Category: Apartment Rental Tips

Transcription

1 Moving.LifeTips.com

2 Category: Apartment Rental Tips Subcategory: Apartment Rental Tips Tip: Before You Sign a Lease Once you have decided on an apartment to move in to, you will want to keep in the mind the following things before signing the lease. The lease is a legal document that binds you to your rental agreement through a rental company or landlord, so it is important that you know everything on that lease and agree to it before signing on the dotted line. You will want the lease to have a description of every room in the apartment you are renting, it should have written what is working, what isn't, what things look like and if there are any stains on any carpet, counter tops or other appliances. If there are any items in the apartment that need repair, have the landlord put that in the lease along with an agreement on his or her part to fix it before your move in date. Double check your lease to see what it says about terminating the lease before the allotted time- for example you sign a lease for one year, if you need to move out before that one year, is there a penalty for doing so? What about the deposit you put down? What would be the cause of not receiving your deposit back after your lease expires? What about pets? If you have a pet is there a pet disclosure agreement included in the lease? What does it say about cleaning up after your pet? Reading over every detail of your lease before signing is crucial and remember to keep a copy of your lease and make sure you get one. You can't do anything without proof that you have a signed and written agreement between the rental company and yourself. Tip: Comparing Apartment Choices One good way to compare apartments when looking is to take along an apartment comparison sheet. You can do a simple search engine search for a sheet to download and print off. The sheet will most likely have the several pieces of information on it and can be filled out with each apartment you see. What can you expect an apartment comparison sheet to have? You will want to fill out the name and the address of each apartment at the top of the sheet. You will then have a checklist with many different choices on it. One topic on the checklist may be "Living space" and will ask you questions, which you will check yes or no. An example of a question asked would be; "Do the kitchen drawers open and close easily?" You may have another topic entitled, "Security" which would ask you questions about how secure the building and the unit is in the building. Expect questions about fencing around the property and if all the windows lock in the unit you may rent. Your apartment comparison checklist should have many more topics than those mentioned above, topics such as appliances, noise, and plumbing should all have questions regarding that specific topic. Once you have seen all the apartments you are interested in, you can go over your completed checklists to help you make an educated decision about which one is right for you. Remember to take a tape measure in order to measure if your furniture will fit through

3 the doors of all the apartments you visit and see if your furniture will fit well inside the unit. If you are working with a moving company, many offer these apartment checklists free of charge through their website. You may want to search the specific mover website or speak to a representative from the company to see if a checklist is offered. If not, remember you can find them on the Internet. Tip: Renter's Resume In many cities the apartment rental market moves fast and landlords can be picky about who they want living in their rental. If you are hoping to move into a new apartment you may want to consider having something typed up called a renter's resume. A renter's resume is kind of like a resume you would have when applying for jobs, but instead of past work history you would have past rental history. You may also wish to include letters of reference from past landlords or friends who can vouch for your character as an apartment renter. In competitive markets a renter's resume may be just what you need to get the landlord's attention, thus helping you rent that beautiful apartment you have always dreamed of. If you don't have a past rental history, write a letter explaining how responsible you are, your work history and give some references from people who know your character and turn that in. It may give you an added edge over someone who doesn't have anything at all. Category: Long Distance Relocation Subcategory: Long Distance Relocation Tip: Alternative to Long Distance Movers Look into the cost of hiring a freight company for your long distance relocation. Freight companies can drop a container off to your residence, you fill the container and when you are done, they pick it up and deliver it to the specified location nationwide and you unload your own container. When you are researching moving companies for your long distance move, you will find the biggest discounts, best services and guarantees come from nationwide movers, when they pack for you. Compare costs between long distance movers and freight companies, but go with the one you are most comfortable with. Tip: Coordinate With The Professional Mover You want to make sure you are at your new home when the movers arrive. If you arrive late, you will most likely need to pay for the movers waiting time. Before the truck leaves your driveway, exchange cell phone numbers with the driver, so you can stay in touch in case either one is delayed. It is a good idea to plan for the unexpected by making backup plans, such as arranging for someone else to greet the movers.

