How to Plan a Move

 Moving is a big undertaking, and it often is accompanied by other big ticket events such as starting a new job, changing your marital status or taking on a big debt. Following a logical, orderly series of steps will help keep the move from adding to the pressure. If you would like to hire movers Terry Moving and Storage can help you with all of your moving needs.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Getting ready

1. Decide if you will hire a mover or do it yourself. You'll probably hire a mover if you have lots of heavy things, you've got a bad back or bum knee, you're traveling a long distance, an employer is picking up the tab or your friends are sick and tired of schlepping your stuff.

2. Send change-of-address forms to utility companies, magazines, organizations, friends and family as soon as you know your new address. Close out any accounts you won't need after your move such as library cards and video store and gym memberships.

3. Research the utilities at your new address, including telephone, power, water, television and Internet service. Get a floor plan of the new place to help you decide where to put phones and other plug-ins. Mark all electrical outlets on the plan.

4. Pare down your possessions--moving is a great opportunity to unload unneeded stuff. See 12 Get Rid of What You Don't Want.

5. Empty the refrigerator the day before moving day. Eat up any leftovers, decide what you want to bring with you, and give the rest to neighbors. Unplug the refrigerator and leave the doors open overnight so the moisture can evaporate.

Doing it yourself

1. Pack one room at a time, starting with infrequently used rooms such as guest bedrooms. Use smaller boxes for heavy items such as books, tools and kitchen stuff. If the contents are fragile or must stay upright, mark it on the box. Write three other things on each box: the room, a short description of its contents, and "First Out" or "Regular." "First Out" boxes will be loaded in the truck last, making them available first at your destination. Put the boxes in a garage or family room.

2. Measure your mountain of boxes and your furniture when you're about three-fourths packed. Use this information to rent a truck for moving day. Reserve a hand truck and a large quantity of moving blankets at the same time. If you're moving appliances-- especially a refrigerator--reserve an appliance dolly.

3. Close dresser drawers and armoire doors with blue painters' masking tape. It's less likely to damage the finish when it's removed at your destination.

4. Load the truck carefully. Use as much vertical space as you can: Stand sofas on end, load mattresses and box springs so their long sides are vertical, stand up armoires and tall dressers. Put tall things along the sides; moving trucks have bars or tracks onto which you can tie ropes to keep things vertical. Area rugs should go in after the furniture (so you can roll them out before putting the furniture down in the new place).

5. Put in your boxes, "Regular" ones first and "First Out" boxes last. Put the boxes of important papers and valuables in the trunk of your car, not in the moving truck. If you'll be stopping for any time along the drive, lock the truck with a round, short-shank padlock and make sure your car trunk is locked.

6. Reverse the process at the end. Bring in the valuables (and have someone stay with them in the new place while you unload). If it's been a long day and you're exhausted, just unload the valuables and "First Out" boxes, leaving the rest in the locked truck to unpack later.

Hiring a mover

1. Call several moving companies, both national and local. Contact the Better Business Bureau (bbb.org) to see if there are complaints against the company. Make sure they're bonded, licensed and insured. Ask for and call all three references to corroborate the mover's professionalism and reliability. Choose a company with excellent customer service.

2. Ask about rates. Be aware of any conditions that will trigger additional costs, such as moves over a certain mileage or goods over a certain weight. Check into any special deals the company offers, and ask whether it gives auto club or senior discounts.

3. Understand how packing options affect the price. For example, if you pack certain goods yourself, can you save some money? Or pack everything yourself with portable containers that are delivered to your home. You pack them, and the company transports them to your new home.

4. Schedule a free on-site estimate if you like what you hear. Bids will vary widely. Get several to find the best deal.

5. Discuss any considerations unique to your move with the estimator. Point out any especially large or fragile items, and ask how they will be handled. Point out issues that affect access, such as staircases, steep driveways or small attics, and be prepared to pay more for complicated moves.

6. Get a signed contract that includes price, pick-up and delivery dates, packing services and mileage, plus policies regarding payment, insurance and guaranteed services. Make sure the contract has a customer-service number on it that you can call with any problems.

Tips & Warnings

-Most national Internet service providers let you keep your e-mail address when you move from one area to another--but only if you stay with their service.

-If you're moving a refrigerator, try to keep it upright. If you must set it on its side, let it stand upright at its destination overnight before plugging it in (to avoid damage).

-For long-distance moves, Inquire about tracking options so that you can find out where your belongings are. Be sure the mover can guarantee a delivery date.

-Contact your insurance agent, banks and creditors, doctor, dentist, pharmacy, and children's current and future schools as soon as you know your arrival date at the new address. Arrange utilities to be turned off several days after you leave your old place, and turned on several days before you arrive at the new one.

