When is the Best Time to Move to NYC?

moving to nyc

Relocating to New York City is a thrilling adventure, but timing plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition. The best time to move to NYC varies based on personal preferences and priorities, but factors like weather, availability of rentals, and moving costs heavily influence the decision. Whether you’re planning to migrate to New York for work, education, or a new beginning, knowing the right time and tips for moving to New York. Let’s dive into the ideal seasons and helpful tips for moving to New York.

Best Time To Move In NYC

The best time to move to NYC depends on weather conditions, apartment availability, and cost-effectiveness. Here’s a breakdown of moving during different seasons, highlighting their pros and cons –

Moving in spring

moving to nyc in spring

Spring is one of the most suitable times to move to NYC. The weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures making the physical aspect of moving much more comfortable. Also, relocating to New York in the spring months tends to be more available and flexible as compared to the summer months.

Schools consider it to be the best time of the year to go to NYC as there is less disruption and no interference with the beginning or end of the school year. However, some challenges include the possibility of rain in this season, but you can manage it all with proper planning and waterproof packing materials. To further streamline your move, consider incorporating junk removal services into your relocation plan. These services help you declutter before moving, ensuring you only take what you truly need.

Moving in the Summer  

Summer marks the most popular time to move to NY as many people make the most of school vacations. Also, college students start vacating their dormitories or hostels, and many of them plan to move to apartments. Therefore, you can say that moving during the peak season leads to increased costs.

The significant challenges that movers encounter while moving in the summer are the heat and humidity. Doing it with proper planning, like protecting heat-sensitive items, and scheduling the move for early morning or late evening, can help make the summer move a favorable option for many families. To make your summer relocation smoother, consider taking time to declutter your home before moving. Decluttering not only reduces the items you need to pack but also helps organize your move more efficiently.

Moving in the Winters

moving to nyc in winters

Winters are the most discouraging months for the movers because moving in cold weather is a lot of hassle. You need extra packing of your belongings. Moreover, snow and icy conditions make the move physically challenging. But there is a flip side to the picture as well. One of the biggest benefits of moving to New York City in the winter months is the lower demand for movers, which further leads to cost savings.

Moreover, moving companies offer various discount packages during the off-season with more availability of your preferred dates. To make winter moves stress-free, consider opting for professional packing and unpacking services. Some steps to ensure your safety in the freezing temperatures while moving are wearing non-slippery footwear to prevent falls, using insulated blankets to protect your belongings, and keeping walkways clear of snow and ice to avoid any mishaps and accidents.

Things You Should Know Before Moving to NYC

Moving and relocating to New York City is an exciting journey, but preparation is key to navigating the challenges of such a dynamic metropolis. Here are the things to know before moving to New York to help you ease into your new lifestyle –

Picking your neighborhood

NYC has diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique vibe. Choosing which neighborhood to migrate to in New York affects how your life is going to be in this Empire State. To add to your information, there are five boroughs, namely –

Each of them has a separate neighborhood. Furthermore, Brooklyn is the largest city by population, Queens is the largest by area, and Manhattan is the most expensive borough. Consider factors like amenities, commute times, and safety when you go through the moving checklist in NYC.

Searching for an apartment

apartment in nyc

Finding an apartment in NYC can be overwhelming. Rentals move quickly, so act fast once you find a suitable option. Use online platforms and work with local brokers for the best deals. Remember to budget for deposits, broker fees, and utilities when relocating to New York. And don’t forget to take the help of the movers, especially if it is a last-minute move, for relocating as this comes under one of the most vital tips for moving to New York.

Getting around

The next in the list of tips for moving to New York is how to get around. New York has an extensive public transportation system. And getting here takes a toll on your mind if you have a vehicle. Why is this so? Because it is a tiring task to find a free parking space here. So, what is advisable here is to invest in a metro card to get around the city. Besides, you can look for bike share programs, taxi services, and commuter rail lines for seamless navigation in every borough of New York.

Pricey and competitive

New York is believed to be a popular place because of its high cost of living. That is why most New Yorkers prefer living with roommates so that the cost of living can be divided between them. The favorable thing to do here is to plan your finances carefully so that you will be able to cover the rental prices, groceries, and transportation easily. No wonder the city is pricey and competitive in nature, but you can tackle it with resilience and adaptability, which is worth the effort.

Are You Ready to Move to NYC

If you are wondering whether I should move to NY, then let me tell you, it is both exhilarating and challenging. You have to find the right support in the form of professional movers, and it will be a seamless transition.

