Moving Tips

Top 10 Moving Tips

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Moving can be an exciting yet challenging experience. Whether you’re relocating across town or to a new state, the process requires careful planning and organization to ensure everything goes smoothly. At Checkmate Moving, we understand the intricacies of moving and are here to help you every step of the way. Here are our top 10 moving tips to make your transition as seamless as possible.

  1. Start Planning Early

Give Yourself Time

Begin planning your move at least two months in advance. Early planning gives you ample time to sort through your belongings, gather supplies, and tackle each task without the last-minute rush.

Create a Moving Checklist

A checklist can help you stay organized. List out tasks such as booking movers, notifying utility companies, and packing items room by room. Check off tasks as you complete them to keep track of your progress.

  1. Declutter Before You Pack

Sort and Purge

Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Moving is a great opportunity to declutter and get rid of items you no longer need or use. This will reduce the volume of items to pack and move, saving you time and effort.

Hold a Garage Sale

Consider holding a garage sale to sell items that are in good condition but no longer needed. This can also help you earn a little extra money to offset moving costs.

  1. Gather Packing Supplies

Stock Up on Essentials

Ensure you have plenty of boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper. Having the right supplies on hand will make the packing process more efficient and protect your belongings during transit.

Use Specialty Boxes

Invest in specialty boxes for fragile items such as dishes, glassware, and electronics. These boxes provide extra protection and help prevent damage.

  1. Label Boxes Clearly

Detailed Labeling

Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking easier and help movers know where to place each box in your new home.

Color-Code Boxes

Consider using color-coded labels for each room. For example, blue for the kitchen, red for the living room, and green for the bedroom. This visual system can speed up the unloading process.

  1. Pack an Essentials Box

Immediate Needs

Pack a box with essential items you’ll need for the first few days in your new home. Include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, medications, and basic kitchen items.

Keep It Accessible

Make sure the essentials box is easy to access and transport it with you, rather than loading it onto the moving truck.

  1. Protect Fragile Items

Use Bubble Wrap and Packing Paper

Wrap fragile items individually in bubble wrap or packing paper. Use extra padding around delicate items and fill any empty spaces in boxes to prevent shifting during the move.

Label as Fragile

Clearly mark boxes containing fragile items with “FRAGILE” and indicate which side should face up. This will alert movers to handle these boxes with care.

  1. Notify Important Parties

Change of Address

Update your address with the post office, banks, insurance companies, and other important institutions. Inform friends and family of your new address as well.

Transfer Utilities

Schedule the disconnection of utilities at your current home and the connection at your new home. This includes electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable services.

  1. Hire Professional Movers

Research and Book Early

If you’re hiring professional movers, research reputable companies and book early. Checkmate Moving offers reliable and professional moving services to ensure your move is handled with care.

Get Estimates

Obtain estimates from multiple moving companies to compare services and prices. Ensure the company you choose is licensed and insured.

  1. Take Inventory

Document Your Belongings

Create an inventory list of all items being moved. This will help you keep track of your belongings and ensure nothing gets lost during the move.

Note the Condition

Take photos of valuable items and note their condition before the move. This documentation will be useful if you need to file an insurance claim for any damaged items.

  1. Stay Organized on Moving Day

Keep Important Documents Handy

Keep important documents, such as moving contracts, inventory lists, and contact information for the moving company, in a designated folder. Have this folder readily accessible on moving day.

Supervise the Move

Be present on moving day to supervise the process, answer questions, and provide directions to the movers. Your presence can help ensure everything goes according to plan.

Moving doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By following these top 10 moving tips, you can make your transition smoother and more organized. At Checkmate Moving, we are dedicated to providing exceptional moving services to help you every step of the way. If you’re planning a move, contact us today to learn how we can assist you in making your move hassle-free.

Checkmate Moving and Storage based out of Denver, Colorado adheres to the highest moving company industry standards. We deliver full-service moving and storage services for all your residential, commercial, and industrial needs with the highest industry standards, and that is reflected in our Better Business Bureau A+ Accredited Business Rating. Because we are an owned and operated moving company, we are personally interested in maintaining our reputation. Contact us for a free quote.

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11 Hacks to Follow For Your Office Relocation

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Moving your office to a new location can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and the right moving partner, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re relocating to a larger space, downsizing, or simply looking for a change of scenery, these 11 hacks from moving experts will help ensure a smooth and successful office relocation.

