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    2015 Top Moving Trends

    At the end of last year, MovingCompanyReviews.com posted an article on some of the trends from 2014 and what they expect to be the moving trends in 2015. Among the list of trends include:

    • Tight mover availability in the spring and summer – Last year, there was a moving truck driver shortage. That caused a bottleneck in mover availability for a lot of consumers trying to book a moving company. The same thing will likely happen this year. Minneapolis-St. Paul moving companies are going to be busy, so if you know you are moving this spring or summer, then it will be to your advantage to book your moving company as soon as you know your moving dates.
    • Major metro areas are hot moving locations – You can be sure that many people within the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area will plan moves in 2015. That makes it even more important to book your Minneapolis move soon.
    • Smaller cities will be hot for interstate moves – People moving from state to state are choosing smaller cities and towns. That could mean smaller Minnesota cities like Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, and Eagan could see some urbanization and some attention from moving companies relocating consumers to those areas.
    • Square footage will remain flat – In 2014, people upsized. This year, movers will stay within their range of real estate size.
    • Keep an eye out for moving scams – The last couple of years have seen an increase in illegitimate moving companies scamming unsuspecting consumers. These scams will still be a threat in 2015 – however, there are organizations working hard to educate consumers on these scams so they won’t be taken. Be smart and hire a reputable fully licensed, insured and bonded mover.

    Happy couple with delivery men unloading moving boxes from truck

    MovingCompanyReviews.com trends for 2015 are based in part of what happened in the moving industry last year. Home sales went up, and they are expected to go up again this year. Interstate moves made for about 20% of all moves. This trend will likely continue, as well.

    If you see a move this year for your family or business, why not start planning now. Book your professional Minneapolis-St. Paul moving company to secure your moving date.

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    How to Save on Moving Expenses

    Let’s face it. Moving can be expensive. Whether you are moving across town or across country, you could spend thousands of dollars on moving your family and personal items. But you don’t have to.

    Courtesy of your favorite Minneapolis residential movers – here are a few tips designed to help you save on the cost of moving:

    • Get rid of the unnecessary stuff – Why move all that stuff you no longer use or need? Ditch it first. There are a number of ways to do this. You can hold a yard sale prior to moving. You could give it away to a charity. Or you might use it as collateral to trade for other items you do need (or will need in your new home). Another alternative is, if you can’t sell it or give it away, just toss it.
    • Use free moving supplies – Professional moving companies will sell you boxes, tape, and other moving supplies, but you don’t have to buy them. You can get free boxes for your move at retail stores that throw out boxes after unloading the merchandise for their stores.
    • Pack your own items – Having the movers pack your boxes can be an added expensive. You can save money by doing it yourself.

    young couple packing moving boxes, ready for move out

    • Plan your move for off-season – If you move during peak season, you’ll probably pay higher prices. Instead, plan your move for when others aren’t—such as during the week.
    • Ask your employer to help you move – If you company is moving you due to a promotion or interoffice transfer, ask them to pick up the tab for your moving expenses. If you are in the military, the government will pay for your move through its DITY program. Having your employer pay for your move – or at least a part of it – will save you a bundle in moving expenses.

    You’ll also want to get more than one estimate. Compare the moving companies in Minneapolis before choosing one. They all have their unique ways of pricing their services, so pick the moving company that is best for you. If you do some due diligence and plan your move ahead of time, you’ll be able to spot opportunities for where you can save on the costs.  Always ask your sales representative for ideas, as they are a great resource.

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    Helping Your Kids Adjust to a Move

    Moving can be a stressful time. On moving day, you have a lot of things to think about in order to make the move successful and, you hope, more efficient. After the move, you may have a sense of loss. You are in a new home and have to adjust to a new layout. Your kids may have no friends in your new neighborhood. You’ll have to adjust to a new climate. There is an adjustment period overall. Your life will be less tense if you prepare your children for the move beforehand.

    Positives vs. Negatives

    Your children will likely focus on the negative aspects of a move:

    • Loss of friends
    • Meeting new people
    • Adjustments at school
    • New extracurricular activities

    As a parent, you can help your children deal with the negative aspects of moving by helping them to see the positives. Emphasize the opportunities they have of meeting new people and learning about a different culture. Explain that they can remain in contact with old friends by phone, email or skype and still make new friends in their new home.

    If your child is stressing about moving to a new school because they are afraid of falling behind academically, explain that their academic skills are fine and will likely lead to their success. Offer to hire a tutor to help them adjust if necessary.

    Turn your child’s negatives into positives by presenting them as opportunities.