Big Apple Moving specializes in meeting all your relocation needs, whether you are looking for residential move or commercial move. From packing to long-distance moves to interstate moves to international relocations and many others, you can rely on us for proven and testable results in moving. We ensure hassle-free relocation tailored to your needs. In addition, we provide the required storage solutions, furniture moving, junk removal, and packing and unpacking services to help you focus on settling into your new NYC adventure.

Final Thoughts

The best time to move to NYC depends on your preferences and is an unforgettable experience that opens doors to countless opportunities. Regardless of the season, preparation and the right moving partner can make all the difference.

So contact Big Apple Moving right now and make an effortless move. Get a free quote and make moving to New York City a journey filled with confidence.

Long Distance Moving Tips: A Complete Guide.

long distance moving tips

Moving across cities, states, or even countries can feel like embarking on an exciting yet daunting adventure. The promise of new beginnings often comes with the challenge of meticulous planning and execution. Whether you’re relocating for a dream job, pursuing education, or chasing a fresh start, a long-distance move requires more than just packing boxes—it demands a strategic approach to ensure everything goes smoothly.

This blog will tackle the hurdle of how to move long distances with ease. Without any ado, let’s dive into the long-distance moving tips –

Tips to Help You Pack for Your Long-Distance Move

Packing for a long-distance move is not just about boxing up your belongings; it’s about doing so strategically. Use these tips for moving long distances to make the process efficient and stress-free.

Plan Meticulously

You are planning a residential move. And a challenging task like moving requires a meticulous plan. You will have to write down or prepare a spreadsheet about how to make a long-distance move and how to move your belongings, pets, vehicles, and household items. A successful move requires thorough planning and preparation. So, consider your moving date and budget, and research your destination about the essential aspects like schools, cost of living, and neighborhoods to make a successful move.

Get Rid of Unnecessary Items

The lesser belongings you have, the easier and less expensive it is to move. The most important trick to follow here is to declutter your home before you make your move. Check out all your belongings and sort them into piles of “Keep, Donate, and Sell.” Lightening the load of your belongings reduces the moving costs and makes packing more manageable.

Find a Good Long Distance Moving Company

movers packing items

Get free moving quotes from different companies and compare their prices. Check if the moving company you are choosing is licensed, provide every kind of moving services like long distance moving services, residential moving services etc. and has good online reviews. There is no denying the fact that affordability is the most vital aspect of choosing a moving company, but keep in mind that the cheapest doesn’t always mean the best. So, choose a moving company wisely, and you will free yourself from the worry of logistics and heavy lifting and bring some peace of mind.

Make an inventory list

The next step in the list of long-distance moving tips is to make an inventory list. Count the number of rooms you have and then the belongings in those rooms. Include all the valuables in the inventory. Use a labeling system to ensure everything is placed in the correct room, For instance – Pack all your essentials in one and label all the boxes as “Essentials”. Show extra care while packing kitchen & fragile items. Making an inventory list goes a long way in streamlining your long-distance move.

Priorities Items to Keep With You

Pack a separate bag or box with essentials you’ll need during the move and in the first few days at your new home. Include items like medications, toiletries, basic tools, and important documents you need while moving. Keeping these essentials with you ensures easy access when needed.

Tips for Preparing a Long-Distance Move

Let’s get into tackling the more critical aspect of this process with these moving long-distance trips –

Move during off-season

Moving rates are lower during the off-season, and moving companies are less busy. So, if possible, schedule your move during the off-season. It also allows for more flexibility.

Be aware of your move-in situation

Do you have full knowledge of the logistics of moving into your new home? Well, you must have full information on this, like whether there are any parking restrictions, whether you will need a permit for the moving truck, etc. Knowing all these details in advance will keep you away from unexpected hiccups that might arise on moving days.

Check your Belongings Before you Move

Double-check everything before you make the actual move. Before the arrival of the professional movers, check if you have packed and labeled everything securely. Click pictures of all your belongings and valuable items for documentation.

Get Ready for Your Long-Distance Move With Big Apple Moving

loading items in moving truck for long distance move

The answer to how to move a long distance can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Big Apple Moving specializes in making cross-country moves seamless and stress-free.

