Tips for Finding Affordable Storage Units

Posted on 04/07/201808/07/2023 by BigApple

If you are relocating to New York City, it is imperative that you arrange for the transportation of all your personal belongings. Prior to settling down, you will need to secure a new residence, which can be a time-consuming endeavor in the bustling metropolis.

However, this should not deter you from proceeding with your move. Your possessions can be transported ahead of your arrival, and a storage unit can be utilized to accommodate them until you are ready to receive them.

You can safely leave your belongings in your storage unit and go about finishing the rest of the tasks from your moving list. Moves can be expensive so a good idea would be to consider storage solutions in NYC because this is a sure way to save some money. We are going to give you some tips on how to find affordable storage units in NYC.

How to Find Affordable Storage Units

When you are choosing moving and storage company, you will want to find affordable ones and save some dollars. We will give you some tips on just how to find them. You will also find out how to find the best deals when choosing your storage unit.

Choose the Appropriate Size

Select the appropriate size for your storage unit. Storage units are available in varying sizes, ranging from smaller dimensions such as 5′ x 5′ to larger spaces like 10′ x 30′. Certain units may have unique measurements, such as 10′ x 14′, 5′ x 7′, and 5′ x 12′.

It is common for individuals to err in their selection of storage dimensions, resulting in unnecessary expenses due to the combination of an excessively large unit and poor packing practices. Therefore, it is imperative to exercise prudence in both the selection and packing of your storage unit.

Choose the Right Location

Undoubtedly, a superior location commands a higher price. Location plays a pivotal role in numerous scenarios, including storage units. Typically, storage units situated in the suburbs along a rural route are more reasonably priced than those located in the city center. This principle also applies to the units within the storage facility.

Affordable units are not among the first ones on the 1st floor. You will find these affordable storage units on the third floor way back. They might be less convenient but this makes them cheaper.

Buy the Insurance Yourself

It may not be common knowledge, but obtaining rental insurance is a prerequisite for renting a storage unit. Typically, storage companies will present insurance policies for purchase, however, this may not be the most cost-effective option. In the event that you are seeking to economize, it is advisable to explore alternative insurance options.

Inquire with your personal insurance provider and conduct research to identify more affordable self-storage coverage prior to finalizing your rental agreement. Additionally, when selecting from the array of economical moving companies in New York, exercise the same level of discernment in selecting your insurance coverage.

Make Sure Your Rate Will Not Increase

Occasionally, the rental fee for a storage unit may not be fixed. Certain storage companies may raise the rate at some point. It is advisable to steer clear of such companies as this may result in unexpected financial burden. Prior to signing the rental agreement, it is recommended to inquire about the possibility of a rate increase.

Additionally, researching online reviews from other clients who have dealt with the moving company may provide valuable insight.

Always Look For Perks

There are some features that storage units have, and that will cost you extra money. For example, there are climate control, 24-hour surveillance, gate access, indoor rather than an outdoor unit. If you don’t need any of these features look for and only check storage units that do not have them.

Why would you pay for something you don’t need? On the other side, there are perks you should definitely use. If your storage company offers a free use of a rental truck when you move in, don’t think twice about using it. You can save between 30 and 70 dollars with this perk.

More Ways to Get Deals on Storage Units

You could buy your own lock. You will not save loads of money if you do this, but you will save some. Just be sure to buy a good lock of high quality, so that you can secure your belongings and use it later as well. Don’t fall into the trap of lock or renting companies that will want to sell you really expensive ones.

Pay Up Front for Your Storage Unit

If you are aware of the precise duration for which you require storage, it is advisable to make an upfront payment. This is a prudent approach as most storage companies offer discounts for such payments. Nonetheless, it is imperative to ensure that you retain the flexibility to extend your rental period in case of unforeseen circumstances.

You never know what might change in the circumstances of your move, or in your plans. So, you should always have a backup plan. If you know you will be away for a long time then you should choose a long-term storage rental.

You can sign a contract for a year. However, check the terms and conditions. If you violate the contract before the renting period expires you might pay some fines.

Don’t Get a Storage Unit With a Drive-Up Access

If you have some friends who are ready to help you get your belongings into a storage unit, you don’t need a unit with a drive-up access. The units that don’t own a drive -up are the more affordable storage units. There is another perk that you get if you don’t choose a drive-up unit.

These units have an extra layer of protection. So you will have extra security for a lower price. How great is that?

So here are some great tips on how to find affordable storage units. You also know how to get good deals when renting your storage unit. It is all about planning and making smart choices. Pay attention to

the right size,
location and
where you buy your insurance and storage coverage.
Also, don’t forget to ask about discounts and perks. You might get some good deals if you just ask.

