Author Archives: Gabriel

A February Move – What to Remember

This entry was posted in Moving Tips and tagged February Move on February 13, 2022 by Gabriel.

February is the month of hearts, candy, and tons of red decor everywhere when you walk into a store. However, despite this being the month of celebrating love thanks to Valentine’s Day…there are several people who decide that they are moving during February.

In Greater Boston, the average daily temperature throughout February has a daily average of being around 41 degrees with a low of 24 degrees. However, keep in mind, we have set record temperatures during this time before with highs being in the upper 60’s, and even posting a negative 3-degree temp at one point in February over the past several years. It can rain, it can snow, it can be sunny, and it can be bitterly cold and windy. Therefore, if you decide to move in February, you need to remember a few things to make this go off without a hitch!

1. Make sure that you double-check all the moving details with us prior to your move. Remember, we can move in almost any type of weather. However, if you were to be dealing with several feet of fresh snow, it may mean having to postpone by a few hours until the roadways have been cleared.

2. Have some old towels on hand to not only cover the floors but to wipe off boxes that are coming into your new home if there is snow or rain falling.

3. To save you a huge bill, go ahead and lower the heat temp in the house. Remember, people are going to be coming and going with loads, there is no need to try to heat up the great outdoors!

4. Make sure that the sidewalks, driveways, and the like are cleared as best as you can. You may want to consider throwing down some sidewalk salt if you can to make this safer for everyone.

5. To help with the cold, why not have a crockpot of hot chocolate or apple cider heating in the kitchen. You will enjoy the warm beverage as the move is taking place, and your movers will appreciate this kindness as well.

6. Pack those winter essentials with you in your car, such as an extra coat, boots, and the like. You would hate to be ready to leave the house for your new home and realize that the winter gear you normally wear was packed and loaded onto the truck!

February can be a great month for many reasons, and it could be that moving into a new home is one of the reasons that you are excited for it to get here!

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services When Moving In February. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

Tips For Moving In Freezing Cold Weather

Moving at any time of year can be stressful, but it can be even tougher when you Moving In Freezing Cold Weather. From snow on the ground to bitter cold temperatures, moving during the winter comes with its own set of challenges.
Read on for tips to make your winter move as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Be Prepared to Be Flexible

The weather can be unpredictable in winter; it’s clear one day and then dumping down rain or snow the next. In addition, you may have to deal with wind, hail, or other wild weather. In the weeks leading up to your move, keep a close eye on forecasts and potential conditions.

If there is a large storm coming through on the day you plan to move, you may wish to contact your movers or truck rental company and reschedule. This may not be possible for you, but with their lighter workload in winter, this shouldn’t create too much of a problem for the vendor. After all, they don’t want to be out in that blizzard any more than you do!

Start Packing Well in Advance

Don’t wait until moving day to start packing up your belongings. The sooner you start, the easier it will be for everyone involved.

Prepare Your Home for the Move

Before you start loading anything into the truck, car or storage container, create a safe environment.

Winter weather conditions can make moving more dangerous than in summer, spring or fall. Before you start loading anything into the truck, car or storage container, take care to create a safe environment.

Shovel away any snow, making sure to create a wide path to allow for moving large furniture from your house. Also, ensure that your walkways are free of ice. Using a de-icer or anti-icer on your steps and sidewalks is a good solution. The last thing you want is to slip and fall causing injury or breaking any fragile items.

You might also want to consider creating shelter along exposed areas. Large party tents and tarps create excellent coverage from rain, but if you’re dealing with snow, make sure to use something that can withstand the weight, or that has an angle to slide the buildup off.

For the inside of your home, lay down plastic sheeting to protect your floors. You and the movers will be in and out of the house frequently, tracking in moisture, snow and dirt, so you’ll want to protect your floors from stains, scratches, or the need for excess cleaning. You’ve got plenty of other things to worry about on moving day; scrubbing mud out of your carpets after you’ve moved out shouldn’t be one of them.

Protect Your Belongings from the Weather

When packing your items, take special care to protect certain items from the cold.

Breakable items, like dish ware and glass, are particularly susceptible to temperature changes and can crack or break if the temperature shifts too quickly. Double-wrapping everything in thick blankets can help ease the transition from the warmth of your house to the cold of the container. You may want to consider loading these items into your moving container last, and unloading them first, to minimize their exposure to extreme cold.

Another option is to pack these items in your car, rather than in the moving container. Electronics are another item that should be packed in your car, as they are also easily affected by the cold. Wait until you’re about to leave before loading these items to keep them as safe as possible.

Take Good Care of Your Movers

Moving in winter weather is much more difficult than in summer, so it may be best to hire professionals to load and unload your belongings. They will have a lot more experience with winter moving than you do, so they’ll be better equipped to deal with the challenges that come up.

