Willamette Express Blog

Tips on how to pack up your house prior to relocation.

2011-05-04T06:50:00.001-07:00

You've decided to move. You will have to start packing at least a month prior to relocation, but where do you start?

First off, know what packing items you will need:

* cardboard boxes of all sizes. Heavier items should go in smaller boxes; light items can be packed in larger boxes. If a large box is too heavy there is a chance it will break or open.

* large clear plastic bags so you can see what is inside without opening them.

* rope to tie together items of a similar length and size (shovels, brooms, skis, etc.)

* Many rolls of industrial strength packing tape, Preferably the type that can be written on with permanent marker.

* Permanent marker (s)

* Orange FRAGILE stickers. It's a good idea to write 'fragile' on the box, but an orange sticker will catch the eye of the carrier easier than a black marker.

Don't run out and pick up twenty boxes, unless you plan on packing twenty boxes right away. Pick up as many as you think you will pack at one time. It's very frustrating to have a bunch of empty boxes hanging around the house. Willamette Express will refund full price for unused boxes you purchase from Willamette Express LTD Moving & Storage.

SEASONAL

It's a good idea to begin with those items that are already packed, such as seasonal clothes, holiday ornaments, etc. Anything that is already bagged or boxed and will not get broken in transit doesn't need to be repacked.

Many people put their seasonal clothes in bags and store them until they are needed. Part of the work is already done for you. Don't repack it, unless there is a chance that something can get broken.

In the case of bags of clothes, clear bags are ideal because you can see the contents. Write the name of the person the items belong to. This will make it easier when you arrive at the new location.

Small boxes of pre-packed seasonal items, can be packaged into a larger box as long as they are not too heavy. A large heavy box can potentially break or open. Keep heavier items in smaller boxes if possible.

Seasonal items that are shaped inappropriately for a box or bag can be grouped and tied with rope. This is a good idea for skis, shovels, etc. Finely, just before the movers arrive take a sticker and mark the destination room with a number and put in on the box. Draw out a legible map of the house and mark the rooms with numbers and the movers can place the items as they come off the truck in the appropriate location. For more ways to efficiently prepare for your move, Call Willamette Express LTD World Wide Moving & Storage and we will help you save on your relocation. Willamette Express LTD also offers complete white glove service. Sit back and watch our certified Professional movers transform your new location into your new home.

2011-04-24T08:12:00.000-07:00

How to Find a Good Moving Company

If it’s time to relocate, it may also be time to hire a professional moving compny. Finding one that is reliable and affordable may seem difficult, but there are simple steps you can take to help ensure you’ve picked the right one to handle all of your worldly goods.
What do you need from your mover?
Consider whether or not you would like the mover to pack your stuff for you and what other types of additional services you may want. How far your possessions are going and whether they will be put in your new apartment or a storage facility are also factors to consider when choosing your moving company.
You might also want to meet with a relocation consultant who can survey your apartment and prepare a written estimate. That will give you a basis from which to evaluate the various quotes from prospective moving companies.
Do your homework
Finding a good moving company, like finding the best of anything, usually requires research such as consumer Web like Angie’s List for a quick and effective way to narrow your list of potential movers.
And don’t forget word of mouth! Your neighborhood realtor or apartment community manager might be a good resource for suggestions of reputable moving companies, as are your friends and family. They will no doubt have a negative story or a rave review that can help guide your search. Most importantly, be sure to check with the Better Business Bureau to ensure there are no complaints against the companies you are considering hiring. When you have a pool of potential moving companies, thoroughly check their Web sites for company history, insurance, years in service and number of employees. You’ll also want to check for a Department of Transportation (DOT) license number, which all movers must have. If you are looking for an interstate mover, they also need to publish their tariffs, providing a copy of them upon request, and offer arbitration if a dispute arises.
Though these details don’t guarantee a foolproof move (even if you like everything you see), they can give you a better sense of who you’d be working with.
How to get the estimate
Always plan to get several quotes when hiring movers. Moving companies often have different specialties, and it is important that you have a handful of estimates comparing similar service options to help you make an educated choice.
Once you’ve narrowed the search, begin the estimate process by calling or e-mailing the moving companies you are considering. There are two general available: binding estimates and estimated cost of services. Take the necessary time to understand your options, which may vary by company. The type of estimate you choose could have a big impact on the final cost of your move. Ask each mover for how long his or her estimate is valid and what type of estimates they offer.
For the next step, the moving company will send a representative to your home to see what you have to move. Make sure that the mover notes all items to be moved on the survey sheet. Remember, if the size of your inventory of items changes, the cost of your move will have to be adjusted, so be sure to tell your mover right away if you decide to take more or fewer things. Next comes an estimate that includes transportation charges and the cost of any additional requested services.
What was that arrival date again? Don’t forget to determine exactly when the moving company expects your belongings to get there. You don’t want to end up paying premium prices for a slow delivery.
Flag any delivery issues
If you know ahead of time that there are problems for the mover on the other end, such as road access, street accessibility, parking, time limitations or if there are any stairs or elevators involved, speak now or pay the price later! The cost of your move can go up for any type of delivery inconvenience. If possible, try to reserve a space for the moving van to park, if your new home is on a congested street. You might also be charged for excessive distance if the moving crew has to carry your belongings more than 75 feet from the moving van to your door. Your neighborhood may prohibit trucks over a certain weight, for instance. In that case, the driver will have to offload your possessions into a smaller vehicle, which can carry an expensive charge.
Accounting for these details in advance, if at all possible, should lessen surprises on your final bill.
If you are moving to a high-rise building, be sure to find out if an elevator reservation is required.
With research and planning, you can find a good moving company and minimize surprises in the process. But be sure to stay vigilant throughout the moving process: hiring movers doesn’t mean all of the work of moving is over!

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2011-04-08T14:16:00.001-07:00

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