MOVING IN SUMMER: TIPS AND GUIDE | 2023

Don’t Delay — Book Your Move Early

Our agents are working hard to meet your needs during this year’s peak moving season. We also want to help you navigate the process so it’s easy and stress-free.  

Have extra time or flexibility? Book early — as far in advance as possible is best. Not an option? Read on for expert tips and advice from our pros.  Get a Quote

  • How Early Should I Book My Move? Booking your move well in advance lets us more efficiently plan and manage everything around your relocation and helps us put time on your side. Learn more about booking your specific move type. When To Book Movers Guideline
  • What If My Preferred Move Date is Not Available?During this year’s summer moving season, booking early is recommended. If that’s simply not an option and you know you want a full-service move, consider this advice from our experts. Read More
How To Spot A Moving Scam - Moving company worker packing cardboard boxes, quality delivery services - Mayflower

Real Movers Versus Fake Movers: How to Spot the Difference

Regardless of who you move with, we want to help ensure you’re not the victim of a moving scam. Get tips on what to look for. Spot Rogue Movers

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The Ultimate Moving Checklist

We can help you get organized for your move eight weeks in advance. Check out our comprehensive checklist to streamline and simplify the tasks at hand.Stay Organized with Our Moving Checklists

Pack a car for a move

How to Pack Your Car and What to Put in It When You Move

So much more than a road trip, packing your car for a cross-country move can be daunting. Get advice and how to pack it and what goes inside. Pack Your Car Tips

What to Do While Waiting for Your Belongings to Arrive

Sometimes there will still be a lag between when your valuables are scheduled to arrive and when you cross the threshold of your new front door. We have some tips for you to make the most out of this waiting time.Get Tips

7 Ways to Manage Moving Stress

Moving isn’t easy. Read about ways to manage the process while maintaining your well-being — even in the midst of challenging times. Manage Moving Stress

HOW TO SPOT MOVING SCAMS

Fly-by-night operations and tricky bait and switch tactics scam consumers out of thousands of dollars every day and are an unfortunate part of the moving industry. So how do you know your moving company is the real deal? Being a well-informed, educated consumer is key, so it’s important to do some detective work before you commit. 

Watch Out for These Common Moving Scams 

Hidden Moving Fees 

Rogue movers are notorious for tacking on unplanned and/or undisclosed fees for packing, climbing stairs, heavy moving, or additional weight at the last minute. You should insist on signing a completed moving contract before you let movers take possession of your belongings.  

Deposits for Moving Services 

A reputable moving company will never ask for a deposit to hold your move date. Generally, a credit card is requested closer to your load date. At Mayflower, we don’t require an upfront down payment or deposit to book a move. 

Suspicious Moving Quotes 

The Low-Ball Bid. A suspiciously low bid is likely missing some crucial details – and unexpected costs start adding up once the company has your belongings. Be sure to go over the full scope of your final costs before choosing a low-cost moving agreement. 

The One-Price-Fits-All Bid. Offering one price for every move is a huge red flag! A reputable mover will calculate your estimate not only by ZIP Code and number of rooms, but also weight of goods and the amount of space required on a truck to move your things.  

The In-and-Out Bid. This type of bid does not gather enough information to accurately cost-out a long-distance move. Rogue movers will try and hurry the conversation past pricing and neglect to discuss the complete terms of service until your entire household is packed onto their truck. Reputable estimators will inspect every room in your home (including closets) and ask important questions about your moving plans. 

The Volume-Based Bid. Be cautious of movers who quote your long-distance move by cubic footage of truck space. Interstate moves based on volume are illegal without a weight conversion factor and should be reported to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) . 

Protect Yourself from Moving Scams

With a little due diligence, you can avoid moving scams and stop fake movers in their tracks. 

Ask Friends and Family. They can recommend a moving company they have recently used and provide you with reviews based on their real-life experiences. 