    Family with arms up celebrating they are moving home

    Let Your Children Express Themselves

    Instead of arguing with your child, give them the freedom to express how they feel about the move. In many cases, children just want to be heard. They want to know that you care about how they feel. Express that you do care and that you understand their feelings, but emphasize the importance of the move and the reasons for the move. If it’s related to your job, explain the benefits in a way that she can understand (e.g. Is there a pay raise or a promotion? Maybe it’s an opportunity to meet new people related to your new company move.).

    Another way to approach a move with some children is to discuss the excitement and adventure aspect of the move. Explain how the Pilgrims became pioneers and moved to a new country for a fresh start and your move is similar to theirs. Make your child the hero.

    Visit the New Community Before Moving

    If possible, take your children to visit your new community before you move. If they see the neighborhood (the school, the park, churches, etc.) before arriving, they may be less apprehensive about the move. Getting eyes on the new neighborhood could be a way for your kids to get familiar with their new surroundings before they are immersed in them.

    Above all, communicate with your child. Prepare them for the move emotionally and psychologically before you make it. That will go a long way to relieving the stress.

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    Guide to Packing Your Dining Room

    In most homes, the dining room is one of the most important rooms of the house. It often includes expensive china and crystal. In some cases, the breakables may be important antiques or family heirlooms. These are fragile pieces that are highly valued, and not just financially. The value could be sentimental, but it is rarely trivial.

    How to Pack Glass and China

    • Chinaware, glass, and crystal stemware are often some of the most valued items in a home, but especially in a dining room.
    • Place layers of newspaper on the bottom and top of the box
    • Wrap all glass and china individually in paper
    • Wrap the outside of your glasses and tuck the edges of the paper over the lips into the cups
    • Cushion all glassware and china by placing paper or bubble wrap between the individual pieces in the box
    • Double up on the paper for highly valued pieces
    • Label boxes with the contents and the words “FRAGILE – THIS SIDE UP” in bold colorful letters

    Moving House: Happy Woman Unpacking Dishes

    Packing Tips for Flat Glassware

    Flatware is easier to pack than stemware, but it’s still important to protect it from breakage.

    • Place layers of newspaper on the bottom and top of the box
    • Wrap each piece in paper individually
    • Bundle your flatware in sets of three by wrapping the bundle in another layer of paper
    • Place each bundle on edge and in rows within the box
    • Lay a double layer of newspaper across the top of the bundles in the box
    • Label the box with contents and write “FRAGILE – THIS SIDE UP” in bold letters

    Tips for Packing Silver and Other Delicates

    The biggest issue for silver is tarnishing. To prevent this from happening, try

    • Wrapping it in newspaper or plastic
    • Wrap hollow ware like cups and bowls individually
    • Place loose flatware in a box or wrap it in a bundle
    • To prevent shifting in chests, wrap pieces of silver individually and place back inside the chest then fill the chest with paper
    • Mirrors, plaques, pictures, and curios should be wrapped individually in tissue with an outer layer of newsprint

    Do not wrap lamp shades in newspaper. The print will seep into the shade and discolor it. Use tissue paper instead. You can nest smaller lamp shades inside larger ones. Keep lamp shades separate from other items and pack them in their own boxes clearly labeled.

    If you have large items made of glass, such as dining tables or table leaves, china cabinets, etc., consult with your moving company on such items.

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    Moving an Aging Parent

    Perhaps one of the most difficult or challenging moves is the when you need to move an aging or infirm parent.

    As people grow older, their strength wanes. Many times, their mental faculties grow weaker and they are easily confused. Add on to that the normal stress associated with moving and it can be quite a challenge moving an aging parent, especially if you are also moving furniture and household belongings. But, in many cases, such a move cannot be helped. After all, the alternative may be that they live alone thousands of miles away where no one can keep an eye on them.

    Here are some tips on how to move an aging parent if you find yourself in a situation where such a move is unavoidable.

    • First, be sure you communicate with your parents. Many old people are adamant that they don’t want to be moved even when they may know that it is necessary. And they are often resistant to change of any kind. Explain gently why you feel the move is necessary and try not to make the move until you know they are emotionally ready.
    • Before you broach the subject, have a plan for where your parents will be moving to. Are they moving in with you? Will you be putting them into a nursing home or assisted living facility? Make sure they understand the plan.
    • If you’ll be putting furniture and other items in storage, make sure you plan this part of the move well in advance so you can ensure you find a facility nearby.Hugging Senior Couple In Room Looking at Moving Boxes on the Flo
    • Other items of personal comfort or value that will be going with your parents should be kept safe during the move. Have a plan for those items and make sure your parents are aware that their personal items are safe and secure. Make sure you reassure them often.
    • If your parents are resistant, be patient. Before you move your parent(s) into a retirement home or other facility, ask them to visit the facility with you. Seeing where they are going beforehand may ease their mind a bit, especially if they can meet the staff. Also, if possible, visit more than one facility and let your parents help you choose which one they’d feel more comfortable living in. Tell them how you feel, not what they must do. No one wants to be told what they have to do in their lives. Be reassuring and let them in on the decision early on.
    • If siblings are involved, make sure all of you are on the same page.

