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Tips for a Successful Local Move

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Tips From Our Local Movers in Boston, MA

Moving to a new home, even if it’s just within your local area, can still be a significant undertaking. However, with the assistance of reliable local movers like Pony Express Moving, you can streamline the process and ensure a successful transition. Whether you’re relocating to a nearby neighborhood or a neighboring city, these essential tips will help you navigate your local move with ease.Tips for a Successful Local Move

Plan Ahead

Time management is crucial when it comes to a smooth move. Start planning your local move well in advance to avoid any last-minute stress. Research local moving companies like Pony Express Moving at least four weeks before your moving date to secure their services. This will give you ample time to compare quotes, schedule an in-home estimate, and make necessary arrangements.

Declutter and Downsize

Take advantage of your local move to declutter your belongings. Before packing, sort through your items and decide what to keep, donate, or sell. By downsizing, you’ll not only save on moving costs but also create a fresh start in your new home. Local movers like Pony Express Moving can provide guidance on organizing and packing your belongings efficiently.

Obtain Packing Supplies

Ensure you have the necessary packing supplies before you begin packing. Local movers often offer a range of supplies to help protect your belongings during transit. Pony Express Moving can provide you with high-quality packing materials such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper. Using the right supplies will minimize the risk of damage and make unpacking a breeze.

Label and Organize

Properly labeling your boxes will save you time and effort when unpacking. Clearly mark each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This simple step will allow local movers to place the boxes in the correct rooms, making the unpacking process more efficient. Additionally, keep an inventory of your belongings to ensure that everything arrives safely at your new home.

Communicate with Your Movers

Effective communication with your local movers is vital for a successful move. Provide them with all the necessary details, such as any fragile or valuable items, specific moving requirements, or access restrictions at your new location. By keeping the lines of communication open, you can ensure that your local movers are well-prepared to handle your unique moving needs.

Contact Us

A successful local move requires proper planning, organization, and the support of reliable local movers like Pony Express Moving. With their expertise and your proactive approach, your transition to a new home can be a stress-free experience.

Contact Pony Express Moving today to make your local move a seamless and enjoyable process.

Students Tips for Moving in Boston

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As what’s likely to be the hottest August ever recorded in Boston comes to a close and September rears its hopefully cooler head, throngs of students are once again descending on the city.

Students Tips for Moving in Boston

With upwards of a quarter-million college students studying in the Greater Boston area, Sept. 1 has become the go-to move-in day for tens of thousands. Some are seasoned veterans of moving in Boston, but even more are new to the city, navigating our winding streets and low bridges for the first time. Mistakes, like the act of “Storrowing” your rental truck, are bound to happen. Here are some tips to help you get into the city and settled so you can hit the books.

Reserve Parking for your Moving Truck Early

Secure parking space for your van or truck by obtaining a street occupancy permit. The permit saves you from unwanted parking tickets, guarantees you convenient space to load/unload your vehicle, and is a valued courtesy to your neighbors.

Permits are available at City Hall, and are available during business hours (9:00 AM – 5:00PM). Start at the Transportation Department in room 721 of City Hall, and make sure to bring any parking meter-head numbers at the location and payment (check; money order; or a Visa, Mastercard, Discover debit or credit card).

Wait times are typically 15 minutes, but can push an hour or more during the summer months when everyone’s moving. Get your permit up to 2 weeks before your moving date to avoid the rush.

Moving companies

The city of Boston recommends you do your research before hiring a moving company. Moving scams are not unheard of. The city suggests keeping a list of everything you pack, and making sure you understand your contract, including payment, before signing anything.

Renting a moving truck

If you haven’t booked your truck yet, you very well may be out of luck. Truck rentals for September 1 go quickly, oftentimes months in advance. If you’re ready to spend hours on the phone looking for one, you may find one, but only if you start right away. If you have other transportation available, it may be possible to find a vehicle outside of Greater Boston. Cast a wide geographic net while making your calls.

Beware of getting ‘Storrowed’

Despite how many times we say it or plaster it on warning signs, inevitably some poor sap will peel open the top of their rental truck on one of Storrow Drive’s low bridges, scattering its contents across the roadway.

While Storrow may be the most notorious offender, Memorial Drive in Cambridge can be just as hazardous. But the Charles River roads aren’t the only places rental trucks should fear to tread. Your Google Maps or Waze apps may not know you’re in a taller vehicle. Luckily, there are specific navigation apps for trucks that will allow you to set your vehicle’s height and get a customized route that should be safe for travel. TeleType’s SmartTruckRoute app is one of them, and being based on School Street in Boston means they should have a pretty good idea how to navigate the city.