Check with ATA. The American Trucking Associations Moving and Storage Conference keep an up-to-date list of Pro-Mover certified local and long-distance movers on file. Check with them to find a moving service or to screen a company you’ve already contacted. 

Research Companies Thoroughly. Check online for reviews with the BBB and Google to be sure that they have a history of customer service success.  

Document Everything. After delivery, you have nine months to report any problems to the moving company and file a written claim for loss or damage to your belongings. Note any problems on the mover’s copy of the inventory before signing it. Your mover has 30 days to acknowledge receipt of your claim. Within 120 days of receiving it, they must make an offer to pay or deny your claim. It’s a lot easier for them to deny it if you don’t have before-and-after proof or if they don’t see the damage before leaving your home. 

Know Your Moving Rights and ResponsibilitiesFederal law requires that every licensed mover provide consumers with an informational packet titled, “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” during the planning stage of your move. Most legitimate moving companies will direct you online to their website to access this information or possibly provide you with a 25-page booklet on fair practices, industry regulations and consumer rights. 

With nearly 100 years as a trusted moving company, coupled with modern technology designed to deliver you a smooth, worry-free experience, you can count on Mayflower. Start a free online moving quote today. 

WHEN TO BOOK YOUR MOVE

The summer months are always a busy time for Americans on the move. The guidelines below offer ways we can work together and get you where you want to move to. 

How Far in Advance Should I Hire Movers? 

The availability of professional movers depends on many factors, including market availability; where you are moving from and to; and the time of the year you move. 

Especially during the summer moving season — May through September — we suggest booking as far in advance as possible.  

Why is It Important to Book Movers Early? 

Both you and your mover need time to carefully plan and carry out your move, so everything goes smoothly. As soon as you can, begin researching different moving companies and the types of services that best fit your needs. The more time and preparation you can give yourself, your loved ones and the moving companies, the less stress you’ll experience throughout the entire moving journey.  

Flexibility is important, especially during summer season. If you can’t get your preferred move date, check out these tips. 

When Should I Book My Mover? 

This depends a lot upon where you’re planning to move. Some areas of the country are not affected by capacity and logistical challenges at all, while others are. Our best advice?  Book your move date in advance. Have flexibility? Please book early anyway. This will ensure we deliver the level of service you’ve come to expect. 

That said, here are some general guidelines based on the various move types: 

Interstate Moves 

If you’re moving to a different state or cross-country during the summer season, you’ll want to book well in advance of your move date. Even during less busy times of year, booking your move date in advance is always a good idea.

Spend some time doing research online to find a trusted and experienced interstate mover.  Local moving companies can’t always perform interstate moves. This is because any move that involves crossing a state line must follow the U.S. federal laws and regulations — including licensing requirements — to help protect consumers before, during and after their relocations. 

Intrastate Moves 

If you’re moving to a different city within your state, book well ahead of time during the summer season. As with other types of moves, securing a move date with a prospective intrastate mover as far ahead of time as possible is best. 

Local Moves 

Moving a short distance and within the same state still needs a good amount of advance planning. Ideally — and especially in the summer season — we recommend contacting prospective local movers well in advance.  

International Moves 

Moving abroad can be a challenging and complex process involving special documentation, shipping logistics, the continued back-up of ocean freight, customs paperwork and clearances. If your move is job-related, talk to your employer, as they may have relocation specialists on staff. If it is a self-move, you’ll want to find a qualified, trusted international moving company as far in advance as you can.

We hope you find these guidelines to be useful as we navigate the peak moving season together. We will provide updates about conditions and timelines as they evolve. In the meantime, our blog is filled with helpful moving checklists and advice to streamline and de-stress the moving experience. 

YOUR GUIDE TO ESTIMATING MOVING COSTS

Whether local or long-distance, moving can be complex. You may decide to do the move yourself; however, hiring a professional moving company like Mayflower will help alleviate much of the stress of moving and let you focus on your personal and professional needs throughout the moving process.