  1. Start Planning Early: Begin planning your office relocation as early as possible to allow ample time for preparations, coordination, and logistics. Create a detailed timeline outlining key milestones and deadlines to keep your relocation project on track.
  2. Designate a Moving Coordinator: Appoint a dedicated moving coordinator or team to oversee the relocation process and serve as the main point of contact for all moving-related inquiries and tasks.
  3. Purge Unnecessary Items: Take the opportunity to declutter and purge unnecessary items before the move. Dispose of old equipment, outdated documents, and other items that are no longer needed to streamline the moving process and reduce clutter in your new office space.
  4. Create a Floor Plan: Develop a detailed floor plan for your new office space to determine the layout of furniture, equipment, and workstations. This will help ensure that everything fits seamlessly into the new environment and minimize disruptions during the move.
  5. Notify Stakeholders: Keep employees, clients, suppliers, and other stakeholders informed about the upcoming office relocation. Provide regular updates, communicate any changes to business operations, and address any concerns or questions they may have.
  6. Label and Organize: Clearly label boxes, furniture, and equipment with their destination location in the new office space to facilitate the unpacking process. Use color-coded labels or numbering systems to simplify identification and placement.
  7. Backup Important Data: Prior to the move, backup critical data, files, and documents to ensure they are safely preserved during the relocation process. Consider using cloud storage or external hard drives for added security and accessibility.
  8. Coordinate with Vendors: Notify vendors, service providers, and utility companies about your office relocation and arrange for the transfer or setup of essential services, such as internet, phone lines, utilities, and IT infrastructure.
  9. Schedule Professional Movers: Hire experienced office movers who specialize in commercial relocations to ensure a smooth and efficient transition. Choose a reputable moving company with a track record of reliability, professionalism, and customer satisfaction.
  10. Conduct a Test Run: Before the move, conduct a test run or mock relocation to identify any potential challenges, logistical issues, or areas for improvement. This will allow you to fine-tune your relocation plan and address any last-minute concerns before the actual move day.
  11. Communicate and Celebrate: Finally, communicate with your team throughout the relocation process to keep them informed, engaged, and motivated. Celebrate milestones and achievements along the way to boost morale and foster a positive atmosphere during this transitional period.

By following these 11 essential hacks for office relocation, you can minimize stress, maximize efficiency, and ensure a successful transition to your new office space. With careful planning, coordination, and execution, your office relocation can be a seamless and rewarding experience for your business and team.

Checkmate Moving and Storage based out of Denver, Colorado adheres to the highest moving company industry standards. We deliver full-service moving and storage services for all your residential, commercial, and industrial needs with the highest industry standards, and that is reflected in our Better Business Bureau A+ Accredited Business Rating. Because we are family owned and operated moving company, we are personally interested in maintaining our reputation. Contact us for a free quote.

How Much Do Movers Charge for a Local Move?

How Much Do Movers Charge for a Local Move?

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Moving can be a stressful and costly endeavor. Planning for your move might include the use of professional movers, so understanding the costs associated with hiring these people is crucial for effective planning. Local moves are considerably less expensive than long distance moves, and understanding all of the factors that go into the decision to hire professionals can have a serious impact on your budget. 

You might not need movers when moving across the same town, but even moving from Thornton to Highlands Ranch hcan be a substantial move that Highlands Ranch movers could help with. Various factor come in to play with any local move, including the distance, size of your home, amount of belongings, and the time of year. Exploring these different aspects will help determine if hiring professional movers is the right decision for your local move. 

Understanding Movers Pricing in Denver

A local move typically refers to any move that is happening within a 50-mile radius. In the Denver metro area, as in most cities, movers typically charge by the hour for local moves. The average hourly rate for a local move can range anywhere from $100 to $200 per hour. This rate commonly incudes two movers and a truck, although the exact number of movers required can vary greatly based on the specifics of the move. Every moving company is different so be sure to look around and ask questions about what their typical pricing includes for local moves. 

The duration of your move can also play a significant role in the overall cost. A smaller apartment or house with minimal belongings may take just a few hours to move, while a larger home with a hefty number of items might require a full day to complete. On average, most local moves throughout the Denver metro area can take between four to six hours, but this average can extend upwards to eight hours or more for larger or more complex moves. Again, getting a consultation from a professional mover will clear some of these issues, and always be sure to get a quote or estimate to make sure extra or unexpected fees don’t get tacked on at the end of the project. 

Factors that Impact Your Moving Costs

Several factors can influence the total cost of a local move, and the biggest one is the size of the home. The larger the space you’re moving from the more belongings you probably have. More belongings mean more time to pack up, and more time is needed to load up the moving trucks. Moving a one-bedroom apartment can take three to five hours, while a three-bedroom house may take six hours or more. Larger spaces require more movers, and more movers means a higher hourly rate. If you require packing services, this will also add to the cost – and could range anywhere between $30 to $50 per hour added into the total cost. 