4 Category: Moving Subcategory: Moving Tip: Color-Coded Moving You can use different colored dot stickers to help identify what room each box goes to in the new location. At the new location, you can hang corresponding color balloons or paper outside the room where you want the color-coded boxes to be delivered. Tip: Moving in the Summer Months As you interview potential movers and get estimates, ask each mover for some of their own moving tips and "tricks of the trade" to help you prepare for your own move. Professional moving tips will help you to gets the ins and outs of packing, loading and moving in general. Category: Moving Boxes Subcategory: Moving Boxes Tip: Make Moving Boxes Movable Moving boxes are designed to help you pack, transport and keep your items safe. Using the appropriate moving boxes will make packing and unpacking easier and safe for the movers and your possessions. Tip: Wardrobe Moving Boxes If you are moving and are just planning on throwing your clothes from your closet into a box, you may want to reconsider that decision. A wardrobe box is a wonderful box to have to pack your hanging clothes and transport them to your new home. These sturdy boxes come with a metal bar that hangs over the top of the box, which allows you to take your hanging items from your closet and hang in the box for moving. 24"x"24"X's" in size, these boxes aren't your typical box, stronger than a regular moving box because it has double the cardboard and is not supposed to bend under the weight of your clothes, a wardrobe box is a must for your move. Make sure to purchase enough boxes, a large closet full of clothes will need many wardrobe boxes, but they are well worth the money- generally about $40 for three!

5 Category: Moving Companies Subcategory: Moving Companies Tip: Last Minute Packing Charges For Residential Moving Make sure you hire a residential moving company for your move if you are moving your home with all appliances and furniture. Moving companies specialize in moving different environments and you want to choose the appropriate moving company for you. Tip: Moving Day Once you've hired your residential moving company and the big day has arrived, here are some tips to make the move a simple and easy one: Have your inventory list handy.supervise the move at all times.keep your personal items separate from the ones that will be traveling with the movers.keep all pets out of the way of the movers.make sure all passageways from the house to the truck are free of debris.have plenty of bottled water (and a few energy-boosting snacks!) available for the movers and yourself. Tip: Types of Vehicles to Rent When renting a moving truck you will have several options that will hopefully work for whatever type of move you are planning. The most popular types of trucks are as follows: Cargo van: A cargo van is generally used for smaller moves, usually one to two rooms at a time. Cargo vans are about 310 cubic feet.10 foot moving truck: This truck is popular for moving one to two rooms like the cargo moving van but have about 380 cubic feet, which is bigger than the cargo moving van. You may want a 10 foot moving truck if you have bigger and bulkier items that may not fit in a moving van.16 foot moving truck: This size of truck works well for household moves involving three to four rooms. It has more than 800 cubic feet of space on the inside.24 foot moving truck: A 24 foot moving truck can move a five to eight room house and generally has almost 1400 cubic feet of space on the inside.rental trailer: A rental moving trailer will vary in size, but this type of rental is one that you will attach to the back of your vehicle to tow behind it. You will load your belongings into the trailer and then tow it to your destination. Rental trailers can be as large as 6 foot by 12 foot.these vehicle types of course are not available with every truck rental company, but the majority of moving truck rentals will be similar in size to those listed above. Some rental companies will offer a truck larger than a 24 foot truck, but it may not have as much cubic space on the inside as a 24 foot rental with another company. You should do some research on truck sizes before making a final decision on what size of truck you will reserve. Category: Moving Quotes

