Moving Mistake #1: Moving without the Help of a Professional Moving Company

Most people when moving are scared to hire a moving company due to the associated costs.  Often a person can do their move for less money by renting a truck, and loading and unloading themselves.  Using the help of friends and family will help save money as well, but there is almost always an inverse relationship with headaches, and problems.  Hiring a professional mover will take away the frustration of moving yourself if you choose the right moving company with proper research.  Professional movers have been doing this for years, and they are a site to see when they come in and move everything out in an orderly, efficient way.  Movers come prepared for any and all situations.  Having the proper equipment, and training to do the job makes all the difference in the world.

If you’re in the market for a moving company in Gainesville, fill out the form by following the link and someone will contact you and go over your move.  Sometimes you may only require the professional packing services and not a full scale move.  This will save time and chaos when you go to unload your belongings at the new location.

Moving Mistake #2: Valuing Price Over Quality

Often times, people are only concerned with price.  If there was ever a time when quality outweighs price, moving is that time.  Most of the time there is a reason why there is a huge disparity in prices from one service to the next.  Not all moving companies are the same, and neither are the services they provide.  Some things to consider are:  Will my items be professional wrapped and protected, or just have minimal protection?  Does the price include all associated costs, and fees?

Always make sure to ask your friends and family about any moving company you are considering and check with local review sites, and the state regulatory body to ensure there are not a bunch of complaints against the movers.  What may seem like a great deal can often turn into a nightmare on the back end.  As long as you conduct due diligence, then you should have no issues on moving day.

Moving Mistake #3: Waiting Till The Last Minute

Traditionally moving season is from May to September nationwide.  This is because school is out during this period, and families try to relocate during this time.  This means it is a good idea to begin the planning stages long before the move date arrives.  Most movers will charge accordingly based upon availability, and may not even have availability for you to move.  It is a good idea to begin investigating the services at least one month prior to your move date.

 Moving Mistake #4: Packing Items Not Allowed

Items that are normally not a good idea to move are valuables, important documents, heirloom jewelry, and any hazardous materials.  If you are moving out of state it is often not allowed for plants to be moved across state lines.  This is to prevent the spread of disease amongst the plants.  Most moving companies will provide you with a list of items they consider to be non-moveable.  It is recommended to bring all valuables, documents, and priceless jewelry with you and let the movers handle everything else.  Hazardous items will need to be taken to the local dump and repurchased at your new location.

 Moving Mistake #5: Forgetting a Emergency Kit

Being prepared for any situation is crucial on moving day.  Often things fall, get knocked over, or just cause a dangerous environment.  If your 250lb refrigerator falls and busts your foot, will you be ready?  It is recommended to have a first aid kit, along with clothes and food and water just in case.

 Moving Mistake #6: Having an Overly Dirty or Cluttered Space

Not conducting a good spring cleaning prior to move date can make the day a headache for you and your moving company.  Some moving companies will reschedule the move if it is too dirty, or cluttered. They do this because of how busy moving season is, and to protect the interests of their other customers.  If you are moving yourself, it will make your life that much easier and less stressful to have the house cleaned up prior to moving.

Moving Mistake #7: Not Protecting Your Important Files on The Computer

Backing up your computer is a must.  There is no guarantee that it will fire up again after having been transported and being subjected to the vibrations and heat of a moving truck.  It is recommended to backup all files remotely, and on a hard disc.  This provides redundant support system should it be needed upon arrival at the final destination.

According to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer services all moving companies are required to provide a written estimate or contract for services prior to conducting any service.  Often moving companies in Gainesville Florida know that the UF students are unaware of this and use it to their advantage.  Gainesville Moving always recommends, like the State suggests, to get at least three written estimates prior to deciding on a UF moving company to go with.  Often the younger generation wants to get an estimate solely from the internet or over the phone.  While this may be the quickest way, it does not ensure there will be no surprises come move day.  Having a written estimate protects both the moving company and the customer from any surprises, headaches and added costs.