With years of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we offer –

Our team ensures your belongings are packed securely for the journey, and hence, we even offer additional packing services like junk removal, unpacking, furniture assembly and disassembly, and more. We guarantee safe and timely delivery of your items through our reliable transportation. Our long-distance movers take care of everything from packing to unloading and make comprehensive moving plans. Whether you’re moving fragile items or large furniture, we have the expertise and tools to transport them safely. Additionally, we have no hidden fees—just honest, competitive rates for exceptional service.

When you choose Big Apple Moving, you’re not just hiring a moving company; you’re partnering with a team dedicated to making your transition as smooth as possible. Let us take the stress out of your long-distance move so you can focus on settling into your new home.

Final Thoughts

Long-distance moving is a significant undertaking, but with proper planning and the right support, it can be a rewarding experience. By following these long-distance moving tips, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the challenges of relocation.

When it comes to making your move effortless, Big Apple Moving is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our long-distance moving services and get a free quote. Let us make your move a breeze!

Cost of Living in NYC for Students

life in nyc

There comes a time for all future freshmen in college to debate the most ominous question of them all. Should I live in a dorm or an apartment? This is the time of calculating cents and counting zeros of the cost of living in NYC for a student. It is the time of weighing each of your suitcases on multiple occasions.

Now is the time of planning how to survive without your mother’s cooking. It is the time of completely losing your cool about moving to New York. It is time to take the wise words of Douglas Adams as your mantra: Don’t panic. Also, we promise, despite the motto, this will be easier than being a hitchhiker in the galaxy. So, let’s talk about the cost of life in New York for a student…

Understanding: Cost of living in NYC for a Student

New York City has been topping the charts for the highest cost of living for a long time. It is well-known that it isn’t only rent which is expensive here. Everything, from food to your everyday expendable items will definitely become less cheap. So, here are some things that will influence your cost of living in the Big Apple as a student:

  • Housing
  • Food
  • Necessities
  • Lifestyle
  • Transport

Of course, we understand that the move itself will also be expensive. So, we’d suggest reading about affordable movers in NYC first. There are a number of ways to avoid unnecessary costs if you’re prepared for the most common mistakes which people make while relocating to the Big Apple. So, it’s time to think about the way you can save some money on the first topic on our list: housing.

Dorm vs. Apartment

apartment in nyc

A dorm, also called a dormitory, is a large multi-residential building offering convenience and a community atmosphere. It is usually inside a college campus which makes commuting to classes much easier. A dorm is a big single-hall kind of room. It could be with or without an attached bathroom. A student has to share a dorm with other roommates and also share common spaces like bathrooms and lounges. Usually, you will get a bed, desk, and other utilities like internet and electricity in a dorm. Besides, there are some sets of rules and regulations that a student must follow if he/she decides to stay in a dorm.

When it comes to apartments, they are individual living units and offer more independence than dorms. The owners of apartments are usually individual landlords, investment firms, and property management companies. An apartment has its own bathroom and kitchen. That means the amenities like bathrooms and kitchens are not shared. However, there could be other amenities like grills, pools, and playgrounds that are common to all.

Living in a dorm

Dorm life is a good way for a student to have the experiences of life. It’s great to see every student sharing the same energy and nervousness when they first arrive in college and makes it easy to develop friendships. You develop a strong sense of security, community, and belongingness and will get umpteen opportunities for socializing.

Average cost

Generally, the NYC dorm prices depend on the location and the university. However, the average cost to live in New York in a dorm for a student is $12, 111. Public schools like Ohio State, Michigan, or Florida, offer room and board to their students for an average price of $11, 520. Whereas, the price for private schools like Vanderbilt, Fordham, or Notre Dame is $13,028. The important thing to note here is that the price mentioned here covers only the fall and spring semesters and not the summers. So, basically it is for nine months as the residence halls are closed for the holidays. That means an average price of $1,280 per month for public schools and $1,448 for private schools.

Living in an Apartment

Apartments offer more independence than dorms. Other benefits include a private bedroom, a bathroom, a kitchen, and a living area that you don’t have to share with anyone unless you want to. You need to be more responsible for living in an apartment as you have to pay the utility bills yourself. The last thing you want to be on your list is to know that it’s been 3 months and nobody has paid the electric bill. While dorms have restrictions on visitors, noise, and decor, apartments provide a level of privacy and autonomy that can make student life feel a bit more adult.

Average Cost

Is living off campus cheaper or expensive? Well, it all depends on the neighborhood you are living in, apartment type, cost of rent near the school or university area and some other factors. The more number of students you have in the apartment, the less everyone has to pay.

