Packing Picture Frames and Mirrors for Your Move

December 10th, 2021/in In the Media, Moving Tips, News, Storage Tips/by ayalanzoni

Having the proper materials is key for keeping your pictures and mirrors safe during a move. Before you start packing picture frames and mirrors, determine which of the following supplies you will need:

Packing paper (unprinted newsprint paper)
Packing tape
A permanent marker
Bubble wrap
Picture/mirror boxes
Small moving boxes
Cardboard tubes
Artist’s or painter’s tape
Flat foam or cardboard sheets
Glassine, acid-free, or archival paper
Photo boxes or albums

Packing Picture Frames and Mirrors: Some Guidelines

Using the artist’s or painter’s tape, create an “X” across the glass. This will help keep the glass intact during transit.
Cut a piece of cardboard or foam board slightly larger than the frame, place it in front of and behind the glass and secure it with packing tape.
Wrap the entire piece in two or more sheets of packing paper and tape loose ends.
Add a layer of bubble wrap for additional padding and security. Secure with packing tape.
Cushion the bottom of a picture/mirror box with packing paper, and then slide the object into the box. Keep in mind, large items should be boxed individually in specialty boxes. Smaller mirrors and framed pictures can be wrapped and boxed together. Stack these items vertically and do not lay them flat.
Fill extra space with more paper to prevent shifting.
Tape and label the box “fragile” on all sides.

Specialty picture/mirror boxes are available from your mover.

Packing and moving canvases

The best way to pack a canvas will depend on if it’s stretched across a wooden frame or rolled.

For stretched canvases:

Cover the canvas with glassine, acid-free or archival paper.
Tape a sheet of foam or cardboard to the back of the canvas.
Put the canvas into a plastic gallery wrap bag (available at art supply stores) to protect it from moisture.
Wrap the entire canvas with two layers of bubble wrap and secure it with tape.
Sandwich the canvas between two sheets of foam boards or cardboard and use the packing tape to bind the pieces together.
Line a picture/mirror box with padded paper and slide the canvas into the box, filling empty spaces with more paper.
Tape and label the box.

For rolled canvases:

Lay the canvas between two sheets of glassine, acid-free or archival paper (painted side down).
Loosely roll the canvas and paper (rolling too tight can cause damage).
Roll with Bubble Wrap.
Slide the canvas into a cardboard tube.
Place the end caps on and seal them with packing tape.
Label the tube.

More Helpful Tips for Packing Picture Frames and Mirrors

Keep these tips in mind when packing mirrors, wall art, and picture frames:

Don’t exceed 40 lbs. per box.
Only use unprinted newsprint paper because the ink could cause damage.
Don’t use packing peanuts for padding. They create static and can be difficult to remove from glass.
Wash your hands or wear cotton gloves before handling any photos or canvases. The oil from your hands can create smudges and damage the quality of the items.
Load boxed frames on their side. Never lay them flat because the pressure can crack the glass.

If you have questions about packing mirrors and pictures or what happens before, during, or after a move, call the Relocation Specialists at Ayer Moving and Storage at (800) 233-6683 or email.

Pack your Shoes Properly for a Move

October 19th, 2021/in Moving Tips, Storage Tips/by Ayer Moving

Don’t just toss them in a box – Pack your Shoes Properly!

It is tempting to toss your collection of bulky shoes and boots of various shapes and sizes – into a big box … and deal with it later. However, this risks damage and makes them difficult to unpack. If you have the shoe boxes, pack your shoes in their boxes. If not, use unprinted newsprint paper to wrap them individually. Be sure to let them air out for a couple of days after wearing them before packing them.