Any Gainesville UF Moving Company that does not offer to provide a free, no obligation in home estimate is one that the customer may want to further look into.  By going to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services website a customer can conduct a search to verify that the moving company has a valid, active license with the State of Florida.  All moving companies in Florida are required to have their Intrastate Moving registration number, abbreviated IM, posted on any and all advertising.  If the company the student is looking into does not provide this, then it is highly likely that the business is not operating within the confines of the law.  Companies that register with the State must meet certain minimum insurance, and liability requirements, to ensure protection of its customers.  Moving Companies in Florida who do not do this, may not have the customers best interest at hand.  Gainesville Moving is the premier UF Student Moving Company in Gainesville Florida.  We encourage all of our prospective customers to investigate our company on the various moving websites with the state, and we are sure you will be pleased with what you find.

Our Jacksonville Movers will be using the same skill set our Gainesville Movers have for years, and provide you with the same affordable dependable moving in Jacksonville Florida.  If you are moving from Jacksonville then let us know, so you can have a stress free moving experience.

Step one: change water and clean tank

You should start prepping your aquarium for the move two weeks prior. Every other day for two weeks leading up to the move, change about 20 percent of the water. This way, by the time moving day rolls around, you’ll have a fully sanitized, oxygenated tank for your fish at your new home.

Step two: make sure you have the right supplies

First and foremost, you’ll need a container to transport your fish. An insulated picnic cooler is fine, or you can purchase special boxes from any pet store.

You’ll also need clear, unscented trash bags. Chemicals from scented bags are harmful to fish. Secure your fish in the bags with thick rubber bands. In addition, you will need extra water, fish food and containers to store any decorative accessories—treasure chests, skulls and the like.

Step three: preparing for the move

It is vital that you remember NOT to feed your fish 24 hours before the projected move time (depending on the fish, you may have to withhold food 48 hours prior—be sure to check). Aquatic plants can be moved as long as their roots are kept wet, so you should bag them with water and move by hand. Disassemble your tank, packing pumps, heaters and other fragile equipment with bubble wrap.

For short moves, store your filter medium in a container (either a never-used pail or a hard-sided, chemical-free container). Remember to store more aggressive fish in separate bags, as the small environment may cause them to fight with other fish.

Transfer the fish into the bag using water from the aquarium, leaving eight inches of air inside the bag. Store the bagged fish inside the coolers, which will regulate the water temperature. Moving is very stressful for fish, so make sure to handle them delicately.  Put a lid or blanket over the top of the cooler, since fish are less active in the dark and this will minimize movement. Bring the rest of the leftover tank water with you on the move—you don’t want to risk shocking your fish by transferring them into new water once you arrive at your new home.

Fill the empty (and dry) tank with pillows and blankets to offer structural support to the glass walls.

Step four: setting up your tank at the new location

When you arrive at your new home, the first thing you should do is unpack and set up your aquarium. Fill the tank with the water you brought from your old home and the water from the bags holding the fish, using a net to transfer the fish into back into the tank.

Now that your pets are at ease, you can continue moving with peace of mind!

First, turn off the water leading to the washer; make sure both the hot and cold-water valves are completely off. Next, set the washer to warm wash for about 30 minutes, and then turn on the spin cycle to drain all the remaining water from the washer tub. Now, you may turn off the washer. For the dryer, simply disconnect the vent pipe from the back of the dryer and from the lint trap or vent hole on the exterior wall. This is generally accomplished by a simple clap that is loosened by squeezing the ends together usually holds on the dryer vent. Once taken off it is best stored inside of the dryer.

Unplug the electrical cord from both the washer and dryer and secure it to the back of the unit with the tape. In addition, you will need to unhook the drain hose from the drainpipe and secure that to the back of the washer with the tape. If the cord and drain hose are long enough they may be draped into the wash tank. The biggest concern here is to make sure the hose and cord are secure so that they will not be caught up when moving the units.

Looking at the back of the washing machine, you’ll see water hoses. Remove them from their waterline connections. Store these lines inside the washing machine during transport.

Finally, you’ll slide the washer and dryer onto the dolly and secure with bungee cords or ropes.

At the new location, set the dryer two feet away from the wall. Connect the vent pipe to the back of the dryer and then to the new lint trap or vent hole. Plug the dryer into an outlet, and slide it into the wall making sure not to crimp the vent hose.