Knowing how a moving cost estimate is put together reduces stress because it helps you gauge the actual financial impact of relocating. A moving cost estimate also gives you valuable insights into how the potential moving company conducts business and potentially identifies any obstacles associated with completing your move. 

When estimating your moving costs, be sure to get a quote from more than one moving company. This will allow you to see the average price range for the specifics of your move including the size and distance, and whether hiring a professional makes sense.

Important Questions to Ask Yourself When Moving

How do you decide whether to hire a professional moving company or do it yourself? Start with these questions:

  • When do I want to move?
  • What large or bulky items need to be moved?
  • Am I physically able to move myself?
  • How far will I be moving?
  • What type(s) of vehicle will I use for the move?
  • How many trips will it take to move my belongings to my new home?
  • What’s my timeline for the move?
  • What’s my budget?

A DIY move can be difficult, especially if you have a large number of belongings or an inflexible timeframe. Hiring a professional moving company takes more planning upfront but can simplify your move later on. 

How are Moving Costs Calculated?

When determining the cost of a move, every moving company has its own way of calculating the costs of a move. 

Typically, local movers or labor-only movers will create estimates based on an hourly rate, which considers how much time the move will take to complete. 

Long-distance moving companies consider factors such as the amount and weight of your belongings and the distance to be covered. To get an idea of the number of belongings that need to be transported, they may also ask you questions about the size of your current home and the size of your new home. 

Your move-out and move-in dates often impact the cost of the move. Most moving companies experience their busy season during the summer months and prices will often be higher. 

The cost of your move is also dependent on whether you want other moving services such as packing, unpackingstorage and custom crafting.

Always be sure to request information about how your costs are determined and what type of moving estimates you receive before picking which moving company to hire. 

full-service moving quote from Mayflower gives you a detailed view of your moving costs with and without added services. We take our cost estimating process seriously so that we can give every family our assurance that experienced and caring professionals are handling their move.

Why are Moving Cost Estimates Important?

A moving cost estimate provides more than just an idea of what you can expect to pay. It also allows you to compare hiring professional movers to DIY move options, such as renting a moving truck. 

You can use the estimate process to evaluate other aspects of the moving company such as the level of customer service and cost transparency that they offer.

When trying to decide on a moving company, it’s a good idea to get more than one moving cost estimate. This will help you understand each of your options and make the right decision for your move.

Choose Mayflower for Your Move

Over nearly 100 years, Mayflower has encountered moves of all shapes and sizes. We know that the moving process can seem overwhelming, and we’re here to help. That’s why we strive to provide a seamless moving experience for each move, guiding you Every Step of the Way(R) to your new home. 

Mayflower has many other valuable moving resources available to assist with your move. Whether you need packing tips or moving checklists, you can find them on the Mayflower Moving blog.

Learn more about your move and request a free online quote today.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR PREFERRED MOVE DATE IS UNAVAILABLE

We can’t stress enough how important it is to book early to secure your preferred move date.

Rather than take on a DIY move, hiring a trusted moving company still makes sense, as it limits stress, saves time and allows an expert to coordinate the intricacies of your move on your behalf. Plus, you can rest assured knowing moving professionals are handling your life’s possessions. 

Can’t get the moving date you want? Here are some options when you know a full-service move is what you want.  

Push Back Your Closing Date 

If you’re in the process of selling your home and are unable to get your moving date of choice, it may be possible to work with your realtor to push out the closing date. According to the National Association of Realtors® (NAR), you wouldn’t be alone since closing delays can occur for multiple reasons and coming to a compromise with a buyer is commonplace. 

Consider Renting Back 

Provided you’re still in the negotiation phase of your home sale and need to arrange a later move date, renting back the property from the buyer may be an option. That way, you can keep possession of the home for a longer period and, typically, pay the buyer the sum of their mortgage payment, property taxes and homeowner’s insurance (PITI). Please note that this should not be considered financial advice; every person’s situation, and/or different states’ laws and regulations, are different. Be sure to speak to your own legal/financial advisor for guidance. 

