Category Archives: Moving

Moving Your Loved Ones Into an Assisted Living Home

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Moving Your Loved Ones Into an Assisted Living Home

Moving Your Loved Ones Into an Assisted Living Home

There comes a time in life when you have to make the difficult decision of moving your elderly loved one into an assisted living home. Whether it’s a parent, an aunt, or even a beloved neighbor, it’s a difficult time in both of your lives. Pony Express Moving is here to help you navigate this difficult process and make it as stress-free as possible.

Finding the Right Assisted Living Home

Before anything else, the most important step in this process is finding the right home for your loved one. If they get stuck in an environment that isn’t a good fit, it can be extremely difficult for your loved one to feel comfortable. You must remember that this is their home now – and they need to be able to feel at home. Do your research and know which amenities are important to your loved one. Also, use your best judgment to find a home that has the right atmosphere – is your loved one a young soul that needs to be surrounded by other spirited community members to socialize with, or do they need a more quiet, low-key environment? Know your loved one and do the right research to make sure you find them a home that is right for them.

Downsize, Downsize, Downsize!

If your loved one was previously living in a larger house, they may need to downsize when it comes to their possessions. They may not have room for all of their big pieces of living room furniture or their countless pieces of decor that have been accumulated over the years. Talk with the home you have chosen and find out what furniture they supply, and whether or not you can replace existing furniture with your own. While many homes will come with fully furnished rooms, your loved one might feel more comfortable if they can sleep in their own bed and relax on their own couch.

Regardless of what the home provides, it’s very likely that there will not be enough room for all of your loved one’s possessions. Speak with them and help them pack and prioritize what they want to bring with them, what they want to put into storage, and what they want to sell or donate. It can also be helpful to offer to hold onto some of their things by keeping them in your home – whether on display or in a box in the attic – so your loved one feels like they are still connected to their sentimental items.

Moving Day Priorities

Offer to stay with your loved one all throughout moving day and assist them in dealing with the movers. You should also go with them to their new assisted living home and help them unpack. While the task may seem daunting, it can be crucial to try to fully unpack and decorate on moving day. It may seem like a lot of work, but you want them to have a good initial experience in their new home, and not feel like it is an unwelcoming experience. You want them to feel right at home as soon as possible. If unpacking the entire home in one day isn’t possible, make sure you at least unpack the essentials, like clothing and toiletries, and a few personal items to make the place start feeling homey. If you are able to, you can also let them stay with you in your home for a few days during the process, so that they don’t have to live in the hectic moving environment!

Decorate for Comfort

Even though it’ll take some extra time, you should really make it a priority to decorate as soon as you can. If you can finish everything on the move in day, then that’s amazing! You want to be able to set up a warm, welcoming environment to move into so that your loved one doesn’t feel uncomfortable or even potentially sad. If you can’t manage to finish it all in one day, that’s more than okay… just make sure you make finishing moving in a priority and really get to decorating!

Save money with Pony Express Moving Assisted Living Home Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Request a free quote online.

New Year’s Resolutions For The New Mover

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New Year's Resolutions For The New MoverNew Year is a time for resolutions. If you’re planning to move, you can already get started on a few of the most popular personal goals.

If you’re planning to move, you’re already making a fresh start, so why not keep up the momentum with a few more personal resolutions for 2019? Now that the new year is upon us, you have all the more reason to make some moving resolutions.

You are probably familiar with some of the more common resolutions, among them, trying to eat better, mitigating debt and volunteering more. These kinds of goals can also be translated into the process of moving, giving yourself a great start for a new year. Here are seven New Year’s resolutions you can make on your way to your new home.

Recycle more

This common resolution is all about making a life change. As you pack for your new home, keep in mind that moving is an opportunity to make a new life for yourself. Get rid of unnecessary material goods or items that carry little sentimental value. Instead of taking your trash to the dump, however, donate it or give it away to people who may see it as treasure. You may not want your old coat or a worn chair, but maybe there is a family that does.

Conversely, if there is something your new house needs, don’t buy new. Visit thrift stores or antique shops and furnish your new place with vintage, rustic and secondhand goods. With a little effort, you can find perfectly good items at decent prices.

Save yourself some money

Don’t get boxed into an overpriced moving contract — let Pony Express Moving Services find the solution that fits you best. More than 20 years ago we began as local movers with just one truck and have steadily grown into the most respected Boston moving company out there. We are known to be one of the most trusted names in the business; we pride ourselves on exceptional customer relations and professional service. With every service we offer, we bring you the latest technology to make the process more efficient and your move, whether commercial or residential, as stress-free as possible.

