Things can be stressful and time-consuming if you’re not prepared for a move and when folks reach out to us, one big question we receive is, “How can I make moving easier?” The answer, Colored Tape!
Well, it all begins with the first step: Packing. So today, we’re going to give you another fun moving tip on the best way to start preparing for a move. Read more
Planning a move? Whether it’s across town or across the country, you’ll need to pack up your belongings and transport them to your new home. The process can be daunting, but don’t worry – we’re here to help! In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about moving boxes and supplies. We’ll also provide tips for packing and transporting your belongings safely and efficiently. Let’s get started!
First, you’ll need to decide what type of moving boxes to use. There are a variety of options available, including standard cardboard boxes, plastic crates, and reusable moving containers. Which type of box is best for you will depend on your needs and budget.
There are several different types and sizes of moving boxes available on the market, and each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. The most common types of moving boxes and containers are:
– Cardboard Boxes (S, M, L, XL, Corrugated)
Cardboard boxes are the most popular type of moving box because they’re lightweight and easy to store. They’re also relatively cheap and can be recycled or reused after your move. However, cardboard is prone to damage if it gets wet or is stacked too high.
– Plastic Bins
Plastic bins are a good option for fragile items, as they offer extra protection from bumps and falls. They’re also waterproof and can be easily cleaned if necessary. However, plastic bins can be heavy and take up a lot of space, so they’re not ideal for large items.
– U-BOX Containers
U-Box containers are a great option for anyone who wants flexibility during their upcoming move. With U-Box containers, you have the option to pack and store your belongings at your own pace, which is perfect for anyone who isn’t sure where they’ll end up. Plus, U-Box containers are a great way to save money on your move, since you only pay for the amount of space you use. For more information about U-Box containers, visit https://www.uhaul.com/UBox/.
When choosing moving boxes, it’s important to consider the size and weight of the items you plan to pack. Boxes that are too small or too large will be difficult to handle and may end up getting damaged during transit.
Here are some general guidelines for choosing the right box size:
– Small boxes: ideal for lightweight items such as clothes, linens, and books
– Medium boxes: ideal for heavier items such as pots and pans, toys, and canned food
– Large and XL boxes: ideal for a variety of items, including furniture pieces
– Wardrobe boxes: Wardrobe boxes provide an excellent way for packing and storing clothes while moving, wardrobes are typically large enough to hold hanging clothes as well as loose linens or blankets for storage purposes during your move.
– Picture boxes: Picture boxes are perfect for transporting your artwork, framed family portraits, and kids’ posters. They come in two different sizes so you can easily fit almost any picture or mirror into them!
– China boxes: China boxes are sturdy, thick paper sleeves that protect your valuable china from damage. These types of packaging were originally designed for transporting delicate items like crystal, and dishes, but can be used in any situation where you want the most protection possible.
During the process of moving your mattress just may be one of the most personal items you move. Therefore, it is essential you take steps to make sure it is protected during the move.
First, you want to make sure to remove all the bedding including fitted sheets and/or any mattress toppers this will make it easier to grip the mattress for moving.
Also, make sure to purchase a mattress cover also referred to as a mattress bag and not a mattress protector. Mattress protectors will guard the surface you sleep on, while mattress covers help protect the soft exterior of your mattress during transport. You really do not want to lay your head down on a mattress that has touched trucks, floors, and dusty surfaces, it’s inevitable that your mattress will be exposed to these elements so be sure to keep your mattress clean and safe.
Starting small is the best way to start your move. We recommend ordering 15 small boxes, 15 medium-sized moving boxes, and 10 large ones for heavier items like small appliances or furniture pieces that won’t fit into other types of containers easily.
The amount of moving boxes you need will depend on the size and weight of your items to be packed, but on average most single-family homes require between 100 – 150 individual packing containers per move. For example, if most of the items in your home are smaller than 30 lbs then it would take approximately 100 – 150 moving box sizes total (including those that can handle heavy objects). However, some families may require more or fewer due primarily to size, weight, and the number of items to be transported.
15 small boxes
15 medium boxes
10 large boxes
3 rolls of tape
2 packs of paper
Hardware or Retail Stores: Be sure to check the thickness and quality of the boxes when purchasing. Avoid buying boxes you don’t need, some pre-packaged packs with over-sell you, and you are left needing different size boxes and no use for some boxes at all.
Online: Buying boxes online is a thing, but do you really know what you are getting? Make sure you trust the source of your moving boxes.
