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New Year, New Home

 

New Year, New Home

New Year’s is one of those holidays that can be anti-climactic because of all the hype surrounding that one magical moment when the clock strikes midnight. There is so much pressure to celebrate it in some fantastic, even over-the-top way, and additionally, there is that whole resolution issue that weighs on some of our minds.
 
In addition to thinking about the start of 2010, I also had something else bearing down on my mind this year—moving to a new city! Well, sort of. During the last couple of days of 2009, I packed up all my belongings in Brooklyn and with the help of my energetic and amazing parents, moved back to “the city,” Manhattan! Although the trip is a mere three miles across the river, the streets of the Big Apple are worlds away from those I knew in residential Brooklyn. Talk about a change of pace and change in lifestyle.
 
Because of the big move coinciding with the new year, I have that “start anew” feeling more so than any other year and I’m determined to ambitiously and graciously look forward to the changes ahead. Consequently, I’ve been doing a lot of reading about resolutions and how to go about pursuing them (of course, don't forget to check out our First30Days Ultimate Guide to New Year's Resolutions), which led me to a Wall Street Journal article that asked famous people for their resolution lists.
 
The WSJ is not exactly my go-to place for advice, but I like how this particular article started off by reflecting on Charles Dickens and his portrayal of the determination of the human spirit in a cold, sometimes bleak city. I couldn’t help but think of myself, lugging boxes in the snow with my chaffed hands, feeling overwhelmed and discombobulated. Although it’s mostly a round-up of resolutions, Nicholas Dawidoff, who penned the article, really struck me with this succinct but striking sentence: “Dicken’s best characters suggest that the story of life is in the striving, the ongoing effort to begin again and become, even for a moment, our very best selves.”
 
The stroke of midnight may be one moment and New Year’s just another day, but both are part of this “ongoing effort” and I for one hope to enjoy, appreciate, and strive for all the moments that lie ahead.

—Alicia Kachmar

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Summer Moving Tips - Part I

Moving is a very stressful experience at the best of times but moving in the heat of summer can be very uncomfortable. Keep these hints and tips in mind while packing your stuff with moving supplies and unpacking those moving boxes and rearranging your furniture.

Keeping hydrated is extremely important in the summer heat. Your body has a built in “air conditioner” system called perspiration. The skins pores open up and release the heat which builds up inside your body. This is a very efficient system but it needs lots of liquids to keep it running, just as most air conditioning systems need a water cooling system. Drinking about half a cup of water, which is equivalent to 125ml, every half an hour will keep your system hydrated and fuel your built in air conditioner. Try to avoid drinking large quantities of water as your body will only use what it needs and the excess will make you keep running to toilet.

Dress in cool and comfortable clothing, preferably natural materials like cotton. Naturally made materials will absorb your perspiration and will keep the air flowing over your skin which helps your body keep cool. You will add to your frustration if you have to stop what you are doing to pull the strap of your top up or rescue your falling pants. Dig out that “old faithful” outfit from the bottom of your cupboard so you don’t have worry about tears and snags.

When is the Best Time to Move?

 


Moving anytime of year is difficult, but if you have a flexible schedule and are not on a specific timeline, there are several factors to consider when deciding when to move. Keep in mind that these factors could also be part of a negotiation deal with your employer if you are being relocated or if starting a new position.

 

School Calendar

If you have children at home, it is best to work around the school calendar. Summer is an ideal time, as children have completed another grade and have said their goodbyes to school friends. Planning to move directly following the end of school, however, does not give your child time to adapt to the idea of moving, to say goodbye to neighborhood friends and their home. When setting the date, allow a few weeks at the new destination for children to unpack and meet new neighborhood friends. They will be better prepared for the school year if they have time to make their new house their home. Too much change can be detrimental to performance and emotional well-being.

What works best for your children, also works best for you. As part of the settling in process, take a few days for you and your child to check out the new school, meet some teachers and find appropriate transportation. Both you and your child will be better prepared, leading to a smoother transition.

