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Everyone wants an excellent moving experience, but not everyone knows how to prepare for
one. It’s not impossible – you just have to plan ahead and prepare as much as you can.
In this post, you’ll learn how to prepare for a move during peak season. From when to book
your move to the importance of getting an in-home estimate, the advantages of planning
ahead, and more – and how you can save money, time, and stress in the process.

What Is Peak Season

Peak season is the time of year when moving companies are the busiest. It’s estimated that
about 70% of people who move in a year do so in peak season. Peak moving season is usually
between May 15 and September 15. Moving companies are busy for several reasons. Often,
military members receive their new orders in the spring and summer and must relocate during
this time. Parents want to move when their children are on summer break. The weather is nicer,
the real estate market is better, and college students are moving into dorms. These things
matter because moving companies fill up quickly with the increased demand. If you’re
planning to move during peak season, you have to be informed and plan ahead as much as
possible.

Book Your Move ASAP

Booking your move in advance is especially important during peak moving season. If you’re
considering moving during this time, read this post, then book your move immediately—
seriously. Planning ahead is that important. You will have a better chance of getting your
desired move date the sooner you call.

Here’s what to know about booking in peak season:

● All dates are in higher demand during this time.
● Weekends are the most requested days.
● The last weekend of the month is usually the busiest.
● Consider moving mid-week and mid-month if possible.
● Most people want the morning slot for movers to arrive, know this and be flexible.
● You can request the morning slot arrival time, but it is not guaranteed. Jordan River
Moving makes the schedule the day before your move, and will call you with the
estimated arrival time.
● If you’re moving long-distance, you must sign the Bill of Lading 3 days before your
pickup date. You want to book the best day to get picked up because everything else
will revolve around this date.

Advantages of Planning Ahead

For the smoothest move possible, planning ahead is a must.
● Advance planning will give you a better chance of booking the move day you want
before the calendar fills up.
● You want time for an in-home visual estimate with Jordan River Moving. After the
in-home estimate, you can decide on your packing plan. Do you want to hire Jordan
River to pack your boxes or do it yourself? Then you can plan accordingly.
● You need time to consider valuation coverage and insurance options and be able to
decide on the best option for you. Additional insurance is not available on the day of
your move so be sure to purchase it at least 48 hours in advance. To learn more about
moving insurance and valuation coverage click here.
● You will need time to take care of all the small details. Do you need to reserve the
elevator? Where will the moving truck park on a moving day? Will you need to plan to
block off the street to ensure parking for the truck?
● Your Relocation Specialist can help you plan for your move, but the more you plan
ahead, the better.
● Planning ahead saves you time and money.

Why You Want an In-Home Visual Estimate

Jordan River Moving is happy to schedule a free in-home estimate. Make sure you plan ahead
so there is enough time to schedule it before your move. The visual estimator’s calendar fills up
quickly during peak season too- so don’t wait to book!

Why do you want an in-home estimate? Sometimes we don’t realize the amount of stuff we
actually have! Those bikes from the garage, garden tools in the shed, and items from the attic
can be easily overlooked when we try to guess our amount of belongings without help.
Remember, you’re not just moving the things inside your home. You’re probably moving
everything on your property! A professional set of eyes can help. A trained visual estimator will
come to your home to determine the most accurate quote for your move so you can budget
without surprises. The moving company will be able to plan your move based on your
individual needs so it goes as smoothly as possible.

Here’s how it works:

● Estimators are trained to look at your unpacked closets, bedrooms, furniture, and other
spaces to determine the labor, equipment, and time needed to do the job right.
● The estimator will ask you questions about which items you plan to move (or not).
● Remember to mention that statue from your backyard or the piano you want to have
moved!
● They can also look for any additional factors that movers need to know for moving
day, like if you have stairs or an elevator, and the length and setup of your driveway.
● All of this information helps your Relocation Specialist determine the crew required,
how many hours your move might take, and if any specialized equipment is
needed.
● Now, your moving quote is an accurate estimate based on the knowledge and
expertise of the professionals.
● You know what to budget for, and the moving company will show up on a moving day
without any surprises for anyone. It’s a win-win.

Communication is Key

Moving doesn’t always go according to plan. Sometimes you realize you must make an extra
stop at storage or pick up items from another location. Be sure to let your Relocation
Specialists know about any updates as they happen, so they can help the movers plan accordingly.
The more notice, the better. Often there will be another move booked after yours
(depending on the size of your move), and it’s crucial to schedule in the right amount of time
needed for your move, especially during the peak season. This is one of the reasons Jordan
River Moving makes the schedule the day before your move and will call you with the
estimated arrival time.

Basic Steps to Prepare For Your Move

1. Hire a reliable moving company like Jordan River Moving.
2. Book your move date ASAP- the best companies fill up quickly, and you want to have
your choice of dates.
3. Make your moving plan- create a timeline and checklist of all the tasks you must
complete before moving day.
4. Get a free in-home visual estimate to accurately measure the amount of stuff that
needs to be moved.
5. Declutter- donate anything you won’t be bringing with you.
6. Start packing as soon as you can. Pack items you know you won’t need right away. You
can pack holiday decorations, winter clothing, and other seasonal items, so the packing
doesn’t feel so overwhelming.
7. Take “Before and After” photos- sometimes moving can cause accidental damage.
Having pictures of your home before the move and after can help in the claims process
if needed.
8. Make your plan for any kids and pets on a moving day.

Plan for Payment

It’s easy to overlook some details in the hectic days before a move. Be prepared with your final
payment at delivery whether you’re moving locally or long-distance. Please note Jordan River
Moving cannot accept personal checks as payment for a move. Are you wondering how
much you should tip your movers? Click here to read about it. Movers always appreciate tips,
especially during peak season when they are in the heat and doing their best to move your
things safely. If you want to tip your movers, have some cash on hand for moving day. On a
personal note, I always offer refreshments like water and Gatorade because it’s a kind gesture.

Local Move Payment

● Payment is due at the end of your move.
● Your foreman will give you the final balance after your move is complete.
● Accepted forms of payment are cash or credit card.
● If you wish to pay with your credit card, some foremen have swipers (think Square
Card Reader), so they can either swipe your card. If the foreman doesn’t have a swiper,
Jordan River Moving will send you the link via text to pay online.
● Please note that payment must be received before the crew leaves.

Long-Distance Move Payment

● Payment is due at delivery.
● You will be given your balance the following business day after pickup.
● Accepted forms of payment are cash, cashier’s check, postal money order, credit card
(with a 2.5% fee), Zelle, or wire transfer.
● Any payments by credit card or wire transfer must be made at least 2 business days
prior to delivery so the office can confirm payment is received and notify the driver.
● Zelle payments must be made at least 24 hours in advance.
● You don’t want to be stuck waiting (and paying by the hour) for the Jordan River office
to open for payment confirmation- especially if you’re in a different time zone!
● *Important note about Zelle- there are limits on the amount you can transfer per day,
so check with your bank to see what they allow.
● Plan ahead and pay in advance, no matter the method you choose!
● All credit card payments are subject to a 2.5% document handling and processing fee.
● You will also receive an email with all of the payment options (including the credit card
payment link) when the office calls to confirm your delivery address and gives you the
balance due.
● Once they have a delivery date range, the office will follow up with a reminder email
including all payment options.
● Please note that payment must be received in full before the driver can unload at
delivery.