Manage pre-moving stress

When you’re planning to move, you’ll no doubt have an extensive list of tasks to complete. A number of these – such as registering your car in a new state, changing your bank and notifying the post office of your address change – can easily fall to the bottom of your list, only to cause you stress later on. The last thing you want to deal with when navigating a new town is a number of bureaucratic errands. Before moving, update your address and map out important offices in your new town, including DMV locations, post offices and nearby banks. Set aside an afternoon once you’ve moved to visit these places and take care of business.

Manage post-moving stress

There is no shortage of stressors once you’ve moved. One of the more subtly irksome aspects of a move is a home that’s not fully unpacked. Having boxes everywhere not only makes your new place feel more like a storage facility, it also means you have to spend time digging through boxes for things you need. Set aside a weekend to do all of your unpacking. You’ll be happier for it once you’re done.

Eat healthier meals

If you’re trying to make some positive changes in your diet, unpack your kitchen as soon as possible. Don’t rely on fast food and microwave meals to get you through the first weeks of a new town. Cook healthy and often.

Volunteer more

Many people hope to get more involved with their community in the new year. Volunteering is also a great way for recent movers to feel better connected to their new community. Soup kitchens and food drives are also a great place to meet like-minded people.

Take a vacation

Once you’ve moved, make sure you explore your new home. Spend your first few weekends taking trips to nearby locales outside your neighborhood. Go to local favorites off the beaten path as well as main cultural hubs. Make a day trip out of it.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Service. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Request a free quote.

Moving Cross Country Tips

Thinking of moving from happening Boston to laid back Phoenix? Or are you ready to transfer from your satellite office in Boston to the headquarters in NYC? People move across the country for many reasons. Some accept new job opportunities while others are just looking for a change of pace or a new adventure. Whatever the reason, what all of us cross-country movers know to be true is that though the move itself is exciting, the process can be a little tricky. To make relocation a bit easier, we’ve outlined a quick overview of key steps to remember.

Moving Cross Country TipsPlanning the Moving Cross Country

Before you begin the physical act of moving, there are a few tasks you should complete ahead of time. First, assuming you already know where you’re moving and have an apartment picked out, confirm the earliest move in date with your new landlord. While the lease may officially begin on a certain date, sometimes tenants move out early, which could give you the opportunity to move in early. You can then figure out how much prep time you need before you leave your old home behind.

Next, you should get measurements of your room from the landlord or property manager beforehand. Will your comfy queen-size bed fit into your new room? Do you have space for a dresser or should you buy storage containers for under your bed? If you’re going to be living with roommates, connect with them on what each of you are planning to bring that will be shared. Items for common areas like living room furniture and kitchen utensils can usually be divvied up instead of everyone bringing their own (though you can never have too many throw pillows). Start selling off your large furniture early. You can post your couch, bed frame, dresser, and coffee table for sale on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace to make your luggage a little lighter and to earn some extra cash to then spend on all new furniture for your new place. Lastly, don’t forget to update your address with USPS. It only takes a few minutes and it can be done online here!

Packing for Moving Cross Country

Once you’ve sold off your big ticket items, it’s time to start thinking about what belongings you want to have in your new home. We recommend making a list. Start with what you absolutely have to pack no matter what, like the stuffed animal you’ve had since you were you were born or the expensive coffee maker you don’t want to replace. Then list out items you’ll bring if you can fit them and lastly anything that you can live without or replace upon arrival. Begin packing according to this list. Once all of your necessities are boxed up, you’ll have a better idea of what else you can fit and can continue boxing until there isn’t any space left. Next, decide how to get rid of your left over possessions, whether you’re selling them online or at a garage sale, donating them to goodwill, or bringing them to the dump. If you need to pick up packing supplies, check in with local businesses such as grocery and liquor stores as they tend to have a good amount of free boxes, bubble wrap, and newspaper laying around.

All Things Transportation

Now that you’ve figured out when you can move in and have packed, you should probably figure out how you’re going to get to your new apartment. Unless you have your own private jet, you have three options of travel: planes, trains, and automobiles.

Flying or Taking a Train/Bus

While getting yourself to your destination by flying or taking a bus is relatively simple to figure out, transporting your assets can be  more difficult. If you’re moving for a new job and your company provides relocation assistance, you should definitely take advantage of it. If you’re on your own, you should look into long-distance moving services.

Once you’ve figured out how to transport your stuff, you need to figure out how to transport, well, yourself! If you have some flexibility on when you’re going to move, the best deals on travel happen during the late fall through the spring and it’s cheaper to travel during the week. There are also websites designed to save you money on long journeys like Wanderu, which will find the fastest and cheapest way for you to get from point A to point B via bus or train. If you’d like to take the classic approach and plan the trip yourself, Greyhound and Amtrak are great places to start.

