Author Archives: Ed Mezer

Save Money Moving Tip: Sell the things you don’t want to keep

Save Money. Don’t take that with you!

When you’re moving, don’t be afraid to get rid of the things you don’t want or need. Save Money by selling what you can and donate the rest!

Despite all the hard work it takes, moving is a great opportunity to go through all of the things in your home or apartment and thin out the things your no longer need. When you are moving across the country, you might not be able to take much with you. There is no reason to pack up and transport things you no longer want. Selling your unwanted items before your move saves you the cost of transporting them, but can also put some money in your pocket.

Save MoneyHosting  a yard sale or a garage sale is a great way to get some of your old things off your hands. This works best if you have a lot that you’re looking to give away or sell. Furniture, clothing, nick knacks, kitchen ware, etc – consider all of the things you don’t use or need in your home. If they are in good condition, put them out for sale.

If you’re not sure how to price your items for sale, you can look online for reference on current sale prices, but remember that you are selling your items second hand. For bigger ticket items like electronics or antiques, be sure to check its value before you give it away or sell it for a low price.

Selling your items online is also another option. Websites like Craigslist and E-bay are good for when you don’t have too much to sell or you just have big items or specialty items that may not sell for much as you want at a yard sale. Furniture is very easy to sell online, as well as books, bikes and electronics. Selling online also saves you the extra work of putting together and hosting a yard sale. 

Remember to Donate! No matter which method you choose, try selling as much as you can, then donate the rest to your local GoodWill or Salvation Army. Be sure to ask for receipts so you can file it with your federal income tax deductions. 

 

 

For more information on moving locally or long distance, contact the experts at Pony Express Moving. We are located in Jamaica Plains, Boston and we have moved our clients all over the country including New York City, Philadelphia, Washington DC, and Chicago. Call today at 617-983-8700 or e-mail us info@ponymove.com.

Clean out Your Closet – Moving Tips

Clean out Your Closet for Moving DayClean out Your Closet

Packing your clothing properly will keep them dry and free of damage when you move. It’s important to take the process seriously and with care to prevent damage. Moving is stressful and expensive enough, there is no need to have to add to the cost by having to replace your clothing. Here are some tips for your next move for packing up your closet:

Clean out Your Closet

Moving is a great opportunity to clear out some of your old clothes, or clothes you don’t wear. The more you get rid of, the less you have to pack, and the less you have to move! Donate or sell what is gently worn, and throw out anything with holes or stains.

Sorting For Different Seasons

Sort and pack clothing by season. Start with clothes that are out of season and label the boxes. This will make unpacking easier and more convenient in your new place. You can unpack out of season clothing last since you don’t need them right away.

Stuff your Shoes

If you just dump your shoes in a box, they can get crushed and misshaped from the weight of the other shoes. There’s no telling how long before they will be unpacked when you move in. Stuff them with your socks to help them keep their shape while you move.

Use Your Luggage

Save space in boxes by packing your clothes in your suitcases and luggage. Set aside one or two pieces of luggage for the clothing you will need in the first week or so after your move. After that fill whatever spare bags or suitcases with whatever will fit from your closet.

Moving is an exciting new start with a lot of opportunities, but it comes at no little cost. Packing and making arrangements and check lists upon checklists can seem daunting. For help moving in the Boston area and beyond, contact us at Pony Express Movers for local and interstate service. Let us take some of the stress out of your move.

How to Get Your Security Deposit Back

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Get your security Deposit Back

Moving is expensive, save money where you can.Get your security Deposit Back

Apartment dwellers often overlook how easy it is to ensure the return of their security deposit. If you are moving out of an apartment where you paid a deposit, you should start making moves to take care of any potential damages to ensure it will be paid back to you. Get the small things fixed ahead of time. Repairing minor damages in advance is going to cost less than what your landlord will take out of your deposit.