Ask About a Short-term Apartment Lease 

Negotiating an apartment lease is bit of an art. That’s particularly true when approaching your landlord or leasing agent about extending your living arrangements on a month-to-month basis, or for less than a full year.  

Admittedly, this can be a hard sell. So, it may help to emphasize what a reliable, responsible tenant you’ve been, reinforcing your commitment to paying rent on time, being a conscientious neighbor and treating the property with respect. 

Ask About Alternative Work Arrangements 

In the event you’re moving for work, it may be possible to contact HR to see if modified working arrangements — such as a remote start or a delayed start date — are possible. Knowing that life happens, employers are often willing to be flexible.  

Do you still want to book a move? Get a free online quote today. Need additional moving tips? Be sure to check out our blog, which features helpful moving checklists and advice, from booking to unboxing. 

Friluftsliv and Hygge: How to Get Through the Long Winter Ahead

As anyone living in a four-season climate knows, winters are chillingly long, cold and grey. People run from building to car to house as quickly and efficiently as possible. Everyone is less apt to look up as they are to hurry to get someplace warm. It’s insular on a good day so it’s important to build in ways to both get outdoors and cozy up the indoors. 

Friluftsliv Revels in the Outdoors 

There’s no better place to seek inspiration than the Nordic region. No stranger to snow and short, dark days, Norwegians embrace the concept of friluftsliv (pronounced free-loofts-liv), which roughly translates to “outdoor living,” whatever the weather. Popularized in the 1850s by Norwegian playwright and poet, Henrik Ibsen, the term was used to describe the value of nature as it relates to one’s spiritual and physical health.  

Deeply ingrained in the country’s heritage, this all-season celebration of the outdoors is adopted from remote corners of the Arctic to bustling, urban Oslo. Sure, friluftsliv can include outdoorsy activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, but it’s also a lifestyle that champions leisurely walks, winter picnics and utepils (a.k.a. sipping a beer outdoors). No cell phones or other technology — just time to observe and appreciate the beauty around you and the time you’re sharing with others in an open-air setting.  

Clearly, the common Norwegian refrain, “There’s no bad weather, only bad clothing,” rings true. 

Proof of concept can be found in the UN’s 2020 World Happiness Report, which ranked Norway at number five. Meanwhile, Bergen and Oslo were listed among the top 10 world’s happiest cities

This regional phenomenon extends to Sweden, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Denmark as well. In Sweden alone, there are 25 non-profit associations that revolve around friluftsliv. Among the country’s population of 10 million people, 1.7 million memberships span 9,000 local and regional clubs.  

Granted it’s not new news that being outdoors is good for one’s mental health and well-being. Scientific Reports notes that spending just 120 minutes per week outside can significantly boost your mood and well-being — both in the long and short term. 

Besides, studies show nature brings comfort. Military veterans who suffer from PTSD and other combat-related mental health issues have turned to the therapeutic benefits of nature for some time, be it gardening or rafting. Certain bereavement therapies also look to the natural world for relief. Why? Because it’s healing.  

Change Your Environment — and Mindset 

Although embracing winter may seem unthinkable to the summer-lovers among us, it can certainly be done. It starts with having a positive wintertime outlook, according to Stanford University health psychologist Kari Leibowitz. In order to transform your seasonal perspective, try to find things about winter that you enjoy, whether it’s snowball fights or the beauty of fresh-fallen snow. Find wonder in it, let it anchor you, and allow it to establish your sense of place.  

Suit up and take a walk on a windy afternoon. Maybe pour some hot cider to enjoy at a local park. Or break out that portable grill and have an intimate backyard barbecue, complete with winter yard games. Whatever you do, slow down the pace and take notice of the things around you. Breathe deeply, relax and enjoy being “off the grid,” if only for a little while. 

With more people than ever working from home, there’s a new opportunity to strike a work/life balance. In Scandinavia, flexible work hours are the norm, work/life balance and family time are encouraged, and residents are often able to work around their hobbies and passions whenever possible. 