6 Subcategory: Moving Quotes Tip: Hidden Charges Find out from your movers if there are any hidden charges, like mileage fees, when getting estimates and quotes. Many times movers charge extra for stairs, wardrobe boxes, moving pads, tape, etc. You will want to use a mover who will not sneak in any additional charges and will be upfront with the price. It is also important to know all the additional charges that you may incur when evaluating potential movers. Tip: Rank Your Moving Quotes When you are getting your estimates from potential movers, be sure to write down any comments you have on the mover or the moving company. As you are getting estimates from all potential movers, rank them according to qualifications and potential. It is best to do this while the moving companies are fresh in your mind. Category: Moving Tips Subcategory: Moving Tips Tip: Checklist for Moving If you plan to relocate, use this moving checklist to be sure you have the supplies you need: Boxes: You will need plenty of sturdy boxes in different sizes. Moving supply companies can estimate how many boxes you need, depending on square footage and number of rooms in your home. Bubble wrap, packing peanuts, newspaper, air-filled bags: Be sure to get supplies to protect your valuables. You can also buy special wrapping for dinnerware, glasses, artwork, and electronics. Use the recommended packing fillers for each type of item to avoid damage. Tape: Buy a supply of quality packing tape. Good tape will keep boxes from breaking open - don't skimp. Labels: - Labeling each box according to room will make unpacking easier. You may also want to buy labels that give special instructions, like FRAGILE or THIS SIDE UP. Make your own or buy pre-printed labels for convenience. Markers: Have enough markers on-hand to write on boxes and labels. Box cutter: Keep one handy at all times, even while packing. Pad and pen: You may want to jot down details, phone numbers, or ideas during packing or unpacking. A supply box for your tape, labels, box cutter, pens, and markers. Cash: Reserve money for pizza delivery or carry-out food while you pack! Tip: Getting Moving Quotes If you're looking for a reliable mover, getting moving quotes takes a few simple steps.

7 First, decide if you need a trailer rental, van rental, etc. Second, ask your friends and family if they have any movers they would recommend. Almost everyone has moved at one point or another -- and looked for the best deal -- so tap into the resources that are right in front of you. Gather a few names from the folks close to you, then move onto the phone book. You can find not only a great amount of listings, but many companies that offer discounts in their ads. Finally, search the Internet for moving companies in your area. When you get your list compiled, call each company and be sure to ask if you can receive an in-person estimate. It's vital to have representatives from the moving company see your home first-hand to get an accurate quote. Tip: Letting Others Know You are Moving A unique way to remind people you are moving is to send a moving e-card to friends and family. Online companies such as Upack.com offer free moving e-cards that will be sent to remind people of your move and let them know your new address and phone number. Simply log onto a website such as the one above and search for the moving e-cards. Once you have done this you can pick from a wide variety of moving e-cards from a traditional e-card to a fun one, you will have many to choose from. Moving e-cards are easy to send as well. You simply put in your information and the s of people you wish to send the card to and type any message you want in your card and then send. It's as easy as that. Sending a moving e-card is an easy and fast way to let friends and family know you are moving and what your new contact information will be. Tip: Planning Ahead for Moving Out Here are some moving day tips to consider before you move out: First, make sure you have recieved the appropriate number of moving quotes.if you are hiring a mover, find out if the company has specific tips for moving out. Keep a few boxes available for last-minute packing. Be sure to keep personal items (keys, purse, airline tickets, hotel reservations, closing documents, etc.) you may need in a box or bag marked DO NOT PACK. Plan to confine your pets for the day. If you are doing the labor yourself, read up on truck loading and furniture moving tips to avoid injury and damage to your belongings.avoid blocking driveways and entrances if possible. If you don't have many options for truck parking, talk to your neighbors ahead of time.serve simple refreshments. Be sure there are bottled or canned drinks and easy snacks for everyone. Stay until the moving truck leaves to answer questions, supply important information, or sign paperwork.tip professional movers. $20 is customary. If the job was particularly challenging or lengthy, tip more.clean up after yourself. Do not leave garbage or unwanted items behind.if your movers are friends and family, serve a meal or provide a gift for their help.consider using moving pods to get packed ahead of moving day. Moving pods hold the contents of approximately one room and can be dropped off at your home ahead of moving day. You can pack the pod as you go. When you finish, a moving truck will haul it to your new home.