Attitude Matters- Be Nice, Be Flexible

Your movers at Jordan River Moving work hard to get your things packed and moved safely.
During the peak season, they may have a move before yours and after, depending on the size
of your move. They could be unloading a truck in another state, then moving your piano the
following morning. Sometimes another customer remembers the statue from their backyard
needs to be moved, and your movers may arrive at the next move later than expected. Rest
assured that your movers want to deliver your items unbroken and in perfect condition just as
much as you do. They strive to be on time for every move and ensure customers have a
positive experience. They work hard in the heat doing manual labor and remain professional
and positive. I know you’ll treat them with the respect they deserve. They want to make your
move easy and stress-free and have you thinking you’ll never move without movers again.
After all, that’s why you hired movers in the first place!

Moving Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

Having a great move can be a reality, even during peak season. If you book ASAP, take
advantage of planning ahead, getting an in-home estimate, planning your basic steps, and remember
to be flexible, you can stay cool as a cucumber on a moving day.

For help with the entire moving process and to book your in-home visual estimate, connect
with a Relocation Specialist from Jordan River Moving by clicking here. You’ll never want to
move without movers again.

Where are the best places to live in South Carolina? This state remains an extremely popular destination for relocating individuals and families. Its appeal lies primarily in its low cost of living, overall charm, year-round moderate climate, and natural beauty, but there’s so much more.

Why is The Palmetto State still one of the top five attracting Americans from across the country? And what is South Carolina known for? This article explores the details.

Moving to South Carolina Is a Great Idea

South Carolina is the 23rd most populous state and has a rich history as one of thirteen original colonies. The state also has a thriving economy, relying mostly on aerospace technologies, automotive manufacturers, growing agribusiness opportunities, and a huge focus on tourism.

With a median household income only a little below the national average, it’s easy to see why this region of the United States is doubly popular for its economic opportunities and its natural treasures. However, you might also want to know that a few South Carolina cities offer more than double the state’s median household income, including Tega Cay, Mount Pleasant, and Fort Mill.

What else do you need to know about this attractive Southeastern region?

• The cost of living in South Carolina is low. Housing, health care, transportation, and utilities are lower than the national average.
• Charleston is the biggest city in South Carolina. Columbia (the state capital) and North Charleston are the second and third largest cities.
• Famous people from South Carolina you might recognize include Viola Davis, Chadwick Boseman, and Monique Coleman.

Are you thinking about moving to the safest city in the state? Authorities deem Tega Cay the safest city in South Carolina, with the lowest crime rate in the area. Read the article if you are planning to move to South Carolina.

The Best Places to Live in South Carolina Might Surprise You

Do you want to live in a vibrant city featuring a young demographic? Or would you prefer a quiet coastal or mountainous retreat where you can immerse yourself in nature? It’s all here!

Companies like Jordan River Moving and Storage will often mention the cost of living and the warmer weather as the primary reasons to move to South Carolina. So, why not take a closer look at some of the most exciting locations in South Carolina?

Tega Cay

This scenic small city on Lake Wylie offers a peaceful lifestyle and is one of the best places to visit in South Carolina. Residents enjoy the lowest crime rates in the state, plenty of outdoor activities, and excellent schools.

Spartanburg

If you want a diverse economy, Spartanburg is one of the most affordable places to live in South Carolina. It showcases museums, theaters, and numerous festivals to commemorate its rich history each year.

Five Forks

This suburb of Greenville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state, thanks to a high median income, low unemployment, and a low crime rate. It’s famous for its impressive range of shopping and dining options.

Charleston

Charleston is the oldest and largest city in South Carolina, a fact instantly evident in its phenomenal architecture and city planning. Cobblestone streets, gorgeous beaches, and mysterious islands give this city a unique charm.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach’s excellent climate, unending sandy beaches, beautiful golf courses, and busy nightlife make it one of the top places to visit in South Carolina. But it might also be your best place to live in South Carolina for a year-round holiday feeling.

Sullivan’s Island

This island off the coast of Charleston has a small population and magnificent ocean views. It’s a quiet community that should be high on your list.

Lexington

As a suburb of Columbia, Lexington is one of the fastest-growing locations. It’s near major highways and the airport, making it an excellent choice if you’re always on the go.

Greenville

Greenville skirts the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, an incredibly popular outdoor recreation hub. With its cultural diversity, low cost of living, and booming economy, it’s a perfect choice for an active, nature-loving couple or growing family.

Columbia

Columbia is the capital and second-largest city in South Carolina. Its diverse population, vibrant downtown area, and strong government presence make it one of the best places to live in the state. It’s also a hub for quality education.

Fort Mill

Are you thinking about moving? This suburb of Charlotte is one of the best places to live in South Carolina. The low crime rates, high-quality schools, and friendly atmosphere make it an excellent place for family life.

Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant is home to some of the wealthiest neighborhoods in South Carolina. It has a low poverty rate and great access to beautiful parks and beaches.

Hilton Head Island

This is another one of the best South Carolina vacation spots for nature lovers, beachgoers, and golfers. Who wouldn’t want to live in a mini paradise with a low crime rate?

Summerville

Summerville is in the Charleston metropolitan area. It promises sweet tea, azaleas, and historic charm for a summer feeling year-round.

Clemson

As home to Clemson University, this spot has a bubbly downtown area, a diverse student population, and picturesque outdoor spaces.

Sumter

The final recommendation is Sumter, housing the Shaw Air Force Base. It has a stable economy and an affordable housing market.

The Pros of Living in South Carolina

Is South Carolina a good place to live? The data says yes, but the following factors could sway your decision:

• Beautifully mild climate
• Great cost of living
• Unending natural scenery
• Local cuisine that combines diverse influences
• A rich history and cultural heritage

Mountains, Lakes, Rivers, and Beaches in South Carolina

• Sassafras Mountain
• Pinnacle Mountain
• Glassy Mountain
• Lake Jocassee
• The Great Pee Dee River
• Savannah River
• Santee River and much more

Finding a South Carolina Moving Company

So, where is the very best place to live in South Carolina? That’s up to you. However, if you’re looking for a moving company, we’re here to help.

So, select one of the best places to live in South Carolina and call Jordan River Moving and Storage today!

Moving and relocating elderly family members from homes proves incredibly challenging. Many older individuals feel reluctant to leave behind sentimental items and move their belongings to an entirely new home. Without professional senior moving help, moving older adults to nursing homes and assisted-living facilities often becomes difficult.

Thankfully, senior move management services make the moving process much more straightforward. Highly trained senior moving services help with every aspect of the moving process, from packing and unpacking boxes to arranging the sale of unwanted items. When you work with senior move management teams, you gain access to countless services designed to expedite and simplify the moving process.

Continue reading to learn more about the importance of senior move management services. No one wants to see their parents move to assisted-living facilities; however, in many cases, elderly individuals benefit greatly from dedicated facilities prepared to meet the needs of their occupants. Senior move managers pride themselves on hassle-free moving assistance for seniors.

What Is a Senior Moving Service?

Senior moving services help seniors move from home to nursing homes, assisted-living facilities, retirement communities, and memory-care organizations. Senior moving managers strive to alleviate the burden of relocating elderly parents. Trained professionals helping seniors move offer years of experience in related fields such as healthcare, nursing, social work, or professional moving services.

The many services offered by senior move management companies include the following:

• Packing and unpacking
• Sale, auction, donation, estate sale, and consignment of unwanted items
• Communicates directly with moving companies
• Shipping and storage of household belongings
• Downsizing
• Crafts new floor plans for updated living arrangements
• Emotional support and senior moving assistance

Working with a senior move management team can significantly reduce the costs, stress, and unknowns of moving seniors into new living arrangements. Many senior move management companies can accommodate local and long-distance moving and offer moving insurance to protect household items from damage. Find help for seniors moving by contacting your local moving company for more information about senior moving services near you.