Of course, it doesn’t stop there. Tax breaks are offered to firms in Sweden and Finland that incentivize friluftsliv, be it subsidizing employees’ sporting endeavors or equipment. Meanwhile, some Finnish businesses have begun compensating employees who cycle or walk to work. 

Even if these admittedly awesome perks feel out of reach, opportunities to make the most of your work-from-home situation abound. Early morning strolls and lunch break birdwatching and snow fort-building are just a few of the ways to practice friluftsliv.  

Bringing Hygge Into Your Home 

Denmark, like its neighbors, knows a thing or two about dreary winters. Enter the cultural concept and panacea of hygge(pronounced HYU-gah). There is no direct translation in English, but words like “coziness,” “wellbeing” and “togetherness” are at its core. More mental than physical, hygge is about having flexibility, a positive mood and a holistic outlook on life. This abstract sentiment is also about slowing down, connecting with loved ones and carving out time for what’s most important. In other words, don’t be fooled by hygge’s recent commercialization: as a buzzword, it’s missing the point. 

Hygge’s feeling of contentedness and wellness is like a warm, comforting hug and it’s something you can introduce to your home. Heck, maximize in your life. Sure, you can use fluffy throw blankets, puffy pillows, oversize scarves and furry slippers to set the mood. Likewise candles and mulled wine. But that’s not what it’s about. Practicing hygge might mean enjoying a cup of coffee on a Sunday morning or catching up with friends — even if by Zoom. It’s also about simply relaxing and chilling out. This effortless comfort could mean curling up with a good book or lingering over a lovely meal, with loved ones, in cozy environs. 

We don’t know about you, but it’s something we need right now — and down the line. We’d love to hear how you’re embracing friluftsliv and hygge as winter sets in and the pandemic marches on. 

Settling in as a Singleton: Putting Yourself out There

It’s exciting, unfamiliar and even a little scary, so keep in mind that your journey to a new place is also a journey to a different way of living, too. In fact, finding home as a singleton could be one of the most amazing adventures you’ll ever have.   

Whether you’re recently uncoupled, widowed or striking out on your own after living with a roommate (or two), the important thing is you’re part of a new community that’s full of new people to meet, places to explore and stuff to do. 

Here are five basic tips every singleton like you needs to consider in order to make this new chapter in your life the best yet. 

Be Smart about Safety and Security 

Unless it’s a brand-new space, you never know to whom the previous owner or tenant gave their keys. If possible, have the locks changed, and consider getting a home security system or door camera. When you move with Mayflower, you could qualify for a complimentary doorbell camera and free installation with one of ADT’s top authorized dealers.

And while this might seem a little paradoxical, urban singletons — especially apartment dwellers who don’t have a door attendant — need to find a Keeper of the Keys. This could be your super, a nearby friend or a reliable neighbor. After all, it’s no fun calling a locksmith at 2 a.m. when your keys have gone missing. 

Leverage Social Connections (and Social Media) 

In a lot of cases, you’ll know people (or people who know people) who live in the area. They can provide a much-needed extra level of support until you get your bearings. New co-workers are also a great resource for advice on what to see and do.  

Get the word out on channels like Instagram and Facebook and ask your contacts to connect you to anyone locally they might know. That said, it can be all too easy (especially if you tend to be a bit shy) to substitute social media for “real” life. Don’t hide behind a screen; this is the time to make human connections. 

Get out and about 

It takes time after you’ve moved in before you’re able to settle into a routine. Take advantage of this window — step out of your comfort zone, and by all means keep your eyes, ears and mind open. 

Scope out the new neighborhood. You’ll soon see the areas where married couples live with kids; younger singles hang out; major shopping districts are located; and people gather on weekends and after work. A stroll down Main Street is a wonderful way to feel part of your new community, let people know you’ve arrived, and familiarize yourself with the town’s pace and vibe.  