8 Tip: What to Pack...and What Not to Pack When preparing for your big move, you may be packing your own possessions. This is actually a great moving and storagesolution, since it puts you in control of the care of your things. However, you should be aware that hired movers are not responsible for some items, so you'll need to transport these yourself. Here's a short list: Valuables: Jewelry, heirlooms, cash, etc.personal documentsmedicationspack these items separately and mark them carefully so they are not confused with the boxes to be shipped by your movers. Category: Moving Truck Rentals Subcategory: Moving Truck Rentals Tip: Booking Your Movers Online The convenience of shopping online translates nicely to your big moving day; arranging for moving truck rentals can be made online quickly and easily. If you choose this option, follow up with these steps: Be sure to get a confirmation number and/or a receipt for your booking. Print it out and keep it in your moving files.always call the rental company immediately after booking to confirm your order.call the company again one week as well as one day before your move. Be sure to have a fixed time or window of time to expect the movers' arrival. Tip: Check to Make Sure You Get a Clean Truck If you are planning on a one way truck rental, to drive your possessions to your new locations and then drop your moving truck off at a different moving truck rental location, check prices of returning your truck to nearby rental agencies. You will find that there are different rates for different drop off locations. Tip: Packing AND Moving Your Own Appliance When you are preparing to move and relocate your appliance. It is a good idea to clean out your appliance before your pack them and let them dry out completely. Toaster: Tip the toaster upside down to empty out all the crumbs out of the toaster. Refrigerator and Freezer: Should be cleaned out really well before moving them. To prevent the fridge from smelling use one of these tips: wipe out the fridge with a damp cloth with vanilla essence, dry out the fridge with a hair dryer especially the corners, and/or put silica gel in the fresh department or fine blend coffee in a piece of muslin, these will soak up any extra moisture. When you have cleaned out the fridge and defrosted the frigeratorfreezer keep the doors slightly open to keep the air circulating just before you

9 move them. Tip: Rent a Moving Truck With a Lift Gate You may want to also consider renting a rental trailer instead of a large moving truck. If you decide to rent a rental trailer instead, it is better to rent an enclosed trailer then an open trailer to protect your items from rain and wind. You also want to make sure that you have a strong enough vehicle that can tow the weight of the rental trailer. Category: Moving Van Rentals Subcategory: Moving Van Rentals Tip: Allow Extra Braking Room Remember while you are driving your moving rental van, it is different from driving your regular automobile, especially when the van is packed with furniture and boxes. You have to allow for extra braking room when driving the moving van. Anticipate stops and allow a 3 second gap between you and the vehicle in front of you. Tip: Compare Moving Van With a Box Truck If you are looking into a renting a moving van and do not think that all your furniture and items will fit in the rental van, consider renting a small box truck. Box trucks are very similar to moving vans but offer a little bit more room and fit furniture easier then moving rental vans. Renting a box truck can also save you money in some cases. Weigh all your options and ask about a discount when you rent a moving van and box truck for the same project. Tip: Renting Your Moving Van Hourly Or For Half Day If you are renting a moving van, ask about their hourly and half-day pricing. Since you cannot fit that much into a moving van, try renting the moving van for a few hours each day rather then keeping your rental van overnight, when you are not using it. Many companies will give you the hourly or half-day option and you can rent the moving van only when you need it and then return it for the day. Tip: Strapping to Top of Moving Van When strapping items to the top of the moving van, make sure everything in the front is tied down tight. You want to prevent air from getting under the items on the front of the roof and flipping them up. If air gets under the items the bungee and ropes will begin to loosen un-tie putting your possessions on the roof at risk of falling.