Driving

Regardless of which road ride you choose, there are a few additional tips you should keep in mind. If you have a family member or close friend willing to make the drive with you, definitely accept their offer! Driving with a buddy makes the road trip much easier because you can split time behind the wheel and you’ll appreciate the additional company. Just make sure you can stand multiple days in close quarters with them. Also, pack a bag of necessities like several changes of clothes, toiletries, and whatever else you’ll need for the few days you’ll spend on the road. Make sure you store this bag in an easily accessible spot because digging through all your boxes to find a toothbrush or new shirt will be difficult and frustrating.

Moving from one side of the country to the other is a big task. It can be stressful and taxing but it will also end up being one of the most exciting and rewarding moves you’ll ever make!

Save money with Pony Express Moving Cross Country Service. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Request a free quote.

Should You Move Your Mattress?

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Should You Move Your Mattress?The mattress is one of your most important pieces of furniture since you spend a third of your life in it. When you’re moving, it’s the perfect time to ask yourself whether it’s time to invest in a new mattress or if your old one is worth taking with you. Here are some considerations.

Is it worth the hassle to move the mattress?

Unless your current mattress meets your needs, ask yourself these questions.

  • Is your mattress more than eight years old? If so, it might be close to the end of its lifespan.
  • How comfortable is your old bed? If you wake up achy or toss and turn, those are signs that your mattress might not be a good fit and needs replaced.
  • Is the mattress of good quality? If you have a bargain bed, your moving might be a good time to upgrade your sleep experience.
  • What condition is the mattress? If it’s sagging, indented, ripped, or torn, the move might finish wrecking your bed.
  • Does your bed meet your needs? Perhaps you need a bigger bed or want to upgrade to an adjustable or cool sleeping mattress.

It’s the perfect time to buy a new bed

If you’ve been thinking about a new mattress, there are lots of reasons to buy during your move.

  • Not moving it will reduce your moving costs.
  • If you’re DIY moving, not taking it reduces the hassle.
  • You can have a new bed delivered timed to match your move.
  • You can get white glove delivery for a stress-free move.
  • You’ll start off in your new space with a comfortable sleep experience.

What to do if you decide to buy instead of moving your mattress

One of the most convenient ways to shop for a new mattress is to buy online. You’ll get a better-quality bed for a more affordable price.

  • Before you start shopping, decide what size bed you need.
  • Look past marketing speak and check mattress reviews.
  • Consider whether you want a specialty mattress like an organic bed.
  • Check the time from order to delivery so you know when to buy.
  • If you have access, you might want delivery to the new place a day prior.
  • Buy new sheets and bedding if they need replaced or you’re changing sizes.

Getting rid of your old mattress

Coordinating getting rid of your old mattress requires timing since you don’t want to go without a bed at your old space. There are a few options to dispose of your old bed.

  • Repurpose it – If you have a spare room that needs a bed, use it there.
  • Donate it – Local laws may prevent donating your bed but in some areas, you can.
  • Sell it – If the bed is in decent shape, you might be able to sell it.
  • Give it away – List it on LetGo or Craigslist for free and let someone take it.
  • Recycle it – Look for a local recycle company. More than 80% of a mattress is recyclable.
  • Trash it – Hire someone to haul it away or take it to a landfill.

Tips for moving a mattress

  • When moving a mattress, whether DIY or using a mover, start with a plastic mattress bag to protect it from dirt, stains, and snags. They only cost $5-10.
  • For DIY, get help since mattresses can be ungainly. If you don’t have help, fold it in half and secure with ratchet ties to make it easier and use a furniture dolly.
  • Preferably move it in a closed moving van or truck. Stand it vertically – don’t lie it down and pile stuff on it.
  • Moving a mattress in the back of a truck is the next best thing but be sure to secure it with ratchet ties or well-knotted rope.
  • A car top is the least preferred method and the least secure. It needs to strapped extra-securely.

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

Mistakes to Avoid When Moving Your Stuff Into a Storage Unit

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Storing items during a move can be a balancing act. You’ve got the movers on one hand and the storage facility on the other. Everything has to come together just right or you’ll run into big—and potentially costly—issues. Here’s a look at the top five mistakes people make when moving things into a storage unit and tips on how to do it right.

Mistakes to Avoid When Moving Your Stuff Into a Storage UnitNot Knowing What the Movers Will Bring on Moving Day.

Before renting a storage unit, get a firm answer from the moving company about what type of vehicle the movers will be using. Many companies use moving trucks, while others use everything from a trailer pulled by a pickup truck to an 18-wheeler. Verify the vehicle type then get the dimensions—width, length, height, and weight at maximum capacity.

