How to Avoid Losing Your Things During a Move

Moving is a big deal and may be one of the most stressful life events, if you don't do it right. However, with the help of a moving company, along with the right strategy, you can avoid losing things during your move and eliminate some of the stress. It seems like something always gets lost or broken during a move. It doesn't have to be this way. Here are a few tips to help ensure you don't lose anything during your next move.

Pack One Room at a Time

It may take you a bit longer and it may seem like a pain, but packing one room at a time is a great way to ensure you don't lose anything. When you're not floating back and forth between rooms, you're less likely to misplace an item or put it in the wrong box. It's much easier to label things properly when dealing with one room at a time.

Create a Proper List

The right list will also make a huge difference. You should create a master list of all of the things you are pacing. As you go room by room with your packing, just make an inventory list of the things you are packing. Make sure everything is on the list and you also inventory where it was packed.

Use Small, Ziploc Bags

There's nothing worse than getting to your new home and realizing you lost an important piece to your furniture or something else. Even the smallest piece can be lost and if it is, it could make a big difference.

When you use Ziploc bags for small items, you won't have to worry about losing them. These helps with computer and electronic cables, screws, nuts and bolts and anything else small.

You want to take the bag to the electronic device or piece of furniture the items in the bag belong to. This can make the entire move go much smoother and unpacking much easier.

Don't Send the Personal Items on the Moving Truck

Even if you hire the most trusted moving company you can find, there are some items you just don't want to send on the moving truck. You never know what will happen and having personal items, such as photo albums and important documents travel with you is very smart.

There are lasso other items you cannot pack on a moving truck, in some cases, such as your collection of alcohol, fertilizers, gardening chemicals, unsealed foods, perishable foods and gasoline.

If you're not sure if you can pack an item and send it on the moving truck, check with the company you hired first. Make sure all your small valuables, extra cash and important documents go with you, however.

Use these tips when you move and you will have a better moving experience. Of course, you can always eliminate the moving headaches by hiring a moving company to pack your items, move them and unpack them. Remember, they are professionals and know the best strategies to ensure everything gets to the new location without getting lost or broken.

The Profesionals Trusted Moving Company

How Much Does it Cost to Move a Pool Table?

Moving is a huge hassle, especially if you have heavy items, such as a real, slate or marble pool table. Large, heavy pool tables are not easy to move and often, trying to do it yourself can lead to damage to the table or someone helping you move it. When an item weighs as much as a pool table does, it's best to pay a professional moving company to handle it. With a professional moving company, you don't have to worry about getting injured or hurting your table. They've moved many pool tables and they know how to do it efficiently. In addition, they will have special equipment to make moving your heavy pool table much easier.

Answering the question, "how much does it cost to move a pool table," isn't as easy as just providing a number. There are some specific factors that must be considered.

First, what type of pool table are you moving? Is it a drop pocket table? Does it have plastic pockets, leather pockets or a ball return system?

Second, how heavy is the pool table? The weight of the table may determine how many movers need to be on the job, which will factor into the cost.

Third, is the pool table going up or down any stairs? Moving a large item up or down stairs makes it a more risky and difficult job, therefore, it may cost a bit more compared to moving a pool table out of the first floor and into the first floor.

Finally, how far will the pool table be traveling from its' current destination to its' final destination? The price difference from a local move to an out of city/state move can be quite different.

Should you Move a Pool Table Yourself?

After answering the questions above and getting a quote from a professional moving company, you may consider moving the pool table yourself. However, this could be a huge mistake as damage and injuries can occur.

Videos on YouTube and information found online might show you how to take the table apart and move it piece by piece. However, if you've never assembled a pool table, you might be very disappointed with the results once you get it together. Plus, disassembling and reassembling a pool table for the first time may lead to damaging it in ways you haven't even thought of yet.

Trying to move a pool table in one piece is ridiculous to even attempt. Most slate tables would require 5 to 7 guys and there's a very good chance at least a few end up with a serious injury. This should not be attempted.