For the washing machine, set it one foot away from the wall. Reattach the water hoses and water taps back to the washer, using a wrench to secure them. Reconnect the drain pipe, and attach the end of the drain pipe to the laundry drain (if your new location has a floor drain, set the pipe three inches above the floor filter—this will allow for easier cleanup of lint and debris in the future).

Plug the washing machine into an outlet, and gently slide it against the wall, again, taking care not to crimp any hoses.

To ensure the machines are functioning properly, run both the washer and dryer for one full cycle each.

Pets and plants

If you’re planning on moving with your pet, either make arrangements to have the pet in your personal vehicle in a cage or carrier. Law states that pets may not be transported in a moving truck. In addition, plants are not allowed to be transported via moving trucks distances more than 150 miles. If you’re moving across town, your plants are safe to move, but most states prohibit long moves with plants. To find out your state’s regulations regarding the transport of plants, check with the U.S. Department of Agriculture website.

Hazardous Items

Dangerous items are defined as anything flammable, hazardous, corrosive, or explosive. Movers are obligated by law to refuse to move anything that fits these criteria. Make plans to either give these items to friends or neighbors, or call your local recycling company or fire station to find out how you can properly dispose of dangerous items. Specific items defined as dangerous include acids, aerosol, batteries, car oil, charcoal, matches, gasoline, fertilizer, weed killer, cleaning products, ammunition, bleach, nail polish and remover, fireworks, propane tanks, and loaded weapons.

Perishable items

Empty and clean refrigerators and freezers at least 24 hours prior to moving. Keep all doors to these appliances open to allow them to dry and prevent mold or mildew growth. If you are moving locally, movers may agree to transport perishable items if they are properly packed and require no servicing—however, you are at the mercy of your movers.

Irreplaceable items

Sensitive belongings such as personal records, address books, photos, car and house keys, financial statements, check books, bonds, stocks, software, and medications are best transported in your personal vehicle in case your movers are delayed or items are lost or damaged.

Moving companies usually will not move jewelry, cash, or other valuable items. Those are best kept in the personal vehicle so you know where they are at all times.  If you have a lot of valuables, there are specialty companies with the required security officers to provide service.  This is safest for you and the movers.

Regardless if you are moving local or venturing on a long distance move, check with your hired movers in advance to find out what they will and will not move.

Step 1: Disassemble all loose parts.

In order to determine the best way to pack your cabinet, you must first assess how many easily disassembled parts are attached to your cabinet. Each piece that can be removed — glass shelves, knobs, etc. — need to be wrapped in paper or bubble wrap and boxed along with the pieces inside the cabinet (dishes, candles, and the like). Basically, anything not permanently built into the cabinet should be packed away to make for an easier, less stressful transport. This step should be done the day before a move.

Step 2: Separate the upper and lower parts of the china cabinet. Wrap the lower part.

Most standard china cabinets have two large parts: the top, with all the glass shelves, and a bottom, usually just a set of wooden drawers. If you’re working with wood, remember—all wood needs to be covered for safe moving to avoid scratching. Furniture padding, which can be purchased or rented, is ideal for transporting wood, but any spare quilts or blankets will work fine as well.

Wrap packing tape or plastic wrap around the padding or blankets. If you choose to use tape it is important not to let the sticky side of tape touch the wood or any glass parts, as the tape will tear the finish from the cabinet when removed.

Now the lower part of the china cabinet is ready to be loaded into the truck.

3. Pack the upper part of the china cabinet.

Wrap a strip of packing tape around the top and bottom perimeter of the glass upper part of the china cabinet sticky side facing out. Use sheets of cardboard (unfolded cardboard boxes work fine) to cover all the glass. Use another layer of tape around the cardboard once the glass is completely covered. Now cover the cardboard layer with a layer of furniture padding, and wrap packing tape around the top and bottom of the cabinet to secure. Now you’re ready to load your boxes of loose parts, pad-wrapped top shelf, and pad-wrapped bottom drawers into the moving van.