10 Category: Packing Tips Subcategory: Packing Tips Tip: Pace Your Packing Packing is time consuming. Start packing up things you don't use daily as soon as possible. Start packing several boxes or cartons each day, a few weeks prior to your move. Try living in less rooms, so you can pack the rooms you use less. Keep everything you need daily in one area. By pacing yourself, you'll be more organized and the job won't be so overwhelming. Tip: Packing Big Items If you are doing a self move you will need to pack your big items. A general rule of thumb is to pack the following big items in your home: Bed or bed frame: It is best to take apart your mattress and box spring from the bed frame. Experts recommend tying the pieces of your bed frame, two at a time, together. Make sure to put labels on each piece as to where it goes when assembling the bed again. Table: Your kitchen or dining room table may come apart. This is really helpful when moving it. Take the legs off the table and wrap with bubble wrap, pack in a box if it fits. If the legs don't fit, tie or tape the legs to the tabletop. You can even tape the screws and bolts to the bottom of the tabletop so that you don't lose them.appliances: Most people leave their stoves and dishwashers when moving, but many take their fridge. If you are moving a refrigerator, make sure you start the process well in advance. Remove all food, defrost the freezer and drain any excess water. Remove any drawers to keep them from sliding out. Once that is done, protect any blades by covering with a towel. Then wrap the fridge in blankets and tie them.these are just some of the big items you may be moving in a do-it-yourself move. If you are moving a large item that isn't listed here and aren't sure how to pack it appropriately, try doing an Internet search for packing and that specific item's name. Tip: Packing Electronics When packing electronics, use orignial boxes for computers, stereos and televisions if possible. - Wrap each piece with bubble wrap or foam packing material and immobilize any moving parts. - Remove all cables and cords and label them for easier re-installation. - Tape electrical cords to back of electronics to prevent plug damage. - Remove CD's and DVD's from the players to prevent them from rattling and getting stuck in player.

11 Tip: Packing Furniture Disassemble any items and furniture you can, to save you time and space during your move. - Pad furniture with moving pads, blankets or bubble wrap, securing firmly. - Remove furniture legs when possible. - Place wing nuts or screws in bags taped to underside of furniture so they won't be lost. - Stand sofas on end and secure to minimize space used in rental van or moving truck. - Place loose cushions in bags and use as filler between pieces. - Do not unpack dresser draws. Move dressers with drawers full to avoid re-packing and to conserve moving space. Secure drawers from opening during transit. Tip: Packing Supplies When you are packing for a self-move, you will want plenty of the appropriate packing supplies. Self-moving can be quite a detailed process, but if you are prepared with the right supplies for packing, the move will seem much smoother. You will need the following supplies when packing: Boxes: Obviously you will need lots of boxes of various size and shape in which you will pack your household items. Tape measure: A tape measure comes in handy when moving and packing in order to measure the size of objects to see if they will fit through a doorway or into a box.bubble wrap or packing peanuts: These are needed to wrap breakable items before placing them in a box or to add extra padding to a box.tissue paper: Many people use newspaper, but it is recommended that you wrap breakable things in tissue paper along with bubble wrap, to protect the item. Newspaper often leaves black smudges behind from the newsprint. Marker: A permanent marker works well for marking the tops of boxes with what is inside after closing the box. You will want all of your boxes labeled with what is inside and what room the box should go to when unloading. Packing tape: Packing tape is necessary for taping together the bottom and the top of each box you are packing. You can buy packing tape that has a sharp piece attached to it, which will cut the tape when you are done taping the box, otherwise you must use scissors to cut the tape, and so have those handy as well.do- it-yourself moving is something you must be prepared for; having all the necessary items is a must! Tip: Simple Self-moving Self moving is a relatively new and increasingly popular method of transporting yourself and your possessions from one home to another. By doing your own packing, you save a lot of money and get an excellent opportunity to keep tabs on your things during the move. The two most popular methods of self-moving are to have a trailer (generally about 28-feet long) delivered to your home, which you then load up with the boxes you've packed. You only pay for the amount of space you've used. The movers then collect the trailer and transport it to your new location. Alternately, you can have a storage container delivered for self storage self storage. Best for small moves, the container is packed and collected by the movers. Both the trailers and the containers can be dropped off at your new home for unpacking or to a storage facility that you