-Pack important papers, photos, keepsakes and valuables in their own boxes. Rather than writing "Important Papers and Valuables" on the boxes, strap them closed with colored tape so you can easily identify them.

-Look for free or re-used moving supplies rather than buying new ones: online bulletins boards frequently list boxes, bubble-wrap and other necessities.

-Ask what happens if goods are damaged, under what conditions the mover is responsible and for how much.

-Back up your computer before the move, and pack the backup disks with your valuables.

-Be sure you understand how materials affect costs and that it's covered in the contract. Many consumer complaints relate to add-on costs from packing materials such as bubble wrap and boxes.

Use Terry Moving and Storage for your relocation needs.

Read more at the source:
http://www.ehow.com/how_137495_move.html

How to Move a File Cabinet and a Piano

Moving a filing cabinet:

Here are instructions for moving a file cabinet without hurting yourself or your back. Terry Moving and Storage can help you with all of your moving needs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need:
Boxes
Furniture dolly

Instructions

1. Remove the contents of the file cabinet and place them in boxes. Number the boxes in the order the files came out. With a heavy-duty file cabinet, you can leave the bottom drawer loaded, but keep in mind that any weight in the drawers increases the chances of the drawers not working correctly after the move. If you're not sure of the quality of the file cabinet, it's safest to empty the whole thing.

2. Lock the cabinet. If there is no lock, tape the doors shut. Painter’s tape will be easiest to remove and cause the least damage.

3. Tip the file cabinet back a few degrees on its back edge or side. Slide the furniture dolly under it. Ideally you'll want two people for this step. One tips the cabinet, and the other slides the dolly.

4. Tip the cabinet back upright on the dolly. At no time should you have to lift the file cabinet.

5. Roll the file cabinet to the new location.

6. Tip the cabinet to its back or side so one edge is on the floor. Ideally you want a second person for this.

7. Pull or kick the dolly out from under the file cabinet.

8. Tip the file cabinet back down, and slide into place over carpet. If the floor is not carpet, have two people lift it on the ends and move it into place.

9. Move the boxes and load them back into the file cabinet.

Tips & Warnings

-If there are stairs you can't get around, you're out of luck. You will have to carry it.

Moving a piano:

If you need to move a piano, hopefully you'll have professional help available. If you decide to ask friends, you will have to give them very clear instructions to avoid inflicting damage to bodies and objects. Here are a few steps to help you move your piano from one location to another.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You'll Need:
Work Gloves
Work Gloves
Heavy-duty Dollies
Plastic Covers

Instructions

Move a Piano Within a Room

1. Make sure the piano you want to move is easily accessible from all sides.

2. Make sure the new location you have have chosen is suitable for the piano. Do not move it into cold drafts or close to heating devices.

3. Lower the lid and lock it before you start moving.

4. Position at least one person on each end of the piano if you are moving an upright piano.

5. Move the piano endways, not sideways.

6. Make sure you do not bend your back when handling the piano to avoid severe back strain or injury. Lift with your knees bent and your back straight.

7. Be certain there are no obstacles in the way the piano is moving.

8. Be careful not to strain the legs of the piano if you have to move it on carpeting or over a threshold.

9. Move the piano slowly and carefully, just a few inches at a time.

10. Put at least three persons around a grand piano, one at each leg.

11. Take enough weight off the casters to make it roll more easily, but do not lift it off the floor.

12. Make sure you lift the casters over bumps in the floor, one leg at a time.

Moving an Upright Piano From Room to Room or House to House

1. Assign a team of four movers and place two at each end of the piano. Let no one other than your assigned movers touch the piano.

2. Make sure none of the movers has a history of back problems.

3. Make sure your helpers are wearing work gloves to protect their hands.

4. Cover the piano with protective plastic if you have to move it outside for transport.

5. Make sure the lid is down and locked.

6. Give your movers very specific instructions on how and where to move the piano safely.

7. Put the piano on a heavy-duty dolly. This will preserve tuning. It will also keep movers from damaging the piano or your home.

8. Remember to lift and roll the piano endways.

9. Keep hold of the handle behind the piano all the time it is rolling.

10. Be careful rolling the dolly over thresholds and door jambs.

11. Make certain that the piano won't tip over by being pushed over any obstacle too fast.

Tips & Warnings

-You should use friends for moving your piano only if you really cannot afford to pay professional movers. Paying a moving company might well be worth the money you might save on paying for damaged pianos and bodies! And don't even think about moving a grand across town, let alone up and down stairs, without professional help!

Use Terry Moving and Storage for your relocation needs.