On average, the cost of an apartment in New York for a student is $3780 per month. In Ohio and Columbus, it is $1020. For students, sharing an apartment with roommates can significantly reduce the burden on their pocket, splitting rent and utility costs to make apartment living more feasible.

Having a roommate will impact your expenses in NYC as a student

life of students in nyc

While it may seem similar, living with a roommate in an apartment and at the dorm is completely different. First of all, in a dorm, there is no choice. You will have an assigned roommate who will share your room and your bathroom. Sometimes, there will be more than one, too. The cost of living as a student in New York City dorms with a roommate? Well, it won’t impact your everyday lifestyle too much. That is if you don’t get lured in by vivacious outings a lot.

On the other hand, finding a roommate in NYC comes in handy. The best part is, that you can actually choose the person. Of course, if you don’t know anyone in the city yet, there’s the option of looking for a roommate online. If you choose to rent an apartment in NY, you will also have your own room. Though, you will probably still be sharing a bathroom.

The best part is, students living in New York can actually lower their cost of living by splitting the rent. If you’re really going for a cheap option, consider more than one roommate. As a bonus, living in an apartment tends to be quieter than a dorm!

Services and amenities are important for the cost of living in New York for a student

NYC dorm prices are affected by what you have or don’t have, provided. Living in a dorm will probably mean saving more money. After all, there are usually meal plans which you can apply for. As they are meant for students, they will be affordable. Other things that will impact the cost of living in NYC for a student in college are furniture and utilities. Most of the dorms will have your room already furnished. You will also have the option of using the shared fridge, sofa, kitchen, etc. Not to mention that there is almost always internet provided, too.

Apartments are a different story altogether. They are definitely more expensive for a student living in NYC on this front. First of all, you will most likely need to furnish the space. And, after doing so, you will need to re-stock necessary items on a regular basis. The expenses for cleaning products, hygiene, and living, in general, tend to pile up.

Also, the cost of living in New York for a student is greatly impacted by the choice of food. Whether you will be cooking or ordering in, the expenses will pile up. But, more importantly, the process will take up time! The bright point here, though, is that doing the washing is generally cheaper at an apartment. Not to mention that you will have more freedom in choosing everything from food to supplies.

The cost of living in NYC for a student will also depend on location

Contrary to popular belief, there are a number of affordable neighborhoods in NYC. However, that doesn’t mean that the cost of living in the Big Apple for a student will be impacted by them. In most cases, the rent of the housing actually tends to vary. Depending on the location of the college, there are somewhere living off-campus is definitely cheaper. Mostly, the cost of living in Manhattan for a student is more affordable in a dorm. The average difference in the expense is about $700 per month. So, if you’re choosing to live at a Manhattan dorm even in the best neighborhoods in Brooklyn, you can save up to $8000 a year!

On the other hand, there are a number of neighborhoods outside Manhattan with universities. According to the research, most of them offer more expensive dorms. So, when calculating the cost of living in NYC for a student outside the Manhattan area, off-campus tends to be a favorable choice. The average difference in the prices is estimated at $750. So, living off-campus might be a good idea for those attending LIU, Queens College, Fordham, St. John’s, and College of Staten Island. As long as your place is near the college, you won’t be troubled by the cost of transportation in NYC too much, either.

Conclusion

Deciding between a dorm and an apartment in NYC is no easy task, as each option brings unique benefits and costs. In the end, it’s up to you to decide. Which will be the better option, according to your preferences? Will you be living at a dorm or renting an apartment?

If you’re ready to make the move stress-free, Big Apple Moving is here to help. With professional moving and storage services tailored to students, we will ensure a smooth transition to your new home in New York. Contact Big Apple Moving today to start your journey with confidence!

How Much Does a Piano Weigh & How to Move it?

how much does piano weigh

When you think of a piano, you probably imagine elegant melodies filling the air. But behind that enchanting sound is an incredibly heavy and complex musical instrument. Whether you’re considering moving your piano or just curious about its weight, it’s important to understand just how heavy these instruments can be. Not only is this knowledge practical, but it also helps you appreciate the craftsmanship involved. Let’s dive into the details of how much does a piano weigh, how its weight varies depending on its style, and some helpful tips for moving a piano.

How Much Does a Piano Weigh?