Not Finding Out Whether the Moving Truck Will Fit.

Now that you know what type of moving vehicle that’ll be used, you need to ensure that it can get into the storage facility and to your unit.

If you’ve ever been to a storage facility, you’ve probably noticed some areas can be a little tight. Storage facilities make money renting out space, so they understandably maximize the number of buildings and units. This can result in tight turns and becomes challenging to navigate, especially for 18-wheelers.

If you find out on moving day that the vehicle won’t fit in the facility, it usually means two things—both of them bad. First, a shuttle truck may have to be used, which costs more money. Second, the movers will be forced to touch everything twice, doubling the chances of something going awry.

When considering your storage options, ask about clearance heights and widths for getting into the facility and to your unit. You’ll also want to find out how trucks access the property and whether there are any load maximums. Use the truck dimensions provided by the movers to figure out whether you’ll have enough space.

Not Giving the Movers Unloading Directions.

Professional movers are the expert unloaders, but you’re the boss on moving day. It’s best to let them know how you want things arranged in the unit before unloading begins.

It’s especially important to speak up if you want to move around and look for certain items later on. This takes some thought and planning before the unit starts getting filled. Aisles will need to be created and boxes will need to be arranged so that all labels are visible. You should direct the movers whether you want furniture to be stacked.

Not Securing Enough Space for Your Stuff.

It can be tricky figuring out how much storage space you need. If your belongings already are organized and boxed up, this is easier to determine. But when in doubt, get advice from the facility. If you cut it too close and your belongings won’t fit, you’ll have two options:

1. Check with the facility about renting a second, smaller unit for the overflow.

2. Return the overflow items to the moving truck and take them to a family member’s garage or friend’s attic.

If you’re not sure everything will fit into your storage unit, line up one of the two options above in advance. Having a backup plan will reduce stress and minimize cost, particularly if the movers are working by the hour.

Visiting the Storage Facility When Everyone Else Is There.

Typically, people move their things into or visit their storage units on the weekends or after work on weekdays. This might be the only time that fits into your schedule, but if you’re paying movers by the hour, you could cut down on the cost by moving during work hours on a weekday when fewer people are around.

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

The Ultimate Guide to Plan Your Move

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Moving can feel daunting — you have to contact multiple moving companies, schedule several estimates to find the best mover, and manage the packing and migration of everything you own. That said, you can make your move a lot easier with a few simple tricks that organize and help you prep your move ahead of the big day. Read on, or download our printable checklist to get started.

Plan your move week by week

The Ultimate Guide to Plan Your Move - Ponny Express Moving Company Boston

8 weeks before moving day: Schedule your movers

If you’re moving across state lines, chances are you’ll be working with a van line, which contract with local movers to transport your possessions from one place to another.

Even if you’re moving within a state, or within a city, van lines are a good place to start looking for a local moving company — it guarantees that they have at one point registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT), and the van line has vetted them

That said, you’ll still want to do a quick background check of a local mover before scheduling an in-home estimate to make sure they don’t have any red flags. Thankfully, the DOT makes it easy. You can use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) search tool to see what complaints a company has had in the last five years, and their safe driving track-record.

To-do:

  • Find local agents associated with top van lines
  • Schedule at least three in-home estimates and ask:
    • How and when the pickup and delivery of your goods will occur
    • For contact information for before, during, and after the move
    • What happens if an item is damaged during the move
    • If the mover has a dispute settlement program
  • Compare the whole package — prices and services — before deciding on a mover

6 weeks before moving day: Start downsizing

Moving gives you the opportunity see which belongings you want to bring to your new home, and which you want to leave behind. You’ll want to know the measurements for each room in your new home so you can plan out how — and whether — your existing furniture will fit. If you’re traveling long-distance, you might also consider leaving some of your furniture behind and buying replacements at your destination. Moving estimates take into account weight and volume, so it might be less expensive to sell and replace your furniture than to take it with you — and it’s a good opportunity to upgrade to a new TV or mattress.

You’ll also want to be circumspect about what consumables you bring into your home. Since you’ll need to pack and move any extra supplies, hold off on the Costco-sized package of paper towels. Similarly, start using up your frozen food and pantry items so you won’t have to figure out how to transport ice cream or haul soup cans to your new home.

