Are you prepared for an emergency? In the wake of the terrible storms that devastated Granbury, Texas this week, I began thinking about the fact that my family doesn’t really have a set-in-stone emergency plan. What would we do in the case of an emergency like fire, tornado, earthquake, etc.? Unfortunately, I have to say that with the exception of severe weather, I don’t know what we would do. We don’t have a plan. Thinking through this also caused me to consider the people we talk to every single day who are moving into areas where they may experience extreme weather that they’re not accustomed to. Do they have a plan?
Like I mentioned, in Arkansas most of us know what to do when the sirens go off and the news stations report a tornado on the ground—we go into safe rooms, storm cellars, hunker down in closets or bathtubs. But does ... Read More
If you’re moving into a new home, it’s a great idea to have a decluttering strategy determined ahead of time. Are you guilty of having piles of stiff lying around? Are your drawers typically impossible to close because they’re too full? Would you be embarrassed for people to see inside your closet or the “junk” drawer? If I were answering these questions, it would be with a resounding “yes”! How about you? Have you reached the point where decluttering is a necessity? If you have, I’ve found some strategies that I think will help. They should work whether you only have 10 minutes or you have an entire weekend to declutter your home. How about we try them together! I would love to hear how they worked for you.
Whether you’re trying to arrange a messy room, or declutter for an upcoming long distance move, getting organized can be easy and fun! I’ve often asked myself, “How do I get organized?” and with a little research, I’ve learned how to declutter and make a system for organizing all my stuff. By doing a little work and establishing some organizational habits, you can easily get organized (and stay that way!).
Step 1 to Getting Organized: Purge
The first steps to getting organized are to throw out the things you don’t need and give everything a designated space. You don’t want to simply just “clean up” the area; you want to create a system so you can easily use your stuff. Go through your stuff and ... Read More
Moving long-distance can be a tough job; especially if you’ve never done it before. What better way to make it more manageable than by learning from other people’s experiences! Over the past decade and a half, we’ve been involved in moving more than 500,000 shipments over 600 million miles (that’s a lot of shipments and a lot of miles!). In that time, we’ve had the pleasure of speaking with customers from all walks of life, moving from locations all across the U.S., due a variety of unique circumstances, and with a wide range of needs and budgets. So let’s take a look at what many of these customers would say are the best tips for moving.
When we moved, I had dreams of a neighborhood like that on Desperate Housewives where everyone knows each other (but without all the drama, crime and infidelity). However, as we unpacked and got settled in, we had yet to meet any of our neighbors. No one brought over baskets of baked goods. No one rang the doorbell to welcome us to the neighborhood. It wasn’t that they weren’t friendly; they just didn’t know how to meet their neighbors! So whether you are the newbie in the area, or you have new folks moving in next door, here are some tips for meeting your neighbors.
How to Meet the Neighbors when You are New in Town
If you are the new person to the neighborhood, a great way to meet your neighbors is to ask for local recommendations. Now, don’t bug ... Read More
“There’s no place like home” were the famous words of Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz. Well, Dorothy forgot to mention that getting settled into that home is quite the process. If this is your first home move, you may not know where to begin. And even if you have moved homes before, you may need a refresher on the process. From start to finish, here is how to complete a home move.
If you want a moving quote for your home move, click to get a free quote from U-Pack.
Home Move: Finding Your New Home
I don’t know if you have browsed home listings online yet, but that is probably one of the most overwhelming things I have ever encountered. With thousands of homes listed, you probably feel like finding your dream home... Read More
Moving is one of those things you just want to get over with as soon as possible. I’ve never heard someone say, “I’m looking forward to being in the process of moving for as long as possible.” Ha! No, people moving long distance usually want to move from place to place in the shortest amount of time possible. If you’re asking yourself “How long does it take to move?” then keep reading below.
How long does it take to move?
Unfortunately, there’s no general amount of time it takes to move because every move is different. However, there are a lot of different factors that can determine the length of your move:
The distance between your old home and new home. If your move is just dow... Read More
Your Guide to Moving If you’re in the middle of planning a move, I have a feeling you’ll whole-heartedly agree that there’s a lot of truth to this statement:
There aren’t many things in life more difficult than moving.
If your move is long distance, you might even shout an “AMEN!”
What you need are some great tools to help you through it – a moving guide. And I think you’ll find that U-Pack is the best in the business when it comes to providing the tools and resources needed to help move you through this stressful time in your life (pun definitely intended). :)
The blog you’re reading – it’s our Moving Guide. If you cruise through the categories, you’ll find the answers to a plethora of questions. So pretty much, if you have a question, you&rsqu... Read More
To move or not to move? Figure it out with a pros and cons list!
Deciding whether to move or not is a big decision. There are many pros and cons of moving, ranging from the cost to the new opportunities. Honestly, most of the factors at play could either be reasons for or against moving, depending on how you look at it. Let’s look at some of the moving pros and cons, along with some questions to think about as you make your decision to move.
The Pros and Cons of Moving
When deciding whether to move or not, there are a few things that are definitely plusses and minuses. Let’s explore some of these things.
The Pros of Moving
If I were considering a move, these are things that would definitely be on my “pro” list.
New opportunities. I love a good adventure! Ev... Read More
Moving for a Job: Where to Move and How To Get There
Sometimes you have to move in order to get the best employment opportunities. If you are trying to figure out where to get moving for jobs, or how to move once you find a job, I have all the insider information for you! Let’s take a look at where to move for jobs, along with how to move for your job without breaking the bank!
Moving for Jobs – Cities with the Best Employment Opportunities
If you are interested in moving to a place with job availability, then you might want to check out these cities with the best job market competition. Indeed.com did a study in February 2013 comparing the job postings versus the number of unemployed persons in 50 different metropolitan areas in order to find the cities with the best job mark... Read More
The pre-deployment time can be difficult, especially if you have never been through the deployment process before. I have several friends who are in the pre-deployment process and I’m learning a lot as they prepare! I’ve compiled this blog post as a comprehensive resource for preparing for deployment to take you through how to prepare your marriage, your family, your home, your legal matters, your finances, and yourself. I know this seems like a lot, but just take this one step at a time and you will get it all done in no time!
Preparing Your Marriage for Deployment
Deployments can be tough on your marriage. Not just the time during the deployment, but also the busyness before and the adjustment period after. In order to deal with the stresses, you need to have open lines of communication.
Going through a divorce can not only be a stressful time on you, but on your children, too. As you are going through the divorce, you and your spouse will talk about your kids and their living arrangements. Here at U-Pack, we move people long distance who are dealing with all sorts of life situations, including divorce. So today, let’s take a closer look at how to deal with divorce and moving with children. Follow these helpful tips to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your kids.
Divorce and moving with children tips
Avoid talking about selling the family home in front of your kids. To them, the family home is where they find happiness and feel secure. Talking about it as a just a house to sell could make them really sad or angry.
Are you planning a long-distance move soon? Then it’s probably crossed your mind that you need a way to ship your furniture cross country. Furniture comes in all shapes and sizes, and can be extremely heavy, too. Since you can’t shrink your furniture and mail it to your new home, you’ll have to choose another option for shipping furniture. Let’s take a look at some options you have for getting your furniture from point A to point B.
Click here to get a free moving quote from U-Pack and start comparing your furniture shipping options.
Shipping your furniture: Weight vs. Space
You’ll find that most companies will charge you... Read More
As you transition from one home to a new home, you will have to deal with utility companies. You will have to disconnect utilities at your old home and connect them at your new home. I know that sounds like a lot of work, but we have outlined all the details for you.
Here is a list of the utilities you will want to take care of:
Water
Electricity
Gas
Trash
Cable
Satellite
Internet
Home Security
Phone
You will want to plan ahead for connection of these utilities, or else you might be unloading your ... Read More
I love the e-card on Pinterest that says “Sometimes I write down tasks after I’ve done them, just to get the satisfaction of crossing them off my list.” I agree – there’s just something great about checking tasks off a list. I feel accomplished, efficient, and just happy to be getting things done. For a move out of state, you’ll need a good checklist to keep you on task to ensure a successful move.
I suggest using this free printable moving checklist from U-Pack! It starts at eight weeks before your move, covers tasks during your move, and even after you’ve arrived at your new home. If you have a short-notice move, U-Pack still may be able to help, just give us a call at 800-413-4799.
When it comes to moving, organization is the key to a stress-free move. If you’re planning a move, follow these helpful tips, or check them off, and get your moving plan going!
Create a moving budget. Who you choose to move with will determine how much your move will cost. If you want an affordable, stress-free move, consider U-Pack. With U-Pack, you do the loading/unloading and U-Pack does the driving. U-Pack rates compare to truck rental, too.
Start getting moving quotes. To see which moving services fall into your moving budget, get moving quotes. You can start with a free moving quote from U-Pack here, then start comparing!
If you are like me, at the end of a tough day, nothing feels better than crawling into your bed. If you cherish your comfy mattress, you will want to be extra careful with it when moving day comes. I learned some tips for moving a mattress that I would love to share with you! Let’s get started!
How to Move a Mattress: Step-by-step Instructions
First, you need to remove your bedding. You will pack those into their ownmoving box. I recommend washing and drying your bedding before packing. This way, your bedding is fresh and clean when you arrive at your new house.
Next, make sure you have help to move your mattress. Mattresses are big and heavy, so never try to move one alone. You c... Read More
I think the “best way to move” would be convenient, affordable, fast, and easy. I know you are thinking “Yeah, right. That type of moving service doesn’t exist.” But it does! I can easily tell you that the best way to move is with U-Pack. U-Pack offers affordable moving that is better than truck rental, and full-service moving. Why? U-Pack is the best way to move because it’s convenient, affordable, fast, easy and more! Let me show you how U-Pack is the best way to move.
If you want to know how much U-Pack costs, get a free moving quote here. Or keep reading to learn more about why U-Pack is the ... Read More
Moving into your first apartment is a sort of rite of passage into adulthood. And let’s face it; moving out on your own can be scary when you think about all of the unknowns.
When I moved into my first apartment, I had no idea how to connect utilities, how to buy furniture, or how to live on my own. Sure, I lived in dorms during college, but moving into my first apartment was totally different. So, I took some time to think back on that experience and came up with some great tips and information to help you make the transition to your first apartment.
Moving Into Your First Apartment – Finding the Apartment The first step to moving into your first apartment is finding the apartment! There are several ways to go about this. If you know of apartment complexes where you would like to live, jus... Read More
Things That Can Go Wrong When Moving I’m sure you know about Murphy’s Law – “If anything can go wrong, it will.” Well, we have heard plenty of instances where old Murphy messed with moving day. Here are some common “Murphy’s Laws” of moving (and how to avoid them on moving day!).
