Category Archives: Moving

Where To Get Moving Boxes

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When you’re finally ready to begin preparing for an upcoming move, it’s important to ensure that you have all of the correct materials needed to help you pack up and haul your belongings. The first step in preparing for any local or long-distance move is to gather your moving boxes and other materials, such as packing tape, bubble wrap, and more. This might sound simple, but ensuring that you have the supplies needed to ensure your belongings arrive safely at your new home can be surprisingly challenging. Wondering where to buy moving boxes and how to begin the process of preparing for an upcoming move? Keep reading to learn a few simple tips from our moving experts!

Where To Get Moving BoxesChoosing the Right Boxes

When selecting the right boxes for your move, it is important to determine what size box is right for the items you need to move. Be sure to reserve large boxes for light objects such as pillows, stuffed animals, lampshades, and other items that will not fill a large box and make it too heavy or dangerous to carry. Smaller boxes are best for heavier items like books, large toys, and small appliances.

1. Buy Them

The easiest way to get moving boxes is to purchase them. Of course, whether you decide to purchase or not depends on your budget and how many boxes you need to pack up your household. The most significant advantage of purchasing boxes is that you know exactly what you are getting and can even buy complete moving kits, saving you time and effort. Individual moving boxes are not expensive, but they can add up fast, especially if you need to buy several dozen.

2. Friends and Family

Around 80% of all products sold in the United States are packaged in boxes. With the popularity of online shopping continuing to rise, your friends and family are very likely to have a stash of shipping boxes. Put the word out a few weeks before your move to let your friends and family members know you need any spare boxes. Also, ask your social media network to keep an eye out for anyone they know that recently moved or is looking for someone to take boxes off their hands.

3. Local Classifieds

Local classifieds are a goldmine for free or low-priced items, especially moving boxes. Some local sources you should browse include Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Freecycle and Nextdoor. Do diligent research first and always arrange to meet in a public place or take a partner with you for pickup. Also, pay in cash (if they are charging for the boxes) or pay via Paypal (or similar), so you are not giving away your private information.

4. Retailers

Retail stores are constantly receiving shipments in boxes. Specifically, grocery and liquor stores receive shipments more regularly, and their boxes tend to be more uniform in size. Speak to a manager about getting the boxes once they are empty. Also, keep in mind that retailers do not like to sit and hold boxes because it takes up space. If you are given permission to take the boxes, pick them up promptly on the arranged date.

5. Recycle Centers

Currently, about 70% of cardboard boxes used commercially are recycled. That’s a lot of boxes heading for your local recycling center. Call the recycling center first to find out the rules for getting cardboard boxes before you head over. Most of the boxes will be broken down and flattened to save space. So, if you are going to go the recycling center route, be sure to stock up on extra packaging tape.

Moving Box Size Guide

To better prepare you to make a decision on which boxes you need for your move, check out our simple size guide below.

Standard Box Sizes

  • Small boxes: Measure approximately 16″ x 12″ x 12″ and are great for books, small items and kitchen tools
  • Medium boxes: Measure approximately 18″ x 16″ x 18″ and can hold small home decor items, bigger books, small throws and towels
  • Large boxes: Measure approximately 18″ x 18″ x 24″ and are essential for bedding, curtains, large kitchen tools and small pillows
  • Extra-large boxes: Measure approximately 24″ x 20″ x 24″ and can hold comforters, sheets, bigger pillows, small rugs and more

Free Box Hunting Do’s and Don’ts

Getting free boxes is a great way to cut down on moving costs. However, here are some things to keep in mind before you start collecting free boxes.

Packing Items Safely 

When it comes to packing items for a move, it is important to take the time to ensure that all items are packed correctly to prevent damage from occurring and allow all items to arrive safely at your new home. Be sure to wrap fragile items like glassware and electronics in bubble wrap, and use heavy-duty packing tape to seal boxes so that nothing falls out while in transit.

Moving can be overwhelming on the whole, but the process of packing is probably one of the most stressful parts. Not only do you have to sort, wrap and pack your belongings for transport, but there is also the added expense and hassle of getting boxes to pack. Thankfully, there are ways to source moving boxes, and some won’t cost you a dime. Here’s where to get boxes for your move so that you can have a faster, easier moving process.

Contact Pony Express Moving today to make your local move a seamless and enjoyable process.

 

Saving Time When Moving

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By the time moving day arrives, you just want to get it over with already. Moving to a new house is a time-consuming process, and a lot of the effort comes into play before you even get to the move.

Saving Time When Moving

Saving Time When Moving

The good news is that you don’t have to spend a lot of time on the moving process. We’ve put together a few key tips to help you save time when moving, so you can start making yourself at home.

Make a Schedule

This seems more like an obvious aspect than a hot tip for the organized ones among us. Making a schedule is crucial to saving time while moving. By planning the process, you’ll be able to tackle your tasks with ease and won’t risk scrambling at the last minute to get things done.