Why Choose a Senior Moving Company

A move for seniors causes stress, emotional turmoil, and hard decisions regarding item disposal and retention. Senior move management teams specialize in meeting the needs of elderly populations. The backgrounds of senior moving professionals vary, but many experts have previous training as attorneys, geriatric care physicians, and professional movers.

Individual family members scheduling moving services, sorting through endless boxes of sentimental items, and arranging the sale of properties can become overwhelming. Allow senior move management professionals to help you through the entire moving process. By hiring trained professionals, family members can focus on the emotional well-being of themselves and their senior relatives.

Additional reasons to work with a senior moving company include the following:

Sorting and Packing

A large home filled with sentimental items, books, dishware, photos, and goods can take weeks or months to sort. Professionals can prevent family members from spending unnecessary time sorting through boxes. Senior moving companies sort, protect, and pack every item in your senior family member’s home.

Loading and Unloading

A standard moving company lacks the expertise or training to meet the needs of seniors moving. Senior move management organizations undergo extensive training to provide high-quality loading and unloading services for elderly individuals. Professionals work directly with senior individuals and family members to determine the disposal and resale of various household items.

Property Listing

Top-tier senior movers can help arrange the sale of properties. Family members helping their older relatives move lack the time, skillset, or resources to find quality realtors, prepare homes for sale, and field questions from potential homebuyers. Senior move management teams can handle every aspect of the home-selling process.

Cleaning Services

Uncleaned homes may affect the resale value of residential properties and make sorting through boxes difficult. Cleaning services offered by senior move management teams clear away debris, ensure safe indoor air quality for movers, and simplify moving seniors from their homes.

Tips for the Stress Free Moving of Seniors

Elderly family members feeling uneasy about moving to a new home may make the moving process difficult. Seniors who wish to sort through every item of their homes individually can halt moving projects, upend moving schedules, and frustrate family members. Follow the tips below to ensure hassle-free moves for your elderly family members:

One Thing at a Time

Large-scale moving projects involve a wide range of tasks. For example, attics and basements filled with items require sorting and organizing before the resale of homes, family members’ schedules must coordinate, and the care of seniors must continue despite all the moving parts. Relax, take a deep breath, and tackle one thing at a time.

Create a schedule and follow the lead of senior move management teams. Set aside time to carefully sort through boxes during the beginning of the week and save all cleaning projects until after the moving process commences. Specialized moving services can help you organize, plan, and execute successful moving projects for your elderly family members.

Call the Professionals

Senior move management specialists have the skills, training, and experience to help elderly individuals transition to new living arrangements. With the help of professionals, you can relax knowing your senior family members will benefit from the years of experience of trained professionals. Senior move managers handle all the logistics, scheduling, cleaning, packing, and moving services you need.

Contact your local moving professionals to learn more about the benefits of moving assistance for seniors. The doctor, lawyer, or healthcare provider of your elderly relative may also provide helpful recommendations for senior move managers near you. Helping seniors move successfully starts with hiring willing, highly trained professionals.

Finding a Senior Moving Company for a Stress-Free Move

Jordan River Moving & Storage has provided world-class moving services for many years. Our experts have helped hundreds of elderly individuals move seamlessly to nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and retirement communities. Call Jordan River Moving & Storage to speak with our senior move management team and receive your quote today!

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Have you been searching for the best Seattle neighborhoods? Seattle, WA, hosts countless communities across an 80-mile radius, giving potential homebuyers extensive options when choosing their preferred living spaces. Whether you seek a quiet home close to excellent coffee shops, or a bustling neighborhood rich in dining and nightlife, Seattle has something for you.

The population of Seattle has nearly doubled since 2003, underscoring the affordability and amenities of living in Seattle, Washington. Famous Seattle buildings, abundant outdoor spaces, a thriving arts community, and countless fine-dining restaurants make Seattle a wonderful destination to visit and live in. Anyone who enjoys city life but despises the hustle and bustle of larger cities like New York will surely fall in love with Seattle.

If you are moving to Seattle, continue reading to learn more about the most popular Seattle neighborhoods. Relocating causes stress, so consider the following tips for choosing the Seattle neighborhood that best suits your needs. Stay sleepless—or well-rested—in Seattle by exploring the best places to live near Seattle, Washington!

Best Places To Live in Seattle

Seattle contains residential, urban, and suburban neighborhoods guaranteed to meet your needs. The best area to live in Seattle may prove easier to find than you think. Some of the most popular locations in Seattle include the following:

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is only a few minutes from Downtown Seattle and hosts numerous restaurants, coffee shops, bookstores, and much more. Residents of Capitol Hill enjoy easy access to the 50-acre Volunteer Park, a beautifully designed park space perfect for outdoor picnics, connecting with nature, and enjoying time with friends. Capitol Hill’s Seattle Asian Art Museum showcases over 25,000 pieces of unique art from all around the world.

Ballard

Ballard rests within the northwestern district of Seattle and contains the Crown Hill, Wallingford, and Fremont neighborhoods. As one of the oldest neighborhoods in Seattle, Ballard has a rich history, evident from the stunning architecture of buildings throughout King County. Waterfront views, active nightlife amenities, and wonderful park spaces make Ballard an excellent place to live.

Best Neighborhoods in Seattle for Sightseeing

Gorgeous views remain easy to find all across Seattle, Washington. However, some neighborhoods have exceptionally breathtaking views of Downtown Seattle, Elliot Bay, Lake Washington, and the Space Needle. The best neighborhoods in Seattle for sightseeing include the following:

Queen Anne

Queen Anne sits a short walk or drives northwest of Downtown Seattle. Flush with sightseeing opportunities, gorgeous views of Lake Union, and easy access to the Space Needle. Queen Anne remains a perfect choice if you love sightseeing, enjoying time outdoors, and exploring the space around you.

South Lake Union

The Seattle neighborhoods of South Lake Union provide a relaxed environment for visitors and residents seeking quiet adventures. Spheres on 7th Avenue contains a one-of-a-kind workspace surrounded by plants, flowers, and shrubs. The Center for Wooden Boats recounts the rich history of boat-building throughout Seattle and makes it an excellent destination for anyone seeking sightseeing opportunities.

Best Neighborhoods in Seattle for Nightlife

Seattle busts from the seams with nightlife activities. Anyone seeking fun, the inclusive nightlife will feel pleased with Seattle’s wide range of after-dark amenities. Some of the best neighborhoods in Seattle for nightlife include the following:

Belltown

Residents of Belltown enjoy hip bars, late-night dining options, art shows, comedy performances, and much more. Belltown sits directly in the middle of Seattle and serves as one of the most populated areas of King County. Rich in culture, music, and energy, Belltown will surely impress even the most adamant night owl.

Downtown Seattle

Why look elsewhere for active nightlife when you can live front and center in downtown Seattle? The thriving community of Downtown Seattle contains the impressive Seattle Great Wheel, Olympic Sculpture Park, Seattle Art Museum, and much more. Popular bars in Downtown Seattle include the Diller Room, Fog Room, and Yard House.

Best Neighborhoods in Seattle for Restaurants

Ensuring access to delicious food can make finding the perfect Seattle neighborhoods difficult. Thankfully, Seattle hosts many 5-star, casual, and vegan options for visitors and residents. The best neighborhoods in Seattle for restaurants include the following:

Georgetown

The Seattle neighborhood of Georgetown lies in an underrated, inconspicuous location for food lovers. Donburi Station Seattle crafts incredible Japanese cuisine while the Georgetown Liquor Company dishes out delicious vegan options, drinks, and bar food. Georgetown, rich in cuisine options for all foodies, ranks as one of the coolest neighborhoods in Seattle.