Moving Company: Purchasing boxes through a moving company is the easiest and most efficient way to obtain boxes for your move. Moving companies have custom labels on the side of their boxes so that you can easily identify the boxes when packing and unpacking. Boxes can be delivered to your home so you have one less thing to do during the moving process.* We offer full-service packing and unpacking!*
In addition to moving boxes, you’ll also need supplies for packing your belongings. Here are some of the most essential packing supplies:
– Tape
Tape is an essential item for packing your boxes. It can be used to secure the lid of the box and to keep bubble wrap in place.
– Bubble wrap
Bubble wrap is great for protecting small or fragile items during transport. It’s also easy to use and can be folded up when not in use. However, bubble wrap is not very sturdy and can easily get damaged if mishandled.
– Packing peanuts or newspaper
Packing peanuts or newspapers can be used to fill up empty spaces in boxes and prevent objects from moving around during transit.
– Markers
Markers and labels can be used to identify which boxes contain fragile items.
– Labels
Labels are best used when labeling plastic bins and other reusable containers. Identifying fragile boxes with a label will help others know to be a little more gentle when transporting those boxes.
– Scissors
Using scissors will help you quickly cut through the tape, so to speak, and allow you to make easy strips without the hassle of trying to “tear” a piece off. Once you’re ready to unpack you may need those scissors again to open those boxes in your new home!
Once your boxes are packed and ready to go, it’s time to start moving! Here are a few tips for transporting your belongings safely and efficiently:
– Plan ahead and map out a route for your move. This will help you avoid traffic jams and other potential delays.
– If possible, try to schedule your move during the off-peak hours (e.g. early morning or late evening).
– Use moving straps or ropes to secure large furniture pieces to the floor of the moving truck.
– Pack all of your boxes in the truck in an orderly fashion so they can be easily accessed during transport.
– Make sure that you have plenty of moving blankets to protect your furniture from scratches and other damage.
Follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to a smooth and stress-free move! Good luck!
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!
Is this your first time moving? How much do you know about moving? Moving can be a new and exciting experience for some and a terrifying journey for others. Being prepared with the necessary tools and equipment is one of the best ways to make moving easier. We understand just how important it is to have all your ducks in a row when faced with such a big challenge. Here are a few essential items that will make moving easier:
This is probably the most important of all the essential items. We recommend that you use sturdier built boxes for the best move. The last thing you want to worry about is the bottom of your box breaking and having to do a cleanup in the middle of it all. We also suggest that when looking for boxes, purchase a variety of sizes. (For a limited time Moving By Design will provide 10 FREE boxes with every move!)
Accidents happen, we know. It’s best to expect the unexpected when it comes to moving and invest in a little more security for your items. Bubble wrap is relatively inexpensive and if you have kids, they can entertain themselves with it when you’re finished using it.
These are great for large pieces of furniture or large delicates (such as your tv). These aren’t necessary to purchase if using a moving company. If you are moving by yourself, you can find them on amazon. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to this, use a comforter or two. Depending on what you are moving, purchasing a cloth wrap may not be necessary.
Dollies are very useful for any type of move. Anyone who has ever suffered a back injury while moving heavy objects knows what an essential item this is. Whether by yourself, with a friend, or being used by a moving company, dollies help in avoiding injury that may be caused by handling large and heavy objects. Investing in a dolly is something you should definitely consider if you plan on personally moving the objects for several moves from this point on. Otherwise, a dolly will be provided by your moving company.
Garbage bags aren’t just putting trash in. Aside from just being the obvious receptacle for the things you’re ready to toss, you can also use garbage bags to move clothes, linens, soft toys, and other non-breakables, as well as to protect various items on moving day. Use heavy-duty bags. Thick, black garbage bags work best since they can carry significantly more weight than their flimsy counterparts with less chance of tearing or breaking.
Founded in 2008, Moving by Design is a family-owned business that began in Friendswood, Texas servicing the Clear Lake and Great Houston area. Honored with more awards for service than any other local moving company in Houston including an “A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau since 2012. At Moving by Design we pride ourselves on the service we provide to make every residential and commercial move efficient, safe, and affordable. All our customers receive a customized moving plan to ensure that your relocation is as stress-free as possible. Visit us for more information or to get a quote today.
Packing and moving can be both a pain and a blessing. It’s a blessing to be starting a new adventure, but it’s a pain having to evaluate all the stuff you’ve accumulated over time and deciding what should go with you. Moving can be a real mess when you think of everything involved – the planning, the packing, and the time it takes to make it all happen. This might be one of the reasons why people are afraid of change. Not because of the change itself or the place you’re going, rather it’s the packing and moving itself people dread. The sheer amount of work it takes to actually make it all come together.