To thank them for all their hard work, prepare a pot of coffee, hot cocoa or apple cider (non-alcoholic, of course!) to warm them up when they need to take a break. There is no doubt that they will greatly appreciate it.

Prepare Your Car for a Long Distance Move

If you’re moving a long distance, have your car serviced prior to the move to confirm that everything is running properly. Just in case anything does go wrong, pack warm blankets, coats, hats and gloves in the car rather than with the rest of your belongings in the moving container or truck. You don’t want to be stranded on the side of the road without warm clothing.

Load up anything else you’ll need for driving in cold weather, like tire chains and ice scrapers, so you’ll be prepared for anything that might happen while on the road. It’s always better to be over-prepared than underprepared, that way you’re ready for anything.

Allow Extra Travel Time

Driving in snow or in inclement weather always takes longer than driving on clear roads, so allow plenty of extra time to get to your destination. If movers will be meeting you at your new home to unload your belongings, keep in contact with the driver so they’ll know if any schedule changes come up.

Plan out your route in advance, but be prepared to make changes on the fly. Snowplow schedules are not always predictable, so you may find that your preferred route is unavailable. Most smartphones these days come with mapping apps that will adjust your route if there are possible traffic issues that might slow you down.

Make Sure Your New Home is Set Up for Unpacking

As you did with your previous home, make sure that all walkways are clear and ice-free, and lay down protection for your floors before you start moving things into your new home.

Since it gets dark much earlier in winter, you should also plan the timing to unpack your things. If you’re moving with a portable storage container, find out when it will be delivered to your new home. If it’s later in the day, you may want to leave your things in the container overnight rather than starting to unpack right away. That way, you can start fresh in the morning when you have plenty of light.

If you have to unload in the dark, make sure you check exterior lighting in advance to make sure they’re all working. Hanging lights or headlamps are two other options that will help light your way towards a better after-dark move!

This may sound like a no-brainer, but you’ll also want to make sure that the utilities are on in your new home they day before you unpack!

Take a Deep Breath

Moving in winter isn’t easy, but with proper planning and care, your stress can be minimized.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services When Moving In Freezing Cold Weather. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

Tips for Moving During The Holidays

This entry was posted in Moving Tips and tagged Holidays, moving on December 19, 2021 by Gabriel.

Moving during the holidays can be a stressful situation, but it also sets you up for a fresh start at the beginning of the new year. The key to successfully moving in the winter months is to plan ahead and prepare for the unexpected. Follow these 8 tips for a much smoother experience so you can still enjoy the Christmas season, even while getting ready for a major move.

Tips for moving during the holidays

Explore our best moving in winter tips for a stress-free holiday.

Plan your calendar early

Moving in the winter months eats up a lot of time during a period that is already extraordinarily busy. Look at your calendar well in advance and mark off dates of things you can’t change, like the end of your lease or your kids’ exam schedules. Then block off time for other, less essential commitments, like social events.

Take your time packing

Give yourself plenty of time to pack, especially if you’re moving during Christmas. A move takes up a lot of time anyway, and you’re likely to be slowed down by other obligations, not to mention fun things that you want to do. As you work on your calendar, consistently schedule time to pack so the days don’t slip away, leaving you knee-deep in moving boxes when you’d rather be celebrating.

Remember daylight savings

Each day gets darker and darker leading up to the winter solstice, which usually occurs a few days before Christmas. Even more disrupting is Daylight Savings, which causes the time to fall back one hour in early November. That means the darker evenings are accelerated, which can make moving in the winter months more difficult. Get an idea of your area’s usual sunset time so you know how much daylight you have to work with so you can avoid loading in the dark.

Create multiple budgets

A move at any time of year is costly, but your wallet may be stretched even further when moving during the holidays. A local move averages around $750 for a one-bedroom apartment and you can expect those expenses to increase if you have a larger family. Plus, you’ve got Christmas expenses to think about as well. Create two separate budgets for both holiday spending and moving to make sure you’re not caught by surprise during the winter moving process.

Save holiday delivery boxes

One of our best moving in winter tips is to set aside all of your delivery boxes to use for packing. You’re likely ordering more things online than usual this time of year. Saving those leftover boxes instead of chucking them can help keep your budget in check. Ask your friends and family to keep theirs for you to use as well.

Donate to those in need

Moving is always a good time to purge items you don’t need anymore. And moving during the holidays is perhaps the best time to donate your unwanted possessions to your local charity thrift store. You’ll not only lighten your own load during your move, but you’ll also help families in need.

Schedule utility activation

A night without heat will not be comfortable when moving in the winter months. It’s more important than any other time of year to promptly schedule your utilities to be turned on. That way you don’t have to worry about an unheated home after you’ve been moving.