How to Get a Precise Moving Price?

Posted on 04/05/201808/11/2023 by BigApple

You want to move but don’t know how to start. You must plan every step of the process, including your time, space, and money. These things are connected and affect each other.

If you plan well, you can stay within your budget when moving. Sometimes people forget about unexpected expenses and end up spending more than they planned. To avoid this, you should be careful and plan carefully. Follow our guide to get an accurate moving price.

Know Who is Moving Your Things

There are companies that will try to trick you, one way or another. That is something that is just the truth. That’s why you need to be sure that you are dealing with licensed and insured companies. When choosing a moving company, try not to be attracted by unrealistic offers.

Usually, fraudulent companies try to attract customers by offering services at extremely low prices. Of course, not everything that is expensive is good, either, but very low prices are a signal to run away. Check these things:

Recommendations – see if your friends, family or co-workers have some experience in moving, so they can recommend or warn you about some company names.
USDOT – you can always check if a company has a dot number issued by the US Department of Transportation. This number allows the government to check and track carriers. You can check that on the Safer website.
Online comments and reviews – customers are the best judge. Don’t be lazy and search a company’s name on Google and see what comments their clients left. This can be really helpful and resourceful sometimes.

After you checked all your options, narrow your choice to 2-4 options. These should be trustworthy companies that fit your budget. Call them, arrange a meeting to get an on-site estimate.

On-site Estimate Details to Get the Precise Moving Price

Once you’ve chosen what you want, give them a call and ask about their prices and services. But keep in mind that the price they give you over the phone or email is just an estimate. It’s not the exact amount you’ll pay after the move is done. So, you need to be ready and know what to ask. First, you should know what factors will affect the cost. These factors are:

Moving Season – if possible, plan your move in advance and choose the date carefully. If you call a company on a date too close to the moving date, the price will probably be higher. Also, if you want to reduce costs, choose a less-popular moving season for your area.

Quantity – the number and the weight of your items is a huge factor. That’s why you need to be detailed and open when getting an on-site estimate. Be ready to show every box/item that needs to be moved, so you can get the precise moving price.

Special Pieces – if you have some furniture that needs special attention, let them know immediately. This might include very big, bulky, fragile items like pool tables, pianos, art pieces, etc. Maybe you will need piano moving services from the company, which can affect the price.

Distance – the exact distance from your old to your new home is very important. So don’t be lazy to show the way where the movers will be going. Also, they need to know if the new/old home has a lot of stairs, is it on a higher floor, etc. All these things can affect the price.

The Number of Workers – price will be higher if more people are necessary to work on your move, so be sure to tell the company every detail of your move.

Every on-site estimate usually lasts for about an hour. So, if possible, arrange all the companies to come on the same day. That way, you will be able to compare the prices and services while the information is still fresh in your mind. We also suggest taking notes so it will be easier for you to compare and choose the best company.

Non-Binding Quote

This preliminary estimate is subject to change and should not be considered as the final cost. It is important to note that such estimates typically reflect a lower price point and may contain unforeseen charges that could potentially catch customers off guard. It is imperative to exercise caution when opting for this type of estimate and thoroughly scrutinize all details.

Additional services, such as additional furniture or stairs, may significantly impact the final price. As such, we strongly advise considering an alternative estimate option.

Binding Quote

This type of the estimate offers no surprises. You will get the final price of all the services and be sure if this really fits your budget. Professional moving and storage company will make an on-site inspection, so make sure to give them all the details.

After they calculate the costs, be sure to get the estimate on paper, with all the details of your move. This will serve as a legal document, like a contract, and needs to be signed, so there will be no surprises when you need to pay.

Not-to-Exceed Quote

This type of estimate is not used very often, but you should ask for it if you are interested. In this case, the final price is fixed and the final price can’t go over the set limit. The price can go lower, though. This estimate also needs to be signed and serves as a contract.

Different Types of Storage Solutions

Posted on 02/27/201808/07/2023 by BigApple

Storage units can prove to be highly advantageous in various scenarios, such as downsizing to a smaller living space where not all possessions can be accommodated, transitioning between homes where a temporary storage solution is required, or during extended periods of absence from the country where rental expenses can be avoided.

Perhaps you have a big memorabilia collection that takes up too much of your living space. Or maybe you don’t have enough room for your hobby equipment. You can see there are many reasons why people rent storage units. And there are also many different types of storage solutions. If you are wondering which one is the right for you, read on.

