Having been in the moving industry for as long as I have, there aren’t very many moving tricks that I haven’t heard about, both successful and disastrous. So I have taken the time to compile what I believe are some of the best tips to ensure your move is as stress-free as possible! Do it a little bit at a time. Don’t procrastinate on this job because it’s a big one, and you won’t be able to find the time to finish everything that needs to get done if you leave it until the last minute. Declutter before you move! I can’t stress this one enough. You do NOT want to move items that you don’t need. It creates more work, costs more money and utilizes more valuable time. One of the best ways to declutter your space is to put everything into four categories. Pack Now – Prioritize what needs to be packed first. Pack Later – Decide what needs to be packed last. Donate – anything that is no longer of use to you, but may be valuable to someone else. And Throw Away – anything that is broken or has no value to you or others. If you are moving last minute, then your best bet is to have a packing day. The more people willing to help you, the better! Create a moving checklist – In your list, make sure to include all the rooms in your home. Then you can create a row that specifies the following categories: Which colour will be for which room, who is in charge of packing that room, a box to check when that room has been completely packed, and then space for any additional notes. You will want to make sure you pick up good quality moving boxes and have multiple sizes for packing all different sized items. Try to use extra space like suitcases and large totes that may be currently empty to lower your costs and the space needed for moving. Make sure to have lots of storage bags on hand. All variety of sizes you will find come in handy for different things. You can place all those little odds and ends in there, so they don’t get lost. If you choose to colour code the rooms, it works well to place a label outside the room right before entering and then another on the wall inside. It doesn’t have to be fancy; just a big coloured dot on a piece of paper with the room name will do. These colour guides will help your movers know exactly where things need to go. If you have people helping you pack or move, make sure that you have coordinated food and drinks for them. You can make something like finger sandwiches, fruit and veggie trays ahead of time or make it easy and order some pizza. You will want to create a “moving station.” A moving station is a place where all packing essentials are kept. Then anyone can access packing materials as needed, such as boxes, tape, scissors, sharpies, etc. It is crucial to delegate one person to be in charge of managing the packing process. This person will be in charge of the master checklist you initially created with all the rooms. They will also be the go-to person for answering any questions related to packing. If you have more than one person giving directions, then you may have a disaster. Once a box has been packed, it is crucial to make sure that it is labelled appropriately with the right colour of tape or sticker for the designated room, so there is no confusion for the movers. Always write down the contents of each box in great detail; you can do this in a couple of different places: Write the details on the box if that works best, or You can number your boxes. ei. Kitchen could be 100s: So you would label your boxes #100, #101, #102, etc. Living Room 200s: #200, #201, #202, etc. Then on the master sheet, list the boxes contents under the number. The more details, the better. Sometimes we need something sooner than we think when we move, and it may still be packed away. Unpacking 15 boxes trying to find one item is not fun. You will find it much easier to assemble all the boxes at once, rather than only assembling one at a time as you need them. You can either do this before packing day or delegate someone to do it at the beginning of the day. It is easier to pick the appropriate size of box for the items you are packing. It will save you a lot of time in the long run. Use pillows, blankets and towels as an inexpensive way to help provide padding to breakables, valuables and electronics. If you are struggling to find a place for your long-handled equipment (brooms, mops, rakes, etc.), you may be able to utilize your garbage can to move them. Often furniture will need to be taken apart entirely or partially when moving. For any furniture that does get taken apart, place all small parts (nuts, bolts, screws, Allen key, etc.) in a plastic baggy to keep them together; you can either: Tape the bag directly to the furniture so that everyone knows where it goes. Or if that won’t work, You can label each bag with details of what piece of furniture it belongs with and create a general hardware box. If you choose this option, don’t lose that box! Label cords, remotes and other essentials with tape & sharpies and put all of them together in one bucket. Don’t leave loose cords anywhere. This box can go with the hardware box, but remember both are very important boxes, don’t lose them! Once you have finished packing the box and it get’s a label, it is important to move it to the side so that it is out of the way