Read more at the source:

How to Calculate Mileage for Rental Moving Trucks

If you are moving, renting a truck is a lot less expensive than hiring movers. The rental company will charge you for the number of miles driven, so it pays to know how to keep track of mileage. You should do this yourself, not just take the rental agent's word on your total mileage. You can also maximize your savings by taking advantage of offers that give you an allotment of free miles. If you would like to hire movers, Terry Moving and Storage can help you with all of your moving needs.

Determine how far you're moving and what size of truck you need. Some rental agencies will charge a flat daily rate, including a determined amount of miles, while others will charge an inclusive rate. Know your mileage and size of truck you'll need before you start your research so you can shop around and compare prices.

Remember, your truck should be large enough to accommodate 10-15% more than what you own. This is just to ensure you're going to have enough room. Too much room is better than too little.

It's also a good idea to determine how long you'll need the truck (how many days), when you want to pick it up and whether it's a one-way or two-way move. Many companies charge a premium price for one-way moves; this is to cover the cost or retrieving the truck.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need:
Odometer readings
Fuel purchase receipts
Calculator

Instructions

1. Check the odometer reading when you pick up the moving truck. Verify that the rental agent has recorded the truck's total mileage accurately. The gas tank should be full before you accept the truck. While you use the truck, keep all your receipts for fuel purchases.

2. Record the mileage on the odometer when you return the truck. Again, verify that the rental agent accurately records the mileage. You should fill the gas tank just before turning in the truck. Otherwise, the rental company will fill the tank and charge you (usually more than a filling station will).

3. Subtract the starting odometer reading from the reading when you return the truck. This is the total mileage driven.

4. Calculate your miles per gallon (MPG) usage for a rental moving truck by dividing the number of miles driven by the number of gallons of fuel purchased. For example, if you drove 250 miles and bought 20 gallons of gas, MPG is 250 miles/20 gallons = 12.5 MPG.

5. Calculate mileage charges by multiplying the rental company rate by the miles driven. If the rate is 40 cents per mile and you are charged for 250 miles, this is $0.40 times 250, which equals $100.00

Tips & Warnings

-Check the EPA light truck fuel economy ratings before you rent. While your miles per gallon will vary, a vehicle with a good rating will normally use less than a low-rated model.

-Always inspect the truck and ask to see maintenance documentation. First of all, you want to make sure the truck is safe to drive. Plus, a well maintained vehicle is very likely to be more fuel efficient.

-When you have a choice, rent the newest model of the light truck the rental company has available. Newer vehicles are likely to be in better condition and give you better fuel economy.

Use Terry Moving and Storage for your relocation needs.

Read more at the source:

How to Pack Effectively When Moving to a New Home

Nearly all of us will find ourselves moving at one point in our life or another. Terry Moving and Storage can help you with all of your moving needs. When that time comes, you will likely be thinking how nothing could be more unorganized than packing for a move. That is, until the unpacking begins! Following this advice will make both packing and unpacking organized and stress free. Trust me, I've moved more than twenty times in my lifetime already.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need:
Boxes
Packing Tape
Permanent Marker
Newspaper

Instructions

1. Before you begin packing, arm yourself with a list of all the rooms in your new home. When you pack up your old house, I want you to pack by rooms. Not rooms from where you're finding the stuff but the rooms in which the stuff will be going in your new home.

2. Gather your materials. Do not begin until you have all the packing supplies at hand. Calling grocery stores is a great place to get boxes but begin calling early. Most of them smash their boxes. Another place to call is area restaurants. I have a strong preference for the sturdy produce boxes. They are the ideal size for most items. Only use large boxes for large items. Never over pack. This is just too cumbersome and often too heavy. It's also harder to unpack those giants. Just looking at them later will overwhelm you to the point the garage may be looking real handy.

3. Now that you have all your materials, clean your house. Not a down on your knees scrub (that's later) but put away clutter, wash your laundry and dishes, etc. Basically make sure everything is where it is supposed to be. As you go, put aside all items you can live without. Now is the time to get rid of those things and end your pack rat ways. Give to charity or have a moving sale. I strongly suggest charity. Be done with it in one fell swoop and get a receipt to claim it as a deduction on your taxes. Less stress this way and you'll be helping others!

4. Pick a room to begin packing. Label your box before you begin with the name of the room the stuff will be going TO. Use nice bold letters on top of the box so it's easy to find when you're unloading your moving truck when you get to your new home.

5. As you pack, write the name of the item down on top of the box. If there are multiple little things, place those into a smaller container first and label that so you don't have to list every little item but rather the name you give that container. Using a detailed clipboard to take notes may help some people with this process.