12 select ahead of time. Tip: What Not to Pack There are a few things you must not pack when moving, either a do-it-yourself move or a move where you pack and someone else drives for you, you must not put the following items on the moving truck. Explosives or flammable items such as: aerosols, acids, ammunition, propane tanks, matches and motor oil. The list for this type of item is extensive; you should check with the moving company or rental truck company for a complete list of items. Perishable items such as: food, plants and animals. Food that is perishable can be packed in a cooler and driven by you to your new home; moving companies rarely take food that is perishable. Plants need air to breath, grow and live, and the inside of a moving truck is not conducive to this, therefore no live plants on moving trucks. Of course your animals should never be packed and sent on a moving truck, all pets should travel with you in your vehicle. Some moving companies may agree to move your perishables if you are going a short distance, check with the moving company to find out their rules on this subject. Category: Pod Storage Containers Subcategory: Pod Storage Containers Tip: Pod Location And Direction Have the portable storage placed as close to your house as you are comfortable with, but remember that you can usually keep the moving container for up to a month. The portable storage container should also be kept level at all times to prevent your goods from shifting, falling, and damage getting on and off the truck. Tip: Pods For More Than Moving Moving pods can be used for more than just moving. Pods can be a simple solution to many other home needs such as home renovation, painting, collecting, storing un-used items, and more. If you are planning on doing work on the interior of your house, condo, or apartment, call for pricing on a pod. Pod companies usually offer next day delivery and allow you to leisurely pack items, while performing home renovations. Category: Relocation Tips Subcategory: Relocation Tips

13 Tip: Apartment Moving Checklist Use these tips on moving if you are planning an apartment relocation: If you are already living in an apartment, find out the exact date your lease is up and start searching for an apartment months in advance to avoid the hassle of extending your lease or paying rent in both places when you move. Look around to see if the apartment is in a convenient location with public transportation, grocery stores, and good schools. Measure to see if the apartment big enough to accommodate your belongings. Is there a place to park your vehicle? It's good to know if you will have a dedicated spot or if parking is first come, first serve. If you have pets, be sure the lease includes pets. Ask about the cost of living in the apartment. Consider deposit, rent, utilities, parking, cable or satellite installation, and any additional fees that may apply to moving in and getting set up in the new apartment. Do some research on relocation movers, and get some estimates for your move. Ask residents if the landlord is accommodating. Find out about laundry facilities. Inspect the building for safety and upkeep. Is there adequate security? Are hallways and common areas clean and well maintained? Tip: Insurance Information Even if your car insurance is with a national insurance company, you will need to find a local representative of that company in your new city and state. Many people have the misconception that they can continue with the same insurance agent if they are moving out of state, but that isn't quite accurate. If you are relocating you will need to switch agents, as laws and insurance prices vary from state-to-state. You can find a new insurance agent in your new city or state by contacting your current insurance agency. The people at your current agent's office should be able to give you the names of agents that will work with you in your new city. It is important to contact your new insurance agent prior to your relocation, so that you can move to your new home with complete insurance coverage in that city and state. You may have to pay less or more on the same policy when moving to a new city, for example, South Carolina car insurance is more than Iowa car insurance (under some insurance plans) because Iowa has what is determined as safer drivers than South Carolina. What you will pay for insurance will depend on your insurance agent and your location. Tip: Relocating with Pets If you have a pet that you plan on bringing with you during a relocation move, you need to remember that you can't pack your pet up and ship it on the moving truck or van. Your pet will need to travel with you via whatever mode of transportation you are traveling. If you are expecting a long car ride and your pet doesn't travel well in the car, you may want to speak to your current veterinarian about giving your pet something to relax him. If you are flying to your new home you will need to check your pet in with the airline and your pet will need to travel in a crate in an area where animals are placed. Again, you may wish to check with your current vet about any medication your pet may

14 need to ensure a relaxing flight for all. Traveling by truck or car with your pet? Make sure that you have your pet on a leash for all stops you must make, and rememberyour pet will have to go, so make stops more frequent when traveling with your dog or cat. Remember that regardless of how you are traveling with your pet to your new home, your pet needs proper identification, just in case he would be separated from you. The one thing you won't want to lose in your move is a treasured dog, cat or other pet. Tip: Relocating: The Best of Both Worlds At some point in our lives, we all will have to make a major move from one home to another. Sometimes these moves can take us across state lines, which can cause a lot of concern for homeowners. How can you afford a long move? What moving company can you trust? Relocation concerns can be alleviated by taking a balanced approach. By hiring a moving company that allows you to pack your own possessions, you cut costs on both packing fees as well as transportation. In addition, by taking charge of your packing, you can keep closer control over your household items, and be sure all of them are included and accounted for. Getting the best of both worlds when you move is easy when each member of the party does what it does best: You pack your own things, then allow the professional movers to transport them: It's a perfect match. Category: Self Moving Subcategory: Self Moving Tip: Give Directions On moving day, you do not want to waste any time having your helpers driving around lost. Be sure that everyone driving has a copy of the directions to you new location and any other places they will be driving to such as storage and the truck rental agency. You may also want to provide a few sets of directions, including to and from the new location, if they will be driving back and forth. Tip: Moving Glass And Mirrors If you are moving glass or mirrors, use thick tape and make a big "X" across mirrors and picture glass, so that if the glass should accidentally be broken during the move there will be less glass to clean up. Tip: Moving Your Household Plants If you are planning on moving your household plants with you to the new location, do not water plants for a few days before the move. This will allow the dirt to dry a little and