Types of Storage Offered by Movers

This is the kind of storage owned by moving companies, intended to facilitate their clients’ storage needs. Not all moving companies offer this service, though. If you opt for moving company type of storage you can be sure your belongings are handled with great care and professionalism.

How does it work? Moving crew comes to your home, packs your things gently and efficiently, loads it on to the truck and then unloads it into the storage unit. Depending on your needs, storage professionals can provide you with various types of storage facilities.

Outdoor Storage

The majority of storage facilities available in the market are outdoor storage facilities, which implies that the storage units are situated outside and are susceptible to various weather conditions, including extreme high and low temperatures. Therefore, it is imperative to exercise caution while selecting items to be stored in such facilities. It is advisable to store temperature-sensitive items in an indoor storage unit equipped with climate control to ensure their safety and longevity.

But, the advantage of outdoor storage is its size. They are usually bigger than indoor units and can fit more items. They are perfect for sporting equipment, seasonal decorations, and large furniture. Even cars or boats can fit in an outdoor storage unit.

Indoor Storage

Storage units of this kind are recommended when you need to store sensitive items. Indoor storage is protected from outside weather conditions because it has air conditioning. AC is necessary to control temperature, moisture, and humidity – all three can damage your possessions to a different extent. You should choose it when storing the following:

Antique and wooden furniture – these items can crack or split when left in extremely hot and extremely cold temperatures.
Photographs – they can fade out or become yellow if not properly climatized.
Personal or business documents – if you don’t want your valuable documents to become yellow or illegible you will need a type of storage with air conditioning.
Furs – these are very sensitive to heath.
Electronics and appliances – these items don’t react well to shifts in temperature, so they need to be kept in a climate-controlled environment.
Artwork and arts and crafts supplies – none of these items benefit from temperatures changes and can be seriously damaged if left without AC.
Musical instruments – although they can be large and difficult to move, like for example pianos, all musical instruments need to be stored in climate-controlled conditions. Strings on a guitar or a piano can rust if left in a humid environment. Also, glue can lose its adhesive power when it’s really hot outside.
Special collections – proud owners of collectible items need an indoor storage for their items. Comics and stamps require constant temperature and humidity levels in order not to lose their value. When coins are in a humid environment, they rust.

If you live in the city of New York, which has temperatures at both ends of the thermometer, you should really think about this type of storage solution when storing the aforementioned items. High-quality movers and storage NYC company will make sure to conserve your belonging in ideal conditions.

Short-term Storage

Both indoor and outdoor storage options are available for short-term rental, which is particularly convenient during transitional periods between residences. Short-term storage units are suitable for holding belongings for less than a year and can vary in size depending on individual requirements.

Long-term Storage

If your attic has reached its maximum capacity, it may be prudent to consider long-term storage options. This is particularly useful if you require a secure location to store valuable items, such as an old-timer bike that requires restoration. Long-term storage provides an effective solution for decluttering your home while retaining possession of cherished possessions. Additionally, prepaying annual fees for long-term storage often results in discounted rates.

The biggest perk of moving company storage is that they offer high levels of security and privacy. Their downside is that you can’t access your unit anytime, but need to make an appointment. This is not the case whit this movers and storage in NYC company. They guarantee unlimited access to users while keeping intruders away and maintaining high levels of security.

Self-Storage Facilities

An alternative to a moving company storage facility is a self-storage facility. These are more affordable but lack the perks offered by moving company storage. If you go to a self-storage facility you will have to pack your things yourself. The difficult task of carrying bulky possessions will be yours alone. These also, in most cases, offer the choice of indoor and outdoor units. You can decide if you want climate control or not. The upside of self-storage units is unlimited access to your unit. You can drive up there anytime, day or night, without prior notification.

These are the types of storage units available – moving company storage and self-storage. Each with its set of upsides and downsides. It’s up to you to decide what is a priority at a given time. And don’t forget about the nature of things you are storing. No point of storing them, if you don’t ensure ideal conditions.

Guide to finding reliable fine art movers in NYC

Posted on 02/20/201802/23/2018 by BigApple

Moving your fine art can be very difficult and stressful, but when you hire reliable fine art movers in NYC moving from one city or state to another can be a lot easier.