Columbia City

Multiculturalism shines bright in Columbia City. Some of the most popular restaurants in King County reside in Columbia City, including The Melting Pot, La Medusa, Off Alley, and Jackalope Tex Mex & Cantina. Lovers of spicy Kenyan cuisine, seafood, or Italian delicacies will find joy in exploring the wonderful restaurants of Columbia City.

Seattle Parks and Trails

Seaward Park remains the premier outdoor space for outdoor lovers. Entirely encircled by Lake Washington, Seaward Park provides picturesque views of Downtown Seattle, the Space Needle, well-maintained forest lands, and much more. The City of Seattle hosts walking tours along Seaward Park all year.

Other parks to check out in Seattle neighborhoods include the following:

• Discovery Park
• Pier 62 Waterfront Park
• Gas Works Park
• Green Lake Park

Safest Seattle Neighborhoods

The three safest neighborhoods in Seattle include the following: 

• Portage Bay
• Westlake
• Madrona

Portage Bay, Westlake, and Madrona have low crime levels, excellent public school systems, and friendly neighbors in Seattle. If you have small children or have concerns about crimes in your neighborhood, Portage Bay, Westlake, and Madrona have everything you need.

Finding a Seattle Moving Company

Whether you seek the richest neighborhoods in Seattle or the best fine-dining options, Jordan River Moving & Storage can help. We’ve been in the moving business for many years and have an excellent track record for performing high-quality moving services. If you wish to explore Seattle neighborhoods, let us bring your dreams to life.

Call Jordan River Moving & Storage to speak with our wonderful staff and begin your moving journey. We offer local and long-distance moving services throughout Seattle and beyond.

Columbia is the capital of the US state of South Carolina. With a population of 136 632 that was recorded in the 2020 census, Colombia is the second-largest city in South Carolina. Perhaps once a charred city during the civil war – it is now a vibrant and culturally rich holiday choice.

A Closer Look at South Carolina’s Columbia

During the civil war, Columbia was a pivotal political and supply hub. If this is your thing, you should add the South Carolina State House to your agenda. It serves as the county seat of Richland County and is a part of the city that extends into neighboring Lexington County.

The city is the Center of the Columbia metropolitan statistical area, which boasted a population of 829 470 in 2020 and is the 72nd-largest metropolitan statistical area in the country.

The name Columbia is a poetic term that comes from the name of Christopher Columbus, who is well known for exploring the Spanish Crown.

Home To The Soda City Market

The city is frequently abbreviated as Cola, leading to its nickname, “Soda City.” In fact, one of the main events hosted in Columbia, SC, is the Soda City Market.

The things to do in Columbia, South Carolina, will keep you busy and wanting to visit again for more!

Art and History Lovers

Choose from the South Carolina State Museum, the South Carolina state house, to the South Carolina Military Museum, which takes you right back to the civil war. You are definitely spoilt for choice.

Edventure Children’s Museum

We have not forgotten the children. As the largest children’s museum in the entire southeast of the US, Edventure Children’s Museum is definitely worth the visit.

Architecture Lovers

If the South Carolina state house and the civil war are not what excites you, we have more to come! The Robert Mills House, Woodrow Wilson family home, and Hampton Preston mansion are some popular choices for visitors.

The South Carolina state house and various museums should also be at the top of your list.

Quick Facts About The Architecture Landscape of Columbia, SC

Robert Mills House

In 1973, the Robert Mills house was designated a National Historic Landmark. 1616 Blanding St, Columbia, SC 29201 is where you want to be heading to visit the Robert Mills House.

Woodrow Wilson family home

One of South Carolina’s most famous architectural glories! It is pretty unique in that it interprets the post-Civil War Reconstruction. Head down to 1705 Hampton Street, St Columbia, SC 29201, to enjoy this experience.

Hampton Preston Mansion

The Hampton Preston Mansion on 1615 Blanding St, Columbia, SC 29201, was constructed for the well-known Hampton family.

Things To Do In Columbia, South Carolina This Weekend

Nestled up against the Atlantic Ocean, South Carolina is known for its beautiful beaches, islands, and friendly Southern hospitality; you won’t be short of things to do in Columbia, South Carolina.

Tucked between the mountainous foothills upstate and the sandy beaches along the coast, you will find exhilarating theme parks, fascinating historical monuments, world-class museums, and wedding venues.

The family-friendly Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens, Columbia food tours, and an array of other attractions ensure that you have endless hours of fun!

Here are our picks of the best things to do in Columbia, South Carolina

Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park, tucked away neatly in the inter-coastal plains of South Carolina, is the underdog of US National Parks. It’s easy to understand why, given its unique landscape as well as its rich heritage.

It’s even close to the state capital and metro area, Columbia, which makes travel and accommodations quite convenient.

But a little-known secret about this quaint grove could be driving the locals to keep this place all to themselves.

Why enter Congaree through the ranger’s outposts when you can paddle right up to it? The 50-mile Congaree River Blue Trail is one of the trendiest things to do in Congaree National Park.

Start Your Journey from Downtown Columbia

You’ll start in the downtown “famously hot” metro Columbia, the state’s capital. You’ll paddle your way downstream until the river opens up to the US’ largest preserved old-growth bottomland forest and marshland.

The address of the Congaree National Park is 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, South Carolina, 29061, USA.

Lake Murray, South Carolina

Lake Murray is a boating heaven for all kinds of boaters. If it’s canoeing or kayaking in calm waters, navigating sails through cutting winds, or gently cruising in a power or fishing boat, Lake Murray in South Carolina is really the place to be!

The list of things to do in Columbia, South Carolina, just got better with the addition of Lake Murray!

Why is it so popular?

This lake attracts thousands each year with its numerous boating and other water sports offerings for sports enthusiasts and leisure travelers.

Lake Murray hosts nationally sponsored fishing tournaments and is best known for its four types of fish, including striped bass, largemouth bass, bream, and crappie.

Lake Murray’s address is 2184 North Lake Drive, Columbia, South Carolina, 29212.

Riverbanks Zoo And Garden

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in South Carolina is home to a lot more than 2 000 splendid and intriguing animals. It is one of the nation’s most stunning and moving botanical gardens.

A Closer Look At Riverbanks Zoo

Riverbanks Zoo is a lush 170-acre site showcasing dynamic natural habitat exhibitions, scenic river views, spectacular valley views, as well as significant historical landmarks in South Carolina state.

The address is 500 Wildlife Parkway, St Columbia, SC, 29201 is where you get to enjoy all that Riverbanks Zoo has to offer!

South Carolina State Museum

Representing four disciplines: science and technology, natural history, cultural history, and art, the South Carolina State Museum is a must if you are looking for things to do in Columbia, South Carolina.

A State-Of-The-Art Museum

Why? Boasting a digital dome planetarium, observatory, and 4D interactive theater makes the South Carolina State Museum one of the best attractions in downtown Columbia.

301 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201, United States, is where you find South Carolina’s State Museum.

Columbia Museum Of Art

The Columbia Museum of Art in South Carolina (CMA) celebrates outstanding artistic creativity via its collection, exhibitions, and programs, interacting in ways that engage the mind and enrich the spirit.

Top-ranking Art Institution

Located in the very heart of downtown Columbia, South Carolina, the Columbia Museum of Art ranks amongst the leading art institutions in the country. It is recognized for its innovative exhibitions and creative educational programs.

At the Center of the Columbia Museum of Art and its programs is its collection, which encompasses almost 7 000 works and covers thousands of years of history, representing a wide range of world cultures.

A Whopping 135 000 Visitors Annually

Established in 1950, the CMA now welcomes more than 135 000 visitors annually and acts as a catalyst for community creativity, engaging individuals of all ages and backgrounds with a diverse range of programming.

