Tips for Moving in Bad Weather

Posted on 08/23/202009/05/2023 by BigApple

It is universally desired that the process of relocation transpires with utmost ease. The success of the execution is contingent upon various factors, including the proficiency of the movers, our level of forbearance, our degree of motivation, and other such variables.

Inclement weather conditions can prove to be a significant impediment to the moving process, as no one wishes to transport cumbersome items amidst a downpour. To mitigate the impact of unfavorable weather, we offer the following recommendations to facilitate a seamless relocation experience.

Clear the Path for Moving in Bad Weather

Whether you are making a DIY move or decided to hire a NYC movers, you should make sure that the driveway is clear. Imagine carrying a piece of furniture and you slip and fall because the driveway is slippery from snow or rain. First, put salt all around to prevent ice from forming. The next tool you will need is a shovel, and you should keep it ready in case it starts snowing heavily.

Make Arrangements

When engaging the services of a relocation firm, it is advisable to engage in a discussion with them regarding their policies in the event of inclement weather. It is imperative to ascertain the modifications that may be implemented in the event of extreme temperatures to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the situation.

Prepare in Advance

Although it is beyond one’s control to influence the weather, there are certain measures that can be taken to ensure preparedness. In the event of high temperatures, it is advisable to stock up on an ample supply of refreshments and to remember to bring along sunblock, hats, and lightweight clothing. Conversely, if one resides in an area that is characterized by low temperatures, it is prudent to have a winter jacket, gloves, hats, and non-slip boots at the ready.

In anticipation of rain, it is recommended to have a rain jacket and sufficient umbrellas for all parties involved. Additionally, it is important to safeguard personal belongings and indoor flooring from potential water damage.

Pack Wisely

If you know that bad weather might happen on your moving day, be extra careful when packing items. Add an extra layer of protection, and consider using plastic covers and moving pads for anything that can be affected by extreme weather conditions.

This is extremely important if you have high-value items. Those should have an extra layer of bubble wrap or similar material that will protect it from scratches as well as from snow or rain. If you are not sure how to pack and protect your items, you can always hire packing services.

Get Waterproof Containers

When relocating, the majority of individuals opt for conventional cardboard moving boxes. Nevertheless, there exist alternative container options that are suitable for inclement weather conditions, such as rain or snow. Rather than utilizing customary moving boxes, it is advisable to procure waterproof containers via online channels. These containers are particularly useful for safeguarding items that are highly susceptible to water damage, such as books.

Floors

Movers or your helpers will have to go in and out of your home to transport furniture to the moving vehicle. If there is a lot of mood and rain outside, it will make a mess in your home. Cover all the paths in your home with blankets or any old cloths. You can use moving pads or old towels as well.

Stay Flexible

If weather conditions are too bad, movers may cancel the move for another day. It is extremely important to keep your cool and arm yourself with patience. It is anyone’s best interest to stay safe and avoid injuries. Moving companies have a lot of experience and they are the best to make a call to keep everyone safe.

Hire Professionals

If you are worried about your move and if you will be able to execute it under extreme weather conditions, go for full-service movers. They will take care of everything related to the move, including packing, carrying, and transporting. It might be more pricey than DIY, but it will save you a lot of time and nerves.

There are a lot of advantages of professional movers over DIY moving. Imagine heavy snow and yourself carrying a heavy item with a slippery driveway. Besides potential injury, it is also possible that it will cost a lot of nerves to get things done. Only getting around the city when it’s raining is difficult enough, let alone carrying things to and from the moving truck. Another thing worth mentioning is driving in bad weather.

If one happens to reside in New York City, they are well aware of the arduousness of traffic during inclement weather. However, by enlisting the services of professional movers, one can alleviate the burden of navigating through congested roadways and encountering anxious drivers. Moreover, such experts are equipped to handle any unforeseen complications that may arise in such circumstances.

Take Pictures

Making a home inventory before moving is a must. Hopefully, you did that already. The next step to take is taking pictures of your belongings. There is always a chance that some of your possessions will get damaged, especially when dealing with bad weather. Pictures serve you as proof in case you have to get insurance for damaged items. It only takes a few minutes, but having proof of your item’s condition can be really valuable.

Be Fast with Unpacking

Leaving damp boxes unattended can lead to unfavorable outcomes. It is advisable to unpack them as soon as possible. Although the process of relocation can be exhausting, it is crucial to expedite the unpacking process to ensure a successful outcome.

In the case of cardboard boxes, particularly those with tears or rips, it is imperative to unpack them immediately. It is also recommended to remove all moving pads and blankets to allow for proper ventilation of your belongings. Failure to do so may result in further damage if left damp and covered.

