If you’re considering moving to Houston, Texas, you’re in for a treat! Houston is a vibrant city with a diverse population, a booming economy, and plenty of things to do.

Located adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico and Galveston Bay, the stunning city of Houston can be found in the Southeast region. As the most populated city in Texas and the fourth most populated city in the entire United States, trailing only behind Chicago, Houston is renowned for its diversity, quality of life, and welcoming environment, making it a great place to reside. 

Houston is widely recognized for its space exploration, energy industry, and affordable cost of living, making it a highly sought-after relocation destination. Additionally, due to its excellent safety ratings, Houston is drawing in families, young couples, and retirees alike.

Here are our top 10 picks for things to see and do in Houston:

Visit the Houston Space Center: Houston is famously known as the “Space City” because it’s home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center. At the Houston Space Center, you can take a tour, see actual spacecraft, and learn about the history of space exploration.

Take a stroll through the Houston Museum District: The Houston Museum District is home to 19 museums, galleries, and cultural centers. There’s something for everyone here, from art museums to science centers.

Visit Buffalo Bayou Park: Buffalo Bayou Park is a  160-acre park that offers stunning views of downtown Houston and plenty of recreational opportunities. You can go for a walk or bike ride, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or simply relax by the bayou.

Catch a game at Minute Maid Park: If you’re a sports fan, you won’t want to miss seeing the Houston Astros play at Minute Maid Park. The stadium features a retractable roof and is located in downtown Houston.

Visit the Houston Zoo: The Houston Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals from over 900 species. You can see everything from elephants to gorillas to sea lions.

Go shopping at The Galleria: The Galleria is one of the largest malls in the country, with over 375 stores and restaurants. It’s a great place to shop, dine, and people-watch.

Attend a concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion: The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is an outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts, festivals, and other events throughout the year.

Take a day trip to Galveston Island: Galveston Island is just a short drive from Houston and offers beautiful beaches, historic sites, and plenty of seafood.

Visit the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park: The Waterwall Park is a 2.77-acre park located in the Uptown District of Houston. It features a 64-foot-tall water wall that’s a popular spot for photos.

Go on a food tour: Houston is known for its diverse and delicious food scene. You can take a food tour and sample everything from barbecue to Vietnamese cuisine.

Thinking of Moving to Houston?

Houston has a lot to offer. Whether you’re interested in space exploration, museums, parks, sports, shopping, or food, you’re sure to find something you love in this vibrant city. 

Moving by Design is ready to make your move to Houston seamless! Contact us today and see how we can help you relocate to one of the most vibrant cities in the US!

Now that your move is complete, you may be wondering what to do with all of your packing supplies. Boxes, tape, bubble wrap – it can be a lot to deal with! In this blog post, we will give you some ideas for organizing and storing your packing supplies. You may want to keep some of them around in case you need to move again in the future, or you may want to donate them to a local charity. Read on for more information!

When it comes to packing supplies, most people only think about them when they are in the middle of a move. But what do you do with all those boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and other materials once the move is over? If you’re like most people, you probably just want to get rid of them as soon as possible.

However, there are a few things you should consider before getting rid of your packing supplies.

Repurpose your packing material

A great way to repurpose packing material is by using it as insulation for the winter months. If you live in a cold climate, packing material can be used to insulate your windows and doors. This will help keep your home warm and reduce your energy bills. Bubble wrap and packing peanuts can be stored in plastic bags and stored in a dry, cool place. 

Reuse the boxes

One option is to reuse the boxes. If they’re in good condition, you can use them to store other items in your home or garage. You can also label them and use them as storage bins for seasonal items like Christmas decorations or summer pool toys. You can also reuse standard packing materials, like bubble wrap and packing peanuts, for future projects. Just make sure to clean them before you put them away. 

Recycle your packing materials an Eco-friendly way

An eco-friendly option is to recycle your packing materials. Most moving boxes can be recycled, as well as bubble wrap and packing peanuts. You can check with your local recycling center to see what guidelines they have for recycling these items.

Keep custom-made packaging

If you have any custom-made packaging, such as boxes that are a specific size or shape, it’s worth keeping them. You never know when you might need to move something fragile or delicate, and having the right packaging can make all the difference.

Use cardboard boxes for entertaining projects

Use cardboard boxes for entertaining projects. Old packing boxes can be repurposed into fun “cars” so you can create a drive-in movie experience in your living room for a movie night with the kiddos.

Use boxes to store “emergency items”

Make an ” emergency box” to keep in your trunk or storage closet. This can be stocked with things like snacks, water, a first aid kit, and other essentials that you might need in case of an emergency.