From exhibitions and lectures right down to concerts, arts & draughts parties, and craft-haven gatherings, Columbia Museum hosts an impressive variety of shows. The art events are a must of things to do in Columbia, South Carolina.

The address of the Columbia Museum of Art is 1515 Main St Columbia, SC, 29201 (Downtown Columbia)

Columbia Mall SC

The Mall in Columbia, which is also known as the Columbia Mall, is the main shopping mall for the community of Columbia, Maryland, United States.

It has a little over 200 specialty stores; the anchor stores are Lidl, AMC Theatres, Main Event Entertainment, JCPenney, Barnes & Noble, Macy’s, and Nordstrom.

Some of the restaurants include PF Chang’s, Maggiano’s Little Italy, and The Cheesecake Factory. It is situated in the Town Center area of the city and attracts shoppers from neighboring counties in Maryland.

Columbia Mall South Carolina’s address is 10300 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, MD 21044.

Three Rivers Columbia SC

At Three Rivers Midlands, they take great pride in the work that they do. Every employee is passionate and committed to establishing a healthy and therapeutic environment for the people who live there.

They understand that every child and adolescent who comes to them for mental health treatment is an individual, and their staff takes the time to get to know residents and their particular needs.

The address of Three Rivers Midlands is 200 Ermine Road, West Columbia, South Carolina, 29170.

Township Auditorium

When the curtain was drawn open on 1 December 1930, a showplace of dreams was unveiled, and the highest hopes of the citizens of South Carolina were created in the new Township Auditorium in downtown Columbia.

Designed Lafaye & Lafaye Associates

Designed and built by leading South Carolina architects Lafaye & Lafaye Associates, the Township was the very first multi-purpose facility in the Carolinas.

Praised for its architecture, acoustics, and sightlines when it was first constructed.

A Township With A Rich History

The Township has survived world wars, economic booms, recessions, social turmoil, and the renaissance of Columbia’s Downtown City Center.

The address of the Township Auditorium is the corner of Taylor and Henderson Streets in downtown St Columbia, SC, 29201.

Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park

The Columbia Canal was an important state-backed construction, which is now a famous sightseeing landmark close to the Riverfront Park.

What makes Riverfront Park popular? It is the ideal place to unwind and spend some quality time right in the heart of nature!

Riverfront Park and Lake Murray are popular jogging spots for fitness enthusiasts. Close enough to the Riverbanks Zoo if you are looking at a prolonged stay.

The West Columbia Riverwalk Park is just another activity to keep the whole family busy.

Koger Center For The Arts

As the capital city’s vivacious hub of dining for Columbia food tours and entertainment, without a doubt, the Koger Center for the Arts is highlighted as Columbia’s premier focus for the performing arts.

A Cultural Experience To Remember

As the cultural destination for audiences looking for diverse experiences in a dynamic and dynamic setting.

The Center features several local arts groups comprising the Columbia City Ballet, The South Carolina Philharmonic, and the Columbia Classical Ballet.

Some rate it one of the top things to do in Columbia, South Carolina.

Together with the University of South Carolina, the Koger Center holds performances by both the USC Dance Department and the School of Music, as well as the USC Symphony Orchestra.

The Koger Center is proud to be the home of Broadway In Columbia, SC bringing the absolute best of world-class productions to Columbia, SC.

Conclusion

From the historically rich South Carolina Military Museum to sightseeing at the Columbia Canal or a visit to Lake Murray, you can rest assured that your trip to Columbia, South Carolina, is going to be a memorable one!

There are so many amazing things to do in Columbia, SC; we’ve highlighted just a handful of these in this article. So, whatever you like doing, you’re sure to find something you enjoy! If you are planning to move to Columbia, SC and looking for movers South Carolina for professional moving services; you can also visit Jordan River Moving. Contact us today!

Preparing to move presents a number of challenges. For those who have lived in their current residences for some time, beginning the packing process often seems confusing and complicated.

Fortunately, moving to your new home can be a breeze with the proper guidance. At Jordan River Moving & Storage, we help people from all walks of life manage their move, whether cross-city or cross-country.

We can help you get started with your move. In this blog, we talk about what to pack first when moving house. You’ll find a guide on where to get started and a complete checklist for packing everything from non-essentials to your most-used items.

Moving to a new home doesn’t have to be stressful. To learn more about moving, keep browsing our blog. For expert moving services, including packing, hauling, moving insurance, and more, give us a call today.

Where To Start Packing To Move

Many people feel overwhelmed when trying to decide where to begin packing for a move. Before deciding what to pack first when moving to a new house, take a slow and steady approach by forming a plan.

Make a Plan

Whether you’ve lived in your house for four days or forty years, your move should start with a plan. This plan should include detailed lists of which rooms to pack first, which items to pack first, and any moving services, packing materials, or other goods and services needed.

Having a written, detailed plan allows you to collect your thoughts and approach packing your household in an orderly and efficient manner. It also helps ensure you don’t miss a step or forget to pack specific items.

Packing Materials

Once you have a detailed plan in place, collect your packing materials. Often, moving services offer special prices on quality boxes, tape, padding, and other shipping and packing material.

Your packing materials list should include items such as: 

•  Small, medium, and large moving boxes

•  Packaging paper

•  Bubble wrap

•  Styrofoam inserts

•  Custom boxes for special or protected items

•  Stretch wrap

•  Markers

•  Professional-grade packing tape

•  Portable refrigeration, if necessary

Cleaning

One of the most important steps anyone can take to prepare themselves for a move involves cleaning. No matter what you pack first when moving out, that item should be clean and free of dust, debris, or allergens.

Cleaning items before packing also helps streamline the packing and unpacking process. You’ll have less to clean before and after you move.

Decluttering

Do you have items you don’t need? Consider donating, selling, or gifting these items before you begin packing. Eliminating items, you no longer need or use can streamline the packing process and allow room for essential upgrades.

What To Pack First When Moving: A Checklist

If you’re planning your packing schedule, consider our What to Pack first when Moving checklist below. 

•  Items in storage spaces

•  Books, magazines, and records

•  Pictures, framed artwork, and other wall-hangings

•  Knick-knacks, trophies, awards, and decorations

•  Non-essential clothing and shoes

•  Essential items

Remember that your moving distance and your ‘what to pack first when moving’ list impact your moving timetable. What to pack first when moving from apartment to apartment differs from what to pack first when moving out of state, for example. Some heavier items may need to be shipped ahead of schedule to be ready for your arrival.

Items In Storage Spaces

Logically speaking, when deciding what to pack first when moving to a new house, starting with items already packed away makes sense. Items in storage spaces such as attics, basements, storage sheds, or closets should be examined, cleaned, and re-packed if necessary. You or your team of moving professionals can load these items onto moving trucks early or, if necessary, ship them ahead of schedule.

Clearing storage units first helps you save money during your move and prioritize which items must remain in storage.

Books and Records

If you’re wondering what to pack first when moving out, we recommend starting with books and records you aren’t reading or using. Packing these items first clears shelf space and allows you to clean shelves first.

For collector’s editions of books and records, we recommend using hard-shell or reinforced packing boxes to prevent crushing or other damages related to stacking.

Pictures and Artwork

Closer to your moving date, pack up your pictures, artwork, and other wall hangings. This stage of the move allows you to examine the state of your walls and make any necessary repairs, such as hole-filling, repainting, etc.

Items like glass picture frames must have padding or specialized packing to protect them during the move. Remember to protect any fragile decorations accordingly while packing them for the move.

Knick-knacks and Decorations

After you’ve made necessary repairs to your walls and have packed your wall-hanging decorations, consider packing knick-knacks and other decorative items. These items require protection during a move, so pack them carefully with secure bubble wrapping, packing paper, and properly-marked boxes.

