Category Archives: Moving

What should I pack last before move?

What should I pack last before move?

What should I pack last? Before you move, you probably want to get everything stored away as quickly as possible. But you can’t forget about the things you’ll need to have accessible for the last few days in your old place. Here are a few things you should avoid pack till the last day, unless you want to go digging back into your perfectly packed boxes.

–          Toiletries including toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, and toilet paper.

–          Snacks and coffee. A lot of people will order food out for the last few days before they move, but you may want to keep some light snacks and your coffee maker around.

–          Box cutter or pocket knife. You’ll be happy when you start to unpack.

–          Tape measure. This will come in handy when you are moving into the new place.

–          Phone charger, both for your car and a wall charger.

–          Extra extension cords, a flashlight, and batteries. In the off-chance of an emergency, you won’t want to have to sift through all of your packed things.

–          Trash bags. You’ll want to keep a couple bags to clean anything up on your way out.

–          Medications. This can go along with your toiletries. Keep these handy and throw them together with your toiletries as you leave.

If you keep these things handy, you’ll probably be in good shape for the last few days in the old apartment or house. Good luck!

Where to get Moving Boxes and Supplies for your Move

Moving Boxes and Supplies

Moving Boxes and SuppliesFor some of your more delicate and fragile items, you will want to buy Moving Boxes and Supplies for your move. However, for other bulk items, there are many places that you can get free boxes and other moving supplies that would otherwise get thrown away.

  1. Grocery stores – Ask the produce section for boxes. They have lots of wooden boxes that are great for medium weight items. These boxes will probably be very dirty, however, so use them for garden and hardware items you need to move.
  2. Bookstores – Ask your local bookstore if they have any extra boxes. Boxes for books tend to be better quality and good for heavy objects.
  3. Bars and restaurants – They will also have good quality boxes for heavier items you need to move.
  4. Craigslist – A quick search in the free section will often produce quite a few boxes and other moving supplies that people are trying to get rid of. Don’t forget to pass them on when you’re done with them on Craigslist.

For all of these places, the gracious thing to do is to call ahead and check if they have any boxes they are trying to get rid of. That way, you save yourself time and they will know that you are coming ahead of time.

At Pony Express we are committed to helping you with a smooth transition into your new home. For questions about packing and moving services in your area, contact us today.

Moving with Kids Tips

Moving with Kids – Fun and Less Stressful for You and Your Kids

Moving with Kids

Moving is a stressful process with or without children. If you and your family are moving, here are some tips to make for an easy transition and less stress on moving day. Making your kids a part of the move is important to making a smooth transition into your new home as a family.

Assign Tasks

You may be thinking your kids will only cause you chaos during the moving process, but think of ways they can help. This will keep them occupied and will help you get more done. Make moving day easier by assigning tasks to your kids. Make sure the tasks are age appropriate. The added responsibility will keep them focused and busy. No one knows your kids better than you do, so assign them things they can handle.

Make Moving with Kids Fun

Turn packing into a game to make things more interesting. Turn sorting clothes or stuffed animals into basketball. Use I-Spy and Hide and Seek to cross things off your packing list. On moving day play energetic music that your kids like so everyone stays upbeat and excited. Make a playlist or CD that is a mix of everyone’s favorite music.

Keep Favorite toys or Items in a Special Place

Give your kids 2 minutes to pick out the most important things they can’t live without. The items they collect will give you a good idea of what is important to them. Pack these items in a special suitcase or overnight bag so your kids can have the security of knowing their most prized possessions are safe and accessible. You can also let them pack their favorite toys in a special box and let them color on the cardboard to personalize it.

Keep Snacks and Water Handy for Everyone

Everyone gets a little cranky when they’re hungry. Moving with kids is strenuous and takes a lot out of everyone. Make sure you and your kids are staying hydrated and fed with easy things like granola bars or trail mix.

At Pony Express we are committed to helping you with a smooth transition into your new home. For questions about packing and moving services in your area, contact us today at 617-983-8700

 

Moving into Your College Dorm or Apartment Tips

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 Moving into Your College Dorm or Apartment – Hire a Mover

Moving into Your College Dorm or Apartment TipsAt Pony Express Moving we have 19 years of experience moving college students in and out of dorms and apartments locally or out of state. There are more colleges in Boston than any other city in the world. We have helped students from all over on move in day. Hiring a professional mover means you don’t have to carry boxes to and from the car back and forth. It means you won’t have to beg your friends with a pick up truck or a van, and it allows you to bring as much as you want to your new space.

Here are some tips to make things even smoother:

1. Don’t Double Up

Find our what furniture your school provides so you only pack what you need. There is no use moving heavy objects like appliances and furniture that will already be available to you. Talk to your roommate to see what they are bringing and work together to buy what you need.

2. Get there early. 

Don’t sleep in! Be prepared for moving day by having everything packed in advance. Eat a good breakfast and get out the door. For first year students, expect total chaos in your new dorms. Getting there early will help you beat the line and the crazy parking at your new home away from home. The closer you can park to the dorm or apartment, the shorter the distance you will have to carry things.

3. Think Ahead Of Time

If you don’t like the idea on sleeping on a used mattress that the school provides, you are going to want to bring your own mattress and bed frame. If you are bringing any furniture along with you, they will fit best in moving trucks and vans. Know ahead of time and tell your mover what to expect.

4. Stay Organized

Use a checklist to keep your move organized. Write it out in advance and use it to help you pack. You don’t want to forget anything at home. Think out of the box to make sure you’ll have everything you need to live away from home. Label all of your boxes so you know where everything is. This will help you pack and unpack and know what’s breakable.

For more information about moving into your new college dorm or apartment in the Boston area, contact Pony Express at 617-983-8700

 

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

Save Money. Don’t take that with you!

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

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

How to Get Your Security Deposit Back

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Get your security Deposit Back

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

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

Some quick fix ideas to save money while moving:

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

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

 

The Biggest Moving Mistake & How to Avoid It

Moving Mistake & How to Avoid It

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

 

To avoid your move going over your estimate:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

Pony Express Moving Services is ProMover Certified

Our latest accomplishment is achieving ProMover Certified !

ProMover Certified Moving Company in Boston, MA

What it means to be ProMover Certified :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Choose A Moving Company

Things to Consider When Choosing a A Moving Company

How to Choose A Moving Company

 

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

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

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

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

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