Pianos are known for their beauty and grandeur, and their average weight depends on several factors like their size, type, brands, style, and the materials used in the construction. And moving a piano is not easy because it is made of various heavy parts like a lid, rim, pedals, and prop stick. That being said, the average weight of most pianos falls between 300-1200 pounds.

Let’s understand this aspect in more detail.

Average piano weight by style

If you are wondering how heavy is a piano, here we have classified them on the basis of their styles –

Upright Piano

upright piano placed in a room's corner

The most common type of piano is the upright piano, which doesn’t take up much space compared to the other ones. And many people prefer to keep them in their homes. But here is the catch: they are not as lightweight as it seems. They often weigh between 300-500 pounds. Also, the taller the upright piano is, the heavier it is to move. So, you need to hire a piano moving service for upright piano moving.

Baby Grand Piano

The next on the list is the Baby grand piano, having a curved design and is larger than the petite or miniature grand piano but still quite hefty. Their length can be up to 5’7″ with a weight between 500-650 pounds. It takes 3 to 4 people to move the baby grand piano once its legs and pedals have been removed. They are ideal for living rooms and smaller performance spaces due to their balance between size, sound, and quality.

Grand Piano  

Now comes the concert grand piano. They are the heaviest of all in the piano family, which you may have often seen in professional concert halls. They weigh somewhere between 900-1200 pounds. Due to their larger size, they have more resonant sound. But moving them is a greater challenge. It is said that lighter semi-concert grands weigh somewhere around 900 lbs, whereas bigger concert grands are somewhere near 1300 lbs.

Tips for Moving a Piano

When it comes to piano moving, many people underestimate the challenge. Moving such a heavy, delicate, and expensive piece of equipment requires thoughtful planning, the right tools, and a whole lot of muscle. Before you attempt to relocate your piano, consider the following tips –

Ask for help

tips for moving a piano\

If you are someone who believes in doing everything alone, you have to change your philosophy here for some time. Handling it all by yourself without the help of professional movers can pose a serious risk of injury. Ideally, you must hire professional Piano Movers to tackle this job without getting overwhelmed by this task, as the professionals have the expertise and equipment to handle the heavy lifting without damaging it.

Collect the Right Moving Supplies and Materials

Gather the right moving supplies and materials before executing your piano moving. The most important materials you will need for cushioning your piano are dollies, moving blankets, straps, and piano boards. Now, how to move a piano? For the smaller ones, use thick towels or blankets and packing tape to wrap them securely. Then, use a heavy-duty dolly for an upright piano and a piano board for a baby grand or grand piano. Using these supplies will make moving a piano much safer and help ensure that neither the instrument nor your home suffers damage.

Keep a Measure Before Your Move

Do you know where you are going to place your piano in your new home? If yes, measure the spaces where you want to put it. These spaces include doorways, hallways, and staircases where you have to pass through your piano without any issues. Plan your route and see how many sharp turns, low ceilings, and tight corners you will come across to navigate this piano-moving process easily. Moving a piano need not be difficult if you take all the necessary steps, and it keeps away the frustration of moving day.

How to Hire a Moving Partner?

Given the complexity and physical effort required, it’s often best to hire professionals to move a piano. Professional piano moving services specialize in moving, and their staff is equipped with the skills, tools, and know-how to relocate your piano safely and efficiently. Here’s how you can get in touch with the right team of Big Apple Moving and what to expect in terms of cost –

Find a moving partner

When you come across professional movers like Big Apple Moving, visit their website and find their contact details to contact them. Also, read about their experience and reviews to have proper knowledge about them before hiring them for your move.

A general idea says that you need 2-4 movers for upright pianos, 3-4 for baby grand pianos, and 4-6 movers for concert grand pianos.

How Much does it cost to Move a Piano?

Piano moving service charge an average of $150-$1000, depending on how heavy is a piano. How much does it cost to move a piano take into account the size, complexity and distance of the move. It is important to contact a reliable and professional moving company for an accurate piano moving estimate.

Having said that, Big Apple Moving is your trusted moving partner when it comes to moving heavy items or heavy musical instruments with intricate designs. We assure you that we will handle your piano moving with utmost safety. Our team will bring all the needed equipment and services like packing and transportation with us and will handle the weight and size of different piano models seamlessly. Let our expert NYC Movers handle your piano moving and ensure your peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

A piano is not just a musical instrument but a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Its weight indicates the complexity of the move, and moving one is no easy task. Whether you choose to tackle the move yourself or hire professionals, knowing how heavy a piano is and planning accordingly can make all the difference.