Prepare for inclement weather

Winter weather can be unpredictable, even a day before you’re scheduled to move. Prepare for the worst by covering things like mattresses and sofas in case the weather takes a turn. A snowstorm doesn’t seem as scenic when you’re moving during the holidays so think ahead on how to keep your belongings safe no matter what the weather is doing.

Pros of moving during the holiday season

1. Access off-season discounts

Most movers have a busy season (late summer, usually) and an off-season. If you can get out of your lease in mid-December, you’re probably not going to face a lot of competition when it comes to finding a moving truck. In fact, the movers may be thrilled to have the business.

From hiring movers to renting storage facilities, moving during the holidays means you can usually take advantage of lower rates. Your truck will cost less, allowing you to add on extra services like packing assistance. Alternatively, you could use some of the money saved to outfit your new home with new furniture and decor!

2. Avoid family drama

People generally understand that the logistics of a move become all-consuming for a few weeks, so you have the perfect excuse for getting out of boring parties or dreadful dinners at your disposal. If there are family events that you simply can’t stand to attend, schedule a furniture delivery or get to bubble wrapping. Some traditions are meant to be broken.

But seriously, if traveling during the holidays gets you down, the excitement and positive stress of a local move could actually make your holiday season much more delightful this year.

3. Be prepared for the new year

Maybe you went through a divorce this year, or you’re about to quit that job you hate. Or maybe your resolution for the next year is to get healthy and stop spending too much money on the fast food from around the corner. No matter what plans you have for the following year, having a different address is a good place to start. Moving in the winter months may usher in a new chapter in your life, and you’ll be happy to be settled into a different place when the fresh calendar year arrives.

Cons of moving during the holiday season

While there are benefits to moving during the holidays, there are some downsides to consider as well.

1. Holiday moves may add stress

For many people, the holiday season brings up a lot of stress. Add to that a major life event like a move (and any other life changes that may be causing you to move), and you can really start to feel the strain of your responsibilities. Avoid getting burned out by managing your time well and asking for help when you need it.

2. Weather may cause delays

There’s simply no way to control every detail of your move. Unfortunately, weather is one of those variables that simply acts on its own schedule. Do your best to remain flexible to accommodate any delays caused by wintry weather. Also try not to move until the last minute so that you do have some breathing room in case you have to push back your moving day.

3. Extra spending could tighten budget

Another downside to moving during the holidays is that you’re adding a major expense to a time of year when you may already have a lot of extra costs to manage. Do your best to start saving money well in advance of your move (and the holidays). Also look at ways you could cut back on your holiday spending in order to get professional help with your move so you can reduce your own stress levels.

The bottom line

Budget your time and your money early on in the process when moving during the holidays. Also take time for some self-care so that you’re ready to handle any unexpected surprises that may come your way.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

Moving Electronics Tips

This entry was posted in Moving Tips and tagged Moving Electronics, moving tips on November 19, 2021 by Gabriel.

We recommend the following procedures when moving electronics to prevent any damage. If you take these steps before moving, your components should arrive intact.

Audio and Video Components

If you don’t have the owner’s manuals, or even if you do (they can often be found online), you may want to draw a diagram or take a photo of the wiring configuration to help you reconnect your components correctly after your move. Another good tip is to put small pieces of matching colored tape on the ends of the cables and on the corresponding inputs and outputs of the components.

Remove all discs from your CD and DVD players before packing to prevent scratches to your discs and damage to the laser in your player. This is also a good time to make sure that all your discs are back in their proper cases. Some players come equipped with a “transport screw” usually located underneath the unit (check the owner’s manual). Tighten this screw before you pack your player, which will immobilize parts of the mechanism.

If your unit comes with a cartridge (stacker) for multi-play, remove it before packing. The cartridge can be wrapped and packed in the same box as the player. All trays, whether single or multi-play, should be in the closed position before packing.

The best way to move your components is in the original boxes with the original packing. If you don’t have them, use boxes with enough room for adequate packing material. Your mover can provide a sturdy packing container and materials. Packing material should snugly fill the excess room in the box so that the unit will not move around. Plastic bubble sheets make ideal packing material. Newspaper is not recommended, as it may not securely hold the unit in place.

If you have a remote control, be sure to pack it in the same box as your player. All wiring used with your player should also be packed in the same box if you have room. Seal the box with reliable packing tape. Use this same packing method for packing your receiver, speakers and other audio and video components.

Plasma and Flat-screen Monitors

Plasma TV displays can be difficult to ship because they are essentially two thin panels of glass with plasma, an electrically-charged gas, held in suspension between them. They are delicate and relatively heavy. LCD screens, on the other hand, are lighter and less susceptible to damage, but still require careful handling.