Some quick fix ideas to save money while moving:

  • Fill holes in walls from nails, tacks, and screws
  • Clean or repair any damage caused by pets – including any pet odors
  • Repaint the walls to their original color
  • Clean out the fridge
  • Don’t leave behind any furniture or trash
  • Clean carpet stains and vacuum

Schedule a walk through with your landlord before their final assessment. Ask them what their expectations are, what they would like to see repaired or improved. Get an idea of what they might want charge you for, and take care of it before you move out. Be sure to leave the place as clean as you found it.

 

Packing Tips and Packing FAQ

Packing Tips and Packing FAQ Answered by Professional Boston MoversPacking Tips and Packing FAQ

With over 19 years as a licensed, insured, and bonded moving company Pony Express has countless number of local and long distance moves under our belts. We are one of the longest lived moving companies in Boston with over a hundred years combined experience among our movers. There is nothing we have not seen or dealt with when it comes to moving.
Any professional mover will tell you the key to speeding up your move is good packing. The more prepared you are, the more efficient your moving day will be. When you’re hiring movers, you want your crew to have as few loose items to deal with, so work ahead of time to be sure everything that can fit in a box is already packed, and packed safely. We are committed to making sure your move runs smoothly and safely without any surprises. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions that we’ve compiled to help you pack better for a better move.

What is that best way to pack dishes for moving or storage?

  •  Use plenty of packing paper. Newspaper works great. Crumple up the pieces and make a layer the bottom of the box. Tuck the paper in the sides of the box after you’ve loaded the dishes in so that nothing can move around.
  • Don’t put your plates or bowls in flat. Put your dishes in the box resting on their standing edge.
  • Use a dish barrel box for packing (pictured on the left). Dish barrels are boxes specifically designed with double-walled extra protection for china, antiques or fragile items. If you are packing using a dish barrel, work heaviest to lightest. Heavier items go in first so they don’t put too much weight on the lighter, more fragile items.

Should I disassemble my furniture when I move, or leave it together?

  • Taking apart heavier or larger items like bed frames, tables, or shelving can save you time and space, especially on a long distance or interstate move, when you only want to make one trip.
  • Be sure you keep all the parts together! If it is a complex piece of furniture, consider making a diagram to help you put it back together afterward.
  • You can also have movers come in in advance to disassemble your furniture on a packing day, or on the day of the move. Be sure to communicate with your movers to discuss your needs ahead of time.

What packing materials are best? Are packing peanuts bad?

  • Packing peanuts are more for mailing. News paper, paper pads and cardboard are good for moving. Packing peanuts can cause motion of items inside the box, which can lead to damage.
  • Professional movers use “clean newsprint” paper. If you are packing fragile items yourself you can use recycled printed newspaper that you have at home.
  • Think twice about bubble wrap  as well. Wrapping things with bubble wrap can cause compression breakage.

When packing, be sure that all of your boxes are loaded with heavier items in the bottom of the box. Properly packed boxes ensure the safety of your belongings, and your moving crew. If you do not have time to pack, or are unsure how to pack large, awkward, or fragile items, contact our crew at Pony Express to learn about packing services. Our professionals will come in before your moving day, and go room to room packing your belongings for safe travel. Call us today to learn more about our moving and packing services, local or long distance. We are located in Jamaica Plains Boston and we have moved our clients all over the country including New York City, Philadelphia, Washington DC, and Chicago. Call today at 617-983-8700 or e-mail us info@ponymove.com.

Is a Packing Service Really Worth it?

Packing Service

Packing ServiceAsk anyone, the worst part of any move is always the packing. Packing often takes the longest, and also is the most tedious of all the jobs. The more it tires you the more likely you are to start throwing things in boxes. If you take short cuts and are not careful with the way you pack your items, you increase the possibility of loss or breakage of things that are important to you.
Though it seems like an easy task, you often don’t realize what an undertaking it is to have to pack your whole house. Do you know the safest way to pack dishes? How to properly pack a box? How to store books? There are many reasons why you should choose to take advantage of a packing service when hiring a mover, here we’ve outlined our top reasons why you should hire a mover to pack for your next move.