So, How Much Does it Cost to Move a Pool Table?

Getting back to the original question, it costs between $750 and $1000 to move a typical pool table, in most cases. Reassembly will usually require a specialist to level and custom fit the billiard cloth that covers a pool table. The price may be on the lower side if your table is only 7 feet and it may be on the higher side if it's a 9-foot table with stairs to negotiate.

Contact us if you need help with moving your pool table today!

Why Should I Hire Movers?

Moving is a huge undertaking, especially if you're moving to a new city. Most people dread the process of moving, even if they know the new location is far better for them. The packing, lifting, unloading and unpacking are not something most look forward to. There are several reasons to hire professional movers and many benefits. Whether you simply don't have the time or you want to eliminate some of the stress of moving, the right professional moving company makes a huge difference. Here are five reasons why you should always hire a moving company.

Chicago Moving Specialists

Free Up Time for Other Things

Moving day is one of the most hectic days of your life. Every single time you go through it, you wish there was an easier way. Not only do you have to get all of your belongings from one location to another, but you also have to handle other things, such as turning off/on utilities, getting your family to your new home, changing your driver's license and many other tasks.

Hiring a moving company will allow you to concentrate on other tasks instead of moving. Some moving companies will even pack and unpack all of your things for you.

No Need for Additional Equipment or Supplies

Whether you just need to move furniture or you have a valuable collection to move, the right equipment makes a difference. Sometimes, you have to rent or purchase additional supplies or equipment for specialty items or heavy items. It may be something as simple as a tool you need to take apart a piece of furniture.

A professional moving company will have the tool you need, along with all the other equipment/supplies necessary for moving. It doesn't matter if you're moving fine art or just basic household furniture, hiring a moving company will give you everything you need for moving day.

You Won't End Up Injured

One of the most common things people forget about when moving is their own health. Moving heavy items isn't easy for somebody not doing it on a daily basis. Professional movers handle things like heavy pianos and oddly shaped pieces of furniture every single day. They know how to move these items safely.

If you try to move everything yourself, you may be sore for a few days. Even worse, you may end up in the hospital with an injury because you didn't properly lift or handle a heavy item.

Your Things Remain Insured and Safe

With experienced professionals, you have the ability to safely move your belongings without as much concern. Not only are they experienced in moving, but they also carry insurance for your belonging. This gives you additional peace of mind when moving.

In addition, professional movers understand how to properly wrap and pack your items. Even fragile items are well protected when you hire a professional moving company.

You May Actually Save Money, in the Long Run

Without professional movers, you may end up in the hospital, with broken items, lost items or racking up unexpected moving expenses. You have to rent a truck, put gas in the truck, get the right tools and equipment and you may need to provide food and refreshments for those helping you. It can add up in a hurry.

Professional movers will give you an estimate and you will only need to pay what they charge. There won't be additional charges for equipment you didn't know you needed and you won't underestimate the amount of gas you need, either.

There are several excellent reasons why you should hire a professional moving company. If you want to take the stress out of your next move, a professional is the way to go.

Is it Worth it to Own a Car After Moving to Chicago?

Moving to Chicago is a big jump for many looking to relocate to the big city. You might be used to hopping in your car and heading to work, the store or anywhere else on a daily basis. While you can certainly do this in Chicago, it's not a necessity with the public transportation options and the ability to walk to many things nearby. Keeping your car may allow you to travel outside of the city. You will need a place to park it or store it and this can be expensive. You will also need to get a city vehicle sticker for your car.

Do you Need a Car to Commute to Work?

Commuting to work in Chicago with your own personal vehicle can be challenging. You may have to deal with long rush house from 6:30am to 10:30am and from 3:30pm to 7:30pm. This may be enough reason to ditch the car for public transportation for some.