6. While packing, visualize every item as potential packing material or packing container itself. Double duty items save time, space and cost of packing materials. Towels around fragile decor items, washcloths layered on photo frames, you can even use paper towels between plates and around cups. It won't be in roll form later but you can still get more use out of them than newspaper. Garbage cans, large pans, suitcases, etc all make great containers to place other stuff inside of. With the exception of towels and other linens for packing around fragile items, stick to your room rule.

7. Think of packing as you would in loading your grocery bags. Mix heavy with light so there are no obscenely light nor heavy moving boxes. At least limit it as much as you can. Your moving helpers will thank you!

8. Have specially colored boxes for those 'will need immediately' boxes. Let your kids color them with crayons or mark them with spray paint. Just make them easy to identify amidst piles of moving boxes. Give extra attention when deciding what goes into these. It's helpful to make a list of things you use daily for about a week prior to packing for your move to begin with. Otherwise, there will always be items you forget.

9. Mark fragile items as well as items which need to be carried in such a way that their contents aren't tipped. Simple arrows always do the trick.

10. Strive to unpack and put away all of your things and immediately remove the moving boxes within one to two days. Demand this of yourself. Seeing moving boxes still packed in your new home is stressful and so is having to wonder where some of your things are. If they weren't important enough to unpack, I certainly hope they made their way to charity before you got to your new home.

Tips & Warnings

-If you want newspaper for packing material, save yourself the stress of collecting them and inquire with your local newspaper office about getting their newsprint roll ends. Usually they will give these to you for free.

-If you find you have a need for bubble wrap or other such packing materials, inquire with other specialty store, which may get shipments using these materials such as framing shops, pharmacies and smaller general merchandise stores. Again, you can normally get these free. Sometimes with the boxes and all.

Use Terry Moving and Storage for your relocation needs.

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How to Prepare When Moving Out of Your Apartment

Moving out is not easy and for the most part, it's very tiring. I moved out for 3 times already and I'm telling you, if I have known that it can be easier, I would have complained less. If you're moving out for the first time (maybe from your parent's house) and you need some things for you to get started but you would like to save a lot of money then go and check out some garage sales. You wouldn't believe how many great items you can buy for a fraction of the market cost.

Who can't use some moving tips when they're packing up their whole life for a new home? If you're among thousands of people who have picked up and moved their family to a new home or a new community, you have fresh memories of some of the ups and downs or thrills or frustrations of moving.

Drawing from personal experience, I know there are lots of ways to help make your household move easier and smoother. Read here for help to get your life, and your possessions, organized for a peaceful and exciting move.

Moving can be a stressful time. If you prepare properly it can be a smooth transaction. The key is to start early and cover all bases. Terry Moving and Storage can help you with all of your moving needs.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Give notice to your landlord. Most landlords require you give at least one-month notice, but I recommend you give 6-8 weeks if possible.

2. Figure out how you will be moving. If you are going to use a moving company then the earlier you contact them the better. If you plan on renting a truck and doing the work yourself then start price shopping. When you come up with the best price company then reserve the truck.

3. Clean out those closets. Do a quick run through and start throwing away all that crap you don't want. It is always easier to throw stuff away before you move it rather than after.

4. If you feel that you just can't throw things away, then make a plan for a garage sale. This can be an easy way to earn a few bucks which can really come in handy when you are making a move.

5. Fill out a Change of Address form at the post office.

6. If you are doing the move yourself you will need help. Start making a list of your friends and family who will be helping you. Make sure you remind them often about their obligation in the move.

7. Buy any moving supplies that you may need. This might be boxes, or newspaper to wrap delicates, and don't forget tape and markers to label your boxes.

8. Start packing about a week from moving day. You can start slowly, just be sure to leave the items you use every day for the last minute packing.

9. If you are making a long distance move then make sure your cars service is up to date. The last thing you need is car trouble during a long move.

10. Call your utility companies and arrange to have them switched off the day after you move in case of an emergency change of plans.

11. On moving day get up early. Have a box ready for those everyday items like yesterday's cloths, shaving supplies, and toothbrushes. Keep this box separate from the rest so that you can easily get to it when you arrive at your new destination.

Use Terry Moving and Storage for your relocation needs.

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How to Move: Your Ultimate Moving Checklist

The stress of moving can seem overwhelming. There are dozens of tasks to accomplish and scores of things to keep track of. The good news is that a well-organized checklist can do wonders to manage all that information. This article details the best of the moving checklists online or in print. Terry Moving and Storage can help you with all of your moving needs.

Things You'll Need:

Computer
Phone
Moving supplies

Instructions:

1. __ Set the date. 
Mondays - Thursdays are your best choices so that banks and offices are open in case you have a problem.