The first thing you will need to know is what date you need the truck and how long are you going to rent it for.  Figure out what day you will pack up your home into the truck.  Then calculate how much time it will take you to drive to your new location.  If it is across town then no big deal; however if it is across the country this may require a little more planning. Don’t forget to take into account pit stops for gas, food, and bathroom breaks.  If you are traveling with a small child or dog plan on stopping 5-6 times a day for 20 minuets.  The best idea is to look at a map and set realistic goals for which city you wish to reach each day.  However long you expect your drive to take add 3-5 days and that is how long you should rent the truck for.  You will need 1-2 days to unload the truck and the other 2-3 days give you room in case of slow trip or flat tire occur.

Now that you know when you are moving you now need to figure out “how big of a truck should I rent?” What you should do first is make an inventory list of your home.  Now is also a good time to sell or donate item you don’t need. If you haven’t started packing estimate how many boxes you will have and then add 10 to that number.  A general rule of thumb in figuring out “how big of a truck should I rent?” is you will need 150 cu. ft. of truck space per furnished room.  The common truck sizes are:

12 ft. truck = 450 cu. ft.     = loft or small 2 bedroom apartment

16 ft. truck = 800 cu. ft.     = large 2 bedroom apartment

22 ft. truck = 1,200 cu. ft  = 3-4 bedroom apartment or 2-3 bedroom house

26 ft. truck = 1,400 cu. ft. = 4-5 bed room apartment

Penske truck rentals offers a great website to figure out “how big of a truck should I rent?” called the Truck Wizard where you type in your inventory and it will estimate what size truck you need. Many of the rental companies are willing and very capable of helping you figure out what size truck you will need. Just remember it is better to have a little extra space then not enough.

Once you have your moving date and truck size it’s now time to shop around for a truck. Call up your local truck rental companies in your area but also look at rental car companies and home improvement stores. For an accurate quote they will need to know your:

Move date

Local or one-way move

Size of truck you want

Rental Accessories (pads, dollies, car hauler, ect.)

Companies vary on weather they charge by the mile or flat rate per day for the type of truck you rent. Get all of your quotes and do the math as to which is the most economical for your move. Don’t forget to ask about insurance both for the truck and your belongings.  Ask if the agency offers assessed value insurance, which can replace your items, should an accident or loss occur. Carefully ask questions of each insurance option and figure out what will work best for you. Also, check with your household insurance agency to see if they cover your move. If your not moving far or you don’t have many valuables, then general insurance may be enough.

Now that you have decided on which company you are going to rent a truck from call them back and place a reservation. In order to do this you will need a credit card. It is better to do this as soon as possible; ideally you should reserve your truck a month in advance but at least two weeks before your move. You will want to reserve even further in advance if you are moving at a peak time for instance at the beginning and end of college semesters truck rental companies can often be sold out  two to three weeks in advance.

Congratulations on your upcoming move and you can now relax a little that you have you truck reserved. All you have to do now is start packing. It is a great idea to get a box or two a week and start packing things you don’t need weeks in advance, that way when it comes down to your move date some of the work is already done. For tips on how to pack read our other blogs:

What is the proper way to pack your items into a moving truck?

How to Properly Pad and Wrap Your Furniture by Gainesville Moving

4101 SW 13Th Street

Gainesville, FL 32608

352-374-7043

http://www.securityministorage.net/Truck_Rentals.html

Penske truck rental offers quality moving trucks at competitive prices for both business and do-it-yourself home moves. Gainesville Florida movers believe Penske Truck Rental at Security Mini Storage is no exception. Their fleet is exceptionally maintained and backed by Penske’s twenty-four hour roadside assistance available seven days a week. Their customer service is more then capable of assisting you with any and all questions you may have about moving in Gainesville, FL: quotes, reservations, truck size, pick-up, drop-off, packing and anything else you can think of. Penske Truck Rental at Security Mini Storage is located at 4101 SW 13Th Street Gainesville, FL 32608. You can find them at the south end of Gainesville where Williston Road crosses Highway 441. They are open from 8:00AM to 5:00PM everyday except Sunday when they open at 12:30PM. Gainesville, FL movers know that Penske Truck Rental at Security Mini Storage they offer a full range of moving supplies including rope, packing tape, boxes, mattress bags, furniture pads, and hand trucks.