That’s why you hire a moving company. While we can’t do everything for you in the process of moving, we can do a lot, including full-service packing and unpacking. Many people are not even aware that some moving companies offer a packing and unpacking service.
Go through your closet and decide what you want to keep or give away. This is the easiest way to begin mentally preparing yourself for the move. After you have gone through your closet, go through your children’s closets (if you have any) and help them decide what they want to keep or get rid of. Next, go through any coat closets or other additional closets.
Take all your knickknacks and tchotchkes and begin packing them away. Clear off tables and surfaces until just the furniture itself is left.
A good idea is to start a few weeks before the big move with the items you know you won’t be using anytime soon. Photo albums, movies, or your children’s trophies. This will help everyone recognize what is happening without wreaking havoc and causing panic.
One of our favorite moving tips is always looking for unique and efficient ways to pack things. Use your pots and pans to pack the smaller items. Get creative with what containers you can use to pack your items. Think outside the box! You can also take a clothes hamper and fill it with blankets and place wrapped breakables inside.
This is the place where you should try to get rid of those clothes and items you found in your closet that you no longer need. This is also an opportunity to get rid of some unnecessary knickknacks. Whatever money you make from a garage or yard sale can be used to offset moving expenses.
Founded in 2008, Moving by Design is a family-owned business that began in Friendswood, Texas servicing the Clear Lake and Great Houston area. Honored with more awards for service than any other local moving company in Houston including an “A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau since 2012. At Moving by Design we pride ourselves on the service we provide to make every residential and commercial move efficient, safe, and affordable. All our customers receive a customized moving plan to ensure that your relocation is as stress-free as possible. Get a FREE quote today. Be sure to ask about our packing and unpacking service.
Finding the right neighborhood can be quite a challenge. There are several factors that play into scoping out the perfect place. Here is a checklist, in no particular order, for finding the right home for you and your family.
1. Research the School Districts – This is probably one of the first things that should be done if you are moving and have children. Finding the best school rating and maybe your homes’ distance to the school will be helpful in regards to bus routes or commute times if you plan on driving the children yourself. Something to consider is that the closer you are to the school, the higher the likelihood of there being more children in the neighborhood! Which is always good for children who have just moved.
2. Consider public transit/railroads – Another important task is to look up just how busy your cross streets are. Do they have bus stops? Do they have traffic lights? Or is the neighborhood mostly filled with stop signs? It is also good to note the train in your area. Does it go near your home? While this may lower the overall price of your home, as it can be quite noisy, and although easy to adjust to, it may be unsettling noise if you work from home. If you are considering a home in the area of a nearby train, try to find out the general times of the train and when it may pass through your neighborhood. Depending on the area, the train may be designated to sound its horn, but usually, when going through a residential area it is quiet.
3. Property taxes – Always an important part of the home buying process is to see what your property is being taxed for. Property taxes are extremely important because it is a big chunk of money every year. So while you are paying for the price of your home, don’t forget to include the tax!
4. Amenities – What is in the area of your intended home? A golf course? A shopping center? A grocery store? A park for your kids? All of these are important aspects to consider when you are looking for the perfect home. How active is your family? Does it matter to you if you are close to a bike trail? Think of the hobbies you would like your family to participate in and incorporate those into your search. The more amenities, the more desirable the property.
5. Crime Rates – Something we never want to worry about is the safety of our home and children. That is why it is imperative that you research the crime rates in the area to which you are moving. Generally, crime is unavoidable, but having a good police department can help with that. Be sure to check on the crime rate as soon as you start looking at a town or city.
WHY ARE MOVING BY DESIGN THE TOP MOVERS IN HOUSTON?
Founded in 2008, Moving by Design is a family-owned business that began in Friendswood, Texas servicing the Clear Lake and Great Houston area. Honored with more awards for service than any other local moving company in Houston including an “A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau since 2012. At Moving by Design we pride ourselves with the service we provide to make every residential and commercial move efficient, safe and affordable. All our customers receive a customized moving plan to ensure that your relocation is as stress-free as possible. Visit us for more information or to get a quote today.
Most people put off packing their garage until the last minute. After all, who wants to deal with the large, difficult-to-pack items, like rakes and golf clubs, and likely hazardous materials.
Here are a few tips for packing your garage efficiently.
Trash / Sell / Donate – The first step in packing your garage is to declutter. There are almost certainly things in your garage you’ve been meaning to get rid of but just never got around to it. This is your moment. Seize it. Start by creating 3 areas: one for items you that are trash, one for items you plan to sell, and an area for the stuff you want to donate. If you plan on having a garage sale to get rid of the items you plan to sell, go ahead and wipe down each item before you set it aside and put a price tag on it. This will save you time later.