Non-essential Clothing

Next, go through your closets, dressers, and other clothing storage areas to choose which items of clothing remain non-essential for your current needs. For example, pack away any winter clothing if you’re moving in the summer, and box up any shoes or boots not currently in use,

Remember to protect sensitive clothing items using clothing bags, waterproof packing materials, moth balls, etc., if you plan to pack them away for long periods of time.

Essential Items

Since they remain critical to your day-to-day life, pack essential items last, Essential items may include: 

•  Gadgets and cell phones

•  Toiletries and hygiene products

•  Cooking utensils and cutlery

•  Home office supplies

•  Medicines

•  Bed linens

•  Cleaning products

•  Snacks and food

If moving cross-country, be sure to pack a box of immediate necessities, too.

Conclusion

Many people feel challenged or overwhelmed when deciding what to pack first when moving. With a bit of planning and by starting with the least-used rooms and items first, you can make packing and move less stressful.

Keep browsing our blog to learn more about what to pack and how to pack it. Call our Jordan River Moving & Storage team at 1-877-611-0808 to schedule a consultation for moving services today.

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Moving is a massive undertaking, and most people get caught up in the packing of their items, changing their address for essential services, and other administrative tasks that come with moving house. However, another thing to consider (and one that is often overlooked by people that are moving) is how to pack a moving truck with all your personal effects to ensure that they arrive safely and timeously in your new home.

With this comprehensive list, you are sure to navigate the packing of your moving truck and reduce the stress of your move knowing that your items are safely stowed and will arrive at their destination timeously, undamaged, and more efficiently.

Before Renting a Moving Truck

Decide what kind of truck you need

The first thing to do is to figure out what type and size of moving truck you will need which will depend on the types and size of items that are being moved. Don’t be persuaded into using a smaller moving truck in an effort to save money, as inevitably, a small truck will not fit all your belongings.

As a result, you may need to pay to upsize the truck or arrange for several trips. In either case, this results in more hassle than it is worth, and it is ultimately easier to upsize your moving truck to be sure it can accommodate all your furniture and belongings effectively.

It really helps to do your homework when it comes to looking for moving trucks and calling moving companies and checking their websites will provide very useful information on the types and quantities of items that can be accommodated by their fleet of trucks.

Very importantly, ensure that the moving truck you book comes with a loading dock. Trying to load heavy appliances, large boxes, and furniture into a moving truck without a loading dock can prove to be extremely difficult, so it is a good idea to double-check with your moving company.

Get Your Moving Supplies Together

This goes without saying, but it is important that all the items you plan to take with you to your new home are packaged well and safely for the journey. Read more about how to pack effectively for a move here.

In short, you will want to ensure that your items are adequately protected once they are packed in the moving truck. Supplies such as furniture pads and moving blankets that are used to close the spaces between your boxes and furniture items can come in extremely handy. They are good at stopping items scraping against each other in transit, as well as stopping your items from shifting around in the truck whilst in transit.

Another item that is important to use is moving straps, which will help hold your items in place during transit and avoid shifting and potential damage.

Prepare Your Items for Transit

Focussing particularly on your furniture, it is important to disassemble items such as dining room tables and couches. This will allow for easier packing because parts of your furniture won’t be sticking out and potentially waste space. Disassembled furniture can easily be put back together and allows for more efficient packing of other items in the moving truck.

General Loading Tips

As a general rule, heavier items should be loaded first, and then lighter items can be loaded. Heavy items such as washers and dryers, couches, tables, chairs, and the like should also be loaded on the bottom of the truck, with lighter boxes and items placed on top of them.

Lighter items can be added last and on top of your heavier boxes or items. Fragile items such as mirrors and crockery can be placed at the very top, to minimize the likelihood of them being crushed by heavier items. Again, using moving straps to secure the lighter items is a good idea, to prevent them from falling and potentially breaking.

The Best Way to Pack a Moving Truck

When packing your moving truck, it is important to be conscious of the weight distribution of your items in the truck, and its effect on keeping the truck balanced and ultimately safe.

Valuables, Important Documents, and Essentials

Valuables such as jewelry, important documents, and similar items should be stored in the cab with you, to ensure that they are safe. Additionally, it is a good idea to keep things that you might need to grab quickly during your move with you as well. Items such as toiletries, medication, and other related items are good to keep close on hand, in case you require them during your journey.

Heavy Appliances

Appliances such as your washer, dryer, and refrigerator should be packed in the very back of the moving truck, closest to the cab. Packing heavy objects closer to the cab helps in keeping the moving truck balanced and the weight evenly distributed.

Heavy Furniture

Furniture pieces that are heavy, such as desks and dining room tables should be placed in the middle of the truck. You can also add heavy boxes such as those that contain gym equipment or textbooks into this area to balance the weight out from the very back of the moving truck.

Mattresses and Box Springs

Your bed base, box spring, and mattress can be placed on the left side of the truck, as well as other large cushions. Be sure to take special care to pad and protect your box spring from potential scratching by utilizing the mattress and cushions as padding.

Couches and Sofas

Your sofa and couches can be packed on the right side of the truck, directly opposite your mattresses and box springs. Again, this helps distribute the weight in the truck evenly, and your sofas and couches can act as padding for the heavier items packed in the middle of the truck, preventing scratching and potential damage.

Heavy Boxes

Any additional heavy boxes you have can be placed in the middle of the truck, as well as along the back end, effectively ‘sealing’ everything in and keeping the truck balanced.

Smaller and Lighter Boxes

Boxes that are smaller and less heavy can fill the space left by the heavy boxes. Packing them next to heavy boxes also decreases the likelihood of the lighter boxes shifting around, potentially damaging what is stored inside them.

How can Jordan River Moving help?

At Jordan River Moving, we can assist with everything from packing supplies, moving equipment, and rental of moving trucks. We can also offer advice on packing, and assist with any questions about your relocation journey. Contact us today to see how we can help.

Moving can be a very costly experience all things considered. Tipping your movers is customary in most parts of the world. The tip you give should be relevant to the level of service that they provide. The better the customer service, the higher the tip should be. The only question is how much should I tip movers?

Moving heavy boxes is very hard work and takes a strain on the workers. Movers that work hard will minimize our stress levels and help the move go more smoothly. Eliminating as much stress as possible is the key to a successful move.

The general rule of thumb is to leave between 15% – 20% of the total amount. The amount will vary depending on what the movers are responsible for.

How Much to Tip Movers

Rate the level of service

A tip is a reward for hard work and going above and beyond the normally expected level of service. If you were disappointed in the service then this should reflect in the tip. Should you tip movers and how much?

Level of difficulty

The amount you tip will also depend on how difficult the move was. Did the workers need to navigate large staircases or narrow hallways? Did they help you pack and unpack the boxes? The more difficult the job is, the higher the tip should be.

Keep in mind

Some moving companies will include the tip in the overall quote. Don’t just go according to the percentage value. Instead, evaluate the movers based on performance. Be sure to take into account the amount of time, level of difficulty, and other deciding factors.

Tipping Local Movers

A local move is classified as a move that is 50 miles or less. Anything over 50 miles is considered a long-distance move. How much should you tip your moving guys?

The length of time for a half-day move is about 4 hours. While a full-day move is booked at 8 hours.

• Half day – 4 hours: $15 – $20 per mover
• Full day – 8 hours $30 -$40 per mover

If you feel they deserve a higher tip, you can use your discretion.

How much to tip long-distance movers

How much should you tip movers and packers? If you need to move 100 miles or more, this is considered a long-distance move.

• Full-day move – 8 hours – $40 per mover
• Over 12 hours – $50 – $60 per mover (based on the level of performance)

Is Tipping expected?