 

 

 

Seasonal Considerations

Often, the best rates are available during the fall and winter seasons, as those are off-season time for most movers. Most people would agree that summer is the best time to move. Children are out of school, the weather is almost guaranteed to be perfect and friends are available to help. If this is your ideal time to move, make sure you check moving company schedules and rates before confirming your move date. Most companies have peak times and will charge higher rates accordingly. Also, if you are planning to move at peak times, you will need to be better organized to ensure that a moving company or a moving truck is available for the date and times you require. Keep in mind that the level of service often changes between the summer months, when students replace full-time experienced movers, and off-season.

As much as summer could cost you more, winter, as common sense indicates, is also not an ideal time to move. Travel is difficult, both for you and your family, along with the moving company. Items kept overnight in a truck under freezing conditions may result in damaged goods. If you are moving from one climate to another, water damage may occur when the mode of transport that is moving your household items travels from a cold environment to a warmer climate. Freezing and thawing causes the most damage if items are not properly sealed.

A favorite antique rocker we own cracked when it was moved from warm California to snowy, cold Toronto. Such severe and quick climate changes are hard on wood and even some plastics. If you have a lot of valued antiques, you may wish to pay the higher costs and move when the weather is more conducive. 



Courtesy of About.com


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Should You Tip Your Movers?



Moving can be a very stressful time for anyone involved. From the packing to the unpacking, it can feel like your life is a jumbled mess. For the first-time mover, however, the knots in the stomach can be even worse. Questions will, no doubt, arise about how to handle a move, whether to tip movers, when to shut off the water, etc. In the case of the dealing with professional movers, there are some basic rules of the road to follow.


The first thing to keep in mind when it comes to handling the movers themselves is that tipping is optional in this industry. That means the movers in question do not rely on tips to get by. This, of course, isn’t to say they don’t appreciate them when they get them. However, a tip at the end of the job is not expected.


That said, there might be times when tipping movers is in order. If you feel the job has been done exceptionally well, it’s perfectly acceptable to give your thanks in the form of a cash bonus. Before you jump in and expect to pay a ton in tips over and above the moving fees, however, ask yourself a few questions. Remember, tips in this industry are optional, so service should be spectacular to warrant them.


Before tipping consider these things:


• Did the movers you hired work in a timely fashion? Did they arrive on time and deliver your belongings within the stated window?


• Did the movers on the job treat your belongings like they were their own or did they act as if it was just another job on just another day?


• Were the movers polite, courteous and willing to work with you?


• Did the movers go above and beyond to get the job done well?


If you answered yes to these questions, a tip for the moving crew is probably in order. There are two basic forms of tips that are standard in this industry. Either is more than appropriate in the case of a job well done. They are money, refreshments or both!


If you decide to tip your movers by offering them lunch on you, this is a more than acceptable way to show your appreciation. Go the extra mile though and find out what they’d like to eat and drink. While moving means pizza and beer day for you, it’s likely pizza day comes a whole lot for your movers. With this in mind, it’s a very nice gesture to let them pick the place or style of food.


Tipping in cash is also more than acceptable when a job’s been performed to the highest standards. Don’t worry about trying to figure out percentages to pay each mover based on the job, however. A flat tip is more than fine. On average, most movers will get a $20 tip for a full day’s work and $10 for a half day. You can, of course, go over or under this amount.


Moving can be a real nightmare. From figuring out a timetable for getting everything done to deciding whether to tip the movers, the process can seem like an endless stream of questions. When it comes to paying the movers a little extra for their troubles, remember this is an expense you don’t have to incur, but it will be appreciated.


Courtesy of Ezine Articles




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Packing Tips for Your Next Move | 800.261.5324

Packing Tips

Let OnTimeMover.com help you do the packing! Pack as little or as many items as you prefer. We can locate a mover willing to do the entire moving job or any part of your packing for you. Whatever you decide, we want your moving process to go as smoothly as possible. These are some packing tips  which will help. And if you need packing supplies, our movers do keep them in stock. 

