer, you don’t. U-Pack offers a great solution for DITY moving for a PCS to Hawaii, and it’s called the ReloCube. U-Pack even offers storage in Hawaii with ReloCube moves. As an alternative, U-Pack can also complete your DITY move on ocean containers.
With direct service to all seven active military bases in Hawaii, we can also provide certified weight tickets. We understand the importance of weight ticket accuracy, and that is why we have a specialist dedicated to reviewing all military moves.
Whether you’re going with the military full-service option or making a DITY move, planning a PCS to Hawaii still involves plenty of planning.
Getting everyone there
Check with your Personnel Office to ensure that all family members’ names are on the PCS orders. If not, you could lose some travel and housing benefits. Once confirmed, gather important documents and plan to hand-carry those as you travel to Hawaii. These include orders, leave forms, marriage and birth certificates and prescriptions, among others.
Moving four-legged furry family members to the islands? Make sure to check out Hawaii’s animal quarantine law. Hawaii is rabies-free, and they intend to stay that way. With plenty of planning, a long quarantine period may not be necessary.
If you have any questions about a DITY move to Hawaii, contact our move specialists at 800-413-4799. Ask for a free moving quote with U-Pack’s military moving discount.
Not to brag, because this doesn’t happen very often, and I definitely don’t want to jinx it, but Arkansas is experiencing some amazing (granted unseasonal) spring-like weather. It’s January and today’s high is 68° and it’s supposed to be in the 70’s by the end of the week! This time last year we were about to experience record-breaking snow falls in the area. We’ll take it!
But, I know that “real” winter is coming, and some parts of the country are already experiencing it in full-force (namely Alaska). While I prefer sunshine over snow any day of the week, there’s something to say about wintertime fun. In fact, the cities mentioned in this U-Pack infographic – Quirky Winter Events – look like tons of fun to visit. If you’re moving to or from areas that might take you through Anchorage, Alaska; Booneville, New York; Cedarburg, Wisconsin; or Chicago, Illinois, check out some of these events and tell us what you think!
Miki Markovich of Ground, Path, and Fruition used U-Pack for her personal move a few years back and had a great experience. So when it came time for Miki to help move her 86-year-old grandmother more than 2,200 miles across the United States, Miki knew U-Pack was the moving company she would trust once more. Here's the awesome part: because U-Pack does the driving, Miki and her grandmother Regina were able to take the road trip of a lifetime without worrying about their household goods. Miki and crew were able to visit some of the most famous landmarks and popular hotspots in America! Read on as Miki introduces us to her moving situation and details the first leg of their cross country move.
I admit that the loading of my grandmother's 86-years-worth of stuff was totally exhausting. A full apartment plus three storage units is a lot of belongings to pack, lift, and stack like the ultimate Tetris game. But, here's the thing: ABF U-Pack Moving made it so much easier than I could have imagined. They delivered two ReloCubes to the apartment complex and two to our storage facility, giving me the ability to forego the need to ask friends to borrow a truck (so, I asked them to help load instead!).
After loading for about 18-hours straight, I can't imagine driving a big truck. There's a reason that I have a sports sedan; namely, it's small with four doors (great for groceries but not a living room set). The stress of driving a big truck like that would just do me in. However, with U-Pack, I have none of these concerns. I'm leaving the driving up to them and my grandmother and I are taking a cross country vacation.
We only made it from Memphis, TN to Cape Girardeau, MO the first night. But, we hadn't stopped loading until 3:00 A.M.! So we checked into my favorite hotel and one of my former students brought over a pile of pizza. What did we do? We had an impromptu pizza party by the pool area, of course. It was a nice way to celebrate our accomplishments and spend a day resting up.
After our stay in the Cape area, we headed to St. Louis to visit family plots, visit the Gateway Arch, and get some yummy Ted Drewes Frozen Custard. The weather was so sunny and bright. Some friends drove in to visit and see us off, and then we were on our way to Texas!
So you have orders to PCS to Alaska, the “Last Frontier.” Sounds like an exciting new adventure. You start thinking about your options for getting all your household goods 4,000 miles north.
You could go with a full-service military move with all arrangements made by the TMO office. Seems convenient, but the goods may not arrive for 6-8 weeks. And, in peak moving season, you could be faced with movers who over-schedule and fail to show up on the scheduled loading date.
Or you could PCS to Alaska with U-Pack.
If you don’t mind earning some extra money (and doing a little extra work), that is. With a DITY move, you make all arrangements and receive reimbursement based on the weight of your goods.
A DITY move to Alaska may seem like a colossal task – out of the question. For many, the thought of a DITY always includes driving a rental truck. If you’re anything like me, driving a huge rental truck across the Alaska-Canadian Highway (ALCAN) sounds about as fun as sticking my finger in a light socket…just something I’d rather not do if I have a choice.