Here are some tips to help pack your shoes so they arrive in good condition when they reach your new destination:

Prior to packing, fill the toes of each shoe with a sock or crumpled packing paper.
Pack heavy shoes on the bottom of the moving box. You want to balance out the weight so that the box is easier … and safer to carry.
If you have an expensive pair of heels that you want to be sure to protect, wrap them individually in packing paper and place them in a plastic shoe bin.
If using shoe boxes, remove each shoe and wrap it in packing paper and place them back in the box. Fit them on their sides into a moving box that has been lined with crumpled paper. Fill in empty spaces with more crumpled paper.
For shoes without boxes, wrap one and then the other as a pair and tape to close. Fit these in a packing box lined with crumpled paper with other shoes and fill empty spaces with more crumpled paper.
Keep sneakers paired by tying their laces together. Then you won’t waste time looking for the sneaker’s mate when you are unpacking.
Keep shoes fresh with tea bags. Put unused tea bags in each shoe to eliminate odors. If you have shoes with an obvious unpleasant smell, put them in the freezer, which will kill latent bacteria.
Pack a few essential or favorite pairs of shoes in a separate box. You’ll want easy access to two or three favorite pairs of shoes that you want to wear before you get all of the shoes unpacked. Pack flats, a couple of shoes for work, and perhaps one pair of dress shoes in this go-to box and label it so you can locate it easily.
Pack out of season shoes separately so you don’t waste time unpacking shoes that you won’t be wearing for months. You won’t be looking for those muck-luks in the summer so wait to unpack them until winter is looming.
It may seem obvious but be sure to tape each moving box securely and label it appropriately.

Another obvious observation:

Chances are, you have shoes in your closet that you haven’t worn in years. Instead of packing shoes that won’t be worn, pack them up and donate them to those less fortunate. Soles4souls is a non-profit organization that receives shoe and clothing donations from individuals and distributes them to various programs around the world. Another option is Goodwill. If they are not in good condition, contact your recycling center to ask how to recycle them properly.

If you have questions about what happens before, during, or after a move, call the Relocation Specialists at Ayer Moving and Storage at (800) 233-6683 or email.

What to Purge Before You Pack

September 3rd, 2021/in Moving Tips, Storage Tips/by Ayer Moving

We all know the adage: “You Can’t Take it With You,” but when moving, you actually need to know what you shouldn’t take with you. One of the first steps in moving is to know what to purge from your household of unwanted and unused items. After all, it is costly to move things to your new home that you rarely or never use or need. Here are some things to think twice about before you wrap and pack.

What to Purge: Electronics

Look for electronics that are either out of date or just no longer used. Tablets, phones, chargers, laptops, cables, cables, and more cables … these can be donated to Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore if they are not older than five years old and still working. If they are no longer serviceable, drop them off at an electronics or metal recycler.

DVDs and CDs

My kids tell me that DVDs and CDs are OUT! You no longer really need them as we have entered the streaming media age where anything you want to watch or listen to can be uploaded to an electronic device. If you really want to play your videos and music on a DVD/CD player, cull from your collection only your favorites and sell or donate the rest.

What to Purge: Miscellaneous Items

Books and Magazines

Most of us who love to read are guilty of having way too many books on hand. Some of them we’ve already read, but just don’t want to part with them. All your books and magazines can be borrowed from a library near your new home, so you don’t need to take them with you. Take only your favorites or valuable first editions.

Outgrown Children’s Toys

Do you have Cabbage Patch Dolls, Lego sets, and stuffed Animals packed away in boxes under the beds? A great way for children to help get ready for a move (and feel part of the process) is for them to go through unused games and toys and select those that can be donated to a local charity or women’s and children’s shelter.

What to Purge: Bathroom Belongings

Lotions and Notions

Pare down bathroom and beauty products by tossing near empty shampoo, conditioner, hand and body lotion, and perfume bottles. The same goes for products that are old and past their expiration dates. Go through your makeup and soaps and repeat the process.

Expired Medications

You’ll need to dispose properly of old prescriptions no longer needed and expired medications. If you have unused pain killers in your bathroom cabinet, call your local police department and ask they accept them for disposal. Also, the FDA provides a guide on how to responsibly trash meds.

What to Purge: Kitchen Pantry

Think about donating non-perishable foods to a local food pantry. Canned goods, cereal, unopened boxes of rice, pasta, and more will be willingly and gratefully accepted and given to those in need. Only items that haven’t passed their expiration dates qualify. You’ll be helping the less fortunate and saving money by not paying to move these items.