Preparations  
Here are a few general suggestions that will make packing easier:
  • Plan how you will pack. Pack items first that you don’t use often.
  • Start packing as soon as you find out you’re moving.
  • Never pack flammable items or non-allowable items.
  • Use generous amounts of paper inside the carton on the top and bottom to provide good cushion.
  • List contents and room on the outside of the carton.
  • Clearly mark “Fragile” on the outside of cartons.
  • Use clean newsprint paper. Old newspapers may work, but use them carefully because the ink may rub off onto your items. Clean “newsprint” paper is available from your local agent.
  • Write “Open First” on cartons containing essential items such as cooking utensils, toiletries, etc.
  • Separate breakables and non-breakables.
  • Pack all cartons tightly.
  • Use professional packing tape. Masking tape isn’t strong enough to support fully packed cartons. Packing tape is available from your local agent.
 

 

China
Carefully wrap china in sheets of clean newsprint paper. Place newsprint paper in the bottom of a Dishpak for cushioning. Wrap each piece individually then wrap up to three in a bundle with a double layer of paper. Place these bundled items in the carton in a row on edge.
 
Surround each bundle with crushed paper, being careful to leave no unfilled spaces. Add two or three inches of crushed paper on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level base for the next tier. Horizontal cardboard dividers can be helpful in keeping layers level.Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls can make up a second layer. Wrap and pack in the same way as larger items.
 

 

Silver
Silver is nested together and wrapped. The nested packs are cushioned in the silver chest. The chest is then wrapped in clean paper.
 
Stemware

Stemware is individually wrapped with protective paper inserted into the goblet and around the stem. Each goblet is cushioned by a thick wrapping and placed stem up in a specially tiered Dishpak.

 

 

Soft Goods
Soft goods like pillows and bedding are packed in lined cartons separated by layers of clean paper.
 

 

Shoes

Pack shoes in their original shoebox, if possible, and place in a carton. If shoeboxes are not available, individually wrap them to prevent abrasive damage.

 

 

Clothes
Clothes are left on hangers and hung in special wardrobe cartons.
 

 

Lamp Shades and Bases
Handle lampshades by their wire frames only and place in a carton lined with paper. Surround the shade with protective paper. Shades can be nested inside each other, as long as they are separated by paper.
 
On Time Movers has cartons specially designed for packing lamp bases. These cartons are also good for golf clubs, floor lamps and garden tools.
 

 

Stereos and other electronics
If possible, pack electronics in their original cartons. As long as proper packing materials are used (bubble wrap, newsprint, foam sheeting, comforters/blankets, pillows, etc.), electronics can be safely packed in sturdy boxes.

  • Start by padding the bottom of the carton with a generous amount of packing material.
  • Wrap electronic with paper and place in carton.
  • Tightly pack padding around and on top of the unit to prevent damage.
  • Firmly seal the carton.
  • Label the carton as “Fragile – Top Load.”

Note: When you unpack your electronics, let them reach room temperature before plugging them in.

 
 

 

 
Books
Lay books flat in the carton, alternating the spine and open side of the book. Place a piece of paper between books to prevent them sticking together. Because books are heavy, Mayflower has a small book carton to make them easier to carry.
 

 

Statuary and Figurines
Wrap statuary and figurines with bubble wrap, then snuggly wrap with clean paper. If bubble wrap is not available, use clean paper to wrap the article until it is adequately cushioned.
 

 

Bottles
Bottles are taped shut and wrapped in clean newsprint. For extra security, place bottles in a resealable, watertight bag before wrapping and placing in carton.
 
Mirrors and Glass
Wrap the picture or mirror in a generous cushion of clean paper. Place in a flattened packing or telescoping carton. Carefully tape and seal the carton. Always stand glass, pictures and mirrors on their edge. Do not lay flat.
 

 

Computers
If possible, pack computers in their original cartons. As long as proper packing materials are used (bubble wrap, newsprint, foam sheeting, comforters/blankets, pillows, etc.), computers can be safely packed in sturdy boxes.
 