If you are considering doing your own packing (not recommended for plasma TVs) be sure to let you mover know during the estimate that your shipment will include the TV and that special handling or crating may be required.

While plasma televisions are susceptible to damage from extreme temperatures, mishandling and from operating at high altitudes, they are shipped worldwide by their manufacturers without damage. The key is the packing. Whenever possible, you should use the manufacturer’s original packing container if you have kept it. If not, your mover can provide you with a special shipping container, or the unit should be packed and shipped in a container that meets the manufacturer’s specifications as closely as possible.

Plasma TVs should always be shipped and stored in an upright position. Shipping the units double-boxed and upright strapped to a pallet is recommended.

If storage is involved, the requirements vary by manufacturer, but plasma TVs should be stored in a climate-controlled warehouse where the temperature does not fall below 15 degrees F or above 122 degrees F, and where the humidity does not fall below 10 percent or exceed 90 percent with no condensation. Such units should not be stored at altitudes above 9,800 feet.

Some manufacturers recommend using only third-party specialists for dismounting and preparing plasma TVs for shipping, with professional installation at the destination for re-installation.

Personal Computers

Manually back up all your data. Remove any CDs from the disc drive and close all drive doors. Shut down the computer and the monitor before disconnecting them. Draw a diagram or take a photo of the wiring configuration to help you hook up your system up after your move. You may want to label each cable according to its corresponding piece of hardware (use this method for your printer, monitor, modem, scanner, etc.)

Use the original boxes if you have them. Otherwise, use boxes larger than the equipment and use plenty of packing material, especially on the sides.

Printers and Scanners

Again, the original packing box and material is the best choice for transport because they are customized to fit your specific items. Remove ink cartridges from printers and pack them separately. If you are moving a laser printer, remove the laser ink cartridge as the toner may spill and contaminate the laser engine.

At Your Destination

Avoid plugging in electronics on delivery day if possible. You should wait 24 hours to allow the units (TV, stereo or otherwise) to acclimate to room temperature and humidity, especially during colder months.

Special items

During an estimate, be sure the mover is aware of any particularly unusual items you’ll be taking with you, such as a chandelier or in-ground swing set. Movers often rely on their own or outside specialists to handle disassembling and/or crating (and uncrating and reassembling) such items as grandfather clocks, high-end appliances and home gyms.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

How to Get Packing When You Don’t Know Where to Start

This entry was posted in Moving Tips, Packing Tips and tagged moving, packing on October 13, 2021 by Gabriel.

Packing is not easy for everyone. It can be tough to get started, or to even know where to start. You may intend to do your own packing but find the task pretty darn daunting when you start with the first box. How do you get your whole house into boxes and then loaded into a single truck? If you’re not sure where to start, when to get started, or how to pack your stuff – you’re in the right place.

From managing your very first move to packing when you’re too overwhelmed to think, these simple suggestions from professional movers can help you start putting one box on top of another until your house is packed and ready to go.

Start with Boxes and a Permanent Marker

Start with that first box. Grab a stack of ‘Medium’ packing boxes and a permanent marker. Start with the rooms you use least, like the garage or den. Clear shelves into boxes (with padding, if needed) and label the box for its contents. Then start another box. Then another. Empty your off-season clothes into one box and your backup toiletries into another. Empty your bookshelves and desk drawers into one box and your less-used kitchen pans into another.

One box at a time, label by label, your home will get packed.

Break Up Your Packing into Manageable Chunks

If packing the whole house seems like a big task, break it up. Pack your office first, or everything in your closet you don’t wear weekly. Pack up your storage areas, they’re already half-packed anyway. Section your house into areas, leaving your most-used things for last. Tackle packing one evening and weekend at a time and congratulate yourself on hitting milestones.

Get Rid of Stuff You Don’t Need

Moving is the perfect time to purge your possessions of anything you don’t need or don’t want to bring with you. All those shirts you never wear, the pans you never cook with, or the furniture too shabby to be worth the truck space can get kicked to the curb or – even better – donate them. There might be a young couple who desperately needs an old sturdy couch or a family who could really use that extra mattress.

Get rid of things you don’t need. Anything you wouldn’t miss in the new house is now a candidate to lighten your load and reduce the amount you’ll need to pack.

Give Yourself Plenty of Time

If you’re not a professional mover, start early. Most people can’t pack their house over a long weekend, or even over three or four weekends. So, give yourself plenty of lead-up time to pack the house – and know when it’s time to call in the moving company reinforcements if you just don’t make enough headway before your moving date approaches. This is normal, not everyone is a packing machine.

Hire Professional Movers

Professional movers are an important resource when you’re planning a move. Many people hire movers to pack just their big furniture and most fragile objects, trusting their expertise to ensure these items make it to the new home safely. You can also count on a professional moving company to take you past the finish line if your personal moving efforts aren’t quite done when moving-truck weekend arrives.