Select the best frying pans and pots and put the duplicates aside. Decide just how many saucepans you really need and that goes for spatulas, slotted spoons, and paring knives. Check that shelf of small appliances and determine if you will need/want the electric donut maker or scone pan. You can sell gently used appliances and kitchenware through Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist or donate locally.

Coffee Mugs

How many coffee mugs does one family need? We accumulate coffee mugs with pithy sayings or cute animal pictures, and they sit unused most of the time. My favorite mug gets used, washed, and used again without seeing the inside of the cabinet. Again, donate or sell your overflow mugs at your moving yard sale!

What to Purge: No Longer Worn Clothing

Clothing takes up a lot of room in your moving boxes or dresser drawers. Ask yourself these questions about each piece before deciding to take it with you: Have I worn this in the last year? Does it fit? Is it still fashionable? Is it in good condition? There are many places that welcome used clothing, including Goodwill, The Salvation Army, and local thrift stores.

If you need further guidance on what to purge for your next move, consult the relocation specialists at Ayer Moving and Storage by email (info@ayermoving.com) or call 800-233-6683.

Preparing Children for a Move

August 4th, 2021/in Moving Tips/by Katherine Jasmine

Saying Goodbye to Your Home Isn’t Easy, Especially for Children

There is no denying it. Moving is difficult for everyone, but especially for children who don’t feel in control of the situation. So what can you do when preparing children for a move? Here are some tips to help make your move go smoothly.

Let the children know what is going on.

If you try to keep it a secret, they will know something is “up,” and will feel left out. It’s best to tell toddlers about a month ahead of time. Show consideration by telling older children sooner, giving them more time to emotionally prepare. Remind younger children about the move often in an exciting, yet natural way. Point out something in a store and mention that a particular item “would look nice in your new room when we move.” Reassure them that their toys and pets will be coming along.

Keep them involved in the moving process.

Write the date of the move on a wall calendar and the date that you will all begin the packing process in preparing children for a move. Let the children pack up their rooms, as appropriate for their age, and let them make labels and decorate their boxes with crayons or markers. Work together to create a floor plan for their new rooms.

Familiarize the children with the new house and area.

If the children haven’t seen the new house, take pictures or video so they can become familiar with their new surroundings. Depending on age, the kids may like taking photos of their current home to document the move. When they get to their new home, they can take photos to send to their friends. Get a map of the area where you are moving. Mark several places of interest and where the new home and school will be. Discuss the local places you’ll visit once you get settled in your new home.

Let them make some decisions.

When preparing preparing children for a move, allow them decision-making power so they feel a bit more in control of the situation. Let them pick out the paint color for their room, wall décor, new bedding, or a rug. They will love getting to make their own selections and they will be more excited about the move. Older children can be asked their opinions about home décor as well, or if mature, accompany you when you are looking at homes with a realtor.

Celebrate the move with a going-away party!

Create some lasting memories in your current home with a party to mark this momentous occasion. Have the children help plan the event and create the invitations. A stuffed toy on which friends can write a special message or an address book for friends to enter their contact info are great ways to maintain connections. Give out bags to all guests with self-addressed, stamped cards for the kids’ friends to send.

Don’t plan the gathering too close to your departure date. A party the day before the move can become a sad event. Plan to get together a week or two before the move, so that no one feels they are seeing each other for the last time before moving day.

Saying Goodbye. It is OK to be upset.

Allow your children to be sad or angry about the move. It won’t last forever. Some experts say it takes about six months for a child to completely acclimate to a new lifestyle (some adults, too!)

Plan to stay in touch with friends.

Discuss with your children how they can maintain their relationships by using social media, video calls, texts, and written communication. If you will be able to visit your old hometown, pick a date that you can be sure to keep and mark it on the calendar.

Connect with your new location.

Check out Scouting, music or dance lessons, martial arts or gymnastics, religious communities, children’s museums, zoos, parks, library, and recreation center. Discuss these with the children and learn what activities they might be interested in exploring in their new community.