8 Common Moving Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Depending on where you are in life, moving can be exciting and life-changing. It’s always scary, but you’re still looking forward to what’s on the other side. One survey reports that Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan are the three fastest-growing provinces in the country. The urban agglomeration of Calgary is the fastest-growing of its kind. So most of our population is happy to move. If you’re not in that category, you’re probably like many other people who see moving as a hassle, a big expense, and a time sucker. We can help you avoid most of the stress of moving. However, there are still some mistakes you should be on the lookout for: 1. Not making enough time to pack If you’re a last-minute packer when it comes to traveling, chances are you may put off packing to move, too. There’s a full guarantee you’ll end up regretting it. Humans tend to believe they can get more done in less time. What we like to forget is that distractions are often welcomed during unappealing tasks — like packing. Additionally, delicate items will take longer to pack than others, sometimes a whole day longer. Avoid by: Give yourself a realistic timeline to figure out what rooms you’ll pack on which days. A one-bedroom home takes as much as two days to pack, a two-bedroom takes two days, and so on. 2. Making too much time to pack Who isn’t guilty of packing items, only to find that you have to take them out right away. Not to lower your excitement, but know that you’ll give yourself double the workload when you start packing too far in advance. Plus, you’ll have boxes all over, and who wants that? Avoid by: Use the prescribed timeline above. Control your anticipation to move. Before you know it you’ll be settled into your new home so don’t rush. 3. Trying to do it all by yourself It’s one thing to pack boxes, and it’s another to load them into a moving truck or whatever vehicle you use to relocate. Your health, expenses, and not to mention the very items you hold dear could take a blow if you try a DIY move. Think about fuel costs and potentially dropping your goods. Of course it’s not planned, but things tend to happen when you try to carry items you possibly never have before. Also, is your back really up to the task? Avoid by: Research and hire professional movers to make sure you avoid health and safety risks. In the end, you could save more money. Additionally, you won’t end up going straight to bed to rest instead of enjoying your new home. 4. Not making a checklist If you want to feel good about your move, make sure you go about it in an organized fashion. That means making to-dos for all crucial tasks. It keeps you focused and manages your time. Avoid by: Prepare a checklist (and stick to it). This gives you a sense of accomplishment every time you cross something off. That feeling is a huge stress-reliever in any situation — but especially when moving. 5. Not taking inventory Another essential moving tip to stay organized is to take inventory. The last thing you want is to have to rummage through boxes after you’re in your new home. You already have to unpack for each room. Avoid by: While packing, prepare a list of the items in each box. Give each box a number and label which room they go in. When the movers come in, cross off the boxes on your list. Do the same when they’re unpacking. 6. Not packing an essentials bag If you pack without thinking about the first few days in your new home, you’re asking for a headache. While it’s wise to take inventory, you still won’t be fully prepared if something happens. Avoid by: You’re going to want to use a duffel bag or suitcase to separate those items that you use daily as well as stuff you might need for an emergency. Things like toiletries, chargers, documents, medications. 7. Continuing to hoard You don’t have to be a diagnosed hoarder to feel the effects of it on moving day. If you’ve been collecting junk, it’s going to take longer to move, and could cost you more labor or fuel. Avoid by: Packing is a great time to declutter, donate, and recycle items you no longer need. A lot of things can be completely thrown away, too. The liberation you’ll get is all part of the moving journey. 8. Not getting the right insurance You don’t want to suffer unnecessary loss both in money and with your possessions. While finding a reputable company is a must — and using bubble wrap crucial — unpredicted events can and do happen. Your moving company will likely have insurance — but up to a point. Chances are, you won’t get back the amount that you think your items are worth. Avoid by: Ask your moving company about their insurance. In addition, look into the best liability coverage for your personal needs. Finally, do research about who pays if a mover gets injured while on the job. The best way to make moving easier is to plan ahead and be aware of what could happen. Don’t burden yourself any more than you have to. And, most of all, expect the unexpected.
A 3-Step Cheat Sheet to Downsizing your Office
Circumstances don’t make a person. Likewise, office size doesn’t make a successful business. In the modern world, there are about a million ways technology plays a greater role than the physical space we work in. Remote workers, high rent, and economic changes are all reasons you may want to downsize. If you decide to do so, it should be done the right way. It may even lead to more productivity for reasons we’ll touch on below. But first, let’s start at the beginning. 1. Preparing to win Plan ahead and set goals If you manage your business all by yourself — that’s great. You don’t have to refer to anyone else for decision-making. However, DO make decisions early — and that’s with or without a team. Additionally, ensure you set concrete goals that are in line with your company’s goals, values, and anything else that could be affected by the move. Discern your office needs You know you’re going smaller but how much smaller exactly? Figure out what your office requires in anticipation of the change. Is smaller equipment an option? Would you be better off using electronic storage? What type of layout suits your employees? — We’ll go more into detail on that one later. For now, just be clear on your workspace must-haves. Get help from the professionals If you have the means to do so, allow an expert step in to help with packing, storage, and moving your office to its new location (Relocate Stress-Free are pros here). Know your purpose and act on it Be aware of what specific purpose all parts of your office serve. A more limited space does not have to mean less efficiency. On the same note, use multi-purpose supplies and furniture to make the most out of space. 