Whether you need moving services to augment your busy schedule or because you’re not sure where to start, Pony Express Moving is here to help you get where you’re going. Contact us today to consult on your moving plans and schedule the professional moving services you need. We look forward to making your upcoming move a breeze.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

Moving From City of Boston to the Suburbs

This entry was posted in Boston Moving Company, Local Moving, Moving and tagged City of Boston, moving, Suburbs on August 13, 2021 by Gabriel.

It’s no secret that the real estate market is booming across the United States, and much of that interest is in suburban neighborhoods. In fact, a Zillow survey predicted that A Stronger Housing Market Across the Board. Surrounding suburban areas are sure to benefit from this trend, especially as COVID-19 has made remote working and schooling the norm.

If you’re wondering if a switch from the City of Boston hustle to suburban solitude is right for you, here are a few points to consider before jumping into this hot market.

Larger Homes & Yards vs. More Maintenance

The average square feet of a two-bedroom apartment in Boston is around 1,000 square feet. But moving out to the suburbs of Greater Boston area will double that, with many apartments coming closer to 2,000 square feet!

That makes a big difference, especially for those planning to expand their family. Additionally, these larger homes sit on larger plots of land that provide outdoor space that isn’t feasible in most city neighborhoods.

On the negative side, you have to take care of all that space. More appliances, larger units to fully service a bigger home, a lawn to mow, repainting the previous owner’s pea green kitchen… you and your wallet will have to front the costs to maintain the upkeep. Plus, suburban dwellers are often hit with higher property taxes and homeowner’s association (HOA) fees. That can add significantly to your monthly costs and should be carefully considered before making a move.

Peace & Quiet vs. Missing the City Life

Former city lovers often say they chose to move to get away from all the bustle and noise. Sure, traffic and late-night bar-goers can keep you up at night if you’re in a central location – but is it enough to fully relocate?

For some, the answer is yes. The idea of only hearing birds and crickets is an appealing way to unplug. For others, the sounds of silence could leave them craving the energy of downtown living. Take this into consideration when you’re looking at different neighborhoods, and even spend a few nights in prospective areas to fully understand what your new environment will be like.

Better School Districts vs. Zoning Hurdles

While it is sometimes a misconception that city schools are inadequate compared to suburban counterparts, it has historically been shown that suburban schools receive more funding and benefit heavily from the higher property taxes we talked about earlier. This can mean smaller class sizes, better-maintained facilities, and a more appealing workplace for sought-after teachers.

However, it’s important to note that you may not automatically receive all these benefits when you find your perfect suburban home. School district zoning can be strict and, at times, seemingly random. Your home could be zoned in a district different from your neighbors across the street. If moving for better schools is at the top of your list, pay careful attention to zoning lines before you buy.

Suburban Conveniences vs. A Longer Commute

While cities do offer many appealing activities from restaurants to stores to museums, they are often spread out and require a lot of planning to visit. Suburban shopping centers provide the convenience of popular retailers and eateries all in one spot. Ample parking also eliminates a common city headache.

On the other hand, one location that may not be close is your office. Moving out of city limits could mean you’re suddenly battling rush hour traffic and spending more time in your car than with your family. It’s certainly worth a test drive to see if your new route is one you can realistically handle every day.

Ready to Make a Move?

Once you have fully weighed the pros and cons and are ready to make your move, make your first call Pony Express Moving. From the very first consultation to the last piece of furniture placed in your new home, we’ll provide in-depth care and attention to detail, so your relocation is stress-free.

Our skilled local moving team is a part of the community, living and working here every day. We know the ins and outs to help customers with smooth, easy transitions. Plus, we offer a full range of customizable services that allow you to create the moving plan to fit your budget.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

How to Pack Fragile Items For Moving

This entry was posted in Packing Tips and tagged Fragile Items, moving, packing on July 14, 2021 by Gabriel.

If you’re in a rush to move, you can probably get away with throwing most of your belongings into a box without too much concern. However, chances are you want to protect your fragile items like your favorite mug, plates, or flat-screen TV. In order to ensure their safety during your Boston move, you should take the time to properly pack fragile items so that they are secure. It will mean you have to put in extra effort and attention into packing them correctly, but it will be well worth it when all of your items arrive intact.

Gather Materials for Fragile Items

Before you start packing, you first need to get the appropriate materials. To prevent damaging fragile items, you need to provide some cushioning during transport. Boston streets tend to be quite bumpy, so if you don’t properly protect your glassware, they can easily shatter even if you just move a few blocks away. If you don’t already have some on hand, you should get the following items:

Moving boxes of different sizes
Bubble wrap
Packing paper or newspaper
Markers
Tape and scissors
Dividers
Towels or socks for cushioning

You can find many of these items for cheap or even free if you know where to look. For boxes, you can ask family, friends, or even a local store if they have any that they plan on throwing out. As well, you can go to sites like freecycle , craigslist or Facebook marketplace and see if there are any listings for the supplies you need. If you work in an office, you might be able to ask the mailroom if you can take any extra supplies they might have.