Ask family and friends for help with babysitting.

Depending on your kids’ ages, you may want and need them to be occupied elsewhere when you are searching for your new home or packing in preparation for your move. Help is invaluable on these days and on moving day itself.

Explain what’s going to happen on moving day. Kids like to know what’s in store for them and talking through the details of the day will let them know what to expect and what is expected of them. Pack a moving day kit for each child with some of their favorite toys, coloring books, an electronic device loaded with movies and games they can play. Don’t forget bottled water and a snack or two.

Stay positive.

It is important for you (and your children) to keep a positive outlook about the move. Don’t compare your old community with the new in a negative way. It will be easier for your children to adjust if you are adjusting well, too.

Children will experience the move easier and will be more excited about it when you employ some or all of these tips to include them in your upcoming move.

If you have questions about a stress-free move, call the relocation specialists at Ayer Moving and Storage at 800-233-6683.

Packing Your Wine Collection to Move

June 15th, 2021/in Moving Tips, Storage Tips/by Ayer Moving

If you count yourself among the 84 million wine drinkers in the US (according to Forbes Magazine), then you may be wondering how you are going to ship your collection of wine bottles in your upcoming move. Whether you are a casual wine drinker or an enthusiastic wine collector, the first thing you need to do is take inventory of what you have before packing your wine collection.

Inventory Your Wine Collection

Before you can start packing up your wine bottles for shipping, make a detailed inventory of your wine collection. Unless you’re moving just a handful of bottles, a wine inventory will help you keep track of your bottles in case something happens to any of them during transportation.

Wine bottles are heavy – a case of 12 weighs about 40 pounds, so you don’t want to ship them unless you really want them. You may want to sell particular bottles, give them away, or throw yourself a “moving away wine tasting party” for your friends and relatives!”

Use a wine inventory sheet you can download from the Internet and take a photo of each wine bottle, noting any rare or vintage wine bottles in the collection.

Appraise Your Wine

If you’re moving a small wine collection that is not too valuable, then you should be able to pack up those wine bottles safely and transport them either in your own car or on the moving van. However, in case you’re moving a wine collection that’s worth a lot of money, you will need to know its current market value so you can purchase an adequate type of insurance.

Obtain the Proper Materials for Packing your Wine Collection

Using the proper wine shipping boxes for your wine bottles will diminish the risk of breakage during a move. There are wine shipping kits that include a protective Styrofoam insert that fits into a cardboard box. The insert has holes designed to fit a single bottle of wine. Other boxes have cardboard inserts to keep the bottles upright and apart. There are also inflatable bags in which to pack single bottles that can then be stacked in a sturdy carton. These options vary in cost and may be available from your local wine store or on Amazon.

You can also visit your local wine store and ask them to give you any empty wine cartons they have on hand.

In addition to sturdy shipping boxes, you will need unprinted newsprint paper and packing tape.

Check Regulations of Your Destination State

If you are moving out of state, you will want to know if your destination state has regulations regarding how much alcohol an individual can bring into that state for personal use. To avoid legal troubles, check with the alcohol beverage authority to be sure it is OK to bring your wine collection to your new home.

Whether you are a casual wine collector or one with a serious investment in your collection, the goal is to pack and move your wine in a way that is safe and secure.

If you have questions about moving your wine collection or anything else related to an upcoming move, call our Ayer Moving and Storage Relocation Specialists at 800-233-6683.

Storage Space in Your New Home

June 2nd, 2021/in Storage Tips/by Ayer Moving

Tips for Finding Storage Space in Your New Home

Your new home may be larger than your last, but it may have fewer closets … or you may have downsized and storage space in your new home may be scarce. Where can you find storage space for all your things?

Take a Second Look at Decluttering

You may have cleared your former home of clutter before moving to your new location, but before you begin putting things away, take another look at each item. Do you use it often enough to warrant storing it? Do you love it enough to justify displaying it? Are you holding it simply for sentimental reasons? Now that you are in your new home, does the item “fit” the style and color scheme?