Start 60 days before your move and make a checklist of things you need to do. Include even the things you’re sure you could never forget. Things can easily fall through the cracks in the busyness of planning and moving. By having them on your list, you’re sure to remember them. And on the plus side: you’ll get the satisfaction of ticking things off the list.

Make sure to set due dates and fight the urge to save the harder or more tedious items for last.

Take a Moment to Downsize

We’ve shared a lot about downsizing your possessions, and with good reason: it’s honestly the best thing you can do for yourself. A home relocation is a perfect time to evaluate what you’ve got and kiss it goodbye if you don’t need it.

There are multiple benefits to channeling your inner Marie Kondo before moving day. Firstly, it just feels good to lighten your load, clear the clutter, and let someone else give your stuff a loving home. Sure, it may be hard to part with things, but trust us: you’ll be glad you did.

A more practical benefit? You’ll save time and money on your move. The less stuff you have, the less you have to pack, the less you have to move, and the less you have to unpack and find a place for. You’ll also save space in a moving truck and save the time and effort of movers, meaning you’ll spend less money on your move.

Pack Like the Pros… Or Hire Them

Saving time on moving day isn’t just about swiftly prepping and getting out of your current home. It’s also about making things efficient in your new home, which means “starting with the end in mind.”

Packing like a pro means labeling like a pro, helping to ensure your boxes arrive in the right rooms in your new home. Try creating a color-coded system for your labels, using a single color per room for easy recognition. Make sure to clearly label on multiple sides and the top, as your boxes will shift in the move.

Do future you a favor, and be specific with your box contents when you can. No, that doesn’t mean writing up a full inventory on each and every box. It means being clear about what goes where. For example, MASTER BEDROOM – NAME – DRESSER will let you know whose stuff is in the box and where you’ll expect to unpack them (the dresser, in this case).

If you really want to save some time, hire the experts to pack for you. A full-service moving company will show up at your house with all of the supplies, pack all of your things, and pack your items, so they’re safe for transport. They’ll even unpack for you in your new home and take all of the waste away with them.

Collect the Right Moving Supplies

Don’t spend time scrambling for more boxes and bubble wrap while you’re getting packed. Start with all of the moving supplies you need, and save yourself the hunting or trip to the packing store.

Once you’ve downsized, you’ll have a better idea of how much stuff you have. Then, you can start collecting boxes. Consider other things like bubble wrap, newspaper, markers, tape, box cutters, and other supplies.

Want to save time, money, and waste? Repurpose things you have for packing your items. Suitcases make great replacements for boxes. Some dressers can remain full, or you can take out the dressers and leave the items in. Rags, towels, and clothes make great padding for fragile items.

Arrange Your House for Moving Day

Check with your mover first to see if they’ll unplug your appliances if you’re moving them. Many movers won’t do it for you (or will charge more if it’s a service you need), so plan ahead. That includes light fixtures and other electronics.

Next, you’ll want to prepare your home for navigating the space with boxes and furniture. Clear walkways and ensure the path to the door is open. Tell your movers in advance if there are things in your home that you aren’t taking with you. That will save you time and effort during the move.

Enlist an Expert Moving Team

No matter how much you’ve moved in your life, an expert mover has done it more. They have moving down to a science and will save time while making it all look effortless. You may be tempted to go with a DIY move, but trust us: it almost always costs more time, money, and energy than you anticipate.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

Moving Out of Your Parents’ House

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So you’ve decided to leave the nest? Congratulations! Moving out of your parents’ house is a big deal. It’s a process that requires plenty of careful planning, consideration, and “adulting.” To help you successfully move out of your parents’ home, we’ve put together 13 easy steps that are sure to help you achieve the independence you want. Good luck and happy moving!

Moving Out of Your Parents’ House1. Communicate with your parents

Perhaps your parents are ready to see you go and have been encouraging your departure for a while. Or perhaps, they want you to stay forever. Whatever their opinion on the matter, it’s important to clearly communicate your intentions to them – and, if necessary, your moving plan. Remember: Even if they are excited about your new adventure, they could still be somewhat sad to see you go. With this in mind, make sure to be extra sensitive to their needs and emotions when communicating your move-out plans.

2. Develop a move-out plan

Before moving out of your parents’ house, come up with a moving plan that both you and your parents can agree upon. I recommend coming up with a goal date for when you think you will be able to move out. This doesn’t mean you have to move out by this date, but it is a starting point for you and your parents.

In addition to your move-out date, your moving plan should include where you intend to move, what type of property you want to move to (apartment, home, student housing, etc.), and whether you intend to have a roommate. Also, consider whether you will be hiring professional movers or doing the work yourself with the help of a few friends. You can change your mind on any of these as your plans progress, but having a framework will make it easier to get started.

3. Establish good credit

If you haven’t already established good credit, now’s the time to start. For those who want to purchase a home, be aware that a less than stellar credit score (or no credit score) means you’re less likely to obtain a home loan from a bank. If you’re unable to get a loan from a mortgage lender, you can kiss home-ownership goodbye (at least for now).