Create a packing supply kit

If you’re the type of person who is always on the go, then creating a packing supply kit is a great way to be prepared for anything. You can include things like tape, bubble wrap, and even some extra boxes. This way, you’ll always be prepared for your next move.

Store it in a designated spot

One of the best ways to keep your packing supplies organized is to store them in one designated spot. This could be a spare closet, the garage, or even under the bed. Having everything in one place will make it easy to find when needed and help keep your home tidy.

Recycle or donate

Donating your packing supplies to a local charity is always a great option!

If you’re not planning on using your packing supplies anytime soon, then you might want to consider recycling or donating them. Many local charities and organizations will gladly take gently used boxes and packing materials off your hands.

Another great recycling option is to a local “Buy nothing” group. You can find these on Facebook and other local neighborhood apps. The Buy Nothing Project is also a valuable resource for those who are looking for “free” items. Check their website for items available in your local area. 

If you decide to donate your packing supplies, there are a few different options. You can donate them to a local moving company, or you can contact your local Habitat for Humanity ReStore. They will be able to put your donations to good use!

We hope this blog post has given you some ideas for what to do with your packing supplies after the move is done. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to help!

If you are new to coastal living, it is important to know what to do before, during, and after a hurricane. Hurricanes (and tropical storms) can be incredibly destructive and can cause serious damage to homes and businesses. In this blog post, we will provide you with some helpful hurricane moving and safety tips that will keep you and your loved ones safe during a storm.

If you live in a coastal area, chances are you’ve experienced at least one hurricane in your lifetime. And if you’re new to the area, you may be wondering what to do to keep your valuables safe during a storm.

Here are a few tips on how to store valuables during a hurricane or flood:

– Store jewelry, cash, and other small valuables in a waterproof container.

– If you have valuable paintings or other artwork, store them in a dry, cool place.

– If you have a computer, back up all your important files onto an external hard drive or cloud storage.

– Inventory your belongings in case you need to file an insurance claim.

Before the storm:

-Make sure you have an emergency kit prepared. This kit should include items like food, water, first aid supplies, and a flashlight.

-Know your evacuation route. If a hurricane is headed your way, you may need to evacuate your home. Make sure you know the best route to take to get to safety.

– If you have to evacuate, find a safe place to stay until it’s safe to return home.

– Make sure your valuables are insured. This will give you peace of mind in case they are damaged or lost during the storm.

– Keep important documents in a waterproof and fireproof safe. This includes things like your passport, birth certificate, insurance policies, and financial records.

– If you have any electronics, charge them up fully and store them in a dry, safe place.

Prepare your home.

If a hurricane is coming, it is important to take steps to protect your home. This may include things like boarding up windows and securing loose items outside.

– Cover your windows and doors with marine-grade plywood or hurricane shutters.

– Put sandbags on the outside and inside of all doors, including your garage door.

– Secure patio furniture and trim trees and bushes that could damage your home.

During the storm:

-If you are ordered to evacuate, do so immediately. Do not try to ride out the storm at home.

-If you are not ordered to evacuate, stay indoors and away from windows.

-Listen to the radio or television for updates on the storm.

– In case of a power outage, have a generator ready to go (make sure you know how to use it).

– If you need to evacuate, inform your security company, and take valuables with you.

– Stay indoors and away from windows to avoid flying debris.

– If possible, move valuables to a room that is not prone to flooding and does not have windows, or large windows.

After the storm:

– Check for damage and assess what can be salvaged.

– Contact your insurance company to file a claim.

– If you have flood damage, take photos of the damage and keep receipts for any repairs.

– If possible, clean and dry any wet items within 24 hours to prevent mold. Turn on as many fans as possible to help everything dry.

– Keep an eye out for mold, which can start growing within 24-48 hours after flooding.

– Check for damage to your home and belongings, and report any losses to your insurance company.

-Stay away from downed power lines.

-Do not drink tap water until you are sure it is safe.

-Avoid flooded areas.

With these tips, you can increase the likelihood your valuables will be safe during a hurricane or flood. If you need assistance moving your items before or after a hurricane or storm, contact us at Moving by Design to help ensure your property is handled with care. Our moving experts will evaluate your situation and help you prepare a plan of action. 

By following these hurricane moving and safety tips, you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe during a storm. Stay safe!

If you’re like most people, you want to get moved in as quickly as possible so you can start enjoying your new home. However, if you’re not careful, moving during the summer can be a disaster. Heat exhaustion, broken furniture, and missed deadlines are just a few of the potential problems. Read on for our summer moving tips that will help you stay cool, calm, and collected throughout the process of your relocation.