The goal of reliable art movers in NYC is to bring your valuables to a different place without having problems with packing, lifting, and loading. Professional movers and storage NYC can provide you with best NYC moving services including fine art moving. You should leave this hard job to professionals who know how to protect your art during the transportation and how to move it without damaging it. Continue reading “Guide to finding reliable fine art movers in NYC”

A Complete Checklist for Moving: Things You Should Know Before Your Move

Posted on 01/13/201810/24/2024 by BigApple

Moving is a journey full of excitement, anticipation, and, let’s be honest, a bit of chaos! From packing up all your belongings to saying goodbye to familiar places, moving can feel like a whirlwind of emotions and to-do lists. But what if we told you that there’s a way to take the stress out of the equation? Picture this: a complete, foolproof checklist for moving that guides you every step of the way, transforming the moving process into a smooth, organized experience.

Whether it’s ensuring your fragile items are safely packed or keeping track of those easy-to-miss details (hello, address change!), having a solid game plan can make all the difference. Ready to turn your moving game? Let our ultimate moving checklist become the roadmap to your successful move.

Moving Checklist/List To Do Things You Should Remember While Moving

The moving checklist has been organized chronologically, with a comprehensive timeline culminating in the actual moving day. This timeline serves as the basis for a detailed checklist of things to do when moving, which outlines tasks that require attention within specific timeframes.

To streamline the process, the timeline is divided into categories such as tasks to be completed two months prior, one month prior, one week prior, a few days prior, and on the day of the move.

You want to start your move ahead of time, it is one of the keys to a successful move. If you procrastinate and delay the things that need to be done way ahead of time, you will face utter failure.

Two Months Before

The two months before period should start lightly and without any dangerous deadlines. Here is the two weeks before moving checklist for you.

Find a Moving Company

Ignorance is a choice in the age of the internet. So choose wisely. There are numerous moving tips on what to look for when finding movers. To avoid any kind of moving scam, select legally registered movers with insurance, have good online (or word of mouth) reviews, and have a USDOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) number.

Check the experience of the moving company and see if they are professional enough to conduct any type of move. If you need help selecting a trustworthy company, check out this helpful guide on how to find a reliable moving company in NYC.

Get an Estimate from Moving Company

Shortlist a few movers and get estimates from them. It is advisable to find at least 3 moving companies and obtain a quote. Ensure that movers perform an in-person inspection or a video survey before giving you the actual estimate. Check out Big Apple Moving’s quote for a quick and easy way to obtain a moving estimate and let your mind be free from moving worries.

Set a Budget for Moving

You need to have a budget for moving out before hiring a moving company. Make a list of your expenses and set aside some money to meet unexpected expenses. The budget should include the expenses for movers, packing materials, storage spaces, and much more. Look for affordable moving companies in NYC and see how well they can meet your requirements to make your move easy.

What’s more? You can even get precise moving rates by requesting quotes from several moving companies. All this will help you stay within the budget and hence choose the right company for moving.

Declutter Items You Don’t Need Anymore

The next tip in the checklist for moving is decluttering. Eliminate anything that you don’t need or use. You can also consider selling or donating them. Knowing how to declutter your moving makes your move much easier by reducing the number of items you need to move. So, declutter before moving to make your home more organized.

6 Weeks Before Moving

The time is coming near when you will have to move. So, finalize some details. Let your friends and family know that you are planning to relocate. Plan some get-togethers if you haven’t seen them for a while. Let’s see what more should you do six weeks before moving –

Book a Moving Van

You are getting closer to your moving date. Book a van for moving in advance. Choose or rent the one that can fit all your belongings. You can read more about the benefits of renting a moving van here. Furthermore, keep in mind that you should choose the one that doesn’t have huge extra space that you don’t need as you will have to pay extra for it.

Choose the right size of boxes for moving

You have to choose moving boxes to store your belongings. So, how do you choose the right size moving box? A general rule says to use small boxes for heavier items like books and larger boxes for lighter items like pillows. What’s more? Save some money by recycling used containers. You can look for such boxes in liquor stores, groceries, restaurants, and other local businesses.

Learn Some Packing Hacks

Is any move complete without packing? Obviously not. Start by packing the non-seasonal and non-essential items first. When it comes to how to pack an apartment, go room by room. Pack fragile items with extra care and keep the valuables and important documents separate. Many professional movers help you with packing and helps you reduce the packing stress. Get packing services from Big Apple Moving Today.

Label Your Boxes Correctly

The most important thing when packing your boxes is to develop a habit of labeling everything. This way, you’ll know what boxes contain your needed belongings. Some tips on how to label moving boxes like a pro are to color code them, maintain an inventory, and use larger fonts.

Write Old & New Both Address Correctly

When filling out your moving paperwork, make sure both your old and new addresses are written accurately. An incorrect address can cause delays or lost mail. Know how to write an apartment address correctly in this helpful guide.

4 Weeks Before Moving

Things are getting spicier here. Now you need to do more tasks as you are just 30 days away from the moving day.