Murphy’s Laws of Moving (and how to avoid them!)
The tape, markers, and scissors are never where you last put them. Have doubles or triples of these essential items, and designate a spot for them. Maybe even mark a square on the floor in tape, and then always return these items back to “the spot” so you can find them when you need them.
Your house is always too small, until you have to pack everything up. Start packing early, and follow our ... Read More
I don’t have a green thumb, but I know that plants need air, water, and sunlight. For this reason, they are not allowed in our moving trailers or moving containers. Not to mention, your plants can carry pests in the soil, and you don’t want those mixed with your stuff! So how do you go about moving live plants?
First off, check with the state agriculture department in the state you are moving to. Many states have regulations about importing plants (Florida and California, for example) so you need to check with your particular states about their requireme... Read More
The Examiner reported that “informed consumers make wise purchasing decisions.” As you prepare for your upcoming move, you want to make wise choices with how you spend your money. To avoid overpaying for your move, or worse, accidentally choosing a bad moving company, do your homework. Doing moving company research is the best thing to do before your move! Here are some tips for doing moving company research.
Moving Company Research – Read Reviews
I love online reviews. I can read honest feedback from people who used different moving services. Moving reviews are a great place to start doing your research on moving companies. Check sites like epinions.com or the Better Business Bureau to read reviews.
Why read reviews to research moving companies? Reviews are written by people who used the moving service. You can read about what... Read More
A quick and easy moving truck gas calculator Thinking about renting a moving truck for your long distance move? Then I have a great tool for you to estimate how much it will cost to fill up your moving truck – U-Pack’s moving truck gas calculator.
Click over to the calculator here and enter in the city and state you’ll be moving from and to (or the zip codes), and the gas calculator will instantly show you the extra fuel cost you would pay for a rental truck. The estimate you’ll see is based on the national average price per gallon and the average miles per gallon of a moving truck.
To get the final price for renting a moving truck and driving yourself, add the f... Read More
Moving long distance can sometimes be really hard or sometimes be really easy, it all depends on who you move with. If you’re looking to move with ease to your new home, I suggest using U-Pack, a “you pack, we drive” moving solution that makes moving easy and affordable. Let’s take a look at how moving with ease is possible with U-Pack.
Looking for a simple, fast way to get the price of your move? Click here for a free moving quote from U-Pack.
How U-Pack makes moving easy
U-Pack does the driving. Because U-Pack does the driving for you (the most stressful part of moving in my opinion), you can take your time getting... Read More
When you combine children and moving, you can end up feeling very drained. Not only are you trying to get your kids in the mood for moving long distance, but you yourself have to prepare for the move, too. Ease the transition of moving with children with helpful tips from U-Pack:
Helpful Tips for moving with children
Assign each child a task from U-Pack’s moving checklist to remind you to stay on task.
Designate a box for unwanted toys. Have them put each toy in a box labeled 1-5 with 1 being toys they don’t like and 5 being toys they really love to play with. If there are toys in box 1 or 2, encourage them to donate it to a child who may not have as m... Read More
When you begin the process of researching reputable moving companies, it may seem overwhelming. Did you notice that a Google search of the phrase “researching moving companies” gives you over 3 million results? That’s a lot of information to dig through – and how do you know what to trust and what to ignore? If you’ve seen the news over the past few months, you may have noticed reports about the government crack-down on unscrupulous moving companies. Reading this news is just more verification that what you’re doing right now is a very, very wise thing to do.
How to research moving companies
First, it&rsqu... Read More
Garage sales are a great way to earn money and clean out the things that you no longer need or want – both great ideas if you’re planning a long-distance move! But be on guard. Garage sale scammers do exist and you could run into one at your next sale. Read all about garage sale scams below so you’ll be prepared to prevent a scam from happening or to spot a scammer at your sale.
How to avoid yard sale scams
Keep your money in a fanny pack instead of a cash box. This way, the money is always on you and not ever at risk of being stolen.
Have one cashier. If you have more than one, a scammer may pretend like they paid with another cashier, when in fact, they didn’t pay at all.
Check inside the boxes. A yard sale scammer will empty ... Read More
When you move to a new city, you’ll also be moving to a new neighborhood. If you’re not sure what things to look for in a new neighborhood, don’t worry; I’ve got the list you need to make sure you choose the right neighborhood to live in. Let’s take a look!
Maintained Yards. You want to know that your neighbors care just as much about the appearance of their home as you do.
For sale signs. If the street is lined with for sale signs, then that’s a red flag. You want live by people who enjoy the area, not those who are trying to get away from it.
Business conditions. If the businesses located around the neighborhood are run down, then it may be a good sign that the... Read More
Yes, you can! Getting a post office box in another city is a very easy process. If you need to open a PO Box before you move to your new city, follow these four simple steps:
Note: You must be 18 years of age or older to apply for a PO Box.
Step 1 – Reserve your PO Box
You can reserve your PO Box online on the USPS.com website or in person at your current local post office. Here’s how you reserve your PO Box:
Decide which USPS post office location you would like to reserve your mailbox at in your new city. Click here to search USPS post office locations. Most people like their PO Box location to be near their home or work.
Once you know the location you prefer your mailbox to be at, decide which size mailbox you n... Read More
Last year, when we were looking for a place to build our home, I paid lots of attention to the neighborhoods. Were they noisy? Were there bars on the windows? Were there neighborhood watch signs? All of these things factor into one bigger concern: safety. I wanted to be sure we were building our home in a safe neighborhood. When you are looking for a new home, apartment, or place to build, you will know how to find out if a neighborhood is good and safe. I have several ideas for ways to determine neighborhood crime rates before you move.
How to find out crime in a neighborhood
Visit and Talk. If you are able to, visit the neighborhood. Visit during all times of the day. One of the best pieces of advice our realtor gave us was to visit the neighborhood at night... Read More
Fact—cats don’t like moving. If your cat likes to travel, then you have a good cat! Anytime I take mine to the vet, she meows and groans all the way there and back. If you’ll soon be traveling with cats in a car long distance, I have some great tips that will make the moving experience even more enjoyable for both you and your cat!
How to move a cat long distance
Let me begin by saying that U-Pack moves a lot of cat owners who decide to go the “you pack, we drive” route rather than tring to transport their feline friends in a rental truck. You’ll find that it’s much easier to travel with pets in your personal vehicle than in a rental. Now, let’s take a look at what to do before, during, and after ... Read More
The price of fuel these days is a rollercoaster – sky high one day, rock bottom the next. If you’re planning a cross country move, I’m sure you’ve thought about how much gas will cost you from point A to point B. A gas guzzling rental truck can be pricey (just use this rental truck fuel calculator to see what I mean). However, a move with U-Pack can be affordable. Because U-Pack does driving for you at a rate comparable to truck rental, you can drive your personal vehicle cross country to your new home, instead of a rental truck. Get a free moving quote and compare. Then, keep reading about ways to save on fuel when moving cross country!
What’s the best way to lift boxes to avoid injury? Congratulations! If you’ve selected U-Pack to move you cross-country, you’re saving money by doing your own packing and loading (and letting us do the driving). But before you start the process of packing up boxes and loading them into the trailer or container, I’ve got some great tips on the best way to lift boxes to avoid injuring yourself on moving day.
How to Lift a Box
Clear your path. Make sure there are no obstacles in your path. You need a clear pathway when moving boxes. Watch for hazards lik... Read More
Moving When Pregnant If you’re expecting and have a move coming up, you’ll want to be very careful. The physical and emotional stress of moving can take its toll on your body.
Before doing anything related to the move, talk to your doctor about possible issues. While you’re doing that, here are some things to consider if you’re moving when you’re pregnant:
Find a doctor in your new town Talk with your current doctor about referrals to a doctor in your new town. You’ll want to get prenatal care set up and all of your medical records transferred before your move. If you have health insurance, it’s also a good idea to make sure the doctor is in your insurance network.
Moving can be exciting for you. You get a new opportunity, maybe a new job and a new home. But for kids, moving may seem like their world is flipping upside down. You can ease the transition by helping your child adjust to their new home. Let’s explore some ways to do this.
Talk openly with your child
Kids can totally sense problems; so if you stress over moving and the new home, they’ll feel it. Talk openly with your child about finding a new home, moving, and the challenges to come. Be available to answer questions and calm their fears. Don’t minimize their issues. To a child, the worst part of moving might be that they won’t be able to ride bikes with their ne... Read More
One thing is certain about moving day: there’s a lot going on. While keeping your kids involved in the moving process is very important to an easy transition, this is probably the day that you don’t want them involved. When things like moving trucks, ramps, heavy boxes, heavy furniture and large appliances are involved, it’s best to keep children away. We recommend having a plan ready for the day. So, here are some tips for keeping your kids safe on moving day.
Send them with friends or family
Remember all of those people who said things like “If there’s anything I can do, let me know” or “If you need help, please tell me”? Well, now’s the time to take them up on it. Both you and your kids will have a MUCH better day if they’re not at your... Read More
Though it’s a little difficult to think about moving in the heat right now—with terrible snow storms in the Northeast—summer will soon be upon us. Last summer we saw record-setting temperatures all across the nation. It was hot! Because summer is such a popular time to move, and because now is the time when people start planning summer moves, it’s a good idea to get prepared and know what to do when it’s sweltering outside and you have to pack a moving truck. I’ve got some great “beat the heat” tips to share today.
First, let’s talk about signs of heat exhaustion. If you suspect someone has heat exhaustion, get them out of the heat and into the shade or air-conditioning immediately. Then, if alert, have them drink cool water or other non-alcoholic/de-caffeina... Read More
Moving can be tough for kids. They’re leaving their home, school, and friends. But if you can get them involved with your move, you can help ease the transition. Let’s take a look at some fun jobs you might get your kids involved in along the way.
Getting the Kids Involved with Your Move
Each one of these tasks can be modified based on the age and maturity level of your child. Of course, you aren’t going to let a three-year old pack your china, and you probably aren’t going to ask a fifteen-year-old to draw a picture of their old home. Adjust these tips according to your own children.
Before the moving truck arrives, make sure your washer is ready for moving. Regardless of whether it is front load or top load, it will still need to be properly prepared for moving. So how does one go about moving a washer?