Top 4 Benefits of a Packing Service:

  1. Safety  – Belongings are properly packed and labeled to withstand the stress of transport
  2. Convenience and speed – Professional packers are much faster than packing yourself
  3. Proper organization – Saves real time on the actual move and makes unpacking faster & easier
  4. Liability – Mover assumes liability only for items packed by the company
We are moving professionals. We have been moving businesses and families since 1997, we know a thing or two. We have watched tragedies of poorly packed boxes and crates that slow down your move. Our movers are experienced and trained to find the safest, most efficient way possible to transport your belongings to your new location.
Hiring movers to do your packing saves you time on moving, reduces risk of lost or broken items, and increases your peace of mind, letting you focus on what really matters. Having someone professionally pack your belongings will not only speed up the process of packing, but it will also make unpacking faster and easier. You will know where everything is and know that it is safe and organized and clearly labeled.
At Pony Express Moving we are experienced professionals in moving, packing, and getting you safe and sound into your new home. If you are interested in our services please contact us at our main office in Jamacia Plains at 617-983-8700

The Biggest Moving Mistake & How to Avoid It

Moving Mistake & How to Avoid It

The Biggest Moving Mistake & How to Avoid ItThe number one biggest moving mistake is poor preparation- Help us help you. Be sure to give a complete and comprehensive account of everything in your home. Thing about the amount you have to move, how much furniture, what will need to be disassembled, are there stairs, how many big heavy items do you have etc? Errors in the estimation process can lead to disparity between the initial estimate and actual amount of time the move takes. We have been in the business for almost twenty years, we have seen just about everything that could ever go wrong. We do every job to the best of our skill and ability and we aim to be prepared for anything, but it is important for our clients to do their part as well for a smooth, disaster free move.

 

To avoid your move going over your estimate:

Pack “everything in a box that fits in a box”
Pack everything in your house that can fit in a box. Have larger items and furniture ready and organized for the move as well.  If you hate to pack or do not have enough free time before the move,  ask about our professional packing services.

Get Organized – Label your Boxes
This reduces confusion and surprises when your boxes arrive to your new home. We suggest labeling each box with its contents, what room it belongs in, and whether or not it is heavy or fragile.

Consolidate Loose Items
Pack loose items together or tape them together to help keep track of them.

Communicate With Your Movers
Contact our main office with any questions you have. Inform your movers of any large, sensitive, or heavy items, access issues, etc so that we are prepared with the equipment we need on moving day.

Go “Room by Room”
Don’t be overwhelmed by the big picture. Pack room to room. When you are done, do a circle around the house with an extra box, picking up whatever’s leftover, tying up all “loose ends.”

Don’t Forget to Check the…
Go through every room, closet, storrage space. Check your basement, shed, or attic.

Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute to Pack
Give yourself plenty of time–OR hire some packers.  If you are bogged down, call the office and have them send a packing crew prior to the move date. Hiring movers will ensure the safety of your belongings, and reduces the amount of trips you have to make back and forth.

 

At Pony Express Moving we are experienced professionals in moving, packing, and getting you safe and sound into your new home. If you are interested in our services please contact us at our main office at 617-983-8700  

Pony Express Moving Services is ProMover Certified

Our latest accomplishment is achieving ProMover Certified !

ProMover Certified Moving Company in Boston, MA

What it means to be ProMover Certified :

“The ProMover program takes the worry and the hassle out of moving by helping consumers identify quality professional movers who subscribe to our goals and by providing them with information and assistance with everything from finding a mover, to getting an estimate and packing tips, to understanding valuation and insurance…

The ProMoverSM logo represents nationally recognized, industry-wide standards of conduct for professional movers. It builds on and enhances your company’s and/or van line’s brand identity as an ethical, professional business. All ProMovers are subject to annual review to ensure they continue to meet program requirements.