Think Creatively

There are places where you can display certain items that may not be immediately apparent as storage areas. Whether it’s adding kitchen organizers or utilizing unusual storage space, think creatively about the space outside of “prime real estate” – the areas between your knees and shoulders … the areas easiest to reach.

Storage Space In the Kitchen

You can save counter and cabinet space if you arrange your pots and pans on the wall. There are decorative hangers you can purchase to make the display attractive and easily accessible.

If you have a narrow space between the refrigerator and the wall, you can purchase a sliding pantry unit. This is ideal for storing canned goods and keeps your most often used utensils, spices and cooking ingredients close-at-hand.

Storage Space In the Bathroom

Free up counter space in the bathrooms by adding shelves to the bathroom cabinets under the sink or vanity. Make use of decorative baskets to store shampoos, lotions, and makeup, and hair dryers. Available in many sizes and styles, storage baskets can be removed easily when searching for a particular product. They can be color coded for husband/wife or for each of the children to keep their items in separate containers.

Up and Over

Use the space above windows and doors by adding shelves to display décor or collections. In the kitchen, this area can be used for displaying teapots or coffee mugs. In the living room, a treasured collection of figurines can be featured. There are endless possibilities for this technique in children’s rooms for dolls, trophies, or sports memorabilia.

Under and Out of Sight

Use the space under beds for storing out-of-season clothing or holiday ornaments, or hobby supplies. In the absence of an attic or cellar, under the bed storage is a good solution. There are bed risers that are positioned under each of the bed legs to raise the bed four to six inches higher, thereby providing additional space for storage.

There are plastic storage bins especially sized to fit under beds and are perfect for storing items that you want nearby, but out of sight.

In the Closet

There are professional closet designers that will create a closet with space for clothing, shoes, jewelry, and more, but these closets come with a considerable price tag. Before you embark on a closet redesign project, try some of these ideas to use the space you have wisely.

A shoe rack that attaches to a wall saves the floor space that the shoes would otherwise take up. It can be installed on the back wall of a closet or room.

Use the area over the clothes poles to install shelving for boxes or with the use of dividers, you can stack sweaters, sweatshirts, bins with pocketbooks, or hatboxes.

The floor of the closet, under the hanging clothing can be used for bins with items that don’t otherwise have a home. Use plastic see-through bins and label them so you can easily find what you are looking for. Games, musical instruments, financial papers, belts and scarves can be safely stored in bins or stacked drawers.

Storage Space with an Ottoman

An ottoman or footstool is a desirable and functional piece of furniture, but it can be more than just a place to rest your feet. You can conveniently store items within an ottoman or footstool:

a knitted or crocheted throw,
extra pillows;
books,
magazines;
or whatever you need and use but don’t necessarily want to have out and about when guests arrive!

Having more storage space in our homes is an often-expressed wish. We would all like to have a home without clutter and hopefully one or more of these storage tips will be helpful. If you need significantly more storage space than your home provides, an off-site storage solution may be the answer. Here are some other creative ways to create storage space in your home.

The relocation experts at Ayer Moving and Storage can help you decide which type of storage is right for you. Call us at (800) 233-6683 or visit our Storage Services Page.

A Happy Moving Day Gift Box is a Great Housewarming Gift

April 22nd, 2021/in Moving Tips/by Ayer Moving

A Happy Moving Day Gift Box is a great idea for a housewarming gift you can give to someone you know… packed with essentials your friends will need when they arrive at their new home!

Packed with practical and fun items to help them settle into their new home, an essentials gift box is something you can put together that they will appreciate much more than a housewarming plant! Place everything in a sturdy box or tote bag they can take with them and have at-the-ready upon arrival.

Something Sensible for a Moving Day Gift Box

Cleaning spray and a roll of paper towels for the inevitable cleaning task that occurs before the box of cleaning products is located. Hand soap in a pretty dispenser jar will be especially appreciated.

How about a scented candle that can remove any stale odors that may be present in a home that may have been shut up for a while?