Summer moving tips:

Summertime moves come with their own set of challenges. From keeping your cool during the hot weather to staying organized while packing, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure your move goes smoothly.

Here are a few dos and don’ts to help you out:

DO:

-Start packing early: The sooner you start packing, the better. This will give you plenty of time to sort through your belongings and get rid of anything you don’t need or want.

-Create a packing schedule: A packing schedule will help you stay on track and ensure that you don’t forget anything.

– Take breaks often. Drink lots of water and take breaks in the shade as often as possible.

– Be careful with your furniture. Don’t try to move too much at once. And be careful not to damage your furniture in the heat.

– Have a plan. Make sure you know what you’re doing before you start. That way, you won’t get too frazzled in the heat.

-Pack essentials in a separate bag: Pack a bag with everything you’ll need for the first few days in your new home, including clothes, toiletries, and medications.

-Label all of your boxes: Labeling your boxes will make unpacking a breeze. Be sure to include a list of contents in each box so you know what’s inside.

-Pack heavy items in small boxes: Smaller boxes are easier to carry and won’t strain your back.

-Make a plan for your pets: If you’re moving with pets, be sure to make arrangements for them in advance. This may include finding a pet-friendly hotel or making arrangements with a friend or family member to care for them during the move.

DON’T:

-Wait until the last minute to pack: Packing at the last minute will only add to the stress of moving.

-Pack without a plan: Without a packing plan, you’re likely to forget something important or end up with too many boxes.

-Pack fragile items in large boxes: Large boxes are more difficult to carry and are more likely to break.

-Forget about your pets: Pets can be easily forgotten in the midst of a move. Be sure to make arrangements for them well in advance.

-Try to do it all yourself: Moving is a lot of work. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family and friends.

Dress appropriately for a summer move

Avoid dark clothing. Wearing black or another dark color will only make you feel hotter since darker colors absorb more heat from the sun’s rays. If you must wear a darker shade, try to stick to light-colored fabrics that won’t hold as much heat against your skin.

Second, dress in layers. Even if it’s hot outside, you can still get chilled from the air conditioning in the truck or from being in and out of the house all day. Wearing layers will give you the option to remove a piece of clothing if you start to feel too warm.

Thirdly, protect your skin. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. If you’ll be working outside for most of the move, consider wearing a hat or visor to keep the sun out of your eyes and off your face.

Finally, don’t forget about your feet. Wearing the wrong shoes can ruin your whole day. Avoid flip-flops, high heels, or any other shoe that doesn’t offer good support or breathability. Stick to sneakers or closed-toe shoes made of light fabric such as canvas. And if you can, bring an extra pair of socks in case your feet start to sweat.

Pro tip: Avoid synthetic materials, such as rayon and polyester. Also, keep to light-colored attire when packing for relocation. When it comes to staying cool in the scorching sun, whites and neutrals are the keys. 

Connect utilities before move-in day

Turning on the power and water at your new home before you move in is crucial. You’ll want to make sure that everything is working properly so that you’re not without air conditioning or hot water during the summer months. Contact your utility companies a few weeks in advance to schedule a time for them to turn on your service.

It’s also a good idea to do a walk-through of your new home with the previous owner or property manager. This way, you can familiarize yourself with how everything works and identify any potential problems that need to be fixed before you move in.

Protect items from heat damage

Be aware that not all products can endure the heat. When packing up your things, keep in mind that not everything can sit in a hot moving truck for hours. Some of your items (anything that can melt) will not survive the summer heat. So, be sure to pack these things (i.e., electronics) separately and get them inside the air-conditioned house right away.

Summer moving timeline:

Planning an early morning move? Then be sure to:

-Get a good night’s sleep the night before

-Set two alarms (just in case one fails)

-Prepare breakfast and coffee/tea beforehand

-Give yourself enough time to get ready and eat without feeling rushed

-Double-check the moving company’s start time the night before

-Ensure that you have everything packed and by the door ready to go

-Make sure your pets are taken care of and out of the way

-Do a final sweep of the house to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything important

On the day of your move, be sure to:

-Dress comfortably in light clothing

-Wear sunscreen and a hat

-Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water

-Take breaks as needed and try to stay out of the direct sun as much as possible

-Help the movers as much as you can (within reason)

-Be flexible – things will inevitably take longer than you think they will

-Stay positive and try to enjoy the process!

After your move is complete, be sure to:

-Take a long shower or bath

-Unpack essentials first (clothes, toiletries, sheets, etc.)

-Get some rest – you’ve earned it!

-Start exploring your new neighborhood and city

-Plan a housewarming party to celebrate your successful move!

With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a successful summertime move. Just remember to start early, stay organized, and be prepared for anything!