If you plan to rent, your credit history will also be important. Many landlords and property managers now run credit checks on rental applicants. By assessing a potential renter’s credit history, the landlord can get a good idea of whether or not the applicant pays bills and rent on time. Of course, those planning to rent without credit can usually have a co-signer, such as a relative with good credit, sign the lease as well. However, it’s a good idea to start building a healthy credit score in the meantime.

One of the easiest ways to establish good credit is to sign up for a credit card, use it to purchase anything from gas to concert tickets, and pay your bill on time in full every month, according to Experian. Or, you can establish good credit by paying your student loans or car loans on time. Although there are other ways to establish credit, such as joining a lending circle that loans money to its members, opening a credit card and making timely payments on loans are probably your best bet.

4. Start saving money for a down payment

If you’re planning to purchase a home, you’re going to need enough money in the bank for a down payment. To get there, we suggest coming up with a savings plan that is realistic and reasonable. Tip: This is the time to curb unnecessary spending. From temporarily canceling a gym membership and cooking at home to cutting back on shopping and travel expenses, there are many easy ways to save money.

Budgeting can also help you save money. Start by determining how much money you earn every month. Next, list your monthly expenses. This includes entertainment, meals out, student loan payments, gas, car payments, and insurance. If you’re not sure what you spend your money on, consider recording every penny you spend, where you spend it, and what you spend it on. Do this for at least a week, or better yet a month, to help with your budgeting. Calculate how much you spend each month on those items. If you spend $200 a month on gas, list it. Make adjustments as necessary, so you can save a certain amount every month towards your down payment.

5. Budget for after the move

Once you have a budget to help you save money for your down payment, it should be easy to create a budget to cover all of the expenses of owning or renting your own space. Some of your budget items will transfer directly from your current budget to your after-the-move budget. These include your loan payments, car insurance, and entertainment. But you may have to make some changes. If you live further or closer to work, you’ll need to adjust how much you budget for gas, for example.

Plus, you’ll have new expenses. If you don’t contribute to the family’s groceries, you’ll need to factor in that cost. You’ll also have to add your monthly rent or mortgage payment, utilities, and, if you purchase a house, HOA fees and property taxes.

Almost certainly, your largest budget line item will be your monthly mortgage or rent. If you’re planning to rent, your current monthly income should be more than enough to comfortably cover rental expenses, including the rent, utilities, rental insurance, and others.

If you’re planning to buy a home, we recommend speaking with a mortgage broker to determine how much house you can afford to buy. These brokers will take your gross annual income, credit history and debt (among other things) into consideration to figure out how much lenders will be willing to loan you. Sometimes that amount is higher than you can realistically afford. To avoid feeling “house poor,” we recommend purchasing a home that you can actually afford – and not one that stretches the budget.

6. Find a Realtor

After you’ve determined your budget and saved up enough money for a down payment, start looking for a reputable Realtor. If this is the first time you’ve ever purchased a home, enlisting a qualified and helpful Realtor is especially important. In addition to a real estate agent’s deep knowledge of the market, they also handle all negotiations and paperwork so you don’t have to. The right Realtor should be able to walk you through the home-buying process – keeping your interests, needs and budget top of mind.

What if a friend or a family member has a real estate license? Should you use them? According to Realtor.com, this might not be the best idea for several reasons. For starters, they may not have expertise in the neighborhood where you want to move, which can make it more difficult to find a good property. Second, if things turn sour, you may have to fire them and lose a friend in the process. Unless that friend or a family member has experience in the area where you want to move, consider politely declining their offer to represent you.

7. Schedule movers or ask your friends for help

Unless you have very little to move, we recommend enlisting either friends or professionals to assist with the move. If enlisting friends for a DIY move, consider renting a moving truck from a reputable company. If you’re hoping to hire professionals to help with part of the move, you can enlist labor-only movers to assist with loading and unloading the rental truck. This will most certainly be less expensive than hiring full-service movers to handle the entire move for you.

Be sure to schedule the movers (if you plan to use them) as far in advance as possible. Last-minute moves cost more than ones booked in advance. And if you wait too long, you may have a more difficult time finding movers available for your dates. Looking to save a little money on your move? Book your move on a weekday versus a weekend and anytime but the end of the month when leases usually end.

8. Donate, sell or consign items you don’t need

Have too much stuff? If your closets are overflowing, it may be time to get rid of your belongings before you move. After all, the less stuff you have to move, the easier (and cheaper) your move will be. Try donating gently-used items to local charities and consigning nicer items to local consignment stores. Also, consider throwing a garage sale or selling belongings via an online marketplace.

If you have a lot of junk to get rid of or large items you can’t donate or easily dispose of, you may want to hire a junk removal company. The company can remove unwanted mattresses, furniture, exercise equipment, and general junk. Let your parents know your plans, and if they have any items they want to get rid of, they may be willing to split the costs.