If you decide to hire a piano moving service, be sure to get a free piano moving estimate and find experienced movers who know exactly how many people to move a piano safely. With the right preparation, your beloved piano can be relocated without a hitch. Did I forget to mention the expertise of Big Apple Moving in moving your things? Well, contact us to know more and we will make piano moving a breeze for you.

How to Pack for a Move

Moving to a new place is an exciting yet overwhelming experience. Between sorting through belongings, packing boxes, and ensuring everything arrives safely, there is a lot to look after, and it’s easy to feel stressed. But fear not! With a well-thought-out plan and the right tools, packing for a move can be a smooth process. 

This blog will take you through the process of how to pack for a move to make moving and packing a cakewalk for you. Whether you’re relocating across town or to a new city, the key is preparation. So, get ready and make a move.

Start by Gathering Your Packing Supplies

packing supplies
Packing tape dispenser, scissors on the cardboard box.

Before packing for relocation, you have to gather the necessary packing materials you need when moving for a seamless process. Gather different sizes of moving boxes and storage containers to make organization easier. Get packing tapes to securely seal the boxes and ensure your goods are packed safely. Having some bubble wraps, packing papers, packing peanuts, and foam padding is also good for filling the empty spaces in boxes for added cushioning. 

Get blankets and plastic bags to pack fragile items. This packing checklist will help you pack everything appropriately. Lastly, don’t forget permanent markers to label boxes and keep track of what things are packed inside which boxes.

Need help figuring out exactly how many supplies you’ll need? Get a quote from Big Apple Moving to make your packing process smoother and stress-free. Our experts can guide you through the essentials and provide professional packing services!

Declutter Before You Move

The smaller the stuff, the easier it will be to move and the lesser the storage space you will need. Declutter the belongings as you go. Get rid of the things you don’t use or no longer need while packing an apartment. Donate, sell, or discard the items to be free from any mess. 

The rule says that you bid adieu to the items that you haven’t used in the past year. Additionally, separate the items that you will be needing immediately before or after the move.

Start Packing Room by Room

packing room by room
Favorite books. Pleasant curly-haired girl packing a pile of books into a big box before moving out of the room in the dormitory

Handle one room at a time. Start with the rooms that you use less frequently, like basements or guest rooms. Pack garage items and spare rooms. Packing less frequently used rooms should be done at least a month before your move date. Clean all the items. Use plastic bins for tools and smaller equipment, and wrap sharp tools in towels for safety. Gather all the power cords, cables, and wiring accessories in individual plastic bags and label them. When talking about living rooms and high-end used areas, pay special attention. Pack all the electronic boxes in special moving boxes.

Choose the right size moving boxes for all the items, as this is a make-or-break deal that helps protect your belongings. Pack fragile items like artwork, mirrors, and lamps in specialty boxes. To pack a kitchen, pantry, and laundry room, begin with rarely-used appliances and dishware. Wrap each plate and glass in packing paper or bubble wrap and store them upright. For bedrooms and closets, wardrobe boxes are apt for packing clothes. Smaller boxes are meant for storing shoes, personal items, and accessories. Use vacuum-sealed bags to pack bedding like pillows and blankets.

When it comes to the bathroom, discard the products that have expired. Pack the liquid products in plastic bags to steer clear of any leaks. Keep all the essentials like soap and toothpaste in an easily accessible box so that you don’t have to face any difficulty when you first arrive at your home.

Labeling and Final Checks

labelling boxes
Mid adult Hispanic woman writes ‘kitchen’ with a marker. She has just packed up some of the kitchen supplies as she and her family prepare to move. Her husband and daughter are working in the background.

Labeling is the step that you think sometimes you can miss, but you cannot. It is like that friend that saves you from the unnecessary effort of unpacking everything in your new home. Number each box and make notes of the items that you may try to find later. Don’t forget to label the box with fragile items as “fragile” or “this side up.” 

Labeling comes under the best way to pack for residential moving, which allows you to keep track of what things you have packed. Make final checks to ensure that everything is packed securely. Check with your moving company to see if they have made all the arrangements.

Additional packing tips for moving

Here are some additional tips on how to pack for a move –

  • Keep important documents like ID cards, passports, insurance papers, and valuables with you during the move.
  • Group similar items and pack them together.
  • Color code the boxes by each room to quickly identify them at your new place.

