Best Way to Pack a Storage Unit

December 9th, 2019

Storage units can be expensive, so maximizing space in a smaller unit can make a difference. You can keep more in the unit if you can learn to pack your belongings neatly and efficiently!

Size of the Storage Unit

It’s important to consider the size of the unit you want to rent. If you think you’ll need two of them, just opt for a larger one to save money.

Make sure to walk around your home and see what items you are putting in storage, and try to figure out which ones can be stacked or which ones will take up the most space. If you are putting items in storage for a move, try to see which ones the owner of the new home will let you place in the garage or other areas of the house before completely moving in. That way, bigger items won’t have to go in paid storage and take up that space.

Storage Boxes

Make sure to pack strategically. Pick boxes that are roughly the same shape and size as each other. This way, they will be easier to fit in the storage unit. If you don’t get moving boxes, try plastic totes with an actual cover or lid.

If you are looking for free boxes, stop by fast food restaurants and ask for old food boxes and have the manager hold them for you.

Always remember to never pack liquids, chemicals, batteries, food, aerosol cans or sprays, etc., in a storage units. These are usually on the list of items not allowed in a storage unit facility.

Order of Packing the Storage Unit

Packing up a storage unit can seem like playing Tetris. You have to find out what fits where, but always make sure boxes go in the back. Furniture and oddly shaped items go towards the front. If you are using a storage unit for a move, you’ll need the furniture first anyways. Boxes and bins can fit in a car rather than putting them all in a moving truck.

Materials Needed for the Unit

Make sure you keep a step ladder handy, as well as a tape measure. The step ladder can help you stack your boxes, and the tape measure can help you figure out how much space you have to work with. Maximize your space so that you can get your moneys worth!

Contact Us

RARE Moving & Storage is here for all of your moving and storage needs. Contact us today at (617) 825-7273 or fill out our contact form. We look forward to hearing and working with you!

Moving Your Car Across the Country

December 9th, 2019

Once you figure out how to move yourself across the country, you may need to figure out about your car if you aren’t driving it to your new space. Some people even opt for selling their car and getting a new one once they get to their destination, especially if it’s very far. Whatever you choose to do, there are some important things you need to know:

Deciding on Car Shipping

Should you drive your car to your new house, or get it delivered? It all depends on how far you’re willing to drive. If you’re moving somewhere in the same state you’re already in, it’s only logical to drive it yourself. Even if you’re just going to a neighboring state, as well. Shipping a car to a home that is pretty nearby can be a waste of money and an extra cost you don’t need.

States Away

Getting your car shipped states away is very convenient and can save you time and effort. A entirely cross-country move could take days to drive yourself, because of stopping and having to sleep. This can add up – hotel rooms, gas, and food. Sometimes shipping your car is the way to go if you’re really going the distance.

Using a Car Transport Service

Using a car transport company can leave you with peace of mind that your car gets to your destination safe and sound. Car transport companies have experience and professionalism so it’s easy to trust them with your vehicle. They will be able to give you a quote based on your type of vehicle and how far the distance is from point A to point B. Make sure to also read reviews and check out multiple companies before making a final decision.

The Cost

The price of getting a car shipped can vary from anywhere between $400-$500 for short hauls, to around $1,500 for long cross-country moves.

West Coast to East Coast (or vice versa)

The price is generally around $1,200 for a sedan and $1,400 for a pickup truck or SUV

West Coast to Midwest (or vice versa)

The price is generally $800 for a sedan and $900 for a pickup truck or SUV

East Coast to Midwest (or vice versa)

The price is generally around $1,000 for a sedan and $1,200 for a pickup truck or SUV

North to South (or vice versa)

The price is usually around $1,000 for a sedan and $1,200 for a pickup truck or SUV

Contact Us

RARE Moving and Storage can help you figure out your moving needs. Call us today or fill out our contact page!

Prepping For a Move

November 22nd, 2019

Packing up and moving doesn’t need to be as hard as some make it seem to be. There are ways to make it easier on you, as well as keep you organized. Although the idea of moving is stressful, take the time to make it a more enjoyable process. Most of the time, you’re on to bigger and better things, so celebrate it!

Keeping a Notebook

Designate a notebook or journal to your move. This can hold to-do lists, paperwork, or budget information. This way, everything is in one place and other people living with you can access it too. Utilize sticky notes or page dividers to have easy access to certain pages. This notebook is also a good place to write reminders and where certain things are packed to make it easier to organize.

Moving Costs

Before you start your move, it is important to create a budget. This can include the quote for movers, price of boxes, renting a moving truck, cleaning your home prior to moving out, storage units or temporary storage while moving, and more. This costs add up, so it’s important to keep track of where your money is going so nothing gets mixed up. These prices can also be added to your moving notebook or binder.

Changing Your Address Before Moving

Before you even begin packing, write down in your notebook a list of essential utilities, people, or organizations that you need to contact about a new address before your move. This can include your USPS mail, forwarding mail for the first month or so, utilities such as water, gas, electric, garbage, etc., online shopping accounts, notifying bank accounts and your insurance company, updating your address on your license, and any other companies you send bills to.