To-do:

  • Measure out your new space
  • Determine what furniture you want to keep
  • Sell or donate goods
  • Start emptying the pantry
  • Plan meals to use up perishable items

4 weeks before moving day: Create an inventory and start packing

Now that you’re in the middle of sorting through which belongings you want to pack and which ones you want to sell or donate, you’re ready to start building your inventory list. Having a complete list of all of your books, DVDs, and dishes will not only help you track whether all of your boxes have made it through the move (and which ones might be missing), but will also come in handy if you ever need to submit a homeowners insurance claim for damaged or lost goods.

As you prepare to pack up all of your smaller items, you might want to make use of a packing calculator to estimate how many boxes you need. We like Home Depot’s moving calculator — which asks specifics about the types of rooms you’re trying to pack up.

To-do:

  • Estimate the number of boxes you need
  • Assess whether you want any specialty boxes:
    • Wardrobe boxes
    • Dishware boxes
    • Picture frame boxes
    • TV boxes
  • Don’t forget to grab:
    • Tape
    • Permanent markers
    • Packing paper
    • Bubble wrap
    • Sandwich bags

2 weeks before moving day: Finalize the paperwork

As you get closer to your move-out date, you’ll want to note where your incoming bills and mail are coming from, and update your address with each company. Additionally, you can update your address with the United States Post Office (USPS) to help catch any mail that slipped through your updating efforts.

It can take up to two weeks to process a change of address form through USPS, so you’ll want to give them a heads-up ahead of your actual move-out date. Once filled out, they’ll forward your mail from your old address to your new one for six months — where hopefully you’ll have notified all of your companies, or you can renew the mail-forwarding service for another six months.

This is also a good time to start canceling or transferring your subscriptions — whether a meal delivery service or magazine subscription — and figuring out what steps you need to take to set up utilities at your new place while closing down those at your old one.

To-do:

  • Notify jobs, subscriptions, and billing companies of your new address
  • Fill out a change of address form at the post office
  • Transfer prescriptions to a new pharmacy
  • Transfer or set up service with local utilities:
    • Electricity
    • Water
    • Sewage
    • Trash
    • Internet

1 week before moving day: Finish packing

Even when hiring movers, your actual moving day will be quite busy, so it’s good to make sure your house is as move-ready ahead of time as possible. Try to have everything packed except for your daily necessities and what supplies you’ll need as soon as you get to your new home. Setting aside a specifically-marked “open first” box means you won’t have to open several boxes just to find towels or silverware for your first days in the new home.

Now’s also a good time to finish up last steps in disassembling or cleaning any major appliances you’re taking with you. Research the best way to move each appliance whether it’s your lawnmower (involving removing hazardous liquid and securing the blades) or your refrigerator (which needs to air-dry for at least 24 hours after you’ve defrosted and cleaned it). If there’s any furniture which can be disassembled ahead of moving day, you can save time by doing it now, and placing the smaller parts into labeled zip-lock bags.

If you’re moving into an apartment, you’ll also want to call ahead to see if you can reserve an elevator to help you move. Some buildings require a reservation in order to use an elevator (even if you are moving onto the 30th floor). If you have a reservation, you also won’t have to compete with other residents to use the elevator — making your move in as quick and stair-free as possible.

To-do:

  • Pack an “open first” box with a days-worth of essentials
  • Photograph assembled electronics before packing
  • Disassemble furniture
  • Prepare appliances for moving
  • Confirm what your movers will and won’t move
  • Set aside cleaning supplies for moving day
  • If necessary, reserve an elevator or acquire a parking permit in your building

The day of your move

Moving day will be busy, as you’ll be finishing some last-minute packing, answering questions and directing the movers, and cleaning up your home. Make sure to keep your “open first” box separate from the rest of your possessions, as well as any important documents, records, valuables, and moving paperwork. If you’re driving to your new location, you’ll want to keep these with you, or explain to your movers how you want your antique furniture handled.

This is also your time to follow the movers as they do their own inventory of your household goods. They’ll note exactly what is going onto the truck, as well as the condition of your furniture and possessions. It’s important to be on the same page, so that if damages occur during transit, you have a written record of what dings were already present in your furniture, and which need to be reimbursed by your moving company’s protection policy.

To-do:

  • Be present and available the whole day to help the movers
  • Accompany the movers as they inventory your belongings
  • Take pictures of any existing damage
  • Carefully read all documents before signing them
  • Keep the bill of lading until your goods are delivered, the charges are paid, and any claims are settled

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

Spring Moving Benefits

Spring Moving Benefits - Pony Express Moving ServicesSpring forward and fall back may be a daylight savings time expression, but I like to think it applies quite nicely to moving. Of the tens of millions of people who move in North America each year, many have no choice as to when they move. Real estate, family, and work all join in to play a role in dictating the timeliness of a move. However, for those of you who are at liberty to make this transition as stress-free as possible, consider the luxury of this: spring forward so you are settled to enjoy the fabulous summer weather and a well-deserved vacation, then fall back into relaxing routine in the autumn. Sounds good?