Buy Moving Insurance

Buy moving insurance to protect your belongings if something gets lost or damaged. You can skip this step. But here is the catch: Buying one will give you peace of mind that your items are covered. Additionally, check if your moving company has a certificate of insurance or not, as it ensures that the company has a license to operate in that particular area.

Get Rid of Perishable Items

If you have any perishable food items in your pantry or fridge, start using them. You don’t want to transport food items that may spoil during the move with you. So, plan your meals accordingly to eliminate the food that could turn bad.

Gather All Your Records

Before your move, gather all the important financial, legal, medical, and insurance records. Keep them secured in a folder and at such a place where you won’t forget them.

File for Change of Address

Change of address takes time. Notify your post office, banks, and other service providers about your change of address. Make sure your mail gets forwarded to your new home without any issues. Most post offices let you file for a change of address online for convenience.

2 Weeks Before Moving

It feels like two weeks is a lot of time, but you have to gear up as still there is a lot more to do. Update all your accounts and records for the smooth sailing of your move.

Create a Bag or Folder for Bills and Slips

Creating a digital folder is fine. But that doesn’t replace the importance of a physical folder where you can keep all your receipts, bills, and important documents you need when moving.

Recycle or Dispose of Poisonous Items.

Do you own any flammable, corrosive, or toxic materials? If yes, remove them safely, as these cannot be moved by professional movers. Dispose of them in a correct manner. Check local recycling centers for proper disposal methods

Update your driver’s license

Many places require you to update your driver’s license within a specific time window after moving. Visit the DMV website to check the requirements and ensure that your license reflects the new address. Important documents to get an updated driver’s license are – residency proof, proof of social security number, and an additional form of identification.

1 Week Before Moving

Finally, the time to move has arrived. Organize what’s left and clean your old home. The earlier you finish all the tasks, the less things you have to manage on the day of the move.

Clean Your Old Home`

Just because you are moving to a new home does not mean you can leave the mess in your old one. Take some time and show some love to your old home by cleaning it before you make a move. If you want to get back your rental deposit, you must clean your current home like a pro and repair any tiny damages. Leaving your old home in spotless and clean condition ensures that you get your security deposit back.

Unplug Your Fridge

Unplug your fridge at least a day before to give it time for defrosting and cleaning. Because any lingering water can create trouble while moving. So, you must know the right process of moving a refrigerator to your new home and keep yourself out of any mess.

Cancel or Redirect Pending Deliveries

Have you ordered anything recently? If yes, you must ensure that all your deliveries arrive before your move. Or else, redirect them to your new address. Another idea is to cancel them entirely to avoid any confusion.

Check the Weather & Withdraw Some Cash

Check the weather forecast for your moving day and plan accordingly. Take extra precautions if the weather is going to be harsh or it’s going to rain. Withdraw some cash to tip the buyers or to buy any last-minute items.

Moving Day

The day for which you have been waiting has come. If you have followed the checklist of things to do when moving, the move will be a breeze for you. So, wake up and start with the move as soon as possible.

Work With the Movers

Answer the movers any doubts or questions they ask you. Communicate effectively with them. Let them know where each box should go as soon as they arrive at your new home. Don’t forget to tip them up at the end.

Unpack the Essentials

Some people get overwhelmed with the process of unpacking. If you are one of them, start unpacking the essentials like kitchen necessities, toiletries, and other essentials to make them easily accessible. After unpacking the important items, go for the unopened boxes. Need help with unpacking? Consult Big Apple Moving.

Verify Everything

Double-check all your belongings before the movers arrive. Take inventory of your boxes and furniture to ensure nothing is missing or damaged. It’s always better to address any issues immediately with the movers on-site.

Final Thoughts

Moving doesn’t have to fill you up with stress if you follow a solid plan and a moving checklist. Following the above-mentioned tips will let you do everything in order and organize your move strategically.

Let Big Apple Moving’s professional and reliable movers ensure a smooth transition to your new home and find the answer to why we are considered number one in the industry. It’s time to make your move one of the best experiences of your life. Contact us to know more.

How to find reliable office movers NYC

Posted on 12/22/2017 by BigApple

Moving an office is a totally different ball game when compared to moving an apartment. The stakes are higher, the amount of things being moved is usually higher and the time is all that matters. Businesses can’t take waiting too long for the relocation since if they do – the business suffers. This is why it is imperative to find reliable office movers NYC. The word reliable is key since they have to be dependable, accurate and punctual. Also, a high level of professionalism needs to exist. Continue reading “How to find reliable office movers NYC”