9. Find packing supplies

From boxes and tape to bubble wrap and foam pouches, you’re going to need to find packing and moving supplies to help with your next move. Fortunately, packing supplies can be found online, as well as at your workplace, nearby libraries, large retailers, and more. Also, check out this list of where to find free boxes. To find out the exact number of moving boxes you’ll need, use Moving.com’s handy Packing Calculator. Those looking for specific box sizes and shapes may have to resort to purchasing moving supplies.

Another option is to use plastic bins. You can rent these environmentally friendly containers from companies like U-Haul, Bungo Box, and Rent A Green Box. Some companies also rent moving supplies and sell sustainable packing supplies.

10. Pack

After gathering your supplies, it’s time to get packin’! We suggest packing non-essentials (those items you won’t need in the coming weeks) first. Examples are seasonal clothing, knickknacks, photos, books, etc. The day before you move, pack essentials, such as toiletries, pajamas, prescription meds, etc., in a separate box that can easily be found on moving day. Make sure to clearly label all boxes and keep important documents with you at all times.

If you are running out of time or need extra help, it is possible to hire packers to help you box your items for you. They’ll bring packing supplies with them, properly wrap and box your items, and do it in less time than you could. Expect to pay them by the hour and the number of people sent to get the job done.

11. Set up new utilities

News flash: If you’ve been living with your parents, you’ve been using their utilities. Unless you want to walk into a dark home with no electricity, you’ll need to set up utilities and cable in your new place as soon as possible. We recommend calling the utility companies early on to let them know when you’ll be moving in. Once you’ve scheduled dates for all utilities to be turned on, you’ll need to call the cable company to reserve an installation date as well.

12. Change your address

Unless you want your parents to receive your mail, change your address ASAP. Fortunately, USPS makes it easy. All you have to do is go to USPS.com and choose the date that you wish to begin forwarding your mail. Don’t forget to also change your credit card billing address and let your bank know that you’re moving. You may need to notify your college if you are attending school or your employer as well. To avoid confusion, it may also be helpful to send out an email to friends and family with your new address.

13. Move out and celebrate with a housewarming party

You did it! After saving your money and packing your bags, you’ve successfully moved out of your parents’ house and into your new place. Congratulations! This newfound freedom was certainly worth every tedious step along the way.

Want to celebrate (without disturbing your new neighbors, of course)? Consider throwing a housewarming party. It doesn’t have to be fancy: just a few friends, some budget-friendly food, and a great ambiance. But it gives you a chance to show off all that you’ve accomplished.

Ready to move?

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services When Moving Out of Your Parents’ House. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

How to Cut Your Moving Costs

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Moving can be a stressful time. With all of the little things to keep track of, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. And that’s before you even start tallying up the cost of getting to your new place.

Moving costs can often catch people by surprise. The desire to save money can also lead to some drastic and less comfortable decisions, like assuming you can handle the grunt work all on your own.

Before you decide to push all of your belongings to the roadside so you don’t have to deal with moving, check out our tips on cutting moving costs.

How to Cut Your Moving CostsCollect Free Boxes

If you want to save some money, start with the packing supplies. Rather than paying for moving boxes, try collecting free ones. Places like liquor stores, bookshops, and groceries are great places to find boxes that would otherwise be discarded. Be careful to collect boxes in relatively good shape, particularly if you have fragile things to pack. Make sure to reinforce the seams with packing tape for extra care.

For most (if not all) of your items, you don’t need to buy bubble wrap and packing peanuts. Try using rags, towels, clothes, and other soft items to wrap fragile and delicate items. Clearly label your boxes on multiple sides to keep them extra safe.

Choose Your Dates Carefully

The principles of supply and demand apply to moving and prices fluctuate accordingly. If you are able to plan your move to save money, consider moving in the lower season between late fall and early spring. Even if you don’t have the luxury to choose the time of year, you can (hopefully) still choose your day and time. Holidays and weekends are more expensive than mid-week moves. That means you’ll cut your moving costs by scheduling your move on a weekday.

Do Your Own Packing and Prepping

While full-service movers can pack everything in your house for you, it will cost you. If you’re looking to cut moving costs, handle all of the packing yourself. As most movers calculate cost based, in part, on the amount of time it takes for your relocation, the more preparation you do ahead of time, the better. Disassemble furniture yourself and collect boxes in an accessible place.

Pull in Favors

Other costs can add up, like cleaning and making repairs in your place before you leave. Call in some favors with friends and family and see if they’ll come for a bit of a practicality-centric going away party.

The same goes for child and pet care on moving day. Having your kids – the two- or four-legged kind – running around can be dangerous for both them and the movers. Enlist the help of a trusted person in your life and save the cost of daycare.

Downsize

Since movers charge based on how long the move will take, you can assume that the more you have, the more it will cost you. If you want to cut your moving costs, take a moment to do some downsizing.