2. Doing the work Organize with intent The groundwork for moving goes in a similar fashion to planning. Conscious organization is key. When packing boxes, remember to use simple but effective labels so you won’t be lost when unpacking. Rent a storage unit Renting a space to keep important items will probably work out in your best interest. There are lots of options available, but we’d recommend Crate it Storage here for many reasons. As needed, be sure to inform your storage company of the labels for the boxes. Also, don’t hesitate to force yourself to donate or — as appropriate — throw away what you don’t need. Get rid of some furniture Similarly, feel free to rid yourself of too large or unnecessary furniture taking up space. Yes, that lounge chair is the most gorgeous thing on the floor, but if you don’t allow your employees to take naps on it — and you probably should — then consider getting rid of it. Go vertical or go home Before we talk about telecommuting, let’s discuss even more space maximization which you can achieve by using vertical furniture instead of traditional horizontal pieces. We’re talking desk-top shelves and otherwise spending practices. Employ interior design expertise If you don’t spend money on any other expertise… well, who can blame you? HGTV has made an interior designer of us all. But for real, employing a professional can make a huge difference. Meanwhile, we advise the use of light-colored paint and large mirrors to give your office the illusion of spaciousness. Sometimes, the illusion is as good as reality, so just enjoy the magic. 3. Boosting productivity Consider remote work You won’t miss your large conference room if you make use of telecommuting with your employees. Consider the use of virtual conference meetings, or, you can even rent a hotel conference room if meetings are irregular. In 2019, there’s an endless range of options for meetings online. Plus, more organizations than ever are granting flexibility through remote work and guess what — at least one study showed that workers were more productive. Enjoy a physical connection Of course, this all has to do with how well you carry out such a plan. In the meantime, feel free to encourage your staff to embrace the physical closeness they are now succumbed to. They’ll bounce into each other more often, and this will lead to a greater sense of community and increased creativity as good vibes and shared focus is exchanged. Don’t forget work-life balance Always keep in mind that employees exist outside of work just like you do. A happy wife makes a happy life, right? Well, a fulfilled employee makes, well, an engaged and productive one. One disclaimer though: Nothing can be guaranteed to fix your human resource problems except modern behavioral experts. However, we hope that the above can help conquer your business’ downsizing battle with ease and perhaps leave you better off than when you had that big fancy office.
Our Top 5 Tips For Moving In The Fall
The fall is a busy time of the year. Getting back into a normal routine after the summer can be stressful and exhausting as it is, never mind if you’re trying to move too. Moving in the fall has its perks and its negatives just like any other time of the year. To make the most of your move in the fall and ensure a smooth transition, take a look at these tips. Declutter from the Summer You may have clothing items, swimwear, beach gear, outdoor furniture, toys and other items that are on their last legs. Instead of wasting space packing these items and moving them just to throw them away next year, discard them now. If there are items in good shape that you know you won’t use, donate them and ditch the items that are a little worse for wear. It’s always a good idea to thin your wardrobe at the end of each season. Donate items you or your family members never wore, or that you/they don’t like. It will save you a ton of time, space and money! Reconsider Storage Options When living in a place with challenging seasonal weather like we have here in Alberta, consider the benefits of putting some items in storage. Doing so during your move will help keep your moving truck clear of heavy or bulky items that you may not use until spring or summer again. Outdoor furniture, gardening tools, BBQ’s, lawnmowers and more are all common items you can place in storage. Placing items you know you don’t need in storage, saves you time during packing, saves space in the moving truck and makes the unpacking process easier. Pack by the Season Packing seasonal items together makes it easy to find everything you need when you’re on the other end of your move. If you move at the beginning of September you may be dealing with weather very similar to summer but by the time you get settled and totally unpacked it could be cool fall weather. Packing all your seasonal items ensures everything you need shortly after you move is easily accessible. Setup Utilities in Advance There is nothing worse than getting to your new home on a cool fall day to find that you still need to set up electricity and gas. Getting new accounts setup can take a few days, which is fine if the weather is warm but if not then it can be a chilly few days. Take a few minutes during your packing to make a call to your utility companies and let them know what day you move into your new home. Put Down Plastic When Moving When moving in and out during the fall it’s possible to track in wet leaves, dirt or mud depending on the weather. Setting down plastic in the place you’re moving out of will make the cleanup process easier, ensure that the new buyers are happy with the cleanliness of their new home upon possession, or if you’re renting, makes sure your damage deposit comes back to you. When you are moving to your new place, using plastic will save you clean up time too since unpacking is already so much work as it is. Moving in the fall doesn’t need to be a stressful situation. Relocate Stress Free is here to help if you need assistance packing, moving and unpacking too!