Pack Your Fragile Items

Once you have everything in one place, it’s time to get packing. Your first step starts with choosing a proper box. You should opt for smaller boxes for your fragile items so you don’t over-pack. Not only are smaller boxes easier to handle, they are less likely to allow items to shift inside during the move. With that said, make sure the small box is also very sturdy as you don’t want it breaking down during the move!

Once you have the perfect boxes, you should secure the bottom and sides with extra tape. This will add extra support and keep it from bowing under the weight of its content. After that, add packing paper, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or even towels to cushion the bottom of the box. Now that you have your box prepared, it’s time to start packing your fragile items!

There are several steps you can take to reduce the chances of your items breaking. Whether you’re packing your plates or glassware, you should take the time to wrap each individual piece. More delicate items like china should be wrapped in bubble wrap and then secured with tape. Other items that are a bit sturdier can be wrapped in packing paper or even things like face and/or hand towels.

Once everything is wrapped up, layer all of the items from largest to smallest. This way, the base of the box will be well-supported and your smaller items won’t get crushed. If you’re packing glasses and stemware don’t stack them. Instead, separate them with cardboard dividers to keep each item from colliding during the move. You should also fill glassware and other hollow items with packing paper to soften any vibrations.

After everything is in boxes, fill the empty space with packing peanuts, towels, or paper to further prevent these items from moving around. Don’t forget to add a layer to the top before you seal up the box!

Label Your Boxes

Regardless of whether you’re hiring professional Boston movers or not, you should always label the boxes with your fragile items so that you know to handle it with care. Make sure to also include an arrow on the side of the boxes telling them which side is up so they’re not carrying your boxes out upside down! Reliable movers in Boston will generally load fragile items last and will pack them near the top of the pile to prevent any items from accidentally getting crushed. If you have smaller trinkets or maybe a mug you really like, you should carry them with you separately. That way you won’t lose or ruin it during a trip.

If you are putting your items in storage for a while, you should take the time to create a content list on each box. Chances are you likely won’t remember what is in each box after a few months, so just writing fragile or glassware won’t really help. Plus, writing everything out will help you keep track of your items after the move and can help you unpack once you’re in your new place.

Handling Broken Items

Even the best laid plans can often go awry. Even if you did everything right, something still might break during the move. If that happens, you should be very careful when unpacking the items. Remember, handling broken glass or ceramic items is dangerous so be cautious. If you are moving with roommates or family, inform them of what happened and then remove the large pieces first. After that, carefully remove the other unbroken items and carefully wipe it down to remove smaller pieces. You should also vacuum around the box to clean up any small particles that might have fallen to the ground.

If you hired Boston movers, you should be able to file an insurance claim if you can prove that the fragile items were in one piece and properly packed. Most moving companies provide basic insurance that will reimburse you $0.60/pound for each damaged item. Some companies will go the extra mile and might even reimburse you more depending on the cost of the item. If you have a lot of expensive and fragile items, it might make sense to pay the extra money for full moving insurance. This way you can get a full reimbursement for your damaged items.

Conclusion

Packing might be tedious, but if you want to give your delicate items the best chance of making it through a move, it pays to take your time and do it right. Of course, if you don’t have the time to do the packing yourself, you can always hire a full-service moving company that will do all the packing for you. Just make sure to let them know what items need to be treated with care, especially if it’s not obvious!

FAQ

Are there alternative wrapping materials I can use instead of packaging paper?

If you have a tight budget, any cost-savings can be a godsend. Instead of buying packaging paper you can use clothes, towels, sheets, and other fabrics. Just make sure everything is washed and cleaned. If something breaks, during the move, make sure the items you use are properly vacuumed and cleaned of any stray glass/ceramic.

I don’t want to use bubble wrap for moving. What else can I use?

Bubble wrap is great for protecting your fragile items, but after you move chances are you’ll end up tossing it in the trash. If you’re concerned about the environment, this might be the last thing you want to do. Instead, there are more eco-friendly options such as biodegradable packing peanuts, seaweed packaging, air pillow, corrugated packaging, and more.

What items should be considered fragile?

Glassware and dishware are the obvious choices, but other fragile items include: lamps, pictures/frames, TVs, antiques/specialty items, tiles, collectibles, and more. Basically, it includes anything you really don’t want damaged!