We recommend doing a bit of a purge before every move. Why bother packing and unpacking things you don’t want or need? Relocating is an excellent opportunity for a fresh start. You might even make some money if you have things to get rid of that you could sell. Give yourself enough time to sort, evaluate, list, and complete the transaction without pressure.

Check for Tax Deductions

Save your moving receipts – you never know how they may come in handy. If you’re moving for work, you may be entitled to a tax deduction on your moving expenses so keep good (and official) records.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services When Moving. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

Millennials Moving Tips

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Millennials are growing up; managing your first move without the benefits of parental castoffs or finances. The first thing you may have discovered about picking up sticks and relocating is that the expenses mount up fast. The second thing is that it’s going to take mad organizational skills to get everything you own from point A to point B without mistaking your X-Box box for your Ninja box.

Millennials Moving TipsUse Your Tech for Good

There are tons of apps to help you organize a move–they’ll track everything from your packing (store photos of what you put in every box) to setting up utilities (big life skill) to hiring a moving company. You can share the info with roommates or family so everybody is always on the same page.

Low-Tech Still Rules for Moving

All the fun apps in the world can’t replace old-fashioned boxes and packing tape. Here’s a moving tip that you’ll use for the rest of your life–get small boxes. Sure, you can get more stuff in a large box, but they get heavy very fast. Lots of small boxes are more useful than a few giant ones.

So, you’ll need boxes, packing tape (spring for the tape gun), some newsprint or bubble wrap for padding, and markers. If you’re really organized, you can use color coded markers for your boxes, but most people are happy with a black wide-tip Sharpie.

One large box that’s worth investing in is a wardrobe box–a heavy duty box with a metal hanging bar across the top. You can stow your hanging clothes in this box and not worry about wrinkles and dry cleaning when you unpack. Check with your local moving company for any specialty boxes that you might require.

Allow Yourself Plenty of Time

Remember when you were in college and could pack up and move to another apartment (or room in the frat house) in an afternoon? Forget that. Now you have furniture, electronics, kayaks, and all the stuff that you used to keep in your parent’s basement. Not to mention your t-shirt collection. Give yourself a couple of weeks at least to pack up for your move–the further you’re going, the more time you’ll need.

A good rule of thumb is a few days for each room–you can pack up a studio apartment a lot faster than you can a two-bedroom condo. Collect all the stuff you don’t use or don’t need–donate it, give it away or throw it out.

Realize Your Limitations

Sure, you’re young and ready to take on the world, but you may still need professional movers, especially if you have stuff like a motorcycle or a jet ski. If you’re moving a long distance and flying to your new home, you’ll also likely need to transport your car. Professional movers can pack and move ALL your stuff for you, and you won’t have to worry about it not getting there in one piece.

If it’s at all in your budget, seriously consider hiring a professional moving company for your move. If you’re relocating for a job, your relocation package probably includes this bonus, so definitely take advantage of it.

Take a Selfie

Nothing is ever real until it’s a story on social media, so be sure to take a picture as soon as you’re in your new house.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

Moving From City of Boston to the Suburbs

It’s no secret that the real estate market is booming across the United States, and much of that interest is in suburban neighborhoods. In fact, a Zillow survey predicted that A Stronger Housing Market Across the Board. Surrounding suburban areas are sure to benefit from this trend, especially as COVID-19 has made remote working and schooling the norm.

If you’re wondering if a switch from the City of Boston hustle to suburban solitude is right for you, here are a few points to consider before jumping into this hot market.

Moving From City of Boston to the SuburbsLarger Homes & Yards vs. More Maintenance

The average square feet of a two-bedroom apartment in Boston is around 1,000 square feet. But moving out to the suburbs of Greater Boston area will double that, with many apartments coming closer to 2,000 square feet!

That makes a big difference, especially for those planning to expand their family. Additionally, these larger homes sit on larger plots of land that provide outdoor space that isn’t feasible in most city neighborhoods.

On the negative side, you have to take care of all that space. More appliances, larger units to fully service a bigger home, a lawn to mow, repainting the previous owner’s pea green kitchen… you and your wallet will have to front the costs to maintain the upkeep. Plus, suburban dwellers are often hit with higher property taxes and homeowner’s association (HOA) fees. That can add significantly to your monthly costs and should be carefully considered before making a move.

Peace & Quiet vs. Missing the City Life

Former city lovers often say they chose to move to get away from all the bustle and noise. Sure, traffic and late-night bar-goers can keep you up at night if you’re in a central location – but is it enough to fully relocate?

For some, the answer is yes. The idea of only hearing birds and crickets is an appealing way to unplug. For others, the sounds of silence could leave them craving the energy of downtown living. Take this into consideration when you’re looking at different neighborhoods, and even spend a few nights in prospective areas to fully understand what your new environment will be like.