If your new home is in a bigger city, use public transportation. That’s how the locals do it and as soon as you’ve mastered the nuances (and let’s face it, peculiarities) of the city’s mass transit system, the sooner you’ll feel at home. Larger cities will also have culture-rich neighborhoods full of authentic fare, as well as cultural experiences waiting to be explored.  

If you live in a touristy area, by all means be a tourist yourself and get the sightseeing out of your system while you’re still new in town. Odds are you’ll avoid them once you’ve settled into town. However, it’d be weird to live in, say, Seattle without having been to the Space Needle. 

Put Yourself on a Budget 

While visiting local hot spots or dining in restaurants may sound wonderful, new singletons should always be careful about overspending, especially during the first few months. For one thing, expenses will almost certainly be higher since you’re solely responsible for the mortgage or rent, food and utilities.  

If you’re coming from a roommate or partner arrangement, you’ll need extra funds to buy the stuff you used to share communally, like furniture, appliances, and pots and pans. The upside is you’ll finally be able to truly decorate according to your own personal style. 

Another “budget” to think about is your time. Remember you’re no longer sharing household chores, lawncare and/or pet care responsibilities. Factor in some extra time to handle these additional duties. 

Deep Dive into Your New Community 

Be a joiner. It’s the best way to make new friends and open yourself up to new possibilities. For some this may be joining a place of worship or a community center. Others might find volunteering for a non-profit, participating in a book club or playing on a local amateur sports team more their style.   

If you live in a city, it’s also wise to invest in a museum membership: they often host members-only events full of people with shared interests. Feeling brave? Try something you’ve never done before. Whether it’s a pottery class, a neighborhood clean-up or a Zumba session, it’s the perfect way to make friends with people exploring new things just like you.  

As you explore and settle into your new neighborhood, we’re here to help. Be sure to check out our blog for tips to help your new city feel familiar — and help you feel at home. 

How to Pack Your Car for a Cross-Country Move

It’s an understatement to say there are a lot of things to keep track of during a cross-country move. And if you have belongings, kids, fur babies and a vehicle you’ve opted to drive to your new address, there’s a cross-country road trip to think about, too. 

To ensure your long-distance move goes smoothly, it helps to plan what to pack in your car — and know how to make it all fit so you minimize stress, mitigate surprises and make an adventure out of the road ahead.  

The first place to start? With a spare key to avoid lockouts. And that important paperwork and other non-allowable items? Those irreplaceable keepsakes? Keep them with you.  

Pack Layers of Clothing 

It goes without saying, but you need clothes — specifically enough clothes and the right kind of clothing for the conditions you’ll encounter. Depending on where you’re moving, you may encounter a variety of climates — even unpredictable weather. Make sure you pack layers and do include a jacket or coat since you never know what the weather holds at varying elevations or weather patterns that are beyond your control.  

  • Layers of clothing that account for changes in weather and temperature 
  • Loungewear or pajamas 
  • Workwear if required 
  • Extra undergarments and socks 

Don’t Forget the Toiletries 

Comfort, hygiene and self-care are also key when you’re on the road, so these items prove helpful as well: 

  • Light blankets and pillows for napping 
  • Facewash, shampoo, conditioner, soap and styling products 
  • Toothpaste, toothbrush and mouthwash 
  • Lotion 

Remember to Pack Snacks 

Keep grouchy kids and hangry adults at bay by packing portable, healthy snacks. 

A cooler filled with drinks and temperature-sensitive snacks, sandwiches, veggies and fruit 

  • Nuts, dried fruit, crackers 
  • Utensils 
  • Napkins 
  • Single-serve condiments 

Keep Everyone Entertained Throughout the Journey 

Limit the “are we there yet” by bringing enough things to entertain the whole gang for the duration of the drive. 

  • Music 
  • Audio books 
  • Road trip games 
  • Travel-friendly toys 
  • Tablet for streaming shows and movies 
  • Cords for charging your gear 
  • Portable chargers 

Make Sure Your Pets are Comfortable and Cared For 

Traveling with your furry friends? You need to keep them comfortable and safe, too. 