Prepare The Washing Machine for Moving Start the process of preparing your washer for moving several weeks ahead of time. If you need to order parts, or have problems finding the owner’s manual, it can take some time for them to come in. The first thing you should do to prepare is consult the owner’s manual. Don’t have the owner’s manual? Just search online for the brand, model and “owner’s manual.” For example, you might search for “Samsung WF520ABW/XAA owner’s manual” to find one online... Read More
Easy Food for Moving Day that will Give You Energy
Along with my job at U-Pack, I also teach aerobics. Before a workout, I always eat a snack to give my body energy. Preparing your body for moving is no different because moving is quite a workout! So what are the best foods to eat on moving day for extra energy?
Food For Moving Day – What to eat?
Protein and carb mix. For optimal energy on moving day, you’ll want to eat something that contains both proteins and carbs. Carbohydrates will give you the energy you need, and the protein will help your body use the fuel properly. Proteins are found in foods like meat, poultry, soybeans, peanuts, seafood, and dairy. Carbohydrates are founds in foods such as whole grai... Read More
It doesn’t matter if you are an extreme couponer or just want to save a little money; there are some great moving coupons available. I love saving money, especially when it is as easy as mentioning a promo code. Here are a couple ways to save money with moving coupons at U-Pack.
During the process of reserving your U-Pack move, mention or enter the coupon code “Blog11” to save $25 on your move!
If you haven’t gotten a U-Pack moving quote yet, just click over to get one. Give us a few specifics about your move and get a price. It’s really simple!
When planning your move, it’s important to get quotes and create a budget early on. While you’re doing this, there are some essential questions to ask and some important things to consider, to make certain you don’t get stuck with moving charge that you weren’t planning for. Today I’ll give you some quick tips to help keep your budget right on track.
First, like I mentioned earlier, get moving quotes (starting with a U-Pack quote!) Once you have the price in writing, ask these questions:
What is NOT included in the price (fuel, sales tax, liability coverage, etc.)?
What if I need more space/weight than estim... Read More
If you are moving long distance, you may not know where to turn for home repairs in your new hometown. A couple years ago, I was in your shoes. We were moving and needed to find a plumber, an electrician, and a painter. I didn’t know where to start. I quickly learned how to find a good contractor. Learn from my mistakes and find out what worked.
How to Find Local Contractors
Of course, you can just take to the phonebook, but you will have a long list to weed through. Just a search in my local phonebook for plumbers gives me 91 contractors. In the words of Youtube sensation Sweet Brown, “Ain&r... Read More
Dave Ramsey says “It doesn't matter what you make – you can save money. It just has to become a big enough priority to you.” Saving for your upcoming move is important. You can find plenty of information out there about saving money on your move, but I’m going to show you how you can save money before the move! By taking a few easy steps, you can easily save for moving.
How to Start Saving for Moving
In order to start saving, you need to have a goal in mind. You should get a rough estimate of the amount you need to save. You can easily do this by getting a free mov... Read More
Staying fit and healthy is important to me. If it is important to you, let’s look at some things to look for in a gym so that you can find a gym in your new city after your move.
Which local gym is right for you?
I spend most of my afternoons after work in the gym. I love the fitness classes, the wide range of equipment, and the extras like the hot tub. What is important to you when it comes to your gym? Start by making a list of all the local gyms in your area. You can find these easily in the phone book or with a simple web search.
Each person will have different needs in their gym. Make a list of your gym needs. What hours are important to you? Do yo... Read More
Buying or renting a new house is a big step in your life. It’s not just a new house; it’s a new home. Having a cozy place to call home is a dream for almost everyone. However, finding problems within your new home can quickly turn that dream into a nightmare. To avoid any surprises, you should complete a home inspection before moving in.
What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a thorough examination of a house done by a professional home inspector. Anything from damage to building code violations to potentially dangerous areas will be noted and added to a report. The report is then given to the person who requested the inspection.
Importance of Getting your Home Inspected
Home inspections allow homeowners to know the exact condition of a house before buying or renting it. Hardly anyone buys... Read More
Making a move soon? You’re already on the right track by searching for moving tips. The more time you put into preparing for your move, the easier it will be!
If you’re familiar with U-Pack, you may know that we do lots and lots of household moves. In fact, we’ve moved more than 500,000 households over 600,000 Million miles. With that many moves, I’m sure you can imagine that we’ve encountered almost every unusual moving situation you can think of (and some you’ve never dream of). That just means we’re able to compile a lot of moving tips to make moving easier for you. Here are some of the most helpful!
Whether you have a couple pieces of special jewelry, or lots of costume jewelry, when you move you will want to pack it properly. I love accessories and have moved a fairly large jewelry collection several times. Here are some tips for how to pack jewelry.
If you have precious jewelry, we recommend that you keep your valuables with you. Most other pieces are fine to pack and move.
If you keep your jewelry in a jewelry box or armoire, you will want to remove jewelry from these during your move to prevent tangling.
To keep thin necklaces and bracelets from tangling, thread them through a straw. Simply trim the straw to the length you need, thread the jewelry through and clasp it. See this tip on our ... Read More
The first “homes” I had after moving out of my parents’ house were apartments. Nothing like sharing walls with strangers! I lived in a very tiny one bedroom in a busy apartment complex as well as a little bit bigger townhouse in a small duplex. Moving out of an apartment creates some unique situations. So today I’ll give you some valuable information on moving out of an apartment.
Cleaning. Most likely, getting all or part of your deposit back will depend on how you leave the apartment. Talk to your landlord and look back over your renter’s agreement to see what expectations are set. You should always leave the place clean and free from trash and such, but different places set different expectations. One apartment required that I clean the carpets and turn in a receipt. Another place wanted m... Read More
It’s always good to give your new home a good clean before you unload and unpack. Use this simple cleaning checklist from U-Pack to make sure you cover every inch of your home before you move in!
The Kitchen Freezer/Refrigerator
defrost, behind, underneath
exterior (top, sides, bottom, handles)
interior (shelves, drawers, ice cube maker)
Oven/Stove
run through the self-cleaning cycle if available
oven racks, burners, oven drawer, knobs, grease filters, range hood
Everything Else
Cabinets and drawers, microwave, dishwasher, countertops and backsplash, sink, space above cabinets, underneath sink, ceiling for spider webs
When I moved, I thought the hardest part was going to be transferring utilities. I dreaded having to call the water, electricity, gas, cable/internet/phone, trash, etc., companies. However, it was actually pretty easy. Here’s how I did it:
Anytime you call a utility company, have your account number ready so that they can look you up quickly. Here’s a tip: write the account numbers for each company, along with the 800 number, in a notebook that you keep with you throughout the move.
In the notepad, you’ll also want to write down the days in which each utility will be shut off, canceled or transferred. You’ll also want to note if you get a refund or what the balance due is.
Plan to shut off your utilities around your move. My husband wanted to watch a sports game on the TV the night before we moved, so we had the c... Read More
How to Get Help with Moving Out When I move, all my stuff is coming with me. But that doesn’t mean I can move it all by myself! My big, comfy couch is great to lounge on, but impossible to carry on my own. And a queen size mattress? I’m definitely going to need help with that.
So what if you need help with moving out, but you don’t have the budget for an expensive full-service move. You have options! Let’s take a look at how U-Pack can help you pair a self-move with moving help—and still save money.
Affordable self-move option.
A U-Pack self-move is a little di... Read More
That’s a tough question to answer without seeing your belongings. And if you're like most people, the thought of a stranger walking through your home to do an in-home estimate isn't very comforting. Here’s some help though... U-Pack provides excellent Space Estimator Tools to help you determine the amount of space you’ll need. Our favorite is the Room-by-Room Space Estimator because you can walk through your home and enter the items you'll be moving, then calculate the total at the end.
If you're considering renting a truck and driving it yourself, do you mind if I present another option? Have you heard of U-Pack? It’s a “self-move” service with prices that compare to truck rental (when you’re moving ... Read More
Winter can be a tough time to move. Cooler temperatures, treacherous weather conditions, and shorter daylight hours can complicate things. But, there’s good news for those of you that need to move in the winter... lower moving rates! Fall and winter are considered part of the “off-peak” moving season. You’ll find that prices are a little higher right around the holidays, but outside of that, if a low price is your goal, you’re moving at the right time.
If you do find yourself moving during the winter, we would like to provide some helpful tips, safety information, transportation options and ways to get the best rates.
Moving in the Winter- Weather Safety
As you carry stuff in and out of your house on moving day, be sure your walkway is clear of snow and ice. Use an ice melter mix, put sand over the walkway... Read More
When you’re planning a move to a new city, there are so many things you have to remember; changing your address is at the top of the list. The United States Postal Service offers a couple of convenient options to make the process easy: a temporary change of address if you plan to move back within 12 months; or a permanent change of address if you have no plans to move back.
Keep in mind, when you choose the “permanent move” option, the USPS will forward your mail for 12 months, so don’t forget to change your address with all necessary companies and individuals (e.g. the IRS, Social Security Administration, State Department of Motor Vehicles, Credit Bureaus, Department of Veterans Affairs, etc.). Magazines are only forwarded for 60 days, so make the magazine subscription companies aware of your new address too – ... Read More
There are 164,000 emergency room visits each year due to ladder-related injuries, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. When moving (or decorating for Christmas this time of year), it is inevitable that you will need to use a ladder. Maybe you are painting your new home, taking down artwork to pack it up, or installing light fixtures…but what you do on the ladder isn’t nearly as important as safely using the ladder.
We have previously posted an article about how to use a ladder safely, but here are some more pointers to make sure you are safe up on that ladder.
Check the maximum load rating of your ladder. Don’t exceed the weight ... Read More
Whether you're going just a few blocks away or starting fresh in an entirely new town, moving is exciting. You and your family will get to explore new surroundings, discovering the details that make your new neighborhood feel like home. If you're staying in your home town, you may already be familiar with other neighborhoods, but seeing them from the outside isn't the same as experiencing them as a resident. Take the time to get to know an area, and you'll find the ideal neighborhood for your family.
To find your dream neighborhood, you must first know what you want from the move. Do you long for quiet surroundings and spacious yards? Are you hoping for a stimulating cultural and educational climate? Do you place a premium on walking or biking to work? Knowing what you want in a perfect home is the first step to finding it. For most f... Read More
Whether it’s over the hill and through the woods or up in the air through the clouds, these Thanksgiving travel tips are sure to get you to grandma’s house (or wherever your family’s Thanksgiving is held this year) easier! Take a look, and Happy Thanksgiving!