Try to Get Free Moving Materials

If you can, don’t spend money on moving supplies if you don’t have to. Cutting costs where you can during this process can save you a ton of money in the end. Visit a local store or supermarket to see if they have any boxes they’re giving away. You can get huge boxes from places like this. Smaller boxes are also great for tinier items that are fragile and breakable.

Moving can be a lot, but staying organized will make it better for everyone. Take these steps to relieve some stress and make your move more enjoyable!

Contact Us

RARE Moving wants to make sure your move goes as smooth as possible. Contact us for a free estimate today!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tips for Moving During the Holidays

November 20th, 2019

Packing up your home and moving around the holidays can be a big pain that no one wants to deal with. Having so much going on and seasonal distractions, it’s hard to focus on this annoying task you might find yourself stuck doing. Luckily, moving around the holidays is a whole lot easier if you know how to be well prepared and organized.

1.Timing of your Holiday Move

While not considered “peak moving season”, holiday time can be a busy season for moving companies. Their workers have holidays to celebrate too, after all! If you are planning on moving around the holiday season, make sure you book a moving company ASAP.

Avoiding Holiday Weekends

Moving on a holiday weekend (i.e, the weekend following Thanksgiving) is pricier than standard weekends. As well as the price, traffic will be a concern as well. Roads will be filled with many people traveling and shopping. The U.S Department of Transportation states that Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years are the busiest times to travel during the year.

2. Packing

Packing up your holiday decor and belongings can be sad. Making sure you are organized enough to unpack them when you get to your new home can make your life a whole lot easier.

Organizing Your Belongings

Keep your holiday decorations and belongings in a separate box or boxes to have easy access when you get to your new place. That way, you’ll be able to get into the holiday spirit in no time. You can also have the movers make sure they place your decorations in your living room to make sure you can unpack them first, if that’s what you want.

3. Safety of Your New Home

Robberies and home invasions skyrocket during the holiday season. Make sure you set up a security system in your new home to be safe. Robbers look for homes that have new owners, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Unpacking to stay safe

Try to unpack your big boxes and furniture soon after you move in. This way, people won’t see all of your belongings just sitting there through your window in one area. If you are moving from a long distance and are having your boxes delivered, be sure to take them inside as soon as you know they get there to decrease the change of holiday package theives from taking your household items.

4. Winter Weather

Snow can make moving a hard task, but you sadly can’t control the weather. If you’re in the colder parts of the country (i.e, New England), there is always the possibility of snow and ice. Icy roads and slippery walkways can add to what might be an already difficult move.

Proper Supplies

Make sure you’re dressed correctly for a winter move. If it is snowy and icy, make sure you have winter boots on and gloves. Also have ice melt/salt and some shovels available to make life easier. As for boxes, maybe try to mix in some plastic bins for important items so that your moving boxes don’t get soggy and have snow seep through.

After your move is done, you can finally relax and enjoy the rest of the holiday season!

Contact Us

RARE Moving & Storage wants to help you out with your holiday move. Give us a call at 617-825-7273, or fill out our contact page. We look forward to hearing from you!

Surviving a Winter Move

October 21st, 2019

Moving in the winter is less than ideal, but sometimes it has to be done. There are some extra precautions you’ll need to take to keep your winter move as safe and efficient as possible. If waiting for spring is out of the question, follow these tips to help survive your winter move. 

Leave it to Professionals

Moving in the winter calls for the help of professionals. It may come at an added cost, but it will help keep you and your belongings safe. Call around to multiple movers before hiring anyone. Try to find a moving company with reasonable rates, insurance, and positive customer references. Some movers even offer winter moving discounts since it’s a slow season for them! 

Check the Weather

This probably seems obvious, but make sure to check the weather as moving day approaches. If the weather forecast is calling for a lot of snow or especially bitter cold temperatures, ask the movers if they’re able to reschedule for the following week or even just a different day in the same week. 

Clear the Driveway

You should shovel all driveways, entryways, and sidewalks before movers arrive. Put down a coating of winter salt to prevent ice from accumulating during the move. Keep the driveway clear throughout the move, even if that means taking a break from loading and unloading to shovel for a few minutes. 

Keep Everyone Warm 

Staying warm during a winter move is vital. Keep everyone helping with the move warm by making sure utilities are turned on at the new location a couple of days before moving day and the utilities are still on at the old place. Turn the heat up high at both locations and encourage movers to take a break inside for a few minutes to warm up if they need too. Offering hot coffee or hot chocolate is an extra step that isn’t required, but definitely appreciated! 

Protect the Floors 

Protect your floors from moisture and winter salt by laying down tarps or plastic sheeting. This should be done at the old home and the new home before movers arrive.

Remember to be patient during a winter move. Everybody there will want to get it over with but rushing the process could lead to injury or damaged items. When you’re especially cold and ready for the move the be over, just imagine how worth it will all be when you’re enjoying your new home!

For a reliable moving company to help with your move this winter, contact Rare Moving & Trucking! We provide free estimates for your relocation – so call us at 617-825-7273 or use our contact form to start your moving process!