  • Pet carrier(s) that accommodate  
  • Litter box for cats 
  • Leashes and collars/harnesses  
  • Pet identification tags 
  • Up-to-date immunization and ownership records 
  • Pet beds 
  • No-spill food and water dishes 
  • Anti-anxiety medication 
  • Toys 
  • Food and food dishes 
  • Treats 

Prepare for the Unexpected with a First Aid Kit 

Hopefully, you’ll never need to kiss boo-boos and apply band-aids. However, it’s important to be prepared, just in case. Your first aid kit should contain: 

  • Sterile cleaning pads  
  • Antibacterial ointment 
  • Band-aids 
  • Tweezers 
  • A small pair of scissors 
  • Aspirin and Ibuprofen  
  • Instant cold or hot compress 
  • Sterile gauze pads 
  • Stretchy bandage wrap  
  • Non-latex gloves 
  • Cloth tape 

Invest in an Emergency Car Care Kit 

No one wants to think about a vehicle breakdown. Still, you should be prepared in the event an issue occurs. 

  • Jumper cables 
  • Tire pressure gauge 
  • Spare tire 
  • Reflective warning triangle and flares 
  • Safety hammer and seatbelt cutters 
  • Tow rope 
  • Hand crank 
  • Safety vest 
  • Folding garden/snow shovel 
  • Blanket 
  • Snow scraper 
  • Anti-slip gloves 
  • PVC tape 
  • Tool kit 

Miscellaneous Things to Bring on a Cross-Country Drive 

There are a number of basic odds and ends that are worth bringing along on your cross-country move. 

  • A roll of paper towels 
  • A jug of water 
  • Garbage bags 
  • Hand sanitizer and sanitizing spray 
  • Cleaning wipes 
  • Wet wipes 
  • Baby wipes 
  • Kleenex 

How to Pack Your Car for a Cross-Country Move 

If you plan on packing luggage or equipment on the top of your vehicle, make sure that it is securely tied down. It helps to use a specially designed cargo compartments — such as an adjustable, waterproof, soft-sided roof rack — that can be secured to the top of a vehicle. Never pack valuables on the exterior of your car since they could be stolen. 

As for how to keep it all organized, clear plastic bins let you see what’s inside so you don’t have to dig. Soft-sided bins work well for items you’re less likely to need access to. As for heavier items, they should go inside — not on top of — your vehicle. Take care to pack them below lighter items that could get damaged or crushed. 

Looking for more tips on how to streamline and simplify your long-distance move? Visit our blog for expert tips and tricks. 

Relocating for a Partner? Here’s How to Make the Right Moves Together

Believe it or not, there’s a name for people who relocate on behalf of a significant other: “trailing partners.” Ok, that sounds a bit harsh, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re second fiddle. In fact, this unique moving situation can be mutually beneficial. It’s all about viewing it not just as an opportunity for your partner, but for you as well.  

You’re in a relationship because you care – and care deeply – about someone besides yourself (that’s a big plus right there). What’s most important right now is a bit of planning, a lot of soul searching and a willingness to stay open-minded and make some very important decisions together. 

Here are a few tips and tricks for helping you and your loved one navigate this new chapter in your lives:  

Do the Due Diligence 

Before a final decision is made, you should have already investigated – and determined – what life might look like after you move. This is where the two of you might want to make a list of all the pros and cons. 

  • If it’s because of your partner’s promotion or a new job with a heftier salary, make sure you’ve investigated the cost of living in your new city. What looks like a big pay increase on paper could be a step down if you’re relocating from a relatively inexpensive area to someplace like the San Francisco Bay Area. Also, does your partner’s new job offer strong prospects for a steady move up their career ladder? 
  • If it’s because your partner will be caring for a parent or other loved one, the two of you need to decide whether it makes more sense to move them vs. the two of you (and potentially your immediate family). Conversely, would you be leaving family who may need your support now or down the road? 
  • How will the move affect any children still living at home? For example, are the schools good, is the area safe? In general, a long-distance move is probably less of an adjustment for a grade schooler than it is for a teen entering their senior year of high school.   
  • Will the current trend toward hybrid and remote work provide new opportunities you can leverage to your advantage? 
  •  As the trailing partner, will you be able to find a good job in the new location – and a rewarding social life? Some bigger companies offer placement assistance for an employee’s significant other. Check into it. 
  • What is there to do – and see – there? Does the new location offer comparable sports, entertainment and cultural options? 