Moving by Design is the premier moving company in the Houston and Galveston area. Give us a call to schedule your summer move and let’s tackle the heat together!

Are you in the process of planning a move? If so, you will want to check out this helpful article on the ultimate moving checklist. This guide will walk you through everything you need to do before, during, and after your move to ensure a smooth transition into your new home. By following these tips, you can avoid common moving mistakes and make the process as stress-free as possible!

Moving Checklist Timeline:

60 Days Before the Move:

– Start packing! Begin by sorting through your belongings and dividing them into three categories: keep, donate, or toss. Tackle one category at a time and pack up everything that belongs in that group. Be sure to use proper packing supplies to protect your items during transport. 

– Create a moving budget. Moving can be expensive, so it’s important to create a budget and stick to it. Decide what expenses are necessary (such as hiring movers, buying packing supplies, etc.) and which ones you can cut back on. 

– Make an Inventory List. This is especially important if you’re hiring movers. Make a list of all the items you plan to move and give it to your movers so they can create an estimate.

30 Days Before the Move:

– Change your address a month before you move. This will ensure that all of your mail is delivered to your new address and that you don’t miss any important updates or notifications.

– Contact your utility companies and schedule a time for them to switch over your service to your new home. Make sure to have all of your account information and contact info handy so that the process goes as smoothly as possible.

– Pack any items you don’t need in the next few weeks ahead of time. This will help to minimize the amount of work you have to do during the move itself.

14 Days Before the Move:

– Label all of your boxes clearly so that you can easily find what you are looking for once everything is unpacked.

– Notify your bank, credit card companies, insurance providers, and other service providers of your move. 

– Clean your old home and get it ready to sell. This may include painting, deep cleaning, or repairs.

– Make sure to pack an essentials bag with all of the items you will need during and after the move. This should include things like your toiletry kit, change of clothes, important documents, and medications.

It’s Moving Day!

– Now is the time to pack your last-minute items. No matter how closely you followed our moving checklist and packing tips earlier, there will still be at least a few things that can’t wait until moving day!

– If you disassemble anything, make sure you gather all pieces and store them with a label so you don’t end up with missing pieces during the reassembly.

– When you are moving, it is important to take care of your most valuable possessions. Make sure that any fragile or expensive items are securely wrapped and protected from getting damaged during the process so they arrive at their new home in pristine condition!

– Make sure to label all boxes appropriately and group them in a way that will make sense for when you arrive at your new home. This makes unloading much easier as well!

– Before you load up the truck, make sure that every nook and cranny in your home has been checked for forgotten items. You don’t want to leave any surprises by forgetting something important in drawers or having items hidden inside furniture! (This makes things a bit heavier if they are not unloaded before transport.)

– Bad weather happens. If the forecast shows inclement weather be prepared and be flexible. Some moves end up taking longer than expected, don’t worry and breathe – have something ready in case you get bored or hungry while waiting for things to clear up. 

If you Plan on Hiring Professional Movers

– Before the movers arrive, dispose of any trash you’ve accumulated through packing and sorting. This will free up space for our movers, so they can do their job easily!

– Movers know how to move homes and will do so with professionalism and safety practices in mind. You shouldn’t try helping out unless specifically asked. Interference could pose a liability for them if anything were damaged or broken while moving your belongings.

– The best way to prevent damage during moving is by hiring professionals who will take care of all the heavy lifting for you. They are experts in disassembling furniture and reassembling it correctly, so there’s no need for fretting about putting things back together yourself.

– Treating the movers well can be a nice way to show appreciation for their hard work. Offer them plenty of water, and if you have any food in your fridge or freezer that might interest them then by all means share! A nice gesture goes a long way!

After the Move:

– Make sure to unpack everything as soon as possible so that you can start settling into your new home.

– Take a few days to relax and recover from the move. This is especially important if you have kids or pets, who may be extra active and restless after the move.

– Connect with your new neighbors and get to know your new community. This is a great way to make sure that you feel comfortable and settled in your new home.

– Get organized! One of the best things about moving is that it’s the perfect time to declutter your old home and organize your new one. Spend some time sorting through your belongings and deciding what needs to go into storage and what can be donated or thrown away. Having a well-organized home will make living in it that much more enjoyable!

Choose the Right Moving Company

Now that you have the ultimate moving checklist, it’s time to choose the right moving company. Your property is important and should be handled with care. By choosing a reputable mover, you can relax knowing your belongings are in good hands. We hope this article has helped make your move less stressful and more organized. Good luck with your upcoming transition!

For more moving tips and advice, be sure to check out our other blog posts on the subject. And if you’re looking for professional help with your move, contact us today to learn more about our services!