According to AAA, 42.2 million Americans traveled at least 50 miles from their home in 2011 over Thanksgiving. That number was an 11.4% jump from 2010, so expect 2012 to jump even more!
Here are some great tips and info about traveling by air during Thanksgiving:
You can bring a turkey on the plane. However, the turkey must securely wrapped or in a seal proof container. The turkey must be in a solid frozen state when presented to TSA for screening—if there’s moisture at all, it won’t be accepted. You cannot use an ice pack or gel to keep it cold on ... Read More
Are you constantly stressed out? You are not alone! According to a 2011 survey by the American Psychological Association, 22% of Americans reported “extreme” stress. And if you’re moving soon, I’m sorry to say that moving is listed at the top of the list of life’s most stressful events (along with marriage, divorce, and the death of a loved one). On a daily scale, the leading factors of stress are money, work, and the economy (job stability)—things I’m sure we’re all very familiar with.
But, there’s good news! There are things you can do to proactively lower the levels of stress in your life—even if you’re moving. If you’re tired of dealing with stress, today’s the day for you! Nov... Read More
It's no surprise that this post is #1 in our list of most viewed moving tips. Refrigerators are expensive, so moving them the right way is a big, big deal. For Flashback Friday, and to continue the 100th Moving Tip celebration, let's take a look back at Jeremy's advice on moving a refrigerator. Happy Friday!
Moving large items can be tricky if you don't have a game plan from the start. In this U-Pack favorite, a U-Pack Moving Expert explains tips for moving a refrigerator.
Refrigerators are expensive. If you're moving one, you want to make sure you do it right to keep it from getting damaged.
Here are some great tips for moving your refrigerator safely:
Today's Flashback Friday Moving Tip first posted in 2010, and it's one of our most viewed posts. If you're planning a move soon, take a look at some great advice on how to calculate your moving expenses. Happy Friday!
Calculating moving expenses
When you're budgeting for a long distance move and calculating moving expenses, it's important to consider more than just the price on the moving company's quote. Depending on the type of moving service you choose, there can be other "soft costs" (costs that aren't technically attached to your move, but incurred as a result of your move). Some great examples of these additional costs are, hotel stays, eating out, fuel, snacks, and car maintenance.
Let me start by explaining that U-Pack is a "you pack, we drive" se... Read More
To continue the 100th Moving Tip celebration, check out this post from last year by Leanna. She's a police wife and a personal firearm owner, so she knows her stuff when it comes to safely handling weapons and ammunition (and moving)!
What NOT to Move - Firearms and Ammo If you're moving long distance, it's likely that you stumbled across our blog as part of your research (A+ for doing your homework!). This "homework" includes understanding the Do Not Ship list, which includes firearms and ammunition. This restriction applies to all U-Pack moves, not just those crossing international borders or outside of the continental U.S.— but don't worry, you definitely have a f... Read More
We're continuing the 100th moving tip celebration! Today let's look back at a helpful post from 2009. Jeremy offers some super advice designed to help you move your television like a pro. Enjoy!
We often get questions about the best way to move a television. Understandably – they're our prized possessions and the focal point of our living rooms, bedrooms and game rooms, right?
To answer that question, I've compiled some television moving tips:
Put it back in its original packaging. If you kept the original packaging for your TV, kudos! This is the best way to pack it. Unfortunately, most people think they won't need it again or they don't have room to store it, and it goes to the trash. If you don't have the original box, try checking with the... Read More
The U-Pack Blog hit a huge milestone today... 100 Moving Tips! In celebration, for the next several days we'll be going back into the archives and re-posting some of the most popular. Today's re-post is from way back in 2008, Moving Out for the First Time. Who doesn't need a little advice about that? We hope you enjoy... and learn a little while you're at it.
Deciding to leave home can be difficult. You question yourself - am I ready? Others question you – are you independent enough? Can you take care of yourself and a home?
Here's a little advice from someone who's moved a few times in her life…
Plan a moving budget You'll need to come up with a moving budget, and once it's ... Read More
It’s time to get out and VOTE! If you’re new to an area and need help locating your polling place, check out www.vote411.org. It’s a wonderful nonpartisan resource designed to help with all things voting related.
To find your polling place, just enter your home address – you’ll get a map to your polling place along with the hours of operation. You can also verify your voter registration status, get a view of the candidates and issues you'll see on your ballot, and compare where the candidates stand on issues that are important to you. I'm recommending it to everyone who wants to get educated before going to the polls!
Military voters, this is a great resource for you, too!
Absentee voting is voting by someone who is unable to vote at their official polling station. For instance, if you are an active military member (like so many of our U-Pack military moving customers are), or if your move is taking place during “voting season,” or even just if you will be out of town for work on election day – you can absentee vote.
Absentee voting is a really simple process. Because most states have slightly different procedures for absentee voting, I’m going to give you the overall general directions, and then give you a resource where you can check out exactly how to absentee vote in your state.
A General Look at Absentee Voting Each state is in charge of their ... Read More
U-Pack’s specialty is long-distance moving, so that’s what we’ll talk about today—how to move to another place when it’s far away.
As you already know, you have several options for moving long-distance. You can do it ALL yourself (i.e. rent a big truck and drive it), you can hire someone to do it ALL (i.e. a full-service mover), or you can choose an option that’s right in the middle (i.e. a “you pack, we drive” service like U-Pack). Really, it all depends on your budget, and how much work you’re willing and able to do. Truck rental and “you pack, we drive” almost always cost significantly less than full-service options.
The absolute best place to get started is by getting moving quotes. Typically you c... Read More
Tips for finding a doctor in your new city If you’ve ever had to find a new doctor for any reason, you know first-hand what a pain it can be. If you’re planning a move soon (or you’ve already moved) it can be more of a challenge, especially if you’re not familiar with your new city and have yet to meet people who might be able to refer you. If that’s the boat you’re in, here are some things you can do to help choose the best doctor for you and your family in your new town:
Ask for referrals. Word of mouth is always a great tool. Though you may not have too many friends to ask yet, if you’re starting a new job, talk to your co-workers, the HR department, etc. to see who they recommend. This will also help ensure the doctor is in... Read More
Time to move out? If you’ve ever moved before (and even if you haven’t) I’m sure you know that there are many, many things on your moving to-do list. In fact, it can border on overwhelming. U-Pack has designed some great checklists to make it much more manageable. Check out the moving checklist and the moving-to-do list, print them, and keep them with you throughout your entire move. I think you’ll find that when you’re prepared, the process is significantly easier. Now, here are some extra tips to make moving out a little easier.
Let your landlord know. If you’re a renter, your landlord will require advance notice that you’ll be moving out. If you’re hoping to get your security deposit ... Read More
Moving to a new city can be difficult. I know from firsthand experience, as I just recently moved from the city I've lived my entire life to a place I've only visited a few times. Since I'm going through the process now of learning how to make new friends in a new city, I'd thought I thought I'd share some tips I've learned along the way. Here's to hoping one of these 15 tips will help you make new friends and develop your social life in your new city!
Be alone in public. So I know this sounds like a really awkward thing to do, but go with me on this. Imagine striking up a conversation with someone over a book you're reading as you sip your chocolate chip Frappuccino at the local café. Before you know it, you're going to see the movie about the book the next weekend with your new friend. All because you took the risk, went out alone in public, and stru... Read More
Even though more and more buyers are going online to shop for their ideal home, a ton of value remains with the “old fashioned” open house. There’s just something about actually walking through a home that gets people excited and brings about offers. So, how do you have a successful open house? This Open House How To, outlines the preparation, promotion and execution of a successful open house – whether you’re using a realtor or selling your home on your own.
Open House Preparation
You’ll definitely want to organize and clean before your open house. Buyers will open cabinets and closets, so make sure to organize and clean every nook and cranny – baseboards, tops of cabinets, ceiling fans, light fixtures etc. If you have pets, make sure to remove al... Read More
“Should we have a joint banking account or separate banking accounts?” It’s a major question that most newlyweds and co-habiting couples will eventually have to answer. Here you’ll find the pros and cons of a joint bank account. I hope the information helps you decide the best option for your family.
The Pros of a Joint Bank Account
It encourages regular communication about finances.
All the money is in one spot, so managing your finances is easier.
With a larger sum of money in your savings account, you can earn interest money faster.
You would still have access to the money if you or your spouse were to pass away.
You get an accountability partner on your spending and vice versa.
You’re more likely to work together to meet financi... Read More
Since you’re moving, one of the tasks you’ll have to complete is a change of address through the US Postal Service. While doing this means your mail will be forwarded for a period of time, it’s good to know that there are some things that the postal service will not forward, even with a change of address. In general, Express Mail, Priority mail, first-class mail, magazines and newspapers will be forwarded. The things that won’t be forwarded are the following:
Coupons
Advertisements
Credit Card Applications
Items specified “do not forward”
Items addressed to “current resident”
Catalogs
Certified mail will only be forwarded by payment of a weekly fee through the United St... Read More
Are you moving? Find out who needs your new address
If you’re in the process of moving, you already know that changing your address is just one of the many things on your moving “to do” list (for a full list, check out U-Pack's comprehensive Moving Checklist). You can begin this process by going to your local post office to complete a change of address form. If a trip to your postal service isn’t an option, you can also print a copy of the form at usps.com and mail it in, or complete it online for a small fee. With a USPS change of address, your mail will be forwarded for a while so you’ll have time to notify everyone of your new address.
If you’re moving to a large city, like New York, Chicago, Boston, D.C., etc., you’ve got some challenges that are unique to “city moving,” like parking, narrow streets, loading and unloading times, etc.
That’s where U-Pack comes in. Though it can be somewhat of a logistical challenge in several of these locations, the servicing ABF terminals are accustomed to delivering in these areas and are typically able to offer reasonable solutions.
Congratulations! You’re moving into a new house! And congratulations, you’re now your own landlord! Of course, being a homeowner is awesome (you're building equity and investing in your future – a win-win), but it’s good to be aware that there’s a lot that goes with it.
I’ve compiled a few things that were designed to help you prepare for homeownership and to give you an idea of what to purchase and what to expect when you’re moving into a new home:
Tool Kit and Basic Repair Book – With homeownership comes great responsibility and a personal skills test. Many repairs around the house can be done with some guidance, and a lot of patience and confidence. But it’s important to know when to call an expert.
You know what I think people dread most about moving? It’s the process of actually choosing a mover. Don’t you think the horror stories, bad reviews and exposés we’ve all seen and heard about unscrupulous moving companies has us shaking in our boots (and rightly so)? What I’ve noticed is that at the end of virtually every story I’ve read or show I’ve watched is the same advice: research. It sounds so simple, yet there’s so much information online that it’s difficult to know where to start and most importantly, who to trust.
