Professional Packers and Packing Services

While PODS biggest feature is the fact it allows you to load and unload on your own schedule, sometimes carrying boxes back and forth just doesn’t seem as fun as say, watching someone else load your PODS storage container.

Sometimes, when making a move, the work needs to be completed in a small window of time and often, your time is being split between several different priorities besides packing your belongings.  Especially given that packing can be especially time-consuming and without previous experience or proper materials this can lead to a lot of uncertainty.  Will this box be too heavy to place on top of other boxes? Am I packing my container most efficiently?  It might even be difficult to decide what should be wrapped or how much it should be wrapped.

Depending on how much you have, it might even be too much to handle for one or two people! A great alternative is using a professional moving service* such as those listed below:

Choosing professional movers

Choosing a moving company can feel like an overwhelming task. Where can you start? What should you look for? Here’s a short checklist to help outline some steps in choosing a professional moving company:

• Give yourself plenty of time – If you have the luxury of time, start considering moving companies as much as 8 weeks before moving day. Planning well in advance will make it much more likely you’ll find a moving company you’re going to be satisfied with. It will also allow you to compare many cost estimates, and to build a more solid idea of how much your move will cost.

  As well, always ask if the estimates are guaranteed or variable. Often, estimates from van lines are based on the best-case scenario and can vary widely once your items are loaded on the truck and weighed.  It’s much harder to negotiate a price when everything you own is on some one else’s truck.

• Get feedback from family, friends and the internet – Were these moving companies on time? Were they professional? Did they have the right equipment for the job? What about damage? You can get an abundance of personal testimonials from neighbors, friends, and family about local moving companies. Additionally, researching a moving company on the internet can provide some insight into its reputation and history from a wider clientele. Be sure to check business advocacy sites such as the Better Business Bureau. If your employer is transferring you, ask your relocation agent.

• Determine the size, distance, and timing of your move – How much can you afford to spend on your move? How much work can you do yourself? Be honest, and over-estimate often. Knowing these facts can help you evaluate moving estimates and decide what company is best for you.

  As well, make sure to plan for the unknown.  What if weather delays happen?  Research hotels along your route and make sure you can afford an extra few nights in a hotel if necessary.  How flexible is your departure and arrival date? Have you packed enough in case your belongings are delayed on their arrival due to weather as well?  Make sure to have your options open in case things don’t go according to plan.

• Determine which items the company in question will not transport – Some common restrictions include hazardous items such as paint, cleaners, aerosol cans, or gasoline. Many companies will not move personal valuables such as jewelry, important documents or furs, and many have restrictions involving pets and plants.

Putting some time into making sure you have made the right choice will help you avoid a considerable amount of the stress involved in choosing a moving company. A few minutes of planning is worth avoiding a lot of potential headaches down the road.

Moving with PODS – an introduction

Moving is something that will happen, sure as death and taxes. Whether it’s to take advantage of a new position in another city, a growing family or a job promotion, everyone moves.

And as your family grows or your career requires more responsibility, moving tends to get more complex and stressful – the last thing you want to have to deal with. It’s no longer an afternoon with a buddy’s truck, a few pals to help with the heavy lifting, and then a few beers. Moving a household, across town or across the nation, requires planning, dedication, and patience to make it come off right.

Here is where PODS – Portable On Demand Storage – can step in to help make your move less stressful. PODS takes care of the early planning for your move – allowing you to pack and store at your own pace.

Keep your eyes on our blog for tips on moving and storage. We’ll offer ideas on simplifying your move, de-cluttering your home and news on PODS innovations.