    Moving an aging parent can be stressful. Don’t add to the stress by pressuring your parent. And if necessary, take some counseling classes to help you manage your own emotions during this time.

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    8 Common Moving Mistakes

    If you are planning to move, there are some common moving mistakes that you should be aware of and make an effort to avoid. If you fail to avoid these mistakes, it could cost you a lot more to make your move than you intended.

    1. Don’t wing it. This is one of the biggest mistakes DIY movers make. Instead of planning the move step by step, they just show up on moving day and try to make it work. Everything you think can go wrong will, and more. So make a plan and work your plan.
    2. Failing to consider rush hour traffic. You’ve made some great plans. You know the distance, the cost, and the weight of your moving freight. But you forgot about rush hour traffic. That will lengthen the time it takes you to move, which will add to the costs.
    3. No estimate. You are decisive and have chosen your moving company. Good for you. But did you get an estimate. No wonder it costs you more than thought it would.
    4. You didn’t ask about insurance. Never move without insurance. Something will surely get broke. Better to be safe than sorry.
    5. Pets. You can’t just leave your pets behind, but many pet owners get so wrapped up in moving their material goods and their families that they forget all about their pets. How will Rover get from your old home to your new home?
      Moving Box Dog
    6. Plants have special needs. That ficus in the corner needs to be watered and handled with care.
    7. Overnight box. It inevitably happens that movers get into their new homes and discover that everything they need for the first night is packed away. Where are the towels, the dishes, the cleaning supplies, the tools? Pack a first night box so you’ll have everything you need on your first night in your new home.
    8. Taking inventory. Many movers don’t take inventory of the items they are moving. How will you know if everything made it to your new home?

    These are the most common mistakes people make, but with a little planning and foresight, you can avoid them.

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    When Is The Best Time Of Year To Move?

    Is there a best time of year to move? Many people seem to move in the summer, but is that the best time to pack up everything you own and relocate across town, or to the other side of the country?

    To be sure, one consideration is your yearly schedule. If you have children in school, then summer is a good time for making a move because you won’t disrupt your child’s education. Moving from one school to another in the middle of the school year is a huge adjustment for any child at any age. It’s not just an academic adjustment either. It also involves a social component.

    Weather is another consideration. Harsh winters, especially in the north, can make moving dangerous. On the other hand, harsh summers in the south can make moving, at the very least, uncomfortable. You do have to be mindful of potential heat and cold injuries.

    No one wants to move over the holidays. Whether we’re talking about Christmas or Easter, you’d be better planning your move around the holidays if you can.

    Christmas moving house

    The Slow Time of Year for Moving Companies

    Since most people schedule their moves in the summer, this is a time when most moving companies are busting at the seams with customers. You may find it difficult to rent trucks or find movers available on the day that you need them, especially if you get started late in the planning process. An alternative is to move when moving companies are the slowest.

    That would be the period between November and New Year’s Day.

    This is an optimal time for moving because most people don’t want to disrupt their family life just before, or during, a major holiday. Children are still in school and right in the middle of the semester. Thanksgiving is in November, Christmas is in December, and everyone just finished celebrating Halloween. It’s a very busy time of year. Who wants to move?

    Because moving companies are slowest this time of year, it’s a good time to plan your move and get it done. You’ll more likely get it done quicker and more efficiently.

    Likewise, the best days for moving are in the middle of the week when everyone else is working. Waiting until the weekend will mean competing with everyone else for moving trucks and hired hands. You’ll get the best prices during these times if you schedule your move for when the moving companies are slowest.

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    How Much To Budget For The Cost Of A Move

    Does it matter how much you should budget for your move? It should, because, let’s face it, moving isn’t free. It may not even be cheap, depending on where you move and how you move. Therefore, you should budget something for a move even if you’re doing it all by yourself. But how much?

    The first step is to determine how much it will cost you to move. That depends on a number of factors:

    • Are you doing it yourself or hiring a mover?
    • What is the distance between your old home and new home?
    • Can movers move everything you own in one trip or will it take several trips? How many?
    • Do you have any valuable, large, or unusual items to move?
    • What is the total weight of the items you are moving?
    • Are there any other special considerations you need for your move (such as air freight or shipment overseas)?

    Mature couple at new home sitting and using calculator to sum th

    Factors to Consider In Your Moving Budget

    Moving companies will provide insurance – however the amount of insurance is often not enough. If you have a lot of small breakables such as ceramic, glassware, and porcelain vases, then those items are easily damaged during a move. Calculate how much insurance you’ll need based on the weight of the items you are moving. Calculate that into your budget.