Wrapping Up

Packing for a move doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By gathering the right supplies, decluttering before you pack, working room by room, and labeling everything clearly, you’ll make the process much smoother. Remember to prepare a box of essentials for the first few days in your new home, and don’t forget to confirm arrangements with your moving company.

Ready to move? Let the experts at Big Apple Moving help you with their professional packing services. Whether you need full-service packing or just a little assistance, we’ve got you covered. Check out our packing services to ensure your belongings are safe and secure every step of the way! Contact us right away.

How to Dispose of a Couch

how to dispose of a couch

Couches are a staple of comfort in our homes, offering the perfect spot to unwind after a long day. But what happens when your beloved couch becomes worn out, or you simply want to upgrade? Whether your couch is still in good condition or has seen better days, disposing of it can be more complicated than just tossing it on the curb. And disposing of an old couch becomes more important while residential moving. After all, you want to get rid of the old and unnecessary items and make a hassle-free move. 

Fortunately, there are multiple ways when talking about how to dispose of a couch, ensuring you make the most of its value while minimizing waste. In this blog we will walk you through several effective methods to get rid of an old couch, from selling and donating to recycling and hiring professional services.

How to get rid of an old couch?

What steps should you follow as far as “how to get rid of an old couch” is concerned? Let us know.

Assess the Condition of Your Couch

access the condition of your couch

Before disposing of your couch, assess its condition. Make a note of whether the couch is still usable or the damage is in such a way that it is beyond repair. After assessing its condition, choose whether you want to sell it, donate it, recycle it, or dispose of it completely.

Selling Your Couch

Looking for a way to make some decent money while disposing of your couch? Consider selling it. It is not only a financially rewarding option but also an eco-friendly way. In this manner, you also tend to promote a culture of reusing. You can consider selling it to online marketplaces, at a garage sale, or to second-hand furniture stores.

Donating Your Couch Locally

The next in the list of how to dispose of a couch is by donating it. Throwing away a couch and donating it is actually a great way of making some space in your home and, at the same time, helping others in need. 

You can contact charitable or non-profit organizations to check whether they accept a couch donation or not. Some organizations even offer free pick-up services, which is a really convenient option. However, before donation, ensure that your couch is in clean and sensible condition.

Recycle the Couch

A sofa as a whole may not be recyclable. But some parts of it may be. Its wood, metal, and fabric can be repurposed and reused. Look for junk removal services or specialized furniture recycling programs in your city to recycle sofas.

Hire a professional upholstery cleaner

If your couch is in decent condition and you don’t want to sell it, but it still needs a deep cleaning, it’s time to get in touch with a professional upholstery cleaner. They clean and sanitize your couch, rejuvenate it, and ultimately make it more attractive to potential buyers. This trick becomes especially useful if your couch has stains or accumulated dirt from prolonged usage.

Rent a Dumpster

If you are thinking about how to get rid of an old couch in addition to multiple things, renting a dumpster might help you in a great way. It acts as an excellent disposal option, which allows you to work at your own pace. It is an appropriate method to get rid of numerous items in one go, but it can also be costly.

Repurpose or upcycle it

Bring your inner creativity out and repurpose your sofa into something useful. Watch some DIY videos, follow them, and upcycle your couch to make something new and unique. Give your sofa a second chance by adding a personal touch to it and transforming your home décor.

Hold a yard or garage sale

Do you have more than 3-4 items that you want to get rid of? If yes, you can organize a yard or a garage sale. It is a fun way to gain some extra cash while decluttering your home. What more can you do? Get a couple of neighborhoods together for a larger sale so that there are better odds of success and you will attract more buyers.

Check with your local waste management facility

Local waste management facilities are your next stop if your couch is damaged beyond repair. But some waste management facilities ask you to pay a small fee for the same. Also, some offer bulk trash pick-up and drop-off services for large furniture items. Check with your local regulations and see how you can make this trick work for you.

Contact local recycling centers

Recycling centers accept a number of items, not just cans and bottles. So, if you are thinking about where to dump old couches, contact your local recycling centers to reduce the waste responsibly.

Conclusion

The process of how to dispose of a couch doesn’t have to be complicated. From selling and donating to recycling and hiring professionals, you have plenty of options that align with your couch’s condition. Big Apple Moving allows you to get rid of an old couch easily as it handles every aspect of your relocation and moving needs. 

We provide top-quality services when it comes to picking up your sofa and getting it to the desired place, whether it’s your new home or the recycling center. Contact us at (212) 365-0707 to know more.