Something Kitchen-y

What might they be on the look-out for when surrounded by boxes waiting to be unpacked? A bottle opener will come in handy when they need a liquid libation while tackling the unpacking.

You might add a bottle of wine or champagne and two wine glasses so your friends can toast the occasion in style … and a couple of kitchen towels, just in case.

Some Snacks or a Meal

Too tired to even think about dinner, your friends will appreciate a few healthy snacks, such as:

granola
protein bars,
nuts,
fruit – fresh apples, grapes, or bananas

Perhaps a gift card for a local fast-food restaurant or pizzeria as well, so they can simply phone in an order before they get “hangry.”

An Essential Moving Day Gift: Water, please!

Moving is physical and water is essential. Pack a few bottles in your gift box or add a cooler with the bottles on ice!

Tools and such

Seasoned movers will know to pack a to-go box with essentials like a tape measure, a few tools, and a flashlight, but if your think these items may be overlooked, add them to your moving day gift box. Ayer Moving can also help you pack your essentials if needed.

Toiletry-Themed Moving Day Gift Box

These items may be hidden away in a box marked “Bathroom,” so you can consider adding them as well:

toothpaste
a few new toothbrushes,
shower gel,
washcloths,
sample size shampoo and conditioner
…and of course, a few rolls of the all-important toilet paper.

You can also get some great ideas to add to your gift basket on Pinterest. A Moving Day Gift Box is a thoughtful collection of essentials that will help avoid the frustration of “Where did I pack that?” on one of life’s very important, but stressful, events.

Organizing your Move: A Responsibility Checklist

April 7th, 2021/in Moving Tips, Storage Tips/by Ayer Moving

Organizing your move is a mass of details to be organized into a smooth transition. No one needs to be reminded that moving can be stressful and that many things can go awry.

It can be helpful to know what to expect from your mover… and to know what is expected of you, the homeowner when organizing a move. The process is not one-sided; both the mover and the homeowner must be aware of their responsibilities and deadlines so that the move can be smooth and safe.

Here is what you can expect from a professional and credentialed moving company.

Getting Started on Organizing your Move

The movers will:

provide you with a copy of Your Rights and Responsibilities, a brochure published by the US Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Make a home visit to complete a comprehensive survey to provide you with a written estimate. (During Covid-19, virtual in-home surveys are being conducted to keep mover and homeowners safe.)
Send homeowners a written estimate by email within 3 days.
Follow up with homeowners by phone to determine if there are questions.
Work with homeowner to establish a schedule for packing, if appropriate, and moving.
Submit a written contract if homeowner decides to proceed.
Explain any terminology unfamiliar to the homeowner, such as “long carry” charges
Explain the options for insurance: what is and what is not covered.

Packing for Moving Day

The movers will:

Explain that homeowners are charged for the labor to pack and/or unpack belongings, as well as for the containers and packing material.
Set a date for packing, usually one to two days prior to the moving date.
Take care to pack carefully using appropriate and special boxes and packing material.
Pack and label under the homeowner’s direction.
Provide you with a packing order and carton count.
If the homeowner is packing, the mover can provide a helpful packing guide.

Liability for Loss/Damage During your Move

Moving companies are required to assume some basic liability by carrying legal liability valuation and insurance coverage. They also:

Provide motor vehicle coverage for bodily injury and property damage.
Carry insurance if household goods are damaged due to negligence.
Must disclose in writing, the limitation of liability for the value of goods at a rate of not less than 60 cents per pound, per article.
Explain options for additional insurance coverage.

Moving Day

Crew meets at the mover’s location to pick up van, collect supplies, and get last minute instructions.
Arrive at homeowner’s residence at the time specified, given leeway for traffic and/or weather conditions.
Telephone or text homeowner to advise of any unforeseen delays.
Protect homeowner’s floors by using floor cloths.
Protect homeowner’s furniture with moving blankets.
Load van/truck using best practices for safety and efficiency.
Take appropriate short breaks, when needed, for hydration and lunch.
Sticker all items with dedicated contract number.
For interstate moves, inventory all items loaded onto truck and provide homeowner with a copy.
Always show courtesy and professional work habits.