  • Start by padding the bottom of the carton with a generous amount of packing material.
  • Wrap computer parts generously with paper and place in carton.
  • Tightly pack padding around and on top of the unit to prevent damage.
  • Firmly seal the carton.
  • Label the carton as “Fragile – Top Load.”

Be aware of special considerations for the internal workings of the computer. Discuss safe transportation with your On Time Movers Certified Moving Consultant.


Excerpts Reprinted Courtesy of Mayflower Transit





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The Pros and Cons of Moving Yourself | 800.261.5324



To move or not to move—it’s not really a question sometimes, but a necessity. The question arises when considering how to move. Should you hire a moving company? Do it yourself? Enlist a strong friend or two? Each approach has pros and cons, so you’ll have to consider your own situation in order to make the choice that’s right for you.


Hiring Movers



Pros


The big pro of hiring movers is the ease—no truck rental to worry about, no heavy lifting to strain your back, and less responsibility on moving day. You’ll also save yourself a lot of sweating. Professional movers also have a lot of experience with loading, packing, and unloading items, which allows them to work faster and handle your items in a safer manner than you might be able to. Additionally, their drivers will be skilled at maneuvering large moving trucks, while you might be at a loss when it comes to backing your U-Haul up to your new home for unloading. Finally, moving companies will have boxes by the truckload (literally), saving you the hassle of finding them yourself.


Cons


A major downside of using a professional service is the cost—it can cost considerably more, depending on the company and the amount of stuff you own. You also need to consider whether you’re comfortable leaving all your worldly possessions in the hands of strangers, and you’ll need to do some research to make sure you’re using a reputable moving company. (On Time Movers utilizes a network of trustworthy, reliable and affordable movers) Hiring a service might also require you to work around the movers’ schedule when planning your transition, something that might be difficult to do at a point in your life when time is precious and you already have tons to do. Remember, too, that you’ll still have to pack most of your items—moving companies may be able to assist with some packing duties, but wrapping your precious china in newspaper isn’t really in the movers’ job description.


The bottom line


Hiring a moving company is probably a better option for people who own a lot of large items and don’t have the strength or space to move them independently. A rented U-Haul might seem big when you’re driving it, but when you find that only three pieces of your furniture (when you have a collection of 30-odd large items) fit in it, the idea of making a dozen trips across town (or selling half your possessions) won’t seem so appealing. Those with families may find that hiring movers takes a load off their mind and allows them to focus on other things, including watching (and transporting) the kids on moving day. A move across the country might also motivate you to hire a moving service, as their larger trucks will be able to hold more items than most any rented truck you’d want to drive, and the moving company’s experience will make them better equipped to handle a big move than you might be.


Note: If you do hire movers, make sure to get a signed contract detailing the responsibilities of the movers and the risks you’re assuming by hiring them. Include the moving schedule in the contract, and make sure you understand the contract completely before signing.


Doing It Yourself



Pros


A DIY move gives you more control over the moving process. You get to decide when and how all your possessions will be moved, and you get to plan the moving schedule around your needs. There’s no cause for worrying about strangers handling your possessions, and you’ll probably save a bit of money by just renting a truck (or borrowing a friend’s). If you enlist the help of others, moving day—or at least a post-moving celebration—can also be a time for bonding, and can give you a sense of accomplishment and independence as well.


Cons


Lifting, lifting, lifting. Moving companies hire super-buff individuals for a reason. Moving heavy items is difficult and potentially dangerous, especially if your move involves a lot of stair-climbing. Even if you’re a gym rat, you might tire out or injure yourself during the moving process. Asking friends or family to help with the heavy stuff is always an option, but it can also be a good way to strain a relationship. Make sure those who help you are truly willing, and offer to compensate them in some way—if not with money, with a nice dinner at your new place after you’ve moved in. Driving a rented truck can also be tough for those accustomed to cruising in compact cars, and the added stress of having everything you own inside the truck can be troublesome. You might end up wishing you’d just put the move in someone else’s hands.