15 be less messy when moving. It is easy to clean spilt dirt then it is to clean up mud. Put plants into a large open box, so if they tip over the dirt will spill into box and not your car or truck. If you do not think your plants will survive the move, find a good home for them offer then to friends, neighbors, or the new residence of your home. Tip: Pack Your Breakables First Do it yourself moving may not be the best option for you if you have a lot of valuables, antiques, unique artwork, and expensive items. If you decide to move yourself and something breaks or is damaged during the move, the item will most likely not be insured or covered. Tip: Proper Method of Carrying Since you have decided to move yourself, this means you will have to carry everything out of your old location and into your new location. The correct way of carrying is to lift the object above your waist. This will give you more control over the item; prevent you from banging into walls, and the knocking items against your thighs. Tip: Wear Proper Shoes When Moving It is a good idea to wear work boots with reinforced toes instead of sneakers, when moving heavy items such as furniture and appliances. Work boots will help protect your feet if something was to drop and land on your feet. Category: Storage Tips Subcategory: Storage Tips Tip: How to Load a Storage Container Door to door storage containers are designed to be easy and safe to use. Here are some tips on how to load your boxes and pack them into your moving/storage containers or pods: Fill moving boxes completely to avoid damage to your belongings. Use packing materials, clothing, linens, or fabric to fill in the gaps.place heavy items in small boxes, if possible.stack heavy boxes and furniture on the bottom of storage containers.disassemble furniture for safer and easier storage.use moving blankets, bubble wrap, or pads around furniture and boxes with breakables.try to distribute weight evenly inside of the container. Tip: Moving and Storage Container Parking If you are looking into affordable self storage, you will need to know the basics about

16 parking your moving /storage container. Here are some tips from the experts at moving/storage companies: If you are not parking on a private driveway or designated parking spot, you may be required to secure a parking permit before your container arrives. Check with your municipality. If you are renting a home, get permission from your landlord before you rent a container. A trailer should be parked on a level surface - hard packed gravel or pavement. Talk to your storage container company about clearance. A storage trailer should not be parked under low-hanging tree branches or power lines. If you have limited space, consider a smaller container like a ReloCube. It may be easier to find space for a few smaller cubes than one larger container. Category: Truck and Van Rental Tips Subcategory: Truck and Van Rental Tips Tip: Moving Truck Rental Details Don't forget about the small details when you rent a moving truck: Be sure you get the right size, especially if you are getting a long-distance moving truck rental or one way truck rental.for one way truck rentals, have contact information and a physical address for the return facility. Remember your driver's license, proof of insurance, credit card, and deposit when you pick up the truck.find out the exact time the truck needs to be returned before the next business day begins. If you are late, you may be charged for an extra day.be sure you have the proper insurance to cover your belongings if an accident occurs.know the height of the moving truck to ensure overpass clearance on roadways. Find out ahead of time if the moving company will map a specific route for tall vehicles. Tip: Sizing the Moving Truck or Van Before you go with a truck rental, do a size estimate. Each room of your home requires about 125 to 150 cubic feet of storage. Here is a guide: One-bedroom apartment:10-foot trucktwo-bedroom apartment or house: 15-foot truckthree-bedroom house: 20-foot truckfive-six bedroom house: 25-foot truckestimate larger for houses with basements or attic storage.remember that each linear foot weighs approximately pounds. Find out about weight limits before renting.