    Are you selling your home? If so, you’ll need to budget the cost of repairs into your move.

    When you get to your new home, will you rent? You may need to rent for a short time until your new home is ready to move into. Even if you are renting long-term, there are costs beyond your monthly rent. Factor in security deposits, the cost of setting up utilities, and broker fees if you are buying a home.

    During your move, factor in fuel costs, meals and snacks, hotels (if you need to stay overnight because your move is across country). Plan your move in advance. If you are flying to your new home, factor in cab fares, airport fees, and the costs associated with moving pets.

    There are usually hidden costs to any move. Try to figure out what those are and add them into your budget. Use a moving calculator to determine costs based on freight weight and mileage. It’s always better to err on the side of having funds remaining after your move than being caught short.

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    Things To Have On Hand At Your New Home

    When you move into a new home and haven’t unpacked everything from your old home, you might feel a bit discombobulated. After all, everything you need is packed. But it doesn’t have to be. Before you move out of the old home, think ahead and pack everything you’ll need right away at the new home into one box, then label it so you can find it easily.

    So what items are those, exactly?

    New Home Move-In Box

    Here are the essential items to pack in your ‘New Home Move-In’ box:

    1. Broom, mop, and dust pan – Okay, maybe you shouldn’t pack them in a box, but you should make sure they’re accessible. The first thing you should do before moving in is sweep and mop. If you have carpet, make sure your vacuum cleaner is accessible.
    2. Kitchen items – It will take you a couple of days, at least, before you get everything unpacked and in its place. Make sure you have all the kitchen items you need for your first couple of meals: Plates, silverware, bowls and glasses, and items you need for cooking. Don’t forget can and bottle openers.
    3. Toiletries – This includes toilet paper, bar soap, toothbrushes and tooth paste, wash cloths and towels, and shampoo.
    4. Tools – You’ll need a screwdriver and a pair of pliers at a minimum. Check your plumbing, door frames, and anything else that might typically need routine maintenance. Also, have a hammer at the ready in case you need it. The furniture you took apart at your old house will need to be reassembled.
    5. Duct tape – You know you’re going to need it.
    6. Phone numbers – You’ll need essential phone numbers for the electrical company, water company, and other services just in case they haven’t hooked you up yet. You did call them before moving out of your old home, didn’t you?
    7. A change of clothes – Nothing is worse than arriving in your new home and not having a change of clothes in case you get caught in the rain or something goes amiss during the move.
    8. Bedding or sleeping bags – If possible, make making your bed one of your first tasks when you arrive. Chances are you’ll be exhausted from your move and you’ll want somewhere to lay your head at the end of a long day when you’re too tired to do anything else.

    Make sure you pack everything you’re going to need on your first evening in your new place in a box that is labeled and easy to find. It will help to ease some of the stress the first day in your new home.

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    How To Compare Movers

    Comparing movers can be a big task for anyone. How do you decipher mover reviews? Some moving companies specialize in long distance moves while others handle local moves better. With different types of movers you can have a variety of pricing models – by weight or load, by distance, or a combination of the two with local moves based on hourly.

    It’s important, first, to compare apples to apples. You don’t want to compare different pricing models side by side without looking at adequate comparisons.

    Identify the Type of Mover You Need

    Decide whether you need a local mover or a long distance moving company. There’s no sense calling a local mover if you are moving out of state. However, local movers will send someone out to provide you with an estimate based on how many items you have to move and other factors to determine an estimated hourly cost as local move charges are based on ACTUAL time and services provided

    Compare Moving Company Reviews

    It’s easy to find reviews of moving companies online. Search for ‘moving companies’ and ‘moving company reviews’ including your city of origin to see what comes up. Read the reviews carefully, especially the reviews of former customers.

    122314-How to Compare Movers

    • Are there a lot of 5-star ratings?
    • Is there a rating system for moving companies? If so, compare those based on the number of reviews.
    • Read customer comments. Do they say good things about the service? Prices and insurance? Look for anything negative or anything that might be a red flag.
    • Also look for positive review. People are more likely to make negative comments than positive, but if you do see several people making the same positive comments on moving companies, then those should hold weight.

    Compare Moving Rates

    Finally, look at the moving rates of the companies. Be sure to pay attention to add-ons and extra fees not included in the actual quote. Many moving companies will add certain fees—for equipment, special types of furniture or high value items, etc. Those expenses are very important to note for comparison purposes.

    If there is a huge disparity in basic moving rates, find out why. Is there a reason Moving Company A is quoting $500 more than Moving Company B? Maybe their quote includes extra fees not included in the basic quote of Company B.

    Make sure you compare the pricing of hourly labor rates and truck for local relocations. Be sure to ask a lot of questions, especially if there is something you don’t understand.

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