The bottom line


If you’re ready for some heavy lifting and feel comfortable transporting your own items, a do-it-yourself move might be the way to go. Be sure to enlist the help of some strong friends who are willing to help you cart stuff around town. If you’re doing a more long-distance move, but are willing to get rid of some possessions, you might also be able to move yourself by cutting down on the items you bring with you.


Ultimately, the way you move is up to you, and it’s a decision you need to make on four main factors—where you’re moving, what you’re moving, what you can afford, and what makes you feel comfortable. You can throw caution to the wind, sell all your belongings on craigslist, and drive across the country in your sports car with only the price of gas to worry about. Or you can enlist the help of trusted movers who will ensure that all your belongings will arrive in one piece. Whatever your personal needs, there’s a way to move that will meet them.


Courtesy of Apartment Ratings

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Economy Impacts Corporate Relocation



Economy Impacts Corporate Relocation.
Best Practices for Reducing Employee Anxiety and Achieving Successful Employee Mobility

Burbank, CA., Oct 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Economic factors like unemployment
rates, a weak real estate market and recent changes to mortgage qualification
policy all play a critical role in employee relocation, both for employers and
employees. While budget decisions and employee reluctance have reduced
relocations in the U.S. by more than 40 percent this year compared to 2008(1),
employers who face budget cuts still need talent in the right location. However,
employer benefits can reduce relocation stress and help achieve successful
employee mobility, even during challenging times.

Despite today's economy, workforce mobility remains a necessity. 
The moves we see today are very strategic, designed to get the right people to
the right places to get a job done.  As reluctance to relocate rises, companies
are beginning to recognize that there is a risk of losing key talent who refuse a
move and that the cost of a failed relocation can be upwards of a million dollars. 
Therefore, the scope of support services required to assist the employee and the family
through the decision to relocate, and through the move itself, is also increasing."

New Mortgage Guidelines Increase Relocation Challenges

Spousal and family considerations are always a top concern for relocating
employees. But new issues continue to emerge that further complicate the
process, such as recent mortgage guideline changes.

The Federal National Mortgage Association (known as Fannie Mae) recently
reversed a policy permitting mortgage applicants to include the current income
of trailing spouses when qualifying for a loan. Fannie Mae will only consider
the second income of a trailing spouse when he or she has secured and verified
employment in the relocation destination. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
reports that 57 percent of married couples are dual earners. For employees
that face relocation, eliminating the second income that lenders can consider
in a mortgage decision means some employees will have to qualify on the basis
of one income.  This could make a relocation impossible for a family, could
draw out the process (thus increasing the overall cost of the move), or lead
to the best candidate declining the move.

Employer Support Can Ease Mortgage and other Relocation Concerns

Employers can offer additional support and alleviate mortgage and other concerns
by helping employees and their families examine personal, financial and career
considerations to help determine their ability to accept relocation. Even at the
decision-making stage, employees can begin exploring spousal job market
opportunities and income potential, as well as other family transition concerns
related to the new location. An increasing number of employers are providing
data such as accurate cost-of-living comparison information, tools like rental
reimbursement options, and counseling to help employees understand the
overall family and financial changes between the old and new locations.

Having key talent in the right location at the right time is even more
critical in today's economic climate. Meeting the needs of those employees
through employee relocation services that include highly accurate cost-of-living
information and financial projections supports the employee and addresses
a key mobility need for the business.


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Moving Tricks and Tips

At first glance, moving looks pretty easy: Pack, load, drive, unpack. But as anyone who’s moved house can tell you, there are a million little things to remember. Did you cancel the utilities and arrange for them to be connected at your new place? Did you redirect the mail? Does your mom know your new address and phone number? And, come to think of it, do you?

If you’re planning a move, check out the following helpful ideas on how to make it go as smoothly as possible.

Take notes

  • Keep a notebook and use it to keep track of all the important dates and times relevant to your move, including utility shut-off and start-up dates and your moving shipment’s registration number. Keep a running tally of all of your moving expenses and keep copies of all of your receipts.