Make Your Voice – and Needs – Heard 

As the trailing partner, it’s natural to feel a loss of control – and even a little resentment – but keep the bigger picture in mind. Once the decision’s been made, actively participate in the process. A good partnership needs to flex well beyond 50/50 and with a major change like this, there’s not always going to be a one-size-fits-all solution. Open the door for honest discussions and be prepared for some give and take.  

Schedule a Visit 

Let’s assume you both did an online “deep dive” as part of the due diligence process. Now it’s time to plan a visit to your new city and get a sense of what it would be like to live there. Both partners will feel a lot more excited about the move if you spend time together exploring the new neighborhood. Consider what’s important to you and other family members and don’t rely totally on online reviews and others’ opinions. Here are some tips and tricks you can use to feel at home in your new neighborhood.

Keep Your Options Open 

Before committing to buying a home and settling down, it might be a wise move to rent a place for a year or two. Then if the situation changes or the new job doesn’t work out, you’ll still have your old home to fall back on. Could your partner’s new situation lend itself to a remote or hybrid work set-up? Perhaps a remote work situation combined with a temporary period of living in both places (with regular visits) could ease the transition into your new life together.

Wherever You Go, Be There for Each Other 

Whether they’re starting a new job, getting a big promotion or taking care of a close family member, always keep in mind that your partner’s going through a significant change in their life too! Look for ways to be supportive and understanding. And reach out to them for the same!  

Whether you’re in a new city right now or considering finding a new home, we’re here to not just move you, but help you feel at home along the way.

Moving in Summer 2022: Tips and Guide

Don’t Delay — Book Your Move Early

Although high demand and limited mover availability continue to impact delivery times in some areas of the country, our agents are working hard to meet your needs during this year’s peak moving season. We also want to help you navigate the process so it’s easy and stress-free.  

Have extra time or flexibility? Book early — as far in advance as possible is best. Not an option? Read on for expert tips and advice from our pros.  

How Early Should I Book My Move?

Booking your move well in advance lets us more efficiently plan and manage everything around your relocation and helps us put time on your side. Learn more about booking your specific move type.

What To Do If Your Preferred Move Date is Unavailable

During this year’s summer moving season, booking early is recommended. If that’s simply not an option and you know you want a full-service move, consider this advice from our experts. 

Real Movers Versus Fake Movers: How to Spot the Difference

Regardless of who you move with, we want to help ensure you’re not the victim of a moving scam. Get tips on what to look for. 

fake and poor movers
moving checklist

The Ultimate Moving Checklist

We can help you get organized for your move eight weeks in advance. Check out our comprehensive checklist to streamline and simplify the tasks at hand. Stay Organized with Our Moving Checklists

How to Pack Your Car and What to Put in It When You Move

So much more than a road trip, packing your car for a cross-country move can be daunting. Get advice and how to pack it and what goes inside. 

packing the car for a move
Before your items arrive

What to Do While Waiting for Your Belongings to Arrive

Sometimes there will still be a lag between when your valuables are scheduled to arrive and when you cross the threshold of your new front door. We have some tips for you to make the most out of this waiting time.

7 Ways to Manage Moving Stress

Moving isn’t easy. Read about ways to manage the process while maintaining your well-being — even in the midst of challenging times

Removing stress from moving
Covid 19 status

Questions About Moving During COVID-19

As we keep your wellbeing top of mind, learn about our COVID-19 protocols and get answers to frequently asked questions.