That’s quite a list; however, there are some things that Homeowners should be aware fall under their responsibility and to-do list.

What Do you Need for Organizing Your Move?

Consider in advance of the Mover’s visit (virtual or in-person) of what items you plan to take to your new home. Are appliances staying or going? What about the piano?
Notify the mover if you change your mind and decide the dining room suite will be moved, as this will make a difference in your estimate. If you want to take your piano after all, the movers will need to plan for a special cart or straps to move it safely.
Provide mover with a clear and accurate address of your current residence and the location of your destination. Include information about heavy items, the number of floors in your current and new homes. Also advise if there are unusually narrow hallways, winding stairways, or long distances between the home and the van.
Review your estimate and write down any questions you may have for the mover. When comparing estimates, be sure you are comparing “apples to apples.” Ask if you are unsure.
Schedule realistically. Especially if you are planning on packing everything yourself. Do not rush this part of the process.
Make decisions on what needs to be packed and how it is to be labeled before the packers arrive if the movers are packing for you. You are billed on labor time, so you want to have things organized ahead of time.
If there are any changes in schedule, packing, or what is to be moved, the homeowner is required to notify the mover ASAP so these changes can be accommodated.

Liability for Loss/Damage

The homeowner should understand the options for insurance coverage through the mover and through their homeowners’ insurance.
Ask questions. The homeowner’s antique rug will be valued at 60 cents per pound under the basic liability insurance plan, unless the homeowner it is insured separately.

Organizing your Move for the Big Day

Have all items that are to be packed, boxed and labeled, and ready to be loaded on the truck.
If you are moving during the winter, ensure that walkways and driveways are shoveled so that there is a clear path to the home and to the truck to be loaded.
Be available to direct movers and to answer any questions they may have.
Make arrangements for pets and young children with caretakers so they are kept safe during the loading.
Understand that the heat or inclement weather may slow the process or that the crew will need to take additional breaks to hydrate.

When movers and homeowners understand their respective responsibilities, they work in tandem with the result being a smooth and less-stressful experience for everyone.

If you have questions about a move you are planning, call the relocation experts at Ayer Moving and Storage at (800) 233-6683.

Moving Your Electronic Devices – Do it Right; Do it Safely!

March 4th, 2021/in Moving Tips, Storage Tips/by Ayer Moving

When it comes to moving various electronic devices – computers, tablets, stereos, televisions, digital recorders, and game systems – individuals often pack these high-cost items more casually than they would an antique or valued piece of art. Even though most electronic devices have sturdy plastic cases, they require special care when being packed for a move. If your move requires a temporary stay in storage, fluctuating temperatures, humidity, and dust can damage sensitive components.

Here’s how to do it right and do it safely!

Preparing for the Move

Gather your user manuals or download them from the manufacturer’s website. Manufacturers may have special instructions for packing and moving their devices.
Backup all data and files.
Remove batteries in remotes or accessories.
Eject CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, and game cartridges and tape the drives shut.
Remove toner cartridges from laser printers and place them in a plastic bag – tape the bag to the printer.
Detach wires and accessories, place in a plastic bag and label the bag.
Place color stickers on each cord and the same color sticker where the cord connects to the device … or use a write on label to indicate what goes where.
For extra help in reassembling, for reference take photos of the cables before you unplug everything.
Using a vacuum cleaner extension, vacuum the inside of your desktop computer to remove dust.
Charge all your rechargeable batteries before moving day.
Write the passwords for your electronic devices on a card you can keep in your wallet to avoid frustration when setting up your computers on arrival in your new home.
Talk with your mover about insurance for your electronics (and other valuable items) to cover them during loading, moving, and unloading.