Parking

If you’re looking to reserve a parking spot for your moving truck, it must be done in advance. Monday was the deadline to obtain a permit in time for Sept. 1 so if you haven’t reserved a spot yet, you may be out of luck. The good news is that permits like these aren’t required, but be prepared to jostle for position and deal with parking tickets if you must park illegally.

If you do have a permit, it is good for two spaces between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. You must post signs on the street at least two days before moving day, and obviously you must be reserving only legal parking spaces. The whole thing will cost you just over $100.

Remember, you won’t be the only truck heading into the city this year. 907 permits were pulled for Sept. 1 this year, with another 550 for August 31.

To help facilitate a smoother move-in process, many neighborhoods have temporary parking and traffic restrictions during the week of September 1. A complete list can be found on the City of Boston’s website.

If you’re moving into a dormitory, check with your school about the move-in process. Many dorms have an organized system to get vehicles in and unloaded, and some will even provide helpful staffers and upperclassmen to help out.

Building rules

Speak to your landlord or realtor before moving to find out what moving restrictions apply to your new apartment. There is nothing worse than camping out in your moving van for five hours because you can’t begin the process of carrying that couch up the stairs until noon.

Trash and ‘Allston Christmas’

The city of Boston’s Trash Day app will let you know what day the garbage collection is in your neighborhood. It also provides customized notifications and information on recyclable materials.

One thing to watch for: bedbugs. The hitchhiking insects would love nothing more than come home with you and feast on you and your loved ones. That discarded couch or end table may look like a nice addition to your apartment, but it could easily be infested, so officials advise against taking part in the “Allston Christmas” tradition. City workers often affix bright stickers to discarded items and distribute flyers and other informational packets to students and new residents.

There isn’t anywhere in Boston that is immune to infestations, so bringing home that Beacon Hill arm chair may be just as dangerous as taking that Brighton barstool. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Other tenant issues

Both tenants and landlords in the state of Massachusetts must abide by the law. Most rental properties in Boston are required to be inspected once every five years to make sure they comply with state housing codes. The city of Boston and its Office of Housing Stability offer a litany of resources for the Boston renter. Know your rights, and your landlord’s obligations.

Boston 311 is the city’s platform to report non-emergency issues and request city services and information. Residents can ask for an apartment inspection, report improperly stored trash, or call with any questions they may have. The line open 24 hours a day, and also available via e-mail at 311@boston.gov, on Twitter @bos311, and as a smartphone app on iOS and Android.

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

Moving Summer Tips

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Moving Summer Tips - Pony Express

Moving Summer Tips

Ask any expert and they will tell you that summer is the most popular time of year to move. Moving is strenuous at the best of times, but doing so during the summer, especially if you are moving to or from a hot climate adds it’s own set of challenges. When moving in summer you’ll need to give a little bit of extra thought to logistics and how to keep cool. Here are some tips to make your move in the summer a breeze.

Plan Ahead

Summer is the prime time for moving. It’s the busiest time of the year for movers, so you’ll need to plan well in advance. The best moving companies fill up their schedule quickly and don’t have to provide competitive pricing because the demand is high. If you can, start looking for moving companies at least six to eight weeks before the date on which you wish to move. To avoid rushing around in the blazing heat, pack up your belongings several days before your move and be as organized as possible.

Do thorough research

Don’t make the mistake of researching only one or two movers and trusting them to give you the best price. They are there to make money and you might get ripped off. Talk to several different companies, get quotes from all of them, compare their rates and make a short list of the ones offering the lowest prices. Or visit Pony Express Moving to compare the available movers in your area and get a guaranteed price instead of an estimate.

Beat the Heat

When possible, it’s a good idea to book your moving company to arrive early in the morning while it is still relatively cool. Remember to stay hydrated, especially if you’re doing strenuous activity, and wear light clothing, so you don’t overheat. Heat stroke is a real danger when moving in the summer.

Move on the least busy days

The beginning and end of the month and weekends are always packed because that’s when most people move. Memorial Day weekend and the last weekend of July are especially busy. Moving companies are not willing to lower their rates on these days. But business is usually slow on weekdays since most people have to work. If you move on these days, you will usually get a better price.
If you have to move on a particular day like Friday or Saturday or the first or last day of the month, chances are, if you book last minute it won’t be easy process to find a moving company. This means that latecomers are forced to pay steeply hiked-up prices.