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

Avoiding Moving Woes

This entry was posted in Boston Moving Company and tagged Avoiding Moving Woes on June 2, 2021 by Gabriel.

It’s a timeless and universal truth: moving is no fun. Ancient Polynesian seafarers, while nervously prepping outrigger canoes for uncharted trips across the South Pacific, probably groaned in frustration when they realized at the last minute that someone forgot to pack up all the fishing gear.

Sure, locating to a new place can be an exciting adventure, but the actual moving process can be stressful, costly, and full of surprises. Make your next move as smooth and simple as possible by avoiding these pitfalls:

Hiring a shady mover. Moving scams can run the gamut from bogus “moving deposits”, to bait-and-switch estimates, to overly-complicated contracts designed to nullify mover liability. You can steer clear of a less-than-upstanding mover by doing your homework. The Better Business Bureau, Angie’s List, your state transportation regulator, and the U.S. Department of Transportation – and even your relatives, friends and neighbors – are all good sources of information about whether a moving company is on the up-and-up. Doing some homework online can save you a lot of heartache.

Failing to schedule your move well in advance. During the summer months, good moving companies are booked up quickly. Rather than waiting until the last minute, make sure your move is scheduled weeks – or better yet, months – in advance. You don’t want to be scrambling to find a mover the day before you’re supposed to head out.

Packing too much stuff. Do you really need those old boxes of baby clothes that you haven’t laid eyes on since your 6-year-old was in diapers? Before you move, “edit” your belongings. Think about whether you can trash some of your possessions, donate them to charity, or give them away to friends and relatives. Consider holding a garage sale to clear out some of the clutter. If you haven’t seen, worn, or used something in a year, think hard about whether you need to keep it – and whether you need to haul it to your new place.

Ignoring the need to pack ahead of time. You’ll find very few people who’ll say that packing is fun. In fact, a survey commissioned by SpareFoot found that people who moved in the past year identified packing and unpacking as the biggest hassle in the process. (Our ancient seafarers would probably agree.)

You can lessen the load by beginning to pack well before moving day comes along. Start by boxing up stuff that you won’t need right away – for instance, if you’re moving in the summer, pack up your winter clothes so that they’re out of the way. If you get down to the wire and need help with packing, enlist friends, neighbors, relatives, or colleagues to lend a hand. Just make sure you have plenty of pizza and cold beverages on hand. If you can’t rustle up any free help, consider hiring laborers to do the packing for you; that may be a small price to pay to alleviate moving-related stress.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

Home Improvements to Make Before You Move In

This entry was posted in Moving Tips and tagged Before, Home Improvements, Move In on May 11, 2021 by Gabriel.

Most homebuyers have a list of things they’d like to change about their new properties. And while a lot of it can be pushed off until after recovering from the move and its associated costs, some home improvements are much easier-and cheaper-to get done prior to moving day.

Here are some of them:

Flooring

A home’s flooring takes on a lot of wear and tear (and occasionally, some latent and unrelenting pet smells as well), so it’s pretty typical to want to refloor a home after you buy. But it’s a large expense, and many buyers choose to wait to get it done. Unfortunately, that usually results in spending a lot more money in the long run. Whether you’re dealing with carpet, vinyl, tile, or hardwood, you’re always going to be able to keep costs lower if you schedule the installation to take place prior to move in day, when the flooring company doesn’t have to take on the added task of moving all of your furniture.

Interior painting

Just like flooring, painting the interior of your home is considerably easier when you don’t have to worry about clearing out rooms first or covering up furnishings. And if you’re hiring a pro to do the job, it’s also much more cost effective, since 75-85 percent of the cost of a professional paint job goes toward labor. Safeguard your savings and your furniture by getting the interior rooms painted when the house is empty, and simplify the task even further by painting before you have new floors installed. As an added bonus, getting this done early means that you get to avoid all the fumes that come with fresh paint.

Popcorn ceilings and walls

If you’re moving into an older home, there’s a strong chance you’ll run across popcorn ceilings or walls. While the style used to be popular for its aesthetic and ability to hide imperfections, now it’s much more of an eyesore than anything else. Popcorn ceilings or walls can also contain asbestos or other irritants, meaning even if you don’t hate the style you’re better off having them removed. Having popcorn ceilings or walls professionally smoothed out is simple enough, but it’s also messy. Similar to painting, the handyman will have to cover all furnishings and move things around, adding on time and money. Get it done ahead of time and save the trouble and expense.

Closet shelving and organization

Unpacking is stressful enough without having to worry about where you’re going to put everything. Set yourself up for success by having any DIY or professional closet fixtures installed prior to the first box of stuff getting dropped off. You’ll be able to plan for exactly what you need, plus you’ll simplify the entire process and save yourself the trouble of filling up a closet only to have to empty it out again to install shelving.