Packing for the Move

Use original cartons if you saved them when you purchased the equipment.
Ask your mover for computer and flat-screen TV cartons or an appropriately sized sturdy box in which to place your electronics.
To minimize damage caused by dust, wrap electronics in linen or clean (unprinted) newsprint. Then use bubble wrap. Anti-static bubble wrap is safe for electronics and can be used generously to act as a shock absorber. However, don’t use newsprint to pack screens. Paper can easily scratch delicate screens. Use fabric and then bubble wrap for extra security.
You’ll want at least two inches of padding on all sides of the electronic device.
If you don’t have a special flat-screen TV box, use padded moving blankets to wrap the TV. Never store or move a TV flat; stand it upright against a wall for support.
Make a list of all devices in the box with their companion accessories, and cables/cords and store the list in the box.
Add packets of silica gel to the box which will absorb excess moisture before it can collect on metal surfaces and cause corrosion. This is especially important for long-distance moves or if your boxes will be in storage.
Number, rather than label the box with a description, to reduce the chance of attracting unwanted attention from would-be thieves. If storing, place these boxes out of view toward to back of the storage unit.

When in Storage

Electronic devices are highly sensitive to temperature extremes. Cold causes metal parts to contract, weakening soldered components. LCDs can even freeze during a harsh cold snap. Heat can damage in two ways – as metal parts expand in hot weather, they place stress on soldered connections. Warm air holds more moisture and high humidity is very destructive to electronics.

Esure that electronics in storage are properly packed and insulated with blankets.

This guideline is detailed by design. The more you plan and follow these steps, the safer and more secure your electronics will be. You’ll be all set to reassemble your electronics and start enjoying these devices that have become such an important part of all our lives.

If you have any questions about how to pack your electronic devices or need special boxes or packing material, call one of our Ayer Moving and Storage relocation specialists at 800-23-6683.

Tips for Moving a Washer and Dryer

January 14th, 2021/in In the Media, Moving Tips/by Katherine Jasmine

When planning on moving your washer and dryer, the first consideration needs to be: “to move or replace.” Washers and dryers are a big investment and when planning a move, a decision must be made whether to move these appliances to your new home or to leave them with the home and buy new. Here are some things to think about:

How old are your washer and dryer? If they are 15 years old, better to leave them and purchase new models.
Will they fit in your new home, especially if you are downsizing to a smaller home or condo?
Research new appliances before deciding. New washers and dryers offer many features and energy-saving options.

Prepare for moving your washer and dryer

Washers and dryers need to be properly protected from damage during a move or while in storage. You should consult your owner’s manual for manufacturer’s instructions on moving a washer or dryer.

Before the movers arrive

Clean the appliances by running a clean rinse in the washer to remove any detergent residue. You can add a vinegar solution through the rinse cycle if there is hard-to-remove residue. Remove lint from the dryer lint filter and clean according to manufacturer’s directions.
Shut off the cold and hot water valves from the wall and disconnect the washer hose. For a gas dryer, turn off the gas and remove the hose very carefully from the wall. Consult your gas company for assistance.
Switch off the washer and dryer’s circuit breakers.
Leave the washer door open for a few days to ensure that it is completely dry before moving or storing it.
Store hoses and electrical wires inside the washer and dryer for safe keeping during the move.

Dolly.com provides a few extra tips and tricks to help you.

Be sure to use a dolly for moving your washer and dryer

The washer and dryer should be placed on a moving dolly and secured with bungee cords or rope. The washer and dryer should be moved in an upright position – do not lay them on their sides under any circumstances! A stackable washer/dryer should be moved and stored in an upright position as well.

Laying a washer and dryer on their sides can cause the inner and outer tubs to bump against each other, which can loosen support pads or damage the suspension. This can also cause the tubs to move out of alignment and cause problems in operation.

Wrap ‘er up!

To prevent scratches, broken doors or hinges while moving your washer and dryer, wrap blankets around the appliances. Blankets can be secured by tape, bungie cords, or rope.

Last, but not least

Load the washer and dryer into the moving truck last. These appliances will then be the first items removed when you are unloading at your new home.

If you have questions about moving or storing your washer and dryer, call one of our Ayer Moving and Storage relocation specialists at 800-23-6683.

Archive for year: 2021