Here’s what we suggest:
Start with consumer reviews and recommendations from people you know.
Social media has made it possible to get first-hand experience from people who ... Read More
Just like with hotels, airlines and popular vacation destinations, there are times of the year that are less expensive to move than others. We’re actually moving into one of those times right now – the fall and winter months are considered part of the “off-peak” moving season. That simply means more availability and lower prices. If you’re planning a move before the holidays, now’s the time to get a moving quote!
When you select your moving date (the date U-Pack delivers the moving trailer or ReloCubes), you’ll typically find lower prices during the middle of the week. In contrast, you’ll normally notice higher prices during the summer months, on Fridays, at the end of the month and on the days surrounding holidays. We call these &ldqu... Read More
Since U-Pack does all of the driving, many of our customers end up taking a little road trip while their goods are traveling across the country via ABF (how awesome that you can travel in your own vehicle instead of driving a rental truck).
As you know, it can be very difficult to eat healthy at fast food joints on the road. Thankfully, there are some new regulations in the works under the Affordable Health Care Act that will mandate that all restaurant chains with more than 20 locations post calorie counts on their menus. McDonald’s is jumping ahead of the game and this week will begin listing calorie information on all restaurant and drive-thru menus. This is good news for people on the go who want to lead a healthy ... Read More
It's Friday! That means it's another chance to look back at some posts that customers have found helpful in the past. For today's Flashback Friday, we're taking another look at Christina's post about how to move. Studies show that moving is one of the most stressful events you'll experience in your life. The information Christina provides was designed to make it a little more manageable. Happy Friday!
Nearly 40 million Americans move each year, and soon you’ll be joining that statistic! Make your move stress-free by learning exactly how to move and begin the moving the process.
How to move: the moving process Before you do anything moving related, print a copy of the Moving Checklist and ... Read More
On November 6, 2012, U.S. citizens will have the opportunity to vote for the next President of the United States! However, if you have recently moved to a new state or are planning a to move out of state before Election Day, you might not get the opportunity!
This blog post will explain exactly how to change voter registration if you’re moving out of state, or have moved to a new state recently.
Voting Requirements Just so there’s no confusion, here are the requirements to be eligible to vote:
In most states, you must be 18 years old to vote. Some states have residency requirements to vote. Get the specific voting requirements for your state by contacting your state’s election office.
There’s no doubt that moving day (and the weeks leading up to it) are extremely busy. Thank goodness for resources like U-Pack’s Moving Checklist, Moving Timeline, Moving To-Do List, and tons of other moving tips and moving advice, that were designed to make the whole process a little more manageable. Here are just a few other things to consider when you’re planning a move:
Have you decided how much of the work you’re willing to do on your own?
I’m sure you know by now that you can save sign... Read More
It's Flashback Friday! Today, we're looking back at some great tips Christina posted earlier in the year about moving to a new state. We hope they're helpful. Happy Friday!
There’s a lot to do when you move to a new state. As a new resident, you’ll want to get the to-do list done quickly so that you can enjoy all that your new state has to offer! Here are 5 helpful tips for moving to a new state:
#1 Do your taxes
Unless you’re moving to, or living in, one of the nine states that don’t require residents to pay personal income taxes (Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Washington, and Wyoming) you’ll need to pay taxes in two states. You’ll pay to one state as a resident, and the other as a nonresident until you become a perman... Read More
To move or not to move That is the question, so the experts at U-Pack have come up with some questions for you to ask yourself to see if moving is something you should do!
Location
What do I not like about where I currently live?
What would I change about my current place of residence to improve it?
Does the weather make a difference in how I live my day-to-day life?
What is my ideal climate?
Is there someone who can replace me if a family member or friend needs help and I am unable to be there for them?
What benefits (like child care, etc.) are important in choosing my potential new city?
What makes another city better than the place I am currently living at?
If you’re moving into a new home, now is the perfect time to make sure it's safe for everyone living there – specifically children. Unfortunately, accidents happen each day that could have been avoided just by taking a few extra steps. Here are the safety devices every home should have. Does yours?
Smoke detectors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over one-third of home fire deaths occur in homes without smoke alarms. Fires can occur any day, at anytime, so all homes should have smoke detectors installed in rooms where a fire hazard may be present (including bedrooms). They’re inexpensive, easily accessible, and typically battery operated.
Fire extinguisher. Having one of these readily available can save your home and your life. The National Fire Protection As... Read More
If you're thinking about packing and moving, then you're probably not just playing games. Maybe you should be though. You also might think about one game in particular: Tetris.
A 2009 study conducted by researchers at the Mind Research Network, adolescent girls after playing Tetris showed greater brain efficiency and developed thicker brain cortexes. Scientists doing magnetic imaging resonance scans of the girls noticed increased thickness in areas of the girls' brains associated with visual, tactile and auditory functions. Interestingly enough, these were not the same areas where the test subjects demonstrated greater brain efficiency. These were in areas associated with critical thinking, reasoning, language and processing.
Now, you might be wondering what that has to do with packing. Tetris is a po... Read More
Anytime you do something yourself, you can usually count on saving money. For instance, when we moved into our new home, we did all the painting ourselves, and you guessed it, we saved tons by not hiring a professional painter. Instead of hiring a landscaper, my husband mows our lawn and weeds the flowerbeds – another big money saver. Moving is no different. If you can do at least some of the work yourself, you’ll definitely save money – sometimes a significant amount. Let’s take a look at exactly how much you can save by doing a self-move and taking on some of the work yourself.
First you’ll need to know the price to move with and without moving help. Click here to get a free mov... Read More
How to deal Moving away from family is a hard thing to do. It was hard for me to say goodbye to my parents when I moved 15 minutes away in the same town, and it was even harder for me to say goodbye to them when I moved to a town an hour away. Here are my best tips for how to deal when moving away from family:
Call/text often. It doesn’t matter if your definition of often is two times a day, every day, or every week, just call or text. If you don’t call every day, write down the ups and downs of your week so you’ll be able to remember things to tell them when they ask about your week. Text them in the morning and afternoon to let them know how you’re doing.
Email. If calling and texting isn’t an option, email! There’s a fun thrill when you see a message in your inbox fr... Read More
Sometimes, finding the right job means moving for the right job. Whether your company is relocating you, or you’ve found what sounds like your dream job, you need to learn all you can about moving for a job—the experts at U-Pack are here to help!
Moving Tips
Check the unemployment rates in your new state to find out how it ranks against your home state. Is there more or less employment opportunity in your home state? If it’s less, moving for a job might be the right choice.
If you’ve received a job offer, look beyond the salary. Is there room to grow in the company? Will the organization invest in your professional development?
Talk to your family about the move. Have them help you weigh the pros and cons of moving to ano... Read More
The first “homes” I had after moving out of my parents’ house were apartments. Nothing like sharing walls with strangers! I lived in a very tiny one bedroom in a busy apartment complex as well as a little bit bigger townhouse in a small duplex. Moving out of an apartment creates some unique situations. Let U-Pack® give you some valuable information on moving out of an apartment.
Cleaning. Most likely, getting all or part of your deposit back will depend on how you leave the apartment. Talk to your landlord and look back over your renter’s agreement to see what expectations are set. You should always leave the place clean and free from trash and such, but different places set different expectations. One apartment required that I clean the carpets and turn in a receipt. Another place wanted me to spackle and ... Read More
Moving Checklist: Why You Need and Where to Find One
It doesn’t matter if this is your first move or your fifteenth move, when you’re getting ready to pack your home into a moving truck and head out across the country, there are a bazillion things to remember. Okay, maybe not quite a bazillion, but you get my point – there’s a lot to deal with (how many zeros are in a bazillion anyway?). Some may occur to you naturally – like ordering moving boxes and packing supplies, because how are you going to pack without them, right? But some things may not be top-of-mind – like transferring your pet’s vet records, getting copies of your kid... Read More
I’m the kind of person that always likes to be prepared. If learning one piece of information will help me to be better prepared, you can bet that I’m searching for it! Moving is one of those things that you just need to be prepared for. And what better way to prepare than to get moving advice from the people who know best—the experts at U-Pack Moving. Get a free moving quote instantly from U-Pack, then enjoy reading these great tips to apply to your upcoming move!
Get U-Pack’s Moving Checklist
If you like details, you’ll love this moving checklist. This ultimate checklist includes week-by-week moving tips to check off, moving out/in checklist, and after-the-move checklist. Staying on task has neve... Read More
Make it sparkle A clean home is a happy home! Before you start deciding where each piece of furniture goes, read these tips to make your home as clean as possible:
Get prepared Put on your cleaning clothes! You know, those clothes that you don’t mind getting bleach on or getting ruined. Wear old (but clean) shoes, too. Have all your cleaning supplies ready to go so that you’re not searching for them during the cleaning process.
Walls and ceilings I never considered cleaning the walls and ceiling in my first home. Get the cobwebs down, clean the corners, and wipe down the air vents. If you suffer from allergies, cleaning these things could keep the sneezing and sniffling down.
Floors If you have a steam cleaner, that will get your carpets really clean! If not, vacuum every inch ... Read More
How to protect your floors during a move Moving day means a lot of foot traffic for your floors. If you’re moving out, your new owners/landlord will appreciate you keeping the floors clean. If you’re moving in, you’ll especially want to protect your floors so that you don’t have to clean them as soon as you get settled in.
Protect carpet during a move To protect carpet, you can purchase self-adhesive, non-slip plastic film. The thrifty way of protecting your carpet is to use bed sheets, towels, or painter’s drop-cloths. I’ve also seen people use thin pieces of cardboard to make a path from room to door, or cut up strips of carpet to place on top of existing carpet. However, make sure you secure the any of the thrifty alternatives to the floor, as a mover might trip/slip while loading your belongings.
Through the process of carrying over 500,000 shipments more than 600 million miles, we’ve learned a lot about moving – how to do it efficiently, and how to do it affordably. If you have a move coming up and are searching for good moving tips and moving advice, you’ve definitely come to the right place. Though there are pages and pages of advice I could share, for the purpose of this post I’ve boiled it down to the five things we think will have the most impact on a successful move:
Just the thought of having to complete a move in just one week is a little overwhelming. But, I bet you would be surprised by the number of people that find themselves in this exact situation. If you need to move in a week, and feel like you’re anxiously drowning in to-do lists, let me help guide you through the process.