Here are Pony Express Moving Services ‘s best reasons why a Spring moving makes great sense:

  1. Weather can greatly impact the success of a move. In springtime most regions of the country experience fairweather days. Hefting heavy boxes on hot days, or wintery cold ones, is not fun!
  2. Availability of moving companies is likely to be better. The summer time is traditionally thought to be a great time to move, which means moving companies may be busier, right? Get a head start and book early!
  3. Kids are still in school so if you need their help, spring break could be an ideal time to move. On the other hand, if you want the kids otherwise preoccupied, school days are ideal. Spring is a win-win!
  4. Settle in to your new home in time for summer entertaining and holidays. Why give up your down time during the summer to facilitate a move when you can take care of the hard work first? Your housewarming party can be out on your new deck! And you won’t miss out on holiday time.
  5. New beginnings are irresistible and that’s what spring’s all about. Need I say more?

 

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

Moving With Children Tips

Because of the stresses, long list of responsibilities and fatigue that we, as parents, go through when planning for and going through a move, it can be easy to overlook what our children might be going through. Here is a list of important things to consider to make this important transition as stress-free as possible for your school-aged children.

Moving With Children Tips - Pony Express Moving ServicesSocial / Emotional Considerations

Any kind of change can be particularly scary to children, and it is normal for school-aged children to magnify in their minds anything that is even slightly fear-producing.

Therefore, children are often impacted even more than their parents by a move — even though they may not express or overtly show their level of stress or worries on the outside.

Some of the worries and emotions your children could experience during a move include the following:

  • A sense of insecurity and fear about making new friends, or being accepted or liked at the new school.
  • Academic worries related to switching teachers and schools, and encountering new curricula and standards.
  • A sense of loss over leaving current friends, teachers and even their current home and neighborhood.
  • Additional apprehension should the move be associated with life-changing events such as divorce, change-of-job for a parent, financial changes in the family, etc.

More often than adults, children will mask their fears, concerns, anxiety or even depression, sometimes because they themselves are not aware of their underlying emotions or do not want to burden their parents.

So what can you do as a parent to help ensure that your children go through the move with as little stress as possible?

  • Be aware of just how much the move could be affecting your children and encourage them to talk about their feelings and concerns. Do this in a calm, nurturing environment. Maybe plan a “special” dinner with their favorite foods and lead a family discussion Share with them one of your concerns or worries. But then tell them how you worked this out. This will give you the opportunity to draw out their feelings and then help them through their concerns. They will often be tremendously relieved.
  • Make the move fun and give them a sense of control by allowing them to do some planning with you. For example, you can go online together to check out the location of the library closest to your new home, or the closest bicycle shop or specialty stores they like, or the nearby Y or Parks with classes or sports they may want to enroll in. Then make a point of putting on your moving calendar a time that you can go over with your children (if you are moving to someone in close enough proximity) to look over the new places. If you let your children feel that they are a part of the moving process, they will also feel more a sense of excitement over the experience.Take them to the new house or show them pictures of the new house and invite them to participate in the decorating process. Ask them what color paint they would most like for their new bedroom. Offer to buy them a new comforter, and together make some exciting plans for what the new house, and their new bedroom, will look like.
  • Create additional moments of family bonding during the time of the move. As tired as the grown-ups might be, try to sneak in a family game night just before or after the move, go out to the movies, turn the moving boxes into a fort, or turn the packing process into some sort of game. It’s good for them to associate the moving process with something happy and celebratory.

Practical Considerations

Be sure that you have done all the preparatory work necessary to ensure that your children make as seamless a transition into their new schools as possible. If appropriate, find out the summer reading or summer homework for the new school. Speak to your children’s current teachers to determine if there is any information that would be important to impart to your children’s new teachers about their strengths, needs or preferences. Speak with the new school and, if possible, the new teachers to ascertain if your children will need to do any catch-up work so that they are on par with the other children. If necessary, provide them with whatever tutoring or help they need, so that they can be optimally successful and happy at the new school.

Do everything you can to ensure that your children will be able to make friends quickly. Look into enrolling them in local after school classes or leagues. If you attend a house of worship, look into classes and groups your children might enjoy. Try to meet the parents of your children’s new classmates and set up after school playdates.

It is critical to plan ahead for the big day of the move. Here are more tips to plan for your move.