How to pack a garage for moving
Basements, tool sheds and garage are some of the toughest areas to pack when moving. The process of packing the garage is time consuming and arduous hence taking much effort to complete before the moving date. The process can be frantic but seeking assistance from Relocate Stress Free if the task is too much to be completed alone is much better. Postponing it should however be the last thing to do. Here’s a simple guide that can be used in the process of packing the garage for a move. Sorting items before packing First of all, a lot of moving supplies and packing boxes are going to be needed. Some of the supplies needed include boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, packing paper, color markers and zip ties. Sorting should be done from one point and proceeded to the next once the entire garage is divided into sectors to be worked on. The items should be sorted into give away, keep and discard piles. Sorting out the items may not be completed in a single day hence should be started early enough, about 2 weeks before moving date, if possible. Deciding the fate of the items Most of the items in the garage are not worth carrying along to the new home. Some are dangerous and cannot be allowed in the moving truck while some are simply worthless and should be disposed of. Some items will be in good condition but not needed. These should be given away or donated. Packing the items for transportation Some items are oddly shaped and with sharp edges such as hand tools. The blades should therefore be protected well by wrapping each item in bubble wrap. The garden tools with long handles are better grouped together then tied tightly with zip ties or cord. Power tools will need to be disassembled and detachable parts separately wrapped but kept closer to its main body when moving. Gas or oil operated machinery such as lawn mowers should be emptied of fuel completely before being loaded in the moving truck. If not driving the car during moving day, an auto transportation company should be sought to transport it. Bicycles should be dismantled and packed in special boxes. If done at least for in short periods daily and longer periods during weekends for two weeks, packing the garage should not be overwhelming for anyone. If you require help on how to pack the garage for moving please contact Relocate Stress Free.
Moving Checklist
Moving can be stressful without a well prepared moving checklist. It’s always advisable to plan the moving process at least 8 weeks in advance, but sometimes that cannot be possible. Relocate Stress Free has created a simple moving checklist that can be printed and kept throughout until the moving process is complete. 8 weeks to moving date Create a budget for the moving expenses. Create a move file to keep track of receipts and moving information. Research the new community. 7 weeks to moving dates Compile medical, shot, dental, prescription records. Ask for doctor referrals in the new community. Arrange for transfer of veterinarian and school records transfer. Gather copies of financial and legal documents. Call the insurance agents to determine changes to policies. Contact groups, health clubs and organizations to transfer or cancel memberships. 6 weeks to moving date Separate things into keep, discard or donate piles. Plan a garage sale. Use items the non-allowable items such as aerosols, bleach, frozen food. 5 weeks to moving date Order packing boxes and moving supplies. Pack items that are less frequently used. Label every box according to its contents and destined rooms. Finalize the moving date. File address change with postal service. 4 weeks to moving date Book a move with moving company. Notify utility service providers such as electricity, water and cell phone. Create travel arrangements for pets. Copy of pet immunization and medical records put in the moving file. Host a garage sale. 3 weeks to moving date Plan on how to transport plants. Dispose of corrosives, poisons and flammables. A comprehensive list can be issued by the moving company. Get automobile serviced. 2 weeks to moving date Notify professionals such as attorney, accountants, doctors, dentists and insurance providers. Also notify schools and financial planners about the move. Notify service companies including auto finance company, finance companies and credit card providers. Notify government offices about the move. Confirm travel arrangements for family and pets. 1 week to moving date Notify friends and family of the new address. Drain waterbeds and water hoses. Drain oil and gas from lawn mowers, heaters, gas grills etc. Defrost fridges. Clean the house. Moving day Start early and confirm with the moving company. Check rooms one last time to ensure nothing’s left behind. Travel with family and pets to new home. This moving checklist that can be helpful to any person moving either to new province or within the city. At Relocate Stress Free we can assist you with various pieces of your checklist, contact us today!
Few Moving Tips To Ease Your Stress!
I have spoken to many people who have moved locally and long distance. They said moving was sometimes very stressful as they found the most complicated task was not knowing how to pack their valuables so they arrived safely at their home. Relocate Stress Free assisted the clients with a few tips and they have now learned from these mistakes and avoided the moving stresses. So if you are packing yourself here are a few pointers: Use smaller boxes for heavier items. Using a small box will cause less breakages as not many heavy items will fit in small boxes. Label your electronics for easy reassembly Using color-coded labels for the cords on your computer and also your electronics can save you time and hassle during reassembly. Some even recommend taking a picture before unplugging your electronics as a visual on how to put them back together. Be organized with your time and don’t wait until the last minute to pack. Begin packing several weeks in advance, if possible. That way you have time to go through your items properly without rushing. It is a great time to purge some unwanted items or put items in storage that don’t fit into your new home. Strategically pack. Using a label on each box with the room it will go to, and try to pack the items you’ll need right away last for easier access. Use red duct tape on boxes that have essentials in them so they are easy to locate and unpack first. Professional movers at Relocate Stress Free can also assist in packing your items and make your move easier from the very first box to the very last box! Stay tuned for more moving tips.