The short answer is no, but many people do tip so the workers may have become accustomed to receiving a tip. A tip is given as a token of gratitude.

When is the best time to tip movers?

The tip should be given at the end of the assignment. This will allow the tip to reflect how satisfied you are with the service that was provided. If you would like to tip workers while they are still busy with the job, go right ahead. The worker will feel rewarded and work even harder on your behalf.

Other Ways to Show Appreciation

Unfortunately, sometimes you won’t be satisfied with the level of service you receive. Factors that could impact the tip you leave could include:

• Attitude: If the mover is rude or has a negative attitude this will reflect negatively on the tip you leave. A bad attitude must be addressed immediately and should be brought to the attention of the team leader.
• Damage: If any of your goods were damaged in the move or have gone missing.
• Wasting time: As workers are paid by the hour, they might try to waste time to get paid more. You will notice if the worker is hustling or wasting time.
• Arriving late: Timeframes are crucial when it comes to moving days. Even a delay of half an hour can greatly impact the entire movie. Lateness must not be tolerated. If there is a legitimate excuse that should be taken into account.

Tipping movers is an excellent way to show your appreciation for a job well done.

Other factors to consider

• How organized the move was
• The weather conditions
• Did they help pack the boxes?
• Total number of hours on site
• Difficult conditions
• How many square feet
• How many stories does your home have?
• Is there an elevator or only stairs?
• The level of duties

Wrapping it all up

Tipping your movers is a lovely gesture that goes a long way. Movers are hard workers so they deserve to be appreciated. It remains up to you whether you would like to leave a tip or not. If you have a good meal, and excellent service at a restaurant then you normally leave a large tip. So why not tip your Packers in the same manner?

The level of service and all other factors mentioned in this article should be taken into account. Do you tip movers? Are there any other factors or tips that this article hasn’t mentioned that you base your tipping on?

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There is a reason that people compare moving to the death of a loved one. That is because it can be such a stressful experience. It doesn’t need to be though. We have compiled a full-proof list of tips and tricks to help you move. Follow these tips and suggestions to make your next relocation simple and easy.

Plan ahead

The most important part of any move is planning. The planning process should happen well ahead of time. Creating a moving checklist will help you avoid moving mistakes and keep everything organized. Being organized is the key to a successful move.

We will provide tips on the best way to pack a moving truck, give you packing tips for moving in a hurry, pack tips for moving furniture, and other tips that will help you move successfully.

There are so many things that can go wrong during a move. It would be almost impossible to plan for every scenario. Being prepared and doing as much research as possible will result in an easier move every time.

Clean and clear out

There is no point in packing your entire household only to throw things away that you no longer need when you unpack. Instead, have a clean-out. Sell or donate things that you no longer need. This will save on moving costs and give you a cash boost when you need it most. Have a yard sale or give everything to charity to spread good cheer.

Create a moving folder

Keep all the details of your new residence in a moving folder. This folder should include:

• The rental or purchase agreement
• Contracts for movers and service providers
• Moving checklist and planning process documents
• Timelines for deliveries
• Proof of payments

These documents should be printed and the hard copy filed in the folder. This will prevent issues if your device dies and you only have a digital copy of the file on hand.

Start packing well in advance

Start by packing items that you are not currently using, or that aren’t in season at the moment. A great place to start packing is the garage or storage area. Books, kids’ toys, and kitchen cutlery can be packed and ready to move. Just remember to leave out items that you may require before the move.

The more you pack in advance the quicker packing on a moving day will be and the less stressful the moving experience will be.

Contact your utility providers

Once the details of your move have been finalized, contact your new utility provider to schedule services. Imagine needing a hot shower after a long day of moving, only to find out you don’t have electricity for hot water. Remember to cancel the services at your old residence so that you aren’t charged extra.

Establish the essentials

Create a kit for each member of the family. The kit should include everyday essentials such as a change of clothing, your toiletries, and a toothbrush. Children’s kits should contain a few changes of clothing, their favorite toy, and a blanket. Mom should always have emergency medication on hand in case anyone needs medical attention during the move.

Comfort items and other essentials for daily life should be put into the kit. This way even if your boxes are delayed, you can still have everything you need until the boxes arrive.

Stock up on supplies

Make sure that you have everything you need for your move. Purchase everything that you need to pack and keep your items safe and secure. Supplies should include:

• Boxes
• Box cutters
• Scissors
• Packing tape
• Paper towels
• Bubble wrap
• Labels
• Permanent markers
• Garbage bags
• Other essentials
• Packing peanuts
• Packing tape in various colors

If you hire a moving company they will provide a furniture dolly, furniture pads, covers, tie-down straps, and ropes. If you need to move expensive art or irregular items you may require specialist movers for the job.

Hire a truck with a loading ramp

Lifting heavy boxes can be very tiring and put a lot of strain on your body. Hire a moving truck that has a loading ramp, this may cost a little more, but the added convenience of not needing to lift heavy boxes will save you time and help to limit your stress levels.

Tips for packing perfectly

Use the correct boxes

You may think that loading everything into one big box will be the best option, but this isn’t true. A large box filled with heavy items will be very difficult to move. Instead, pack heavy items in smaller boxes that are easy to lift. Remember to mark these boxes. Large boxes can be filled with lightweight items such as pillows or bedding.

When packing the truck, the heaviest boxes should be loaded into the truck first.

Don’t leave space in the boxes and number them

Make sure that you don’t leave unnecessary space in the boxes. If there is space, fill it with clothing items or packing paper. A full box is much more stable and can be moved more easily than one that has empty spaces.

An excellent way to ensure that you don’t lose any of your boxes is to number and label them. Each box should have a number, a label, and a content description. The final destination of the box should be printed on the label so that the mover knows exactly where the boxes need to be taken to. If your boxes are numbered, it will be very easy to see if something is missing.

Moving art

If you collect art, then you will be familiar with how expensive art can be. If you’re moving expensive artwork it’s important to hire special movers that can handle this complicated task. A DIY or experienced mover may damage the piece and not know how to protect it during transit.

There are rules to moving artwork so make sure you hire a moving company that is well established and has experience moving precious artwork. Art should be moved in a special moving crate and packed using special instructions.

Tips for packing your kitchen

Another rooky mistake that people that are new to moving make is packing their kitchen boxes incorrectly. Plates should be individually wrapped in paper, then wrapped in bubble wrap in groups of 4 or 6. They should always be packed on their sides and never on the back. Use bunched-up packing paper or packing beads between the items so they are less likely to break.

Cups and bowls can be packed inside each other with a layer of packing paper between them. Glasses should be packed in a box that has cardboard dividers to help protect the glass from breaking, wrap each glass individually, then layer with bubble wrap or packing paper for extra protection.

Hacks for packing your kitchen include:

• Use pots to hold smaller items
• Pack plates vertically
• Pack essential appliances in laundry baskets
• Stack your pots and pans
• Wrap your utensils tray

Packing tips for moving in a hurry

Sometimes you may not have the time to plan and you will need to move in a hurry. This is not ideal and will add to your stress levels. We have compiled a few tips and tricks on how to move when you need to move in a hurry.

• Pack now, sort later: There won’t be time to decide what to pack and what to get rid of. Pack everything in a box and sort it out at your new destination.
• Repurpose: Use soft items like towels, blankets, and socks, to pack around breakable items.

• Pack your clothing as is: Clothing can be packed directly hanger and all. This will save time on packing and unpacking at your new destination. Wrap a strong garbage bag around them for added protection. Tape closed dressers and drawers and move them, contents and all.