Make contacts

  • Call your local utility companies (gas, electric, water, telephone, cable/satellite/Internet providers and trash). Verify when your service will be discontinued and when it will be restored at your new address. Do the same with any lawn care, housecleaning or security firms you employ.
  • Verify your change of address information with your local post office and transfer all subscriptions over to your new home.
  • Ensure your children are registered at their new schools and that their records have been transferred.
  • Get referrals for doctors, dentists and veterinarians in your new area.
  • Make arrangements for new homeowner’s insurance coverage. If you’re moving out of state, ask if you’ll need new car insurance.
  • If you belong to any clubs or associations, find out if there are any similar clubs or chapters in your new area. You may even be able to transfer over some or all of your membership fees.

Keep records

  • Make a detailed list of all of your valuables (cash, jewelry, important documents, photo albums, etc.). Try to transport these items yourself rather than sending them with the movers.
  • Make a list of, and clearly mark, all items that will require special care such as glass or marble tabletops, mirrors and artwork.

Pack well

  • Stock up on moving supplies. You’ll need masking tape, scissors, box-cutters, moving pads, newspapers, blankets, bubble wrap, bungee cord, felt-tipped markers, plastic storage containers, possibly a hand truck. Oh, and boxes. Lots and lots of boxes. You can usually obtain several different sizes from your local grocery store. Avoid making any box heavier than 50 lbs.
  • Pack an “Open Me First!” box with all the essentials you’ll need as you unpack. Include toiletries, medications, a flashlight, phone and address books, towels, bed linens and pet supplies. Make separate ones for children containing blankets, stuffed animals and other comfort items they’ll want when they first arrive. Load these boxes and a toolkit last so they’ll be easy to find when you reach your destination.

Lighten the load

  • Try to use up all leftover food in the days leading up to your move. This will reduce the amount of food you have to pack up and take with you.
  • Most household plants will not survive a long move, so consider giving them to friends. If you decide to take them with you, check with your local Department of Agriculture office to see if there are any restrictions on moving plants across state lines.
  • Contact your municipal government or poison control center to find an approved disposal site for any flammable or combustible materials you may have (fireworks, paint cans, solvents, etc.) and poisons (insecticides or weed killers).

Remember final details

  • Do a final check of your house and property. Look in each room and closet, as well as the attic, basement and garden shed to make sure you leave nothing behind.
  • Shut off the water and lower the thermostat.
  • Get your moving van driver’s name and go over the directions. Have payment (plus a tip) ready when you arrive at your new place.
  • Don’t have your phone disconnected until the day you leave in case you need to make a last-minute phone call.

Prepare to settle in

  • If possible, try to schedule your move for a weekday so that banks, utility companies and government offices will be open should you need to contact them when you arrive at your new home.
  • If you’ve moving locally, consider leaving pets and/or small children with friends or family on moving day. The noise, upheaval and presence of unfamiliar people may frighten them.
  • Draw up a list of emergency phone numbers for your new neighborhood and post it on the fridge or by the phone.
  • Change the batteries in all the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Devise a fire escape route.
  • Send thank-you cards to those who helped you with your move and mail out notifications of your new address to friends and family.

Happy Halloween!

Courtesy of Lending Tree


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Recent Entries

  1. Moving to a New Home?
    Monday, May 24, 2010
  2. Summer Moving Tips - Part I
    Monday, May 24, 2010
  3. When is the Best Time to Move?
    Saturday, December 05, 2009
  4. __________________________________________________
    Friday, December 04, 2009
  5. Specialized Mover - White Glove Services - Mover Company Quotes
    Sunday, November 08, 2009
  6. Should You Tip Your Movers?
    Tuesday, November 03, 2009
  7. Packing Tips for Your Next Move | 800.261.5324
    Friday, October 30, 2009
  8. The Pros and Cons of Moving Yourself | 800.261.5324
    Thursday, October 29, 2009
  9. Economy Impacts Corporate Relocation
    Wednesday, October 28, 2009
  10. Moving Tricks and Tips
    Tuesday, October 27, 2009

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