Take Care of Your Belongings

Certain items won’t fare very well in a hot moving truck and should be taken with you in the car, or packed extremely carefully. These items include candles which can melt in the heat and get wax all over your other items and music items, such as instruments, CDs, cassettes, and vinyl records, which could warp or get damaged under high temperatures.

Don’t let the challenges of moving summer scare you; as long as you keep on top of things and plan ahead, it won’t be a nightmare.

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

Moving to Boston

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Moving to Boston has long been synonymous with a new beginning in the New World. Of course, the reasons for moving have changed, but for many expats, their impending move to Boston still marks the beginning of a new life.

Moving to Boston

Even if you only have a general idea of US American history, Boston’s significance during the formative years of the USA is unlikely to have escaped your attention. New England’s largest city — and one of the oldest in the entire country — played a pivotal role in many events leading up to the independence from Britain.

Boston’s Historical Past

Of course, the local residents of Boston proudly preserve and display this heritage. History buffs moving to Boston are bound to have a blast exploring the city and its past! Since its founding, a steady stream of people moving to Boston, enticed by the promises of the New World, caused the city to experience significant growth throughout the 1800s.

The two biggest and most influential groups who started settling in Boston in large numbers were Italian and Irish immigrants in the first half of the 19th century. The influence of both these groups is still very tangible today. The Italian and Irish communities settled down in North End and South Boston, respectively. The residents of these neighborhoods still value their home country’s traditions, which is why e.g. South Boston is home to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

The City of Neighborhoods

When moving to Boston, you have the choice among a multitude of neighborhoods catering to different tastes. Each of these 23 boroughs has its own distinctive atmosphere and demographic profile, earning Boston the nickname “City of Neighborhoods”. Owing to this great variety, there is no single neighborhood that expats moving to Boston prefer. Nonetheless, below you’ll find a short overview of some of Boston’s vibrant neighborhoods which might make your decision a little easier.

Dorchester: Dorchester is the largest and also the most diverse neighborhood in Boston. Residents from Vietnam, Ireland, Cape Verde, and many other countries live together and make the neighborhood one of the most vibrant in the city. The Franklin Park located here offers walking and biking parks as well as numerous picnic areas.

Beacon Hill: This neighborhood is one of the oldest in Boston. Its architecture is reminiscent  of the old colonial times with brick houses and ornate doors. Its location on top of the hill and its historic landmarks makes it one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Boston.

South End: With its proximity to Downtown and the Back Bay, the South End has become one of the most desirable neighborhoods. It is especially popular with young professionals and the gay community. Nonetheless, due to relatively affordable housing and its over 30 parks, more and more families have started to settle in South End.

West Roxbury: Tree-lined streets and single family houses give West Roxbury a suburban feel. The neighborhood is especially desired amongst families because of its youth programs and because you can get to Downtown in 30 minutes and still have a front yard.

Jamaica Plain: “JP”, as locals call it, is one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in Boston. The ethnic diversity, the green spaces and the good connection to Downtown are some of the many reasons why young professionals and families alike love the area.

If you want to know more about one of Boston’s neighborhoods, the homepage of the City Administration offers a detailed breakdown of all 23 of them.

Skyrocketing Rental Prices

Much to the dismay of anyone interested in moving to Boston and, of course, the local population, extensive gentrification has caused rental prices to skyrocket. Today, people looking for homes in the area of the city face fierce competition on the rental market in one of the most expensive cities in the USA. If Boston’s upscale neighborhoods just outside downtown are the only option for you, prepare yourself for extortionate monthly rents. Proximity to the “T”, Boston’s number one mass transit system, is likely to increase your monthly rent even further.

With educational institutions of worldwide renown in and around Boston — such as Harvard University and MIT — the influx of students is considerable, and many opt for off-campus living. Naturally, this makes finding a home when coming to Boston from abroad quite a tricky task. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to jump on the first available housing that appeals to you rather than taking time to shop around.

Timing Is Everything: Moving to Boston

Boston’s rental market is very seasonal. September first is known as the traditional move-in date of the year, as this is the day when many leases start. Being too early or too late will both have the same result: fierce competition has a chance of dashing your hopes of finding a decent place to live when moving to Boston. Usually, Boston’s apartments go on the market about four to six weeks before the lease date.

Your financial plan or budget for your move to Boston should take into account the fairly hefty sum of money you likely will have to pay right before moving in. Apart from demanding the first and last month’s rent up front, some landlords also require you to pay a security deposit. With the rental prices in Boston the way they are, this will almost definitely amount to a considerable sum, so keep this in mind when planning your move to Boston.

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

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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.