You don't need a car to get to work, in most cases. The Chicago Transit Authority or CTA, will get you to every corner of the city. You also have the option to get a bike and ride it to work. Of course, you can always share a ride with UberX or Lyft and there's always the option of hailing a taxi.

Where will you Park?

If you decide you will be keeping your car, you may need to have a lawn chair or something else ready to call "dibs" on a parking spot. It's very difficult to deal with parallel parking in Chicago and if you leave a spot open, it will be taken by the time you come back. You have to pay attention to the parking signs and tow zones, too.

In the winter, you will have to fight the snow, which means you may have to claim your parking spot. Just because you shovel it doesn't mean it's automatically yours. You have to mark the spot with lawn chairs and other items you are not using. Even by marking the spot, there's not guarantee it will be open when you come back.

Research the Neighborhood Before Deciding

Chicago is full of unique neighborhoods and some are more car-friendly than others. For example, parking in Hyde Park is much easier than Lakeview. Each neighborhood is a bit different and you may want to make sure you understand what you're getting into before you choose to keep or sell your car.

There are many things to consider if you keep your car. You may have to pay high parking fees and it may be difficult to find a parking spot. Make sure you take the time to consider all of the possibilities and your personal needs before you move to Chicago with your car.

Moving is already stressful enough without additional decisions. It may be best to make the decision to keep or sell your car before you hire a Chicago moving company and prepare everything for transit. At least it will be one less decision you will have to deal with.

Moving to Chicago - Should I own a car

What is a Normal Tip for Movers?

After choosing the right moving company, you must also figure out how much too actually tip the movers. Tipping movers can be a touchy subject and you may need guidance for this situation. You are trusting movers with your personal belongings, they are taking care of the heavy lifting and in some cases, they will also be packing and unpacking for you. They should be rewarded for their hard work, but how much is the right amount to tip your movers? While movers get paid to provide the service and haul your things from one place to another, a little extra recognition is always appreciated. If you're happy with your movers, please consider tipping them. While they may not stand in front of your home waiting for a tip, a little extra cash is the best way to show your true appreciation for this very personal service they have provided for you.

How Much to Tip Your Movers

The amount you tip your movers depends on the service they provide for you but is of course completely at your discretion. If you have large items, such as a piano or a heave billiards table, you may need to tip a little extra for the extra work.

It's best to tip your movers based on the time they spend on the move. A good rule of thumb is to tip between $15 and $25 per person for moves requiring up to 4 hours of time. If it takes longer to move than 4 hours, you should tip between $35 and $45 per person.

In addition, you should consider tipping extra if the movers have to deal with a heavy piano or another specialty item. Even if the item isn't heavy, if they have to handle something valuable or fragile, add on another $5 to $10 per person.

Other factors to consider when tipping movers include:

• Weather conditions

• Packing

• Unpacking

• Additional services provided

If your movers are packing, loading, moving, unloading, unpacking and assembling your things, a larger tip may be necessary. Remember, to tip a bit more if the movers are providing additional services outside of just loading and dropping off.

A Few Things You Shouldn't do When Tipping Movers

Whenever you hire a professional moving company to handle your things, make sure you avoid doing any of the following when tipping the moving crew:

Don't offer a beer or other alcoholic beverage at the end of the move. Most companies have policies against this.

If you prefer to buy them lunch, don't just order a pizza without asking what they would like. Remember, some may have diet restrictions or simply not care for specific types of food. However, buying your movers lunch is acceptable and much appreciated.

Don't tip them until the entire job is done. You can't take it back if you're unhappy with the move.

Follow these guidelines and use your best judgement when it comes to tipping your movers. Consider the type of move and how much time it takes them. You should also consider having some cold bottles of water, sports drinks and some healthy snacks available, if the move will take all day long.

While tipping movers may be a touchy subject, a cash tips is a great way to show appreciation. If you're not sure how much to tip, use the guidelines above and always plan to tip in cash, even if you're paying the actual moving company with a check or credit card.