2. __ Arrange for utility transfers. 
Notify current and future utility providers of your move date. Note when current security deposits will be refunded and how much is due when for the new ones. This includes: 
__ Cable/satellite television 
__ Cell phone service 
__ Electricity 
__ Gas 
__ Internet/broadband 
__ Local phone service 
__ Long distance phone service 
__ Propane 
__ Recycling pick-up 
__ Sewer 
__ Security system 
__ Trash pick-up 
__ Water 

NOTE: It's a good idea to schedule utility "turn on dates" at least one day prior to the move date and "turn off dates" at least one day after the move to allow for emergencies or issues that may arise.

3. __ File change of address.
At minimum, file a Temporary Change of Address with the U.S. Post Office to buy you time before you notify everyone else. You can file online at http://www.MoversGuide.com or call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) (both have a $1 fee), or go to the local Post Office and complete form PS 3575.

4. __ Make sure you have enough cash. Most moving companies insist on being paid in cash before they unload a single box. Be sure have the correct amount with you with moving expenses, deposits, tips, and anything else you'll need on moving day.

5. __ Start a "change of address log."
Create a change of address log by writing down who you receive mail from each day. Then contact those organizations with your change of address each morning or evening. This breaks up the task and helps make sure you aren't missing important contacts.

6. __ Notify specific people of your change of address. Some of the people who might need your change of address include:
__ Accountant/tax preparer
__ Alumni associations
__ Attorneys
__ Babysitter/ child care provider
__ Banks (auto loans, checking accounts, credit cards, home equity, IRA's, mortgage, safe deposit box, savings account)
__ Broker
__ Business cards (order new ones)
__ Cell phone provider
__ Child care/ daycare
__ Chiropractor
__ Courts, especially for traffic tickets or local disputes
__ Credit bureaus
__ Credit card issuers
__ Dentist
__ Department of Motor Vehicles
__ Diaper service
__ Doctor
__ Dry cleaning pick-up and delivery
__ Family members
__ Health clubs
__ House cleaning service
__ House of worship
__ Insurance providers (auto, health, life, other vehicles)
__ IRS (form 8822)
__ Lawn care
__ Luggage tags (replace existing ones)
__ Magazine subscriptions
__ New business cards
__ New employer
__ Newspaper subscriptions
__ Old employer
__ Orthodontist
__ Parent-teacher association
__ Passport
__ Pet sitter/ dog walker/ pet day care
__ Pharmacy (BONUS: get year-to-date expense summary for taxes)
__ Physical therapist
__ Physician (BONUS: get referral for new location)
__ Post office
__ Professional organizations
__ Retirement plan holders
__ Return address labels (order new ones)
__ Schools (BONUS: get copies of transcripts)
__ Snow removal service
__ Social Security Administration
__ Swimming pool maintenance (pool cleaning, pool opening or closing)
__ Swimming pool memberships
__ Veterinarian BONUS get vet records and recommendations
__ Water delivery service

7. __ Hire movers or reserve the truck.
If you will be using professional movers, see http://www.Movers-Edge.com/Movers-s/2.htm for details on finding movers.

8. __ Recruit help for the move.
If you're moving yourself, start recruiting friends, family, neighbors and co-workers well in advance. Offer free breakfast, lunch, snacks, and drinks for your workforce, and be sure to deliver as promised!

9. __ Get the essential moving supplies.
At minimum, you will need:
__ Markers to label boxes (preferably wide tip, dark color)
__ Moving boxes
__ Newsprint, packing peanuts or other cushioning material
__ Packing tape
__ Scissors or utility knife

10. __ Make a moving organizer.
You can make a moving organizer for all your important notes, receipts, and important information by getting:
__ Binder, 3-ring, at least ½" wide
__ Pocket dividers to separate sections and hold important receipts
__ Paper for keeping all your notes (3-holed graph paper is ideal for this).

11. __ Start packing! 
For complete packing tips, see http://www.Movers-Edge.com/Packing-Tips-s/1.htm. >

NOTE: Almost everyone under-estimates how much time it takes to pack, so start early and leave plenty of extra time.

12. __ Start separating cherished items from the non-essential.
One of the biggest secrets of moving success is eliminating as many items from the move as possible. Donate items to charity, give them to friends, prepare them for a yard sale or throw them out.

13. == 2 Weeks Prior To Moving ==
__ Make arrangements to return items.