Fencing

If you have pets or young children who like to run free in the backyard (or you just like your privacy), you’re probably going to want to install a fence. And while you may think this is an easy thing to take care of at some undetermined date after move in, having your indoor and outdoor space optimized for livability before you turn the key in the front door goes a long way toward making your new house feel like home. If you know you’re going to fence in your yard, get it taken care of early, before it inevitably gets pushed down on the to-do list. And don’t forget that you may need to file a permit in order to build a fence, so this is one project you should get started on as soon as you can.

Exterior locks

This is one of those easy home improvements that can be done in just an hour or so. Even if you’ve met the previous owner of the home and they seem nice and trustworthy, you have no idea who else may have copies of the key. Instead of taking on the risk, give yourself some peace of mind and have a locksmith come out to replace all of the exterior locks before you move in. It’s the only way to know for sure exactly who has access to your home.

Batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors

This is another area where you’re always better safe than sorry. Not all home inspectors check the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and if they do, there’s still no way to know how recently they were replaced. Instead of sitting back and waiting for the inevitable “beep” of a dying battery (or worse, finding out that an existing battery is defective), take a few minutes to pop in fresh replacements.

Heating and cooling filters

A heating or cooling system with an old or faulty filter can cost you some serious dough by causing the system to work inefficiently, or worse, break. A fresh filter is cheap and easy to install on your own, and will provide you with cleaner air and greater protection against having to replace the heating or cooling system itself-a repair that is neither cheap nor easy.

Leaks

Any leak, no matter the size, can cause major damage over time if left untreated. So if your home inspector alerted you to a leak, don’t waste any time in getting it repaired. In addition to water damage, untreated leaks open up your home to a host of problems, including mold, mildew, and rotting surfaces. Plus, treating the leak could result in a disruption of your water services-an inconvenience that’s not so bad if you’re not living in the property at the time.

Childproofing

Never wait until after you move in to take the necessary precautionary steps to protect children (or pets) from household hazards. Any childproofing adjustments you need to make, be it covering outlets, securing cabinets, or installing corner and edge bumpers definitely need to be done before any two- or four-legged little ones walk through the door. And if the previous owners already had childproofing in place, be sure to double check each safety fixture to make sure it’s in proper working order.

Moving is a big task, and it’s often fraught with complications and added expenses. While you can’t prepare for every what-if, you can do your future self a huge favor by taking care of these types of home improvements projects prior to move in. Not only will doing most of these ahead of time save you money, they’ll also save you a ton of time and frustration.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

Don’t Forget Your Outdoor Items

This entry was posted in Moving, Moving Tips, Packing Tips and tagged moving, Outdoor Items on April 14, 2021 by Gabriel.

When you are planning for a move, it is common to think about all the items inside your house that will need to be moved to your new home. However, many people have numerous items, such as grills and patio furniture, outside that cannot be overlooked. Preparing and packing outdoor items for a move can be like packing some of your indoor furniture, but like with all home items, it is important to take special care to do the job right. Otherwise, you may arrive at your new home with broken furniture and a dented-up grill.

Deep Cleaning

Even before packing a cushion, do some deep cleaning of the outdoor furniture and grill. If they aren’t clean for the move, you might end up with dirt and grime on other belongings that ride beside them in the moving van. Spray all surfaces of the patio furniture down with cleaner, wipe clean and rinse with water. Make sure and get all the cracks and crevices on the furniture. For the grill, remove the soot and ashes from the inside and clean the grease or ash catcher. Additionally, consult the manual to see if there is a suggested cleaning solution for the inside and outside of the grill and to see if they have further recommendations for cleaning.

Packing

After you have cleaned your furniture and grill, you can begin to pack it up for your move. Remove pillows and cushions from the patio furniture and set them aside. Take apart any furniture items that can easily be disassembled and make sure to keep track of all the hardware in a bag or box that you can label and tape to the frame. Wrap the furniture pieces in moving blankets and take care to cover all the sides with the blankets. Once they are securely wrapped, secure the pads with tape to prevent damage. Make sure that any pillows or cushions are completely dry before packing them in boxes. Label the boxes for easy identification at your new home.

Remove grates, trays and small parts from your grill and carefully wrap them in packing paper and place them in boxes. You’ll also want to remove the propane tank from the grill. Verify with your moving company if they can load the tank on the moving van. You will likely need to transport it yourself or leave it behind and purchase a new tank after arriving to your new house, as most professional movers will not move anything flammable or combustible. Wrap the grill in moving blankets and secure with tape for safe moving.

Remember that a professional mover can assist with the packing and moving of your patio furniture and grill (minus the propane tank). If you want to forego the hassle of packing your outdoor and indoor items, Pony Express Moving Services would be honored to assist with your move.