First, let me calm some of your anxiety by telling you that U-Pack is almost always able to do a last-minute move. Now, let’s get down to business. First things first, print off U-Pack’s free moving checklist. This will help ensure you don’t forget anything.
Next, get a moving quote. It’s free and it’s instant. You don’t have to schedule an in-home estimate. Just use the ... Read More
If you have read our “Do Not Ship” list, you may have noticed that we can’t transport your house plants on our moving trailers. Not only are there state regulations against it, it’s also a bad idea. Because moving trailers get no sunlight, they lack fresh air (very little air circulation), and depending on what season you’re moving, could experience extreme temperatures. In other words, it’s very unlikely your plants would survive the trip. So, how do you move house plants from one state to another? Here are some guidelines for moving your plants.
Take them in your own vehicle. `
This is the best way to ensure a temperature-controlled environment. But before you do, call your state ... Read More
I’ll go ahead and admit that things were a little crazy the last time we moved. Granted, it was before I worked at U-Pack, so I wasn’t as up-to-speed about the proper techniques. But I still thought we had it together. There were plenty of people there to help us load, which was great. But that also meant a lot of extra vehicles in the apartment complex parking lot (a no-no) and the front door being left open a lot (resulting in our dog escaping and evading capture for a long, long time). Talk about a hectic and stressful day. If I had only known then what I know now – things would have turned out completely different. I would have asked the friends helping us move to carpool, and I would have found someone to watch Mikey for the day.
Now that I know some great moving day tips, it’s only right ... Read More
Is it possible to be totally alone when you are surrounded by four million people? How long can you live in a concrete jungle without any concrete jungle friends? If you’re looking for a few tips on moving to a big city alone, you are in the right place. I think you’ll find that the singles scene in nearly all major metropolises in the U.S. is pretty vibrant. If you’re hoping to not be alone for long in your new city, you may keep in mind that larger cities on the west coast such as San Francisco, Seattle, and Phoenix seem to have drawn more single men, while large cities on the east coast and Midwest tend to have higher populations of single ... Read More
After living in a small town all of my life (even through graduate school), my husband and I moved to a city a little over an hour away to begin careers. I lived in different places during the summer, but always returned back to my hometown for fall college classes; so as you can imagine, I was a little nervous about moving to a new place for longer than two months. Now that I’ve lived in this new place for a while, I’ve realized that the move has been good for me in many ways.
Check out these 10 reasons why moving is good for you, then get a free moving quote from U-Pack!
A new place means discovering a new you. You’ll be around all new people and probably taking on a new way of living. Moving provides a great way to continually... Read More
I remember as a little kid getting on my older brother’s back and pretending that he was a horse. I would “spur” him with my bare feet to make him go faster and faster. I would even yell “faster, faster!” as his knees took a beating to the floor. Then when he was done being my pretend horse, he would buck me off gently and I’d go bug the other big brother for a ride.
When you move traditionally and say “faster, faster!” it’s your belongings that may take a beating. But it doesn't have to be that way. When you move with U-Pack and say “faster, faster!” that’s just what you get!
The need for moving fast U-Pack is a flexible, trusted, and affordable “you pack, we drive” moving company. At U-P... Read More
There’s a lot to consider when figuring out the best time to move. Whether you’re planning around the kids, a job, or something else, you’ll need to know the best time to move your belongings to your new home.
If you already have a specific time in mind to move, get a free moving quote from U-Pack to see how much your move will cost. Remember, WE do the driving!
If you’ve got some flexibility to your move, consider the following options:
Choose an off-peak moving day Did you know that the summertime is the busiest moving season, unlike the fall or winter? If summer is your only option, plan your move on an off-peak moving day, like a weekday or at the beginning of the month. You’ll see higher prices ... Read More
Have you found yourself moving to another city without a job, and now you’re wondering “Where should I start?” In today’s tough economy, personal initiative is more important than ever. It’s not unusual to have hundreds of applications per any available job; so your job is to convince the hiring company that you’re the perfect candidate for the position.
Helpful tips for moving to another city without a job:
Establish yourself as a local. Many companies prefer hiring locally in order to avoid traveling and relocation expenses.
What are your reasons for moving to a new city – brand new job, a job transfer, getting closer to family, getting married, restarting your life? Whatever has you moving, the first order of business is to get a plan.
I know; we’re always talking about plans around here. But experience tells us that when it comes to something as big as a move to a new city, knowing the how, when, and where of what’s going to happen is a huge game-changer.
Step 1 Start researching moving companies. That includes getting moving quotes. U-Pack Moving is a great place to start. Begin 30-60 days from your move.
Relax! You’re just moving . . . ha ha... easy for me to say. I moved four years ago and am almost back to normal. Moving can be a very stressful time. They say it is one of the most stressful things you go through during your life. So how do you get through it without losing it and maybe even with a little grace too? Here are a few things to try to help combat the proverbial moving and stress problem.
Start Early – Start working on your move as early as you can and pace yourself – we recommend at least eight weeks before your move day. Print out this moving checklist to keep you on track.
Get Organized – upack.com has some great ... Read More
It’s Flashback Friday! Each week we take a look at a blog post that’s been helpful to our readers in the past. Today’s flashback comes at a perfect time, since we’re only a little over a week away from tax day (this year taxes are due Tuesday, April 17th). If you moved in 2011, you’ll definitely want to check out this post about moving expenses and tax deductions.
Are my moving expenses tax deductible? The answer is yes, IF the move meets certain stipulations. Make sure to review Publication 521 on Moving Expenses, and/or speak with a tax professional if you have any questions. Here’s a quick run-down though.
Are you moving to a small town, perhaps to get away from big city life, or maybe a job or career change? Whatever the case, you’ll definitely want to do a little new-town-investigation before you move. Pre-move research will definitely help you get a feel for the city and what it has to offer, and you can do most of it online, from the comfort of your favorite chair!
Here are a few suggestions to help prepare you for your move to a small town:
Google your new city
Sounds simple, right? You can easily jump online and perform a search to see what comes up on your new town. Try searching “things to do in (your city),” “(city) newcomers,” or “moving to (city).” Most cities are known for something, so a little research will help you figure out what your new town has to of... Read More
Learn more about driving laws that change by state If you’re moving across the country, it’s good to know what driving laws might change as you drive state to state – specifically speed limits, minimum driving age, seat belts, radar detectors, carpooling and cell phone usage. Remember, ignorance of the law isn’t an excuse, so here are some resources for determining what the laws are before moving day gets here:
Speed limit laws. Since not all states acknowledge the same speed limits on the road, ultimately it’s up to the driver to look for posted speed limit signs. You should always err on the side of caution when in doubt. This chart from the National Motorists Association lists speed limits on interstates by state: http://www.motorists.org/speed-limit... Read More
Heather is the U-Pack Blog’s newest Guest Blogger. We think you’ll enjoy her knowledge and helpful tips. Welcome Heather!
One thing’s for sure… Moving day is going to be busy. Keep reading: I’ll give some tips to help lessen the stress and make moving day easier.
Organizing. When you’re packing everything up, organization is ultra-important. If you keep things organized, you’ll definitely thank yourself when it comes time to unpack! There are a few things you might want to keep on and to make organization easier: a good, quality tape gun, marker, labels, notepad, and basic tools.
Packing your boxes. Start with numbering your boxes and labeling them by room with a brief description of the contents. Write these down in list-form in your notebook in case you need to find somethi... Read More
Moving from a renter to a homeowner is a big step in life. I still remember the day we signed those papers that allowed us to quit writing checks to a landlord and start writing checks to a mortgage company. It was a big, big day.
One thing I learned very quickly was that owning a home brings with it both rewards and challenges. As a renter you simply make your monthly payment, get insurance on your personal property and let the landlord do the rest. As a homeowner, you’re now responsible for even the smallest details – repair, lawn care, insurance, utilities...everything. While it’s exciting, it’s still a HUGE responsibility. Before you move into the buying phase, I think it’s always a good idea to check out a “should I rent or buy” calculator; ... Read More
It’s Flashback Friday! Each week we revisit a blog topic that our readers find helpful. Today’s flashback? Tax Deductible Moving Expenses. Since we’re only two months away from tax day, this is a post we think you’ll find very helpful! Happy Friday!
If you moved last year, you may have tax deductible moving expenses! Take a look at the following articles and forms to see if your moving expenses qualify for a tax break.
One of the downsides to moving is that it disrupts your routine. You’re planning your moving schedule, making a moving checklist, packing, and focusing on the move. It’s hard to make time for normal mealtimes, exercise and other daily activities. If you’re someone who benefits from a regular workout, you may find it gets dropped from your plans. But guess what? You can get some terrific exercise from the activities involved in moving.
Calories per Hour Calculator If you’ve packed moving boxes and run up and down the stairs with them, you know you’re exerting a lot of energy. But how many calories are you burning? Use an online calorie burning calculator that lets you plug in your sex, the activity, time involved and then gives y... Read More
If you’re anything like me, only half of the things on your “to do” list get done during the day. Sometimes I’m up late trying to get things done that should’ve been completed hours earlier. When you’re planning a move, I can guarantee that your “to do” is going to grow like a middle school rumor.
You’re getting quotes for everything from renting a moving truck to self-serve options like U-Pack and full-service options like MoveBuilder. You’re thinking about moving supplies, travel dates and times, setting up and turning off utilities, enrolling in a new school, buying and selling a home. There’s just so much to do!
That’s why U-Pack makes booking your move easy and convenient with our online reservation option. Just c... Read More
If you’ve seen our "do not ship" list, you know that when you’re moving there are some things you’ll want to move in your own vehicle instead of in the moving truck. Some things you can’t load into the truck, and some you simply may not want to load into truck. So the big question is: How do you decide how much to move in your car—especially if “stuff” isn’t the only thing you’re moving (i.e. other people). Let’s see if I can give you some insight and a few tips.
Consider your vehicle’s size and space. Obviously this will dictate what you can take with you and what you need to make alternative plans for. A compact vehicle may be able to carry more if the only occupant is the driver, but if you’ve... Read More
Something you may not have considered while you're preparing for your cross-country move is how to protect yourself from debit card and credit card fraud. Considering all of the transactions that take place during the moving process, it's a very real concern and definitely something to keep top-of-mind.
The point where much debit card and credit card fraud happens is through online purchases. That means when you're shopping online it's best to choose sites with a secure checkout— you'll recognize these sites by their URL. It should start with https:// instead of http://. You'll notice that U-Pack offers a secure checkout, which you can see in the URL: https://www.upack.com/secure/reserve.asp.