Better School Districts vs. Zoning Hurdles

While it is sometimes a misconception that city schools are inadequate compared to suburban counterparts, it has historically been shown that suburban schools receive more funding and benefit heavily from the higher property taxes we talked about earlier. This can mean smaller class sizes, better-maintained facilities, and a more appealing workplace for sought-after teachers.

However, it’s important to note that you may not automatically receive all these benefits when you find your perfect suburban home. School district zoning can be strict and, at times, seemingly random. Your home could be zoned in a district different from your neighbors across the street. If moving for better schools is at the top of your list, pay careful attention to zoning lines before you buy.

Suburban Conveniences vs. A Longer Commute

While cities do offer many appealing activities from restaurants to stores to museums, they are often spread out and require a lot of planning to visit. Suburban shopping centers provide the convenience of popular retailers and eateries all in one spot. Ample parking also eliminates a common city headache.

On the other hand, one location that may not be close is your office. Moving out of city limits could mean you’re suddenly battling rush hour traffic and spending more time in your car than with your family. It’s certainly worth a test drive to see if your new route is one you can realistically handle every day.

Ready to Make a Move?

Once you have fully weighed the pros and cons and are ready to make your move, make your first call Pony Express Moving. From the very first consultation to the last piece of furniture placed in your new home, we’ll provide in-depth care and attention to detail, so your relocation is stress-free.

Our skilled local moving team is a part of the community, living and working here every day. We know the ins and outs to help customers with smooth, easy transitions. Plus, we offer a full range of customizable services that allow you to create the moving plan to fit your budget.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

Don’t Forget Your Outdoor Items

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When you are planning for a move, it is common to think about all the items inside your house that will need to be moved to your new home. However, many people have numerous items, such as grills and patio furniture, outside that cannot be overlooked. Preparing and packing outdoor items for a move can be like packing some of your indoor furniture, but like with all home items, it is important to take special care to do the job right. Otherwise, you may arrive at your new home with broken furniture and a dented-up grill.Moving Outdoor Items

Deep Cleaning

Even before packing a cushion, do some deep cleaning of the outdoor furniture and grill. If they aren’t clean for the move, you might end up with dirt and grime on other belongings that ride beside them in the moving van. Spray all surfaces of the patio furniture down with cleaner, wipe clean and rinse with water. Make sure and get all the cracks and crevices on the furniture. For the grill, remove the soot and ashes from the inside and clean the grease or ash catcher. Additionally, consult the manual to see if there is a suggested cleaning solution for the inside and outside of the grill and to see if they have further recommendations for cleaning.

Packing

After you have cleaned your furniture and grill, you can begin to pack it up for your move. Remove pillows and cushions from the patio furniture and set them aside. Take apart any furniture items that can easily be disassembled and make sure to keep track of all the hardware in a bag or box that you can label and tape to the frame. Wrap the furniture pieces in moving blankets and take care to cover all the sides with the blankets. Once they are securely wrapped, secure the pads with tape to prevent damage. Make sure that any pillows or cushions are completely dry before packing them in boxes. Label the boxes for easy identification at your new home.

Remove grates, trays and small parts from your grill and carefully wrap them in packing paper and place them in boxes. You’ll also want to remove the propane tank from the grill. Verify with your moving company if they can load the tank on the moving van. You will likely need to transport it yourself or leave it behind and purchase a new tank after arriving to your new house, as most professional movers will not move anything flammable or combustible. Wrap the grill in moving blankets and secure with tape for safe moving.

Remember that a professional mover can assist with the packing and moving of your patio furniture and grill (minus the propane tank). If you want to forego the hassle of packing your outdoor and indoor items, Pony Express Moving Services would be honored to assist with your move.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Free moving quotes.

Pros & Cons of a Moving in Winter

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Are you considering (or possibly stuck) moving in winter? Moving can be stressful, but trying to load and unload boxes and furniture in sub zero temperatures makes it even less desirable.

Hiring professional movers will definitely make your life easier during a cold weather move. But is moving in winter your best option?

Let’s explore the pros and cons of a winter move.

Disadvantages of Moving in Winter

Pros & Cons of a Moving in WinterThere are plenty of reasons not to move in winter. The weather is colder, walkways harder to maintain, and all you want to do is stay inside with a warm blanket and a cup of cocoa. But what are some of the main reasons to avoid moving in the coldest months of the year?

Inclement Weather

One of the biggest reasons people avoid a winter move is because no one wants to move when the ground is covered in snow and ice. Moving in the winter can be flat out unsafe. There is real potential for slipping on a patch of ice when carrying a heavy box or driving a large moving truck.

If you’re planning a winter move, especially a long distance move, it’s essential to hire professional movers to ensure your safety.

Missing the Holidays

The best part of winter is, of course, celebrating the holidays with family and friends. So why risk having to change your plans? You could miss the most wonderful time of the year because you’re stressed about moving and making sure all your ducks are in a row.

Moving During the School Year

This applies to both teachers and those with school age children. Moving during the school year means that you’re adding a major disruption to your and your family’s lives during one of the busiest times of the year.