Organize and Pack – After you finish the declutter process and you have your separate piles it’s time to start organizing and packing. Gather similar items together and wrap any items with sharp edges such as gardening sheers in old towels or bubble wrap. Then put these items in a heavy cardboard box or plastic bin. When it comes to power tools if you still have the original packaging repack them in that, otherwise use a cardboard box or plastic bin. Be sure to remove any detachable parts and keep everything together so nothing gets lost during the move. Fill in any empty space in the boxes with wadded up newspaper or packing paper for extra protection. Long or weirdly shaped items in your garage like rakes, brooms, and shovels, can be rolled up in a moving blanket and then secured with rope or twine.
Don’t Pack Up Tools You Might Need – As you’re packing up don’t forget to set aside tools you’ll need for packing other areas of your home and for unpacking later. Items you might need include:
Alternative To Consider – If all of this still sounds terrible and you just don’t want to have to pack your garage or pack anything for that matter, there’s a solution. Call us. Moving By Design is not just a full-service moving company. We also offer complete packing and unpacking services as well. We will show up with all the necessary packing materials and carefully wrap and box your items before safely loading and securing them in the truck. Click here for a free quote.
Moving is a stressful project in itself but add pets to the mix and well… it can turn from stressful to chaotic pretty quickly. Especially if this is your pet’s first time moving and they are well adapted to their current environment. In this article, we will talk about some tips and tricks for moving with pets that will make the transition from one home to the next easier on your furry friend.
Always be sure to keep in mind that it’s not just you or your partner’s decision to be in a certain house/condo/apartment, you will need to keep in mind your pet. Do a thorough walk-through of the property and everything it encompasses before signing that lease. If you have a cat, pay attention to windows. What are they facing? Will the cat be entertained? You can have all the windows in the world in your new home, but if they’re all looking at brick walls, what good does that do? If you have a dog, think about space. Is there enough room for the dog to freely be themselves? Will they have an area to run around in and play or will everything be crammed together?
This is why we recommend a walk-through of the area, to help you better imagine what will become of the space when all your belongings are unloaded.
The best practice you can use when moving with pets is to keep them in their favorite room for as long as possible. Whether that be the living room, office, or bedroom, keeping them in a familiar area that they enjoy is very important to a swift and easy moving experience. When doing this, be sure to introduce them to some moving boxes. Put the boxes in a visible space with them and only pack small items and don’t do it all at once. Having the cat or dog get adjusted to the idea of boxes and seeing them for an extended period of time is what we are going for.
If your cat or dog isn’t acclimated to their crate or carrier, get them started. Some cats may be afraid of their carriers, which can be difficult. The best option is to have the crate in a visible place but somewhere the animal knows they can still go about their daily activities. Dogs, on the other hand, may be crate trained. If so, you don’t have too much to worry about. If not crate trained or if you don’t have a crate for the dog, just taking them on more car rides may be helpful for them to become accustomed to the upcoming trip.
When you finally arrive at your destination, depending on the size of your new home, it may be best to introduce your pet to one room at a time. Coming to a new place can easily become overwhelming to humans, imagine being 10x smaller and being in a new place? Mind boggling. Keep doing this, if you can, gradually over the next couple of hours. Once adjusted, allow the animal free reign and see what happens.
Founded in 2008, Moving by Design is a family-owned business that began in Friendswood, Texas servicing the Clear Lake and Great Houston area. Honored with more awards for service than any other local moving company in Houston including an “A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau since 2012. At Moving by Design we pride ourselves with the service we provide to make every residential and commercial move efficient, safe and affordable. All our customers receive a customized moving plan to ensure that your relocation is as stress-free as possible. Visit us for more information or to get a quote today.
Let’s face it, moving is stressful and sometimes it’s hard to remember how important it is to change your address as part of your move. We understand your stress so we want to make your move as hassle-free for you as we can. For this month’s moving tip, we thought we’d go over exactly how to change your address. Read more
Houston Bay Area Movers: Helpful Moving Tips Whether you need some Houston Bay Area movers for moving locally or over a long distance; these moving tips won’t steer you wrong. Now that you have chosen Moving by Design what you do now before our movers arrive is just as important. Here are some of our […]
Helpful Moving Tips: How To Successfully Move Household Plants Nothing makes a home feel more welcoming and alive than houseplants. If you are anything like us, your household plants are part of the family; a member you can’t part with very easily