My recommendation is to make all purchases related to your move on one credit car... Read More
You've done the hard part – your life is packed up in moving boxes, ready to go. Now it's on to the fun part, right? Moving in a new home is exciting, but it can be just as overwhelming as coordinating the move out of the old one. Where do you start?
Organize, Organize, Organize…
When you're moving in a new home, organization is the key to your move going smoothly. That organization should start when you're packing your boxes. It is important to label your boxes clearly so that you know exactly what is in the box and which room the box should go in. If you do this, you won't have to constantly answer the question "where does this box go?" from y... Read More
Discover Easy & Cost Effective Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool in the Summer If you're moving to a new home during the summer, the cost of moving isn't the only expense you have to worry about. If you haven't gotten your first electric bill, you may be surprised by its impact on your bank account— especially if you're not sure how well the home is insulated. Besides making sure the doors are closed in between going in and out of the house on move-in day, there are some things you can do to keep from running your air conditioner overtime all throughout the summer.
Cool the house/apartment early in the day. Keep all doors and windows closed.
When the sun is out, close all shades, blinds and curtains – especially in rooms with heavy morning and afternoon sun. If ... Read More
If you're like me, the idea of packing up one house to move to another sounds like a daunting task. In fact, it makes me a little light-headed just thinking about it. The thought of trying to figure out what to take with you and what to let go of is a little overwhelming, but the truth is, if you can let go of the things you don't need— the stuff that's just taking up precious space— you will help reduce moving costs in the long-run.
So, we'll help you figure out what things to donate when you're moving. Don't forget to get a receipt for tax purposes. It might make a difference when April rolls around.
Our suggestion is to start with baby steps. Begin little by little clearing out of the items you simply don't use, items you have multiples of or... Read More
Though my kids have never made a big move (when I say big, I'm talking moving long-distance away from friends and family), they have had to move from one house to another. It was hard on them. They missed their rooms and the familiarity of their surroundings. But it was minor compared to what some families go through. Now that my daughter is in 1st grade, I can't imagine a conversation telling her that she's going to move away from the home she's known for years, her family and her friends at school. If that's the situation your family is in, consider checking out books that were designed to help kids get through the stress of relocating. Here are some recommended books, listed by age.
If you're in the process of moving, you know there are a lot of details to handle aside from just transporting your household items from one home to another. When you make a move to a new city or state, you have to be sure to transfer a number of important documents— one of those being medical records. I don't know about you, but there's something about knowing how things work, and what to expect that makes me feel more at ease. Moving long-distance is definitely a time when it's good to feel at ease. So we've researched and determined the steps you can take to transfer your medical records when you move.
First, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (you know it as HIPAA) so you're a... Read More
Moving can be a stressful time for anybody. However, there are steps you can take to make a move less stressful and more organized! Consider these 3 tips for a smart move to help ensure your move is as easy as possible.
Tips for a Smart Move:
Getting organized - Organization is the key to a smart move. The key to being organized is starting early! The biggest mistake people make when moving is not leaving enough time to pack. Begin by making a list of what needs to be packed in each room, such as furniture, clothes, dishes, etc. Be sure to have plenty of moving supplies: sturdy boxes, Bubble Wrap, and tape are essential to safe... Read More
How to Introduce Yourself to New Neighbors We all know that moving into a new neighborhood involves having new neighbors, but it's how you introduce yourself to them that will set the tone for your future encounters together. Meeting new people can be difficult and unnerving (especially if you're overly shy), but if you respect their privacy, space, and time you can develop the kind of camaraderie everyone hopes to have with new neighbors!
Here's how to introduce yourself to new neighbors:
Start by "scoping" out the community and looking for the houses with families (i.e. toys outside, mini-vans filled with sports equipment, screams from the backyard), elderly individuals, gardeners, night owls, etc. This way you can find any common ground you might share with these neig... Read More
Great Tips for Cleaning Your New Home – Getting Rid of the Old Germs Cleaning your new home and getting rid of old germs is an important task to do before you even begin to unpack. So where do you start? Jump right in! Thoroughly cleaning one room at a time will make the task seem a little less daunting. If you live close enough to your new home, it's a smart idea to clean before moving over all of your household items. If you don't live nearby, be sure to schedule some time for scrubbing before you begin unloading the moving boxes.
Before starting any large task, it's always best to have a game plan. Here's an easy-to-follow checklist to get you started on cleaning your new home and getting rid of... Read More
Buying your first house— what to expect Purchasing a home can be a very exciting time in your life; it can also be a little nerve-racking! Whether you're just beginning to search for a home or have been renting one for years, there are a few things to consider when buying your first house.
First things first: be patient. Buying your first house takes time, and you likely won't find your dream house overnight. Some buyers have even compared the search to trying to find a needle in a haystack! Just remember that there are lots of options out there, and you'll find the perfect home for you when the time is right.
Next step: plan ahead. It's a good idea to decide on a price range you're comfortable with, which will make the house-hunting much easier. Consult... Read More
Leanna Deleon has been a U-Pack analyst since 2006. As a police wife and personal firearm owner, Leanna really knows her stuff when it comes to safely handling weapons and ammunition (and moving)!
What NOT to Move— Pressurized Tanks, Propane Tanks and Aerosol Cans BOOOOOM! Yes, an explosion is a possibility if you don't do your moving "homework." Pressurized tanks, propane tanks and aerosol cans are restricted for a reason.
In Part 1 of this series, we clarified that BB, pellet and airsoft guns are safe to move with your U-Pack shipment…as long as you don't include the pressurized tanks that are required to make some of those guns work. In this post, we'll discuss pressurized tanks, propane tanks and aerosol cans. When punctured or exposed to heat, these items can explode, causing damage to your shipment, or even worse, injuring ... Read More
Guest blogger Zac Melton knows what it feels like to be the new kid in town. Here are a few tips from Zac to help you find a few friendly faces in your new neighborhood.
Whether you're moving because you just got promoted or if you just wanted a change of pace, making friends and acquaintances can be one of the most difficult things when you're new in town.
You might find yourself thinking, "Where should I go, and what do I say?" or even "what will they think of me?". There is no doubt these questions can be unnerving, but in the right setting the conversation will come naturally. Below are a few ideas for getting to know people in your new community.
Fitness Center: This is the first place you should go once you get in town! A fitness center is better th... Read More
Moving to California can be an adventure, but what do you need to know about before you make your relocation? In two words: gypsy moths. You may be laughing and thinking I am absolutely nuts. What would a moth have to do with moving? In truth, this little moth could determine whether or not you can complete your move to California.
A gypsy moth starts out as a caterpillar, which then turns into a moth. They are well known in the northeast, but can be found just about anywhere. According to California Department of Food and Agriculture, a gypsy moth can eat up to one square foot of leaves a day. They can easily destroy an entire forest. Can you imagine the devastation these little guys could cause to California's famous wine making industry?
Moving Industry Insider Tips If you or someone you know has an upcoming move, there are several things about the moving industry that you should know.
Not All Movers are Movers One of the biggest secrets of the moving industry is that in large part, it's made up of people who aren't movers. ’Brokers' are people or companies that work in the moving industry to sell moves to customers, and then they contract with movers (who may or may not be qualified or trustworthy) to get things done. As a customer, this is not in your best interest. You want to deal directly with the moving company that will be handling your move. A broker just creates an additional layer of cost, and sometimes confusion, that you don't need.
Price may be Negotiable, but Quality is Not The moving industry is a co... Read More
In her last post, Adria gave several tips on how to find a reliable contractor. Here are a few questions to ask when checking references on a contractor you're thinking of hiring.
Questions to Ask References
After you've collected the four different kinds of references recommended above, it's time to start picking their brain about the contractors in question.
Can you explain your overall experience? (Pay attention to their tone, their overall statements, etc.
Would you recommend this contractor again?
Did the contractor respond quickly when you contacted him? Did he provide good solutions to your questions?
Was the supervisor for your project the owner or an employee? Was he part-time/full-time? May I have his full name?
Did they protect the other areas of your house from dust, dirt, a... Read More
Adria Saracino from eLocal visits the U-Pack blog with advice on finding a reliable contractor for home repairs and installations.
How to Hire the Right Contractor: What to Look for and Questions to Ask
The decision has been made: you're moving.
From the day the decision is made to the day you move, there is a seemingly endless list of tasks to accomplish, such as hiring movers and selling your home. And the process of selling your home is no easy task. You need to hire a realtor, put it on the market, hope you sell it, go through inspection, pray the inspection passes and that you go into closing…it's a long task that can be overwhelming.
A majority of this time is spent waiting, and the length of time you wait has a lot to do with your home. The market is slowly getting better, but buyers are still cautious when purchasi... Read More
It's pretty easy to find the general city data for an area (such as the population, zip codes, etc). However, it's not so easy to find out the useful local information that affects your day to day life.
Most people who are making a big move cross country have visited the town they're moving to, or at the very least know someone that's been there. But how are you supposed to find out the ’inside info'? How do you know which school system will be the best fit for your child, or which is the best local park for enjoying a picnic with the family? Or perhaps even more importantly— how will you find the place to go for the best cheeseburger in the tri-county area?
No matter how you look at it, all of those details ... Read More
Long distance moving with pets: it's not as scary as it sounds Most folks want to make their move as simple as possible. If you have kids, it may take a bit more work to get the whole crew organized when moving cross country, but it's still an attainable goal. However, long distance moving with pets is different. After all, they can't tell you when they're hungry, scared, or when they need a potty break. But don't worry— people move with their pets all the time; and if they can do it, so can you! That's why U-Pack has compiled 5 easy tips to help you and your pets prepare for moving day.
Long distance moving with pets: 5 tips from ABF U-Pack If you're anxious about making a long distance move with pets, these tip... Read More
U-Pack welcomes our newest guest blogger, Snow Conant of MyNewPlace.com. Snow has completed many moves on her own and could be considered an expert in apartment hunting. Read on for some of Snow's best tips and tricks.
Things NOT to do when you move into your new place
As a veteran of many, many moves, I like to think that I have gotten somewhat decent at packing up my possessions, carting them to my new place, unpacking, and subsequently getting on with my life. However, in the process of transferring my possessions from one apartment to another there are always a few things that go missing, get broken, or generally go wrong that are beyond my - or anybody's - control. Just as it is not the moving company's fault if I pack my collection of 863 porcelain kittens* i... Read More
Question: Is it safe to ship household goods with U-Pack?
Answer: Yes; U-Pack transports thousands of household goods shipments each year with less than a 1% claims ratio.