Here are some critical items to return prior to moving:
__ Cable/ satellite receiver boxes, remote controls, dishes
__ Cable/DSL modems
__ Carpet shampooer
__ Clothing (borrowed)
__ DVD and video game rentals
__ Library books (neighborhood and school)
__ Tools (borrowed or rented)
__ Trash cans/ recycle bins
__ Unwanted purchases

14. __ Make arrangements to retrieve items.
Be sure to retrieve any of the following items:
__ Clothing at dry cleaners, tailors or in storage
__ Clothing lent to friends
__ Items at repair shops
__ Tools lent to neighbors or friends

15. __ Open bank accounts near your new address.
You may want to open a new safe deposit box at the same time, and move all vital papers and/or jewelry into the box in advance. That way you don't have to worry about them on moving day.

16. __ Create one "Open Me First" box for each room.

You'll need to access certain packed items almost immediately after you arrive, and they need to be packed together in special boxes (one per room) and marked with either bright red markers or special stickers so you can spot them easily. The specific rooms are:

Kitchen:
__ aluminum foil
__ break-proof or disposable flatware, cups, and plates
__ coffee maker (don't forget the filters!)
__ dish detergent
__ frying pan and spatula
__ pet food and bowels
__ scissors
__ tea kettle

Main Bathroom:
__ bath mat
__ bath towels
__ first-aid kit (aspirin, band-aids, hydrogen peroxide)
__ hair dryer
__ shampoo
__ shower curtain and rings
__ soap
__ toothbrushes and toothpaste 

Tool room or drawer:
__ batteries
__ duct tape
__ flashlight
__ flat-head screwdriver
__ hammer
__ level
__ Phillips-head screwdriver
__ picture hangers
__ tape measure
__ utility knife

17. __ Finish off packing for "non-living" rooms.
You want to be completed for non-essential rooms such as the basement, garage, attic, utility rooms, etc. so you can focus on main living areas in the last weeks.

18. __ Consider holding a "Packing Party."
Invite trusted friends over for a "Farewell Packing Party." Provide free food and drinks, provide upbeat background music, and allow friends to tackle projects that require little supervision, such as packing books or pots and pans. Have friends take pictures and send you copies.

19 __ Hold a yard sale.
You might be surprised to learn that you can earn a few hundred dollars by selling non-essential items, earning you cash and making your move more efficient.

20. 1 Week Prior to Moving Day
__ Confirm start time, current home address and future home address with movers.

Even if you already have this information, it's a good idea to double-check. It's also wise to ask who you can contact (name and phone number) if the movers don't show up on-time, since the start of the move may be well before the movers' offices open.

__ Recruit friends for "moving day madness."
Having extra help for last-minute errands or helping to watch movers and answer questions can be invaluable.

__ Make arrangements for child and/or pet sitting.
Having small children and pets watched on Moving Day can eliminate a lot of stress and confusion on the big day, especially while taking care of all the other important details.

21. == 1 Day Prior to Moving Day ==
__ Make sure everyone's cell phone is fully charged.
Moving Day would be a bad day to be out of contact. :-)

__ Have everyone pack one or two suitcases or a knapsack (no more).
Even if you're only moving across the street, having a suitcase with the following, taken with you instead of on the moving truck if possible, will make things easier once you move in:
__ Eyeglasses
__ Favorite toy for the kids
__ Prescriptions
__ Something to read
__ Three days' worth of changes of clothes
__ Toothbrush and toothpaste (if not in "Open Me First" box)

22. == Moving Day ==
__ Start early. 

Moving is stressful enough without waking up late and running around with movers waiting outside. 

__ Take all garbage out of the house. 

Movers get into huge trouble for leaving anything behind. So many people have been shocked to find their garbage packed into their garbage cans and sent along for the move! 

__ Make sure drivers have your cell phone number and you have theirs, along with their names. 
Things come up on moving day- make sure you have a way to stay in contact. Be available for movers' questions. You need to be visible and available at all times- near the door is usually a good spot. 

__ Perform final checks before leaving current home. 

Here are some final items to verify before shutting the door for the last time:
• Are the air conditioning, fans, and heat turned off? 
• Is the water shut off, including to hoses? 
• Are the light switches turned off? 
• Are the keys and garage door openers for current home turned in or left on the kitchen counter? 
• Anything left in refrigerator, freezer, stove, drawer under stove, in closets, in bathroom, under porch, in garage, in attic, in crawlway?
• Did you pack your hoses and sprinklers?

Use Terry Moving and Storage for your relocation needs.

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How to Pack Breakables for a Move

Don't toss your good china and crystal willy-nilly into boxes - unless you prefer them smashed to bits. Here's how to get those breakables safely to their destination. Terry Moving and Storage can help you with all of your moving needs.