Here are some other things to consider:

  • It is best to have your children stay with a grandparent, family member or trusted good friend on the actual day if someone is local. This will keep them safe and happily engaged.
  • If this is not possible, hire a sitter to spend the day with you, looking after their safety and tending to their needs.
  • Prepare ahead of time ample food and drink. The food should be as non-perishable as possible and easy to eat. Include in your ice chest some of your children’s favorite foods and treats to keep them positive.
  • Prepare ahead of time toys, games and books to keep your children entertained during the long moving process.
  • Your children are going to want to take a nap or relax during the process. It’s a good idea to leave a blanket, pillow, or other comfort items (perhaps their favorite stuffed animals) that they have access to during the day.
  • It is critical to have with you a box of items that you might need in a hurry. Make sure that this box remains in a safe area during the move (the bathtub is a great place to keep important items that stay with you and don’t go on the moving truck). These items should include medicine, Band-Aids, your children’s favorite books, toiletries, and other personal items.
  • Given that the front door of your old and new homes will be open during the move, make certain that your children are kept safe and remain inside the home.
  • Children will often want to play with the moving dollies and cartons that are in the home during the move. Moving boxes can be a great source of fun for children, but they can be hazardous with little children if your little one gets inside. And attempts to speed race on a dolly can also prove treacherous. Be sure to monitor your children’s usage of moving equipment during a move.

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

Tips for Making A Winter Move Smooth

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It’s officially cold here in the Boston area. Moving seems like it’s not that fun this time of year, but actually, there are certain advantages. For one, prime moving season happens between May and September – which means that it’s easier to get movers on the times and dates that you want, and finding a place may be easier or cheaper. Of course, there are problems, too. A little caution, foresight, and flexibility will get you through! And Pony Express Moving’s guide to cold-weather moving will help.

Tips for Making A Winter Move Smooth

Take the weather into account

As your moving day comes near, make sure to check weather reports to make sure that you’re prepared. Of course, Boston weather is notoriously changeable and often unpredictable, so you’ll want to keep that in mind. Remember to keep your cold-weather supplies easily available. You may need your snowblower, coats, gloves, and scrapers. And lots of towels.

If there’s going to be lots of snow, plan your moving route to include main streets that are likely to be shoveled and salted. If the weather is going to be bad, avoiding busy streets might be the way to go. Clear your sidewalks and driveways so that moving your belongings is less dangerous. At your new place, make sure all the utilities are working before you move in. Do this a few days in advance so you can deal with any problems before moving day. Make sure your car is also ready.

Take care of your people and pets for winter move

Some sites recommend turning off your heat during a move; we don’t, as we think a couple of hours aren’t going to be that much of a hit on your utility bill, and Boston is no fun in icy temps. Still, it will be colder in your house because need doors will be propped open. It might be nice to provide warming alternatives for you and your helpers – a warm bathroom with a space heater, for example, or a carafe full of hot coffee in the kitchen (don’t forget cups!).

If you have small children and pets, do your best to keep them away from the chaos of moving. This will expedite the moving process and lower your stress levels – as well as theirs. Arrange care for your pets and kids in advance. Consider boarding your pets, so they don’t get underfoot or lost during the moving process. If you wish your kids to be part of the moving experience, let them pack and move their toys at the end of the move. This lets them feel part of the crew, but keeps them away while the big stuff is being done.



Take care of your things during winter move

Take shorter days into account, and get started early. Know what kind of action is likely to be happening on your street – will trucks come out to shovel the snow while you’re moving? Are there parking restrictions in place due to snow or season?

Snow, ice, and dirt may very well get into your car, your old home, and your new home. Make sure towels are available to wipe down furniture and boxes. Put mats or tarps down on your floors to soak up snow and water. Cover your boxes and furniture with blankets or sheets as you move them outside to minimize moisture and damage due to inclement weather conditions.

Be extra careful with fragile items and electronics. Electronics don’t like the cold, so know where you’re placing them and take care to keep them with you in a warm car. Fragile items can be packed with additional cushioning to avoid breakage. Remember that moving trucks may sit out overnight, so if your items can be damaged by cold you’ll want to make alternative arrangements.

Seriously, hire movers. Professionals know how to deal with this kind of weather. Listen to them. They have plenty of experience in moving, and they know what works.

Consider Pony Express Moving for all your winter move needs!

Part of our job at Pony Express Moving is to advise you on how to make hassle-free moves, and we’re good at it.

 We’ve been moving people in Boston for more than 18 winters now, and we know what we’re doing. The winter move of a two-bedroom apartment that may take you all day can be done by our professionals in just five hours!

If you’re moving in the winter, you’ll have to be careful and work out as many elements in advance as possible. You’ll also have to be flexible! Pony Express Moving can help – get an free estimate today.