Benefits of Moving in Winter

Some people may say there are no pros to moving in winter, but there are plenty of fiscally positive reasons to move in the winter. If you’re looking to save money and convenience isn’t your top priority, there are plenty of reasons to consider a winter move.

Flexible Moving Dates

Since winter is a less popular time for moving, you’ll have your pick of move in dates. With how stressful moving can be, it’s a huge plus to have the opportunity to pick and choose exactly when you get to move. Also, if you need to change your date or time for some reason, you’re much more likely to be able to do so.

Less Competition

Fewer people are looking to buy homes or move in the winter, so competition will be sparse when looking to purchase a home. You’re also likely to pay at least 10% less than you would for the same home in the spring or summer — strictly because you decided to move in the winter!

Enjoy Your Summer

Let’s be real — it’s a bummer to miss out on what most people (especially Minnesotans) consider the best season of the year for something as stressful as moving. Why waste beautiful weather stuck packing, moving, and unpacking? Use the winter for what it’s for — getting settled inside your cozy new home.

It’s Your Call

Ultimately, barring uncontrollable events, it’s completely up to you when you want to move. You must weigh the pros and cons to decide when/how moving will benefit you the most.

Use Boston’s Most Trusted Movers

Here’s one last perk of winter moves: Winter isn’t a traditionally busy season for moving companies, so you’ll also have your pick of the best moving companies!

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Request a Free Quote Online for Moving in Winter !

When is the Best Time to Move?

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When is the Best Time to Move?From hiring movers and renting a truck to packing boxes and decluttering closets, it’s easy for your moving date selection to fall to the bottom of your relocation priorities. Just remember, though, this one little detail can make an enormous difference when it comes to the ease of your move and the size of your bank account. Over the course of our own multiple relocations, we’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that when you move is just as important as how you move. So in the spirit of learning from mistakes, here are the absolute best times to plan your next move in terms of convenience and costs.

Best Season to Move: It Depends

Ultimately, this decision comes down to your own needs, budget and preferences. Those trying to save money on a move should choose a late fall, winter or early spring move. Those with school-age children should consider opting for a summertime move. Those who strongly prefer to move in mild weather conditions may want to move during the fall or spring.

Fall: Great weather conditions for moving and you may be able to get a better deal on a home during the off season.

Winter: Cheapest time of the year to move since demand is lowest. Moving companies have more flexible schedules. May not be ideal if moving with children.

Spring: The weather won’t be as harsh as the winter months and demand is still lighter in March and April.

Summer: Ideal time if you are selling your home since demand is highest and you may get a higher price. Also, if you are moving with children then this season is ideal since they won’t be in school.

Best Month of the Year: Mid-September through April

If you define by “best” by cost then, generally speaking, you are more likely to save on a move during the late September to April window. Demand for movers usually slows down during this time frame and rates are low. According to various moving professionals, peak moving season stretches from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend, with roughly 70 percent of all moving takes place in the spring and summer. The reason for this? Families with children tend to move during the summer months to avoid any disturbances during the school year. It’s also easier to move in the spring and summer when the weather is ideal.

In addition, college students and other renters usually move in the early fall and late spring, since this is when most leases start and end. Keep in mind that if you live in a large city with university students, you’ll certainly want to try and avoid moving in early September. In Boston, for instance, the majority of apartment leases begin on September 1, making it the busiest moving day in the city. If you want to avoid moving mayhem in the streets, I suggest researching the most popular moving days (or lease start and end dates) in your own city.

Best Week of the Month: Mid-month

We suggest planning a “mid-month” move instead of a move at the beginning or end of the month. If you have the flexibility to avoid moving the first and last weekend of the month, then we strongly recommend opting for a mid-month, mid-week move. This is typically when demand is lowest and therefore, your costs may be lowest as well. As a general rule of thumb: the first of the month is more likely to be busy for movers since most leases begin the first of the month.

Best Day of the Week to Move: Weekdays (Monday through Thursday)

When picking a move date, it’s best to choose a weekday. Many moving companies like Pony Express Moving Services suggest moving during the Monday to Thursday window when there is less demand. So if you can afford to miss a day of work to move during the week, I highly recommend doing so. Moving on a Saturday or Sunday may increase your costs due to higher demand for movers and limited number of weekends in a month (especially during peak moving season). Moving on a weekday also means you’ll have the entire upcoming weekend to unpack and get organized before your following work week.

Best Time of Day to Move: Early AM

Good news early birds: mornings are the best time to get moving. If you hire a professional moving company, they’ll want to arrive in the A.M. – roughly during the 8 to 10 a.m. window. Early mornings usually mean cooler conditions for the movers during those warmer months. “The elements have a lot to do with it,” long-time moving professional Scott Dickerson tells me. “When it gets to be 105 degrees outside, we want to be gone by 2 p.m. to beat the heat.” If you’re moving yourself, it’s a good idea to get an early start as well. You’ll have more energy in the mornings (after that cup of joe, anyway), and you’ll be left with more time to unpack, organize and enjoy your new digs.