Things You'll Need:

Boxes
Storage Organizers
Newspaper
Newspaper
Insurance
Bubble Wraps
Markers
Packaging Tape
Packing Peanuts
Markers
Boxes

Instructions:

1. Place a layer of cushioning - wadded up newspaper, bubble wrap or packing paper are good - at bottom of box.
2. Loosely fill insides of mugs, glasses and vases with cushioning.
3. Wrap each item separately in cushioning.
4. Layer pieces neatly inside box using plenty of filler (more crumpled newspaper or foam peanuts).
5. Leave room for another layer of cushioning at the top of the box.
6. Slightly overfill the box with cushioning.
7. Close and seal the box securely with tape.
8. Label the box "FRAGILE" and identify contents: "Good China, Dining Room."

Tips & Warnings:
-You can buy everything you need to pack breakables from large do-it-yourself moving companies, including special boxes for dishes and glasses, bubble wrap, wrapping supplies for individual items, tape and marking pens. Also, save money by asking friends and family for boxes that they would be willing to give away.
-If you underpack a box, loose items are likely to move around and smash into each other. If you overpack, the box might burst open and send contents flying.

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How to Prepare for a Cross Country Move

Moving from one end of the nation to another can be a stressful situation. It can be especially painful if you don’t plan in advance. For many people, scheduling a move depends upon the sale of their current home. When that happens, they often have only 30 days to get everything ready and tie up the loose ends. Make the most of the time you have left by doing careful groundwork in securing a smooth move for you and your family. Terry Moving and Storage can help you with all of your moving needs.

Things You'll Need:

Moving boxes
Masking tape
Indelible markers
Checklist

Instructions:
1. Get moving estimates if you will hire a moving company. Contact the movers well in advance of your home selling. Alternately, get price quotes from do-it-yourself truck rentals. Check out our Resources section for some reputable companies.
2. Sort your household goods and possessions. Put them in one of three categories. The most important items you will need are classified as Category 1. Items that you want to keep--yet don't need immediately--go into Category 2. The last category, number 3, is for items that you no longer want. These items will go into yard sales or be used for thrift shop donations.
3. Begin your moving preparations in earnest when you sign a contract to sell your current home or when there is one month left before your move. Gather your most important financial and business records along with crucial documentation. Place these in a case where you can access them in the weeks before the move. This box will stay in the vehicle in which you are traveling.
4. Call the Chamber of Commerce in the new community where you will live. Ask for an introductory packet. In these packets, you will find coupons for local business and recreation commissions. You'll also find maps of your new location.
5. Contact your child’s school and your family physician two weeks before you move. Notify all of the upcoming relocation. You'll likely be able to pick up the records yourself, or you may request to have them sent to your new location. Depending on the policies of the school or office, this can be a fairly easy task.
6. Begin packing your possessions. Haul Category 3 items away as soon as the boxes are full. Seal each Category 2 box with tape and label the contents. Leave Category 1 boxes unsealed until the night before the move.
7. File a change of address with the post office in the week preceding your move. The post office will need your new address and the last date to deliver your mail to your current address.
8. Schedule a tune-up for your vehicles in the week prior to your move. Contact all your utility providers and notify them of your move date. Consider leaving the phone and electricity on for the entire day you move out, but make sure it is shut off directly after the moving date. You don't want to pay for things you won't need.
9. Pack the moving truck with the category 2 items first. When you get to your destination, the most important items will be the easiest to access when you've packed those category 1 items last.
10. Double-check your home before leaving for the last time. Open all the cabinets and closets to make sure you didn't forget anything.

Tips & Warnings:
-Relax. Moving long distance can be a headache, but take it step by step to avoid feeling pressured.
-Check the reputation of moving companies. Call the Better Business Bureau and research the company on the Internet before choosing one.

Use Terry Moving and Storage for your relocation needs.

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How to pack your Uhaul on moving day

I've helped a lot of people move. Some haven't packed. Some put everything in black trash bags. Some don't label anything. Others mix breakables (e.g.-glassware, plates, albums, picture frames, jewelry, etc.) with heavy items. There are some awkward pieces--don't ask. Oh, and my favorite: "I know you're halfway down packing the truck, but there's something I just remembered..." Here's how to pack a UHaul or any other truck--just so everyone's on the same page. Terry Moving and Storage can help you with all of your moving needs.