Winter Moving Tips

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Winter is here and many people prefer to stay huddled up under the covers when it’s cold outside. This means that a move during the middle of the winter can seem like a nightmare. However, in some cases, you have to move when you have to move, so you might not have much choice.

Luckily, moving during the winter can actually be a good thing in some ways. Since so many more families choose to move during the summer, your moving company might not be as busy as it is during other times of the year. The truth is that many people choose to move when it’s warmer outside; plus, some families prefer to move during the summer, when their kids are out of school. This means that you may be able to enjoy more flexible scheduling, more personalized attention and even lower rates for services. However, there are a few things that you should know when packing up and moving during the winter time. You might even find that it’s not as bad as you thought it would be at all.

Winter Moving Tips

Get Started Early With Winter Moving

Since it gets dark so much earlier in the winter, you might be lacking in daylight hours during your move. To take the most advantage of the daytime hours, get started with packing early in the day so that you can call it a night fairly early, before it gets too dark. This will allow you to stay safer, since you won’t have to worry about taking loads outside when it’s slippery and dark. Plus, the temperatures are sure to be more comfortable during the daytime hours as well.

Keep Your Walkways Free of Snow and Ice

The last thing that you want to worry about is slipping and falling while carrying a box full of your best China. Even if you tend to slack off on it the rest of the time, it is imperative for you to keep your walkways free of snow and ice. Walking on slippery walkways is dangerous enough as it is, and it becomes even more dangerous when you’re carrying heavy boxes. Along with keeping the walkways free and clear at your old home while you’re packing, consider hiring someone to scrape at your new home so that you won’t arrive to dangerous conditions.

Dress in Layers during Winter Moving

While you’re packing and transporting items from your home to the moving truck, consider wearing layers of clothing. You’ll want to stay warm, but you probably won’t want to wear a big and bulky coat when you’ve got so much work to do. Dressing in layers will help you stay warm without being as bulky. Plus, you can take off a layer or two if you get hot while you’re packing.

Make Sure Your Car is Ready

You don’t just have to worry about the moving truck; you presumably also have to worry about your car making the trip to your new destination. Make sure that it’s ready for the trip by checking the tread and air pressure in the tires and scraping away any ice and snow so that you have better visibility. Stock your car with an emergency kit and plenty of blankets so that you and your loved ones will be safe in the event of an emergency.

Keep Your Winter Supplies in the Car

You might need your various winter supplies, such as your windshield scraper or your mittens, so don’t pack them away in boxes. Instead, consider tossing all of your winter supplies into one storage container or laundry basket and keeping them in your car. Keep them in a place where they can be easily accessed if you need them.

Keep an Eye on the Weather – Winter Moving

In the weeks and days before your move, keep an eye on the weather reports. You’ll want to know about any incoming winter storms that you might have to worry about. You may need to be flexible about changing your plans if there is particularly bad weather coming your way; in particularly bad weather, it could be dangerous to continue your move as planned.

Keep Something Warm to Drink

You, your family members and your moving crew will probably be craving something nice and warm to drink while packing, moving and unpacking in the winter weather. Consider packing your coffee maker and supplies last so that you can make coffee, or use your slow cooker to keep a batch of hot cocoa or apple cider on hand. You can always use disposable coffee cups if you have already packed all of your mugs away.

Hire a Professional for Winter Moving

Hiring a professional to assist you with moving is always a smart plan, but it can be especially smart when you’re moving during the winter months. If you have never driven a moving truck before, driving one might turn out to be more challenging than you think. This is especially true if you’re going to be driving in snowy and icy conditions. A professional mover, however, will be better able to drive the truck in the winter weather conditions while staying safe and keeping your packed possessions safe as well.

Take Precautions in the House

You will probably be tracking ice and snow in and out of your old house and your new one while moving. Consider investing in carpet remnants to throw down in a path through each house. If you have extra cardboard boxes lying around, you can also bust them open and lay them flat on the floor. This will help keep some of the melted mess under control and will provide some traction for you, your family and your moving crew.

Protect Your Possessions – Winter Moving

The winter weather can lead to damage to your possessions if you aren’t careful. Snow can cover your boxes and melt, causing them to be soaking wet. Extreme temperatures can damage more items than you probably think. For example, even your plates and glasses can crack when they are exposed to extreme temperatures, and the last thing that you probably want to arrive to your new home with are a bunch of broken or otherwise damaged items.

The idea of moving during the cold winter months can be a pretty miserable one. However, if you and your family need to relocate now, you might not have much choice. Luckily, you can help your winter move go a lot more smoothly if you follow these helpful wintertime moving tips. In no time, you’ll be able to snuggle up in the warmth and coziness of your new home.

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