Question: Great! How do I go about shipping household goods to my new home?
Answer: If you were thinking I'd have another one-sentence answer, I apologize for the fake-out. (I couldn't resist!) The truth is, it's easy to ship household goods with U-Pack; there are just a few tips we suggest to make your move as simple as possible.
Shipping Household Goods: Tip 1 Once you have a U-Pack reservation, it's time to get packing. Pick a room in your house and spend a day or two packing things into moving bo... Read More
As a guest blogger for U-Pack, transportation expert Derek Green shares some inside info on some of the best places to retire.
Best Places to Retire To
If after many years of hard work, you have finally decided to hang your hat and retire, it's a good time to make a list of places you would like to travel, relatives you would like to visit, or maybe a few places you would like to retire to.
Let's take a look at a few of the cities that people consider the best places to retire to:
Port Charlotte, FL With a population of around 48,000 and approximately 44% being over the age of 50, this coastal city has a variety of amenities available. Because of the toll the economy has played on the housing market, the pr... Read More
Guest blogger and U-Pack customer Johnny Cole talks about his two experiences moving cross country with ABF U-Pack:
Over the past year, I have moved my daughter three times using U-Pack--from Fort Smith, Arkansas to and from the Chicago, Illinois area and from Fort Smith to the Lafayette, Indiana area. It was a good choice every time.
The number one reason we chose U-Pack was price. I looked online and found out quickly that we couldn't do a one way rental truck and buy fuel for the price of letting U-Pack haul it.
Although young children are often more resilient than we give them credit for, moving cross country to a new, unfamiliar place is a big deal in their world. While you're going through the transition yourself, keep in mind that your kids are taking cues from you. If you appear excited about what's to come, yet relaxed about what you're leaving behind, they'll likely pick up on it. How you respond certainly makes an impact on how they'll respond. Like with many big changes in life (whether it be potty training, going to the dentist, or getting a new sibling) it can be helpful to read books to your children where the characters are dealing with some of the same issues your child is facing. This is a great way to help your child find solutions for handling... Read More
This post was written by guest blogger Nathaniel Broughton with vamortgagecenter.com, a mortgage lender specializing in government guaranteed home loans. If you are a veteran considering a home purchase, you may find this information a helpful resource. Keep in mind that as a veteran, you also qualify for a military moving discount with ABF U-Pack Moving. Thank you for serving.
Qualifying for Government Guaranteed Home Loans
Military members and their families spend a lot of time in transit.
From base relocations to overseas deployments, those who serve our country are often faced with frequent relocation. All that moving can put a strain on families and fin... Read More
It's that time of year again…tax season! If you moved in 2009, you may be eligible for a moving expenses tax deduction. We've written some helpful blog posts in the past that should be helpful again this year – including instructions for retrieving the cost to move from your U-Pack delivery receipt.
I may have mentioned before that I've been with U-Pack for almost 10 years. In that time, I've gotten to speak with thousands of customers moving long-distance. Through the next several months I'll let you in on some of the random moving tips I've learned throughout the years.
Moving Tip #1
Be Prepared. Carry what you need with you.
Let's face it...moving has a reputation of being stressful, overwhelming and just plain, well…grueling. And sometimes we get so caught up in the process we forget about the important "small" things. But, forgetting the "small" things can turn into a huge inconvenience.
Are you thinking about selling your house? Then you'll need to learn, memorize, and frequently repeat the Staging Motto (embarrassing yes…helpful yes…sometimes you do what you gotta do).
The Staging Motto:
"In order to please the masses, I will create a house that is clean, simplistic, and updated. This is no longer all about me, but rather selling this house and maybe making some money on the deal."
Now, let's break it down and make this happen.
Clean.
It's the first keyword in the motto for a reason. This applies to both the outside and inside of your home. Your house should look neat and tidy from the curb or nobody will even think about walking in the door. Inside it should be clean by sight AND smell. A... Read More
Get to know your new city So you're moving to a new home or apartment. What's next? Once you get there, you can't just stay in the house all day. And come on, you aren't going to be at work all day either. What do you do after work and on the weekends? How are you supposed to meet people? You need a strategy to learn the area and have some fun.
Get out of the house.
Start by checking out the local newspapers and area entertainment magazines to find events that interest you. Then start taking advantage of the local attractions like parks, libraries, museums and coffee shops.
Get a hobby.
If you're athletic (or want to be), join a gym or a running club. If you're into crafts, scrapbooking, sewing, pottery – or think it would be fun &ndash... Read More
Are your moving expenses tax deductible?It's tax time!
If you've determined that your moving expenses are tax deductible, you'll need a copy of your U-Pack delivery receipt. We understand that often in the shuffle of moving, the original gets misplaced. So, if you need a copy of your delivery receipt – with the total moving cost for your U-Pack move - we can help…and it's easy.
First, you'll need your ABF Tracking Number. It's the 9-digit number at the top of your Bill of Lading. You'll also need your U-Pack Reference Number. It's the 10-digit combination of letters and numbers at the top of your quote.
**If you don't have these numbers, call U-Pack at 800-240-7422 and we'll g... Read More
I've hosted many garage sales in my life. Some have been a money-making success and some such a total flop that afterwards I promised never to have another one again! I've got to admit though, when they flop, it's always because I didn't advertise or put much effort into it. So now I am a BIG advocate of advertising.
Here are some good tips for advertising your garage sale when you're moving:
Take an ad out in your local newspaper
Most daily newspapers charge a small fee for the ad. Trust me, it's well worth the money. Just make sure the ad stands out. If you're selling specific items like antiques, baby clothes, electronics, video games, home décor, etc., include that in your ad. If your sale is around August, include kids' clothes sizes (people are looking for a b... Read More
I've got two amazing kids – a 3 year-old and an 8-month-old. Thankfully, I had the good fortune of working and going to church with other moms and dads who could make child care recommendations when my maternity leave ended. Even so, it was a really difficult choice. I can only imagine what a daunting task it is when you're moving to a new city and don't know anyone who can make a recommendation.
So, here are some tips for finding child care in your new city:
Moving through the holidays
There's a break from school and all of the family is together. Or maybe you just have a few days off from work when you can finally relax and get things done. Either way, the last thing you should have to worry about is moving. But wait! There's only a limited amount of time before the kids have to be back at school, and the new job starts right after the holidays . . .
U-Pack Guaranteed
If holiday moving is on your agenda, one of the easiest ways to remove stress is to know exactly when you'll have your things back in your possession. At ABF U-Pack, we have an option called U-Pack Guaranteed. Sure, it costs a little extra, but you know the exact date (and time... Read More
Getting Stuff ED(ucation) Thinking turkey? You're not alone…Thanksgiving is just around the corner! Lots of people move during the holidays (especially back home); the kids are out of school, people have a few days off, and getting settled before going back to work can be as comforting as a mother's hug. Holiday Moving In the perfect scenario, would your shipment get delivered the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, giving you the entire holiday weekend to get unloaded and unpacked? That's possible with U-Pack Guaranteed.
Is my quote in a bind? The consumer awareness website Protect Your Move defines a binding quote as, "An agreement made in advance with your mover, which guarantees the total cost of the move based upon the quantities and services shown on the estimate." This seems to be the most sought after type. As with all important things in life, make sure to get a copy of the quote before your move to ensure both parties are aware of what services are to be provided. Remember, if any services are added or subtracted, the estimate can change. Go ahead and get in a bind…you only pay the quoted price for the service provided!
For as long as I have been talking to customers moving to California about Gypsy Moths, this is still the image that comes to mind.
I can't help it. But depending on your taste, this is probably a little more appealing illustration than what they actually look like.
No they aren't that bad, and I'm sure everyone's mother loves them, but I still can't help but have a preference for my cartoon version.
Gypsy Moths are a big deal if you are moving to the state of California. It doesn't matter if you are using U-Pack, a moving company or driving yourself; at some point, you are going to get stopped and quizzed about Gyps... Read More
When looking at your moving contract (or Bill of Lading) it is all about the details of the moving price. The main focus is what's included and how it can change.
Before signing your contract, you'll want to have a clear understanding of the following:
What happens if you end up using more or less space (or weight with some companies)?
Is there a maximum or minimum moving price?
What services are included in the moving contract? Are packing/loading/unloading services included? Are moving boxes and packing materials inclu... Read More
Just in case you didn't know, ABF U-Pack cannot move your pet. The reason - our trailers are not climate controlled. During the summer months the trailers can get very warm inside and during the winter months they can be very cold. Not ideal conditions for your four-legged or winged companion.
Since there are a lot of details and preparations involved in moving pets, I don't recommend waiting until the last minute to plan how you're going to move them from one state to another. To keep things as stress-free as possible for your furry friend (or your scaly or feathered ones too) try to give yourself at least a month to organize how you're going to move him/her.
When it comes to moving your pet(s) you normally have two options:
1. Take your pet along with you in your car. ... Read More
Knowing the exact dates your move will take place (loading, transit, and unloading) is something that may not seem an important detail initially, but it could be!
Is the date the truck will arrive for loading a guaranteed date? Check for wording on your contract that might indicate that it could be brought to you on a date other than the date you expect it to arrive.
How long will the truck be left at your house for loading? You want plenty of time to complete your loading, but knowing it will be picked up in a timely manner once loading is complete is important as well.
Once the truck is in transit, are you able to track its progress? Make sure there is information on the co... Read More
When talking with people who are moving, one concern we often hear is that people don't want to share space in a moving truck with other people – afraid their stuff will get mixed up or that someone else will have access to it. In a lot of cases, when your goods are being co-mingled with other peoples' goods, the moving company will place color coded stickers on the boxes to help distinguish one from the other. For example, Customer A is labeled with green stickers and Customer B is labeled with yellow.
Although moving companies who use this system find it to be fairly reliable, it can sometimes be problematic. What if a sticker falls off one of your moving boxes? What if a moving box is accidentally skipped? What ... Read More
This question (worded one way or another) is probably asked by U-Pack customers more than any other question. However, even when I answer that it is one foot of length by eight feet wide by nine feet tall I still get "Huh?". I think that a mental picture is worth a thousand words of explanation.
A U-Pack moving trailer is like a loaf of bread with twenty eight slices that are each one foot thick. Each slice is the same width (8 feet) and height (9 feet). Our customer only pays for the amount of footage (number of slices) that they use. Each moving quote has a base price for an estimated amount of space and a price per foot and can be adjusted as you load. To get an idea of the linear footage that you may use for your move you can enter individ... Read More