U-Pack is a great alternative to driving a rental truck for a PCS to Alaska. We can take care of your household goods, freeing you up to travel to your new home in the Land of the Midnight Sun at your own pace. And, we can get your goods to Alaska in about two weeks.
If you decide to drive the ALCAN, you won’t have to rent a car when you arrive in Alaska. Many who have traveled this path enjoy the wildlife and views along the way. They also recommend a guide titled “The Milepost,” which provides mile-by-mile details about available lodging, dining, shopping and automotive services. You can also transport your vehicle to Alaska via ferry on the Alaska Marine Highway sailing out of Bellingham, WA. Service for this three-day trip may be limited in the winter, so make plans well in advance if this is your route of choice. Visit the State of Alaska’s Marine Highway System for more information on ferry travel.
And, if you want to make the trip in hours rather than days, you can opt to fly. Note that in the winter, airlines may not allow your furry friends to make the trip.
If you need extra time to settle into your new surroundings (waiting on base housing or looking for a home off base), U-Pack can provide secure storage of your goods. We can hold your shipment at the ABF service center closest to your origin, or we can ship your goods to our facility in Tacoma for storage. From Tacoma, transportation takes only about a week for delivery to Anchorage.
Explore your DITY options to Alaska with a free moving quote from U-Pack. Our team is also available to answer your questions. Give us a call at 800-413-4799 Monday through Friday 7am-8pm Central.
Safe travels, and thank you for your service to our country!
If you’ve ever wondered where people are moving, the most popular times they move, and how far in advance they start getting moving quotes, now’s your chance to check it out.
I’ll go ahead and give a little spoiler – what state would you guess topped the list of the most inbound moves in 2011 (that’s the “moving to” location)? Here’s a hint: It’s as far west as you can get in the U.S., and it’s not Oregon or Washington...
If you need rates for shipping household goods long distance, U-Pack is a great place to start – especially if you’re hoping to avoid the high prices many full-service movers charge, and you really don’t want to drive a rental truck across the country. (Because who does, right?)
So here’s how U-Pack shipping rates are calculated:
It’s easy. Rather than trying to estimate the weight of your household goods, your U-Pack rate is based on the linear footage your shipment occupies in the moving trailer or the number of ReloCubes you need (I’ll explain the equipment in a bit). For your initial quote, you can use the simple space estimator to figure out how much space (or how many Cubes) you’ll likely need, or you can get much more detailed by using the Room-By-Room Space Estimator.
So let’s say you’re trying to get shipping rates for moving a three-bedroom home that’s about 1,800 square feet. Based on the simple estimator, we think you’ll need somewhere around 21 linear feet of an ABF trailer (which is equivalent to a 26 ft. rental truck). Your moving quote would include the rate for 21 linear feet, along with a per-foot adjustment rate that’s added or subtracted if you need more or less space in the trailer. That means if you need more space, it’s always available, and if you can fit into less, you pay less. It’s a win, win.
Now, let’s say you need shipping rates for a 600 square foot, one-bedroom apartment, and you prefer a ReloCube because of parking restrictions. We estimate you need two ReloCubes. On moving day you decide you can live without much of your furniture. Voilà! Everything fits into just one Cube! You guessed it...that means you only pay for one Cube.
That’s why so many customers love U-Pack.
U-Pack Household Goods Shipping Options
Like I mentioned, your two options for shipping with U-Pack are in a trailer or a ReloCube.
The trailer is 28 ft. long, 8 ft. 6 in. wide and 9 ft. tall. That gives you about 2000 cubic feet of loading space. In other words, the loading space for the full trailer is equivalent in size to a 26 ft. rental truck, plus another 10 ft. rental truck (with some space left over). We deliver it to you empty, and it comes with ramps for loading and unloading.
The ReloCube is 6 ft. 3 in. deep, 7 ft. wide and 8 ft. 4 in. tall. That gives you about 370 cubic feet of loading space. It sits flat on the ground for convenient loading and unloading. Just load it, put your padlock on it, and it’s ready to go. You can reserve just one, or as many as you need.
There’s no better way to ship household goods than with U-Pack; it’s easy, and it’s affordable. Call or click today for instant shipping rates!
It’s that time of year again folks, people are starting to plan Spring Break vacays! While tropical locations are probably most popular, many spring breakers plan to head to cold-weather, powder-laden destinations for a little fun in the snow.
This infographic naming the five states with the most ski and snowboard mountains comes at a perfect time for vacationers, but it’s also good info for folks planning to move. How exciting to move to a location where a weekend skiing trip is a short drive away. Check it out!
Oh, and would you believe that the state of New York has 52 mountains to ski and snowboard?