Intrastate ProMover programs are an opportunity for state associations to operate an established, nationally recognized certification program that serves their members and provides a competitive edge in the local marketplace. The ProMover logo represents nationally recognized, industry-wide standards of conduct for professional movers; it builds on and enhances a company’s brand identity as an ethical, professional business.” From the ProMover Website

Established in 1997 Pony Express was founded by moving industry veterans who believe that every customer deserves the highest level of professional and friendly service.

Our mission statement: Pony Express was founded on the idea that moving does not have to be unpleasant, and that it can and should be a non-stressful, agreeable experience.

You should hire a company you feel comfortable with, a company you can trust and have confidence in. We are dedicated to making you feel at ease, making your move go safely and smoothly, no matter the conditions. We do this by personalizing each move to fit the needs of each client. Our crews are made up of like-able, experienced, confident personnel, not some moving robots with the personality of a brick wall.

If you are interested in hiring Pony Express for your next move, call us for a quote or to set up a meeting 617-983-8700 or contact us online

How to Choose A Moving Company

Things to Consider When Choosing a A Moving Company

How to Choose A Moving Company

 

Moving is a stressful time, hiring a mover should reduce your anxiety, not add to it. Keep in mind, not all movers are the same. It is important to find people you trust. Here are some things to keep in mind when looking to hire a moving company:

Is the Moving Company office staff attentive?  Do they make you feel confident in their ability?

First impressions are important. If the office staff is lacking, it can be telling of the quality of the rest of the service you’ll receive. You don’t want to be stuck with unresponsive staff that can be frustrating and lead to errors that will potentially ruin your move. It is best to find a company with a full time office staff.
Do the Moving Company have proper licensing/authorization/insurance, including Mass DTE, USDOT (for interstate), Workmen’s comp, General Liability insurance, payroll, etc?
At Pony Express we are fully licensed, insured, bonded, and up to date with certifications for interstate moving. However, we know many companies are not, and they will try and trick you into thinking it’s okay. The truth is it illegal for a company that is not authorized to operate out of state. If they are caught their truck may be impounded with your shipment on it, causing an unexpected nightmare in moving!

Do the Moving Company have experienced trained, full time employees, not just day labor?

Anyone can buy a couple of moving blankets and carry boxes, but movers should be trained and experienced who take pride in their work.There are many inexperienced novices out there who are out to make a buck, and don’t care about quality service or customer care. Our employees are hired based enthusiasm, experience, but also on their ability to learn the Pony Express Way–anyone can carry a box, or learn to “stretch wrap” furniture, but to become a truly Great Mover takes time, training, and proper supervision from a qualified leader.
Does the moving company own their own trucks?
 Be sure the company does not “farm out” interstate moves to third parties. You can rest assured that your shipment will be handled with quality and care–from the first item out of the origin to the last item placed in the destination. If a company does not own its own trucks it adds liability and risk to your move.
How long has the moving company been in business?
Moving companies rise and fall – start ups, big businesses, you name it. You want a mover that has stood the test of time. The more successful moves they’ve done the better. Experience and technique add up over the years, and if they can keep up in quality, care, and service, then they stay in business.
Beware of low hourly rates!
This can be a red flag for hidden fees or extra charges for equipment or supplies that should come standard. If it sounds too good to be true, it is! Some companies will charge extra for items or furniture that is awkward to handle, or if your destinations doe not have easy access, or if the load has to be hand-carried over a certain distance or requires special handling. Don’t get caught being charged too extra because there are stairs involved. These are called flight charges and long carry charges. Be sure to ask about them when consulting a mover.
Schedule an appointment in person
Trust your personal experience with a moving company. Online reviews should not be the deciding factor, these can be bought. Meet with the staff, you should have a good feeling about the people you’re going to trust to move all of you personal belongings to your new home. There should be no doubt in your mind that they’re going to give you the best experience possible. If there’s one thing you don’t want – it’s a surprise on moving day.