Other considerations when selecting your moving date

  • Weather: It goes without saying (but I’ll say it anyway) that you should trust your common sense. If you happen to live in a cold climate, you’re probably better off avoiding a move smack-dab in the middle of winter. After all, icy roads, treacherous conditions and heavy lifting make for a miserable time.
  • Work: If you have to move during a busy time at work, then it may be worth the extra bucks to move on a weekend date.
  • Family concerns: Have school-age children? It may make more sense to move during the summer in order to avoid a chaotic school year.

Of course, not all of us have the option to move at the most ideal time. The “best” time for you will really depend on: location, weather, budget, family matters and flexibility at work. Once you have these figured out, you’re on your way to a successful move.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Request a Free Quote Online.

Keep Your Home Clean and Organized After A Move

Home Clean and Organized After A MoveThe process of moving can seem never-ending. But there’s nothing quite like the feeling of finally getting everything unpacked and settling into your home. Those first few days after unpacking are pretty glorious—everything is in its right place and your space is perfectly clean and uncluttered. The good news is, it’s actually pretty easy to keep it that way.

Embrace small changes first

If you’re generally a bit messy, it may be difficult for you to adopt a tidier and more organized lifestyle. Trying to clean your home from top to bottom at once can be quite overwhelming for you, so you should try to adopt simple habits first. For instance, you can start by simply washing the dishes after your meal every time. Gradually, you can implement other changes until you realize that living in a clean, organized home is much more inspiring and motivating.

Greet change at your front door

When cleaning your home, you should embrace change at your front door – leave your shoes there. You can imagine how much dirt and bacteria you’re bringing inside when you walk around your home in your shoes. So, once you step inside, take off your shoes and leave them by your front door. If you have a lot of shoes, make sure to introduce enough storage units for you and your family members. You can even design a built-in shoe closet next to your entry.

Don’t let clutter rule your life

According to NBC News, one in four Americans actually has a clutter problem. Not only is this making your space smaller, stuffier and more overwhelming, but it’s actually leaving you without a few extra bucks in your wallet. You’d be surprised by how much money you can earn by simply selling your clutter online or organizing a yard sale. Therefore, instead of feeling cramped in your own home and letting clutter take over your life, you should finally free yourself and your space from unnecessary junk and useless items. The best way to declutter your home is to deal with one room at a time. You should throw away anything that you haven’t used in more than a year, put away some items and clothing that you want to donate and set aside those things that you can sell.

Start your morning the organized way

Your bedroom will seem more organized the moment you make your bed in the morning. This will take just a few minutes each morning and you’ll be able to start your day by creating an organized look in your bedroom. Afterwards, your personal sanctuary will seem more relaxing and inspiring, which will have a positive effect on you, as well.

Pay attention to what you breathe in

When cleaning and tidying up their homes, most people consider dusting, mopping, scrubbing and vacuuming without even thinking about the quality of their indoor air. Yet, indoor pollution is a serious issue that can affect your health and your home’s general atmosphere. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to eliminate or at least mitigate this problem in your home. For instance, effective AC units are a key component for creating a healthy, airy atmosphere in homes. Furthermore, proper air conditioning installation is a way of ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of both duct and spit systems in households. Therefore, if you feel that your home needs some fresh air, you should have an AC unit installed by professionals so that you can rest assured that it’s working properly.

Other ways to increase your indoor air quality is to introduce air purifiers and houseplants that will help you remove airborne toxins and allergens. You should also switch to healthy, green cleaning products instead of using those highly toxic ones.

Wash and deep clean

Everything from covers and pillowcases to drapes and area rugs collects dust and allergens in your home every day. Carpets and rugs, in particular, are full of dirt, toxins and other pollutants that can easily spread throughout your space. Therefore, you should wash and deep clean your fabrics, carpets, rugs and other materials on a regular basis. While covers, pillowcases, sheets, cloths, towels and other materials can be easily thrown into the washing machine, rugs and carpets require more effort, so you can just have them professionally cleaned at least twice a year.

Put away after use

Learning to put an item away after using it is a simple habit that will save you a lot of effort. By always keeping each item in its own place, you’ll prevent clutter from building up. You may need to introduce more storage units, but you’ll finally have enough room for everything.

Clean as you go

You probably passed by a blanket thrown over your sofa or a pile of magazines lying on your coffee table countless times. Instead of choosing not to even pay attention to these messy spots, you should tidy them up as soon as you notice them. Every time you pass by a cluttered or dirty area in your home, don’t ignore it, but deal with it immediately. This will save you a lot of trouble later on when you can’t postpone cleaning anymore.

Keeping your home clean, tidy and healthy often entails adopting simple habits that will make both your home and your life more organized.

Save money with Pony Express Moving Assisted Living Home Services. Lower prices than traditional moving companies and you don’t have to drive! Request a free quote online.