• Ask for assistance: Ask your friends and family to help you move. Extra hands are essential when you need to relocate in a hurry. The more helpers you have, the more you can delegate. Give each person a room or area they are responsible for packing. To reward your helpers keep them well fed and hydrated. A few pizzas and drinks will go a long way to keep your helpers happy and ready to assist.

• Hire professionals: professional movers are very skilled and can pack up an entire household in a couple of hours. If you need to relocate in a hurry, a professional will probably be your best option.

Tips for packing your bedroom

1.Don’t empty your dresser

You may be tempted to start unpacking the contents of your dresser and drawers into boxes but this is simply a waste of time. If you’re moving the item then leave everything inside and simply tape it shut. Make sure everything is secure and can be lifted easily.

2. Leave your clothes on the hangers 

Simply wrap clothing in large garbage bags and leave them on the hanger. When you need to unpack. Simply hang it in the wardrobe and remove the bag. Done and dusted.

3. Roll your clothing

To save space while packing, roll your clothing before packing them into boxes. Packing clothing straight on top of each other will take up more space and make the box seem unstable and heavier.

4. Use large outdoor garbage bags

Outdoor garbage bags are much stronger and won’t break as easily as the normal type. Use the bags to carry towels, linens, toys, and other non-breakable items.

5. Use liquor store boxes for shoes

If you have a large shoe collection, the best way to keep them organized is to use boxes that have a divider. Your local liquor store should have the types of boxes you need and they are normally willing to part with them for free.

6. Protect your mattress

If you don’t have a mattress protector or bag to move it in. use a fitted sheet over both sides of the mattress. This will keep it clean and prevent it from being damaged during the move.

Think about the fact you need to unpack

After a long hard day of moving, chances are you are going to be very tired. After all is said and done you will need a shower, a meal, and a good night’s sleep. Pack boxes that you need easy access to in the front of the truck. Each box should be delivered to the room that will be its final destination.

Remember to pack essentials such as soap, towels, shampoo, and toothpaste somewhere that can be found easily. Pack a kit for each member of the family that contains everything they need to get a good night’s sleep.

It might be a good idea to get a food delivery or take-out on the first night, so you don’t need to cook. If this isn’t an option, then make a quick easy meal such as hot dogs and use paper plates to reduce the amount of cleaning.

Wrapping it all up

Although moving can be a very stressful experience, with a bit of planning and knowing how your move can, and will be successful. If you require experts in the field at Jordan River Moving we always have you covered. If you require any assistance, simply give us a call for a no-obligation-free quote.

We are experts in the field and can handle every aspect of your move from the start to the end. Relax and take a step back, we will take care of the rest on your behalf.

Moving doesn’t need to be such a daunting task, so relax, take a deep breath, and count to 10. If your budget allows, why not hire an expert so that you can eliminate all your stress? It may cost a little more but your peace of mind will pay for itself.

Hopefully, these tips and tricks will help make your next move run smoothly. Let us know in the comments if you have any other tried and tested moving hacks.

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Moving is a stressful undertaking, with various admin tasks that can sometimes be overwhelming and easily overlooked. One of these is to consider who to inform that your address is changing. It may not seem like a large task, but there are a lot more places that need to know you are moving than you might think.

With this comprehensive change of address checklist, you can make the moving process just a little easier and less stressful.

Change of address checklist

1.     Friends and family
2.     Clubs or organizations you belong to
3.     Online shopping profiles
4.     Subscription services
5.     Your household insurance providers
6.     Loan providers
7.     Your bank and credit card company (if they aren’t the same)
8.     Retail credit accounts
9.     Your accountant or tax accountant
10.   Your employer
11.   The Post Office
12.   The DMV
13.   The IRS
14.   Social Security
15.   Voter registration
16.   Utility providers, such as gas, electricity, and water
17.   Cable, internet, and phone service providers
18.   Your health insurance
19.   Your car insurance
20.   Your veterinarian
21.   Streaming services

The Post Office

Notifying the post office of your change of address can be done online and relatively quickly. This should be done at least one week before moving to ensure there are no gaps between your move and mail forwarding. Click here to go to the change of address page for the US Post Office. You’ll be charged a minimal fee of $1.10 to verify your identity.

Alternatively, your address can be changed by getting a mover’s guide pack from the post office, which includes a change of address form and coupons for moving-related services and products. This option is free of charge but takes significantly longer than the online change of address option.

It is important to ensure that you complete the change of address correctly at the post office. For example, if there are multiple people moving with you with the same last name, you will need to select ‘entire family.’ Alternatively, if different surnames are involved, a separate form for each surname will need to be completed.

Social Security Administration

If you are someone who receives benefits from social security, the agency should be notified of your move. This can be easily done through your online SSA profile, or by calling your closest SSA office.

The IRS

The IRS must know about your move to ensure that your tax information remains as updated as possible. This can be simply done by completing and filing an 8822 form.

DMV

Any kind of move (regardless of whether you are changing states) needs to be communicated to the DMV within 30 days of your move.

If you are moving to a different state, then you will have to register your vehicle in your new state.

Voter registration

When election time comes, you won’t be able to vote in your newly designated district if your address is not updated on the voter’s roll. Updating your address also ensures that you can be allocated the correct polling station on election day.

Electric and Gas Utilities

Notifying your gas and electric utility providers is arguably the most important and should be done as soon as you know your moving date and new address. If you are unsure of your new utility providers, your property manager or realtor should be able to help you.

Ideally, shut-off of your utilities at your old residence should occur at the end of the moving day, and services should be on at your new property the evening before, to ensure that you arrive at your new property with functioning utilities, and don’t have to move around in the dark.

Other utilities

Utilities such as your sewer utility company, the water department, and your garbage collection and recycling company also need to be notified of your move. As with your electric and gas utilities, you should notify your water and sewer services well in advance of your move, to ensure no interruption of services at your new residence and continuation of service at your old residence.

Internet, phone, and cable

With regards to your internet, phone, and cable, it is important to find out if you are able to transfer your services to your new address, or if you have to terminate your services at your old address and reinstate them at your new address. In this case, it is helpful to know who your provider will be so that you can make the necessary arrangements over the phone or online.

Banks, loan issuers, and credit card companies

For all three of these, you’ll want to be sure that you don’t miss a statement or other type of important notice, so you will want to update your address with your bank, loan issuer, and credit card company.

Insurance companies

This includes your health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, car insurance, and homeowner (or renter’s) insurance. Informing them of a change of address will ensure that you are covered in your new location, whether it is a new city or a new state.

Specifically, with car insurance, you’ll want to confirm that you don’t need to modify your coverage based on your new location, and parking spot. Additionally, some states require liability insurance, whilst others do not – so it is always important to check.

Finally, the homeowner’s or renter’s insurance needs to be notified, as the correct home needs to be insured. Additionally, your new home may have additions that need to be mentioned to your insurance to ensure that you are fully covered.

Something to ask your insurers when you move is whether they cover your goods whilst they are in transit during your move. If this is not the case, you may want to look into moving insurance in order to protect your possessions during your move.

Personal and animal care

It is important to let people like your employer, doctor, dentist, and lawyer know about your change of address so that bills come through to the correct location and you don’t miss any important notices.

Additionally, it is important to let your veterinarian know of your move. If your pet is microchipped, ensure that you update the information on the microchip to your new address, so that if your pet is found, it is returned to the correct address.

General tips for change of address

Here are some general tips to follow when undergoing the task of changing your address.  

•       Try to take care of multiple changes at a single time. For example, a single trip to the DMV can accomplish a change of address for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, voter registration, and passport.
•       Try to make as many changes as you can online – this stops you from having to make many trips to various institutions.
•       Make sure you have all the correct forms and information with you when visiting anywhere you need to change your address, to avoid having to go backward and forward to get the correct information.