If you have large or specialty items – like antiques, furniture, pianos, or even artwork – they may require special handling and additional movers, which can increase the cost. If your home has multiple stories, narrow hallways, or other difficult-to-access areas, it can increase the time needed to complete the move, which also impacts the overall cost. Most local moves typically are within a short distance, but the exact distance between your new home and old one will impact the cost. Most movers charge for the time spent between locations, and Denver isn’t known for its smooth and steady traffic flow. 

Additional Moving Costs to Consider

Along with the standard hourly rate and any add-ons for packaging or moving specialty items, there are other costs that could be associated with your move. Many moving companies in Denver charge a travel fee, which covers the cost of getting the movers and truck to your location. It’s typically a flat rate, but ask about it – since it could be based on the distance between the company’s base and your home. 

If your new home is not ready to move into right away, you may need to store your belongings temporarily. A lot of moving companies offer storage solutions, but this service will come at an additional cost. Storage fees in Denver can range anywhere from $100 to $400 per month, depending on the amount of space you’ll need. Liability insurance coverage is usually included in the cost, but you might want to purchase additional coverage, especially if you have high-value items. Full-value protection will cover the replacement cost of any lot or damaged items, but this will increase your total moving cost. 

Seasons Matter with Moving

The time of year you choose to move can also have an impact on the overall cost. Summer is the busiest moving season, and like anything, that higher demand will lead to higher prices. During the peak summer months – June through August – movers are more likely to charge premium rates. Conversely, moving during the off-peak season (which is typically late fall to early spring) may result in getting lower rates and greater availability from moving companies. Planning your move in off-peak times may help reduce costs, as movers may offer discounts or be more willing to negotiate.

While July through August might be the most expensive time of year to hire professional movers, there is still demand throughout the other months, as well. The fall (which is September through November) has moderate demand, which leads to prices that are a bit lower than the summer because the movers want to remain competitive to earn your business. Winter (December through February) has the lowest demand, which can mean lower prices, but there are also the difficulties of the weather to consider. Spring (March through May) has increased prices from the winter as demand starts to rise. 

Compare Quote from Different Companies

Every move comes with a timetable, and every move also comes with a budget. Don’t be afraid to do your homework, especially if you’re crunched for time. To get an accurate estimate of how much your move might cost, take a look at multiple quotes from multiple moving companies. Most companies will offer free quotes with no obligation, allowing you to compare services and prices. Give them detailed information about your move – from the size of your home to the number of belongings and any other special requirements. This will help ensure you’re receiving the most accurate quotes to make an informed decision. 

When comparing quotes, there are a few things to look for. Make sure the quote is detailed, and includes all of the services you require – like packing and unpacking, for instance. Some companies may put in additional charges for things like stairs, long carries, or oversized items. Ask for a breakdown of all potential costs to avoid surprises on moving day. Don’t hesitate to check out online reviews and ask for references. A lower price might not be worth it if there is a history of poor service or hidden fees. Compare the quotes closely to determine what mover is right for you. 

Tips for Reducing Moving Costs

Moving can get expensive – and adding professional movers to the mix is only going to increase that cost. However, you’re paying for security, convenience, and peace of mind with these movers, so make sure you’re getting what you pay for. There’s also a number of ways to help reduce those costs. Be sure to declutter before you move. The less you have to move, the less time it will take to move it all, and that will reduce your overall cost. Take time to sort through your belongings and donate or sell the things you no longer need.

Many times, the time you move cannot be changed, but moving during the off-peak season can result in lower rates. If you have the flexibility, consider moving your moving date. This might result in a lower rate and will also give you more time to prepare for the move. If you’re comfortable doing so and have the time, pack your belongings yourself. This will help tremendously by saving on packing services. When dealing with local moves, you can also consider handling smaller items and leaving the heavy lifting to the movers. Not only will these things make your life easier, but they’ll also make it easier for the professional movers – and they’re the ones charging by the hour. 

The cost of moving is complex, as all moving experiences are different. They have different amounts of belongings and are moving over various distances. However, just like no two moves are alike, neither are two moving companies. Don’t be afraid to look around and find a professional moving company you’re comfortable with. These are your belongings, and they’re working within your budget, so take the planning and consideration seriously. For more information on how to make your local move more efficient while still falling within your budget, reach out to the experts at Checkmate Moving & Storage today.