Things You'll Need:

Boxes
Permanent Marker
Duct Tape
Gloves
Old Tennis shoes
Flat head screwdriver
Adjustable wrench
Bucket
Blankets
Large trash bags
Appliance dolly

Instructions:

1. Move as much stuff as you can by yourself (e.g.-breakables, little stuff, paintings, pillows, mirrors, plants, etc.). This helps reduce clutter and makes for a faster move. You can also plan a good route and get an idea of what the "Move" is going to be like.
2. Line up the heavy boxes closest to the door (lightest boxes farthest away).
3. Load heavy boxes first. Spread the weight around so the truck doesn't tip when you go around corners, etc. Think of this as a big game of Tetris. The heavy boxes should be the bottom layer of this cake.
4. Next, load the medium weight boxes on top of the heavy boxes. Remember to save space for the furniture and appliances.
5. Now, load the lightest boxes on top of the other boxes. At this point, you may want to load couches, washer and dryer next to the boxes. Fill all the spaces so nothing shifts in transit.
6. Typically, the back of the couch goes against one wall of the truck on one side (you can fill the seats with boxes, TV, etc.). On the other side, you can put the washer/dryer or dresser, etc. Fill the space in between these items with the bed stuff (e.g.-frame, mattress, box frame, head board, etc.).
7. If the moving truck has no top, strap everything down with rope. You can use a tarp to cover the front half of the stuff. If there is a top, you can now load the chairs, clothing, pillows, cushions, drawers, lamps, and any other knick knacks on top of what you've got in there.
8. Lock it up and move it out! Once you arrive at your destination, unload everything in reverse order. Be careful when you open the truck as contents may have shifted. Happy moving!

Tips & Warnings:
-Here are some tips before you start the moving madness, disconnect the washer and dryer. You'll need to drain the water in the washer; so, take the black hose in the back out of the drain pipe and put it in the bucket. Use the flat head screwdriver and/or wrench to loosen up any connections.
-Make sure your boxes are packed with heaviest items at the bottom. Make sure the boxes are filled so nothing shifts during the move. Tape the boxes up good.
-Take the cushions out of the couches and move those last.
-Dis-assemble your bed, fold everything up and put it all aside.
-Get a bunch of dry cleaner bags (the clear ones your clothes are wrapped in when you pick them up) and sack all your hang up clothes (large trash bags will work too--just poke the hangar hook through the bottom of the bag and wrap it up)
-Use paper towels to wrap breakables individually (so nothing scratches). Then, use newspaper or Styrofoam peanuts to cushion the breakables in the boxes.
-Dis-assemble breakables as much as possible and wrap individually as mentioned above. Some breakables are more vulnerable put together than not.
-Pull out the drawers from all furniture and move the drawers last.
-Empty your furniture (e.g.-Cabinets, chests, dressers, desks, end tables, etc.) of their contents. You may find our long lost pen.
-Use blankets to cover the furniture/glass/paintings/TV once you load a piece onto the moving truck so nothing scratches.
-You're not He-Man (or She-Ra), don't move heavy or awkward stuff by yourself.
-Move at dawn. Hot weather sucks. Something always goes wrong. Movers/helpers are always late. Etc.
-Reserve the moving truck for the day. One person I know reserved the truck for just the morning. Guess what?
-Ask specifically about the refueling policy when you return the truck. No sense paying for gas the moving company won't reimburse you for.
-Donuts, juice and water go a long way. No one needs to die and everyone likes to feel appreciated.

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How to Move to Brooklyn, New York

With a population of 2.5 million, Brooklyn, or Kings County, is the second most populated county in New York State. Though Brooklyn officially became a part of NYC in 1898, Brooklyn retains a history and character all its own. If you are considering relocating to Brooklyn, this guide on how to move to Brooklyn, New York will get you started. Terry Moving and Storage can help you with all of your moving needs.

Things You'll Need:

Internet access
Map of Brooklyn
NYC subway map
Sufficient funds
Thorough research

Instructions:

1. Brooklyn is a big place, encompassing more than 76 square miles of densely populated land. The borough is made up of many neighborhoods, all culturally, architecturally and financially diverse. Before planning a move to Brooklyn, study a map of the area, and research the different neighborhoods which are appealing to you.
2. Are you planning to rent, or own a home? Housing prices in NYC are some of the highest in the country, and prices throughout Brooklyn can fluctuate wildly. Home prices in the tony neighborhoods of Park Slope or Brooklyn Heights can reach the millions. Consult an internet real estate site, like The New York Times online to determine which neighborhoods meet your needs and your budget.
3. Do you know where you will be working? Many Brooklyn residents commute to Manhattan everyday via subway to get to work. Consult a map of the subway system to figure out which train lines travel through which neighborhoods. If your job is in Brooklyn, the City buses may also help you get to and from work each day.
4. Do you have a car? Depending on which Brooklyn neighborhood you choose to live in, you may want to consider leaving your car behind. In trendier Brooklyn neighborhoods with close proximity to Manhattan, parking spots are in short supply, with many residents paying hundreds of dollars in rent per month for private spaces. Parking rarely is included with the price of a rental apartment, and many homes do not have driveways or garages. If you really must have your car, consider looking in neighborhoods that are further from Manhattan.

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