How to Compare Moving Companies?

Posted on 08/15/202009/05/2023 by BigApple

It is widely acknowledged that residing in New York City is a remarkable experience, offering a plethora of opportunities and lifestyle options to suit everyone’s preferences. Nevertheless, the abundance of choices can often be overwhelming and pose a challenge when it comes to decision-making. Among the crucial decisions to be made is determining the location and type of accommodation that best aligns with one’s needs and preferences.

When you set your mind on one borough and find a suitable home, chances are you will need help with relocating. When that happens, the right moving company will be what makes or breaks your whole moving experience. You can go for so many different movers that choosing one can become a nerve-racking decision, so learn how to compare moving companies.

It is advisable to allocate sufficient time to conduct thorough research and consider various factors before making a decision. The following text provides valuable insights to aid in this process. It is important to prioritize your requirements and select a moving company that aligns with them, even if it means opting for a higher-priced option.

Depending on individual needs, some may prefer art movers in NYC, while others may require full-service movers to manage all aspects of their move. For those seeking guidance on how to identify a trustworthy moving company and make an informed choice, a comprehensive guide on comparing moving companies in NYC is available.

Get Online

The first thing to do when comparing moving companies is to get online and do a thorough check on each you are eyeing to hire. Begin with researching their license and insurance number. There are numerous ways to do so.

American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) is one of them. Movers should be a member to prove their credibility. Another great website you should visit is the Better Business Bureau (BBB). That is an organization that is non-profit and its purpose is to protect consumers.

Every company that wants to be a member has to go through a vetting process and that tells you a great deal about the way a company runs its business. Besides those, there are plenty more pages that exist to help consumers in various sections. Whichever you choose, just make sure it has a proper registration.

Compare Reviews of Several Movers

The modern age allows us to find basically anything about anybody. One benefit of the internet is that you can find NYC moving companies reviews and see how their moving went with the company you are considering. Search for relevant experience and don’t get discouraged if you come across one bad review. Pay attention to how the company responds to complaints because that will tell you about their customer service.

Get in Touch

Upon reviewing reviews and narrowing down your options, it is recommended to contact each company. Despite positive comments, it is advisable to personally assess the company. Engaging with multiple representatives will provide insight into their treatment of potential customers.

Inquire about their credibility, experience, services, potential issues, and insurance. Pose all relevant questions to aid in your decision-making process. Observe their level of politeness and willingness to address your concerns. If satisfied with their customer service, proceed to request a quote.

Compare Quotes

Gaining an understanding of the average price is a crucial step in the process of selecting a moving company. The most effective approach is to obtain multiple quotes and evaluate the pricing offered by each provider. Reputable movers will typically provide an onsite estimate to ensure the accuracy of the pricing. Alternatively, a virtual estimate can be conducted via phone chat, during which a representative will conduct a walkthrough of your home.

Once you have obtained several quotes, it is important to compare the moving companies carefully. It is advisable to exercise caution when selecting the most affordable mover, as this may be indicative of fraudulent activity. Many unscrupulous companies offer prices that seem too good to be true, only to later reveal hidden costs that make the overall expense significantly higher.

Another reason for the extremely cheap price can be poor services, which you definitely want to avoid when moving house. Instead of going for the lowest price, rather search for a moving company that has a good balance between price and services, and that works best for your current situation.

Get Informed

The next thing to do when comparing moving companies is to them about their services. Ask your movers what kind of services are they offering, and what is included in the price they quoted. Compare services offered by different movers. Some movers will offer full-service, which includes packing NYC, carrying, transporting, basically the whole moving process.

Others might only offer transport or specialize in specific moves such as fine art movers, piano moving companies, etc. This can also be your red light when dealing with scams. The reason for that is that they offer a low quote but the truth is not much is included in it.

After the move is done, you will find that price is much higher than originally arranged because they will add extra services which end up being a surprising cost.

Questions

Once you went through checking the license and gave a call to the moving company, review how the call went. Moving is an important step in everybody’s lives and it should be as convenient as possible. Some questions can help you understand whether they are appropriate for hiring or not. After the call, ask yourself these questions:

Were they polite?
Have they offered to visit your home?
Have they provided a free estimate?
Was the estimate extremely different than other companies’ quotes?
Have they provided all information about their services?
Have they been opened to answer all of your questions?
What about their license – have they responded to your request to get physical proof of their license?

Are you searching for the top moving company NYC? Have you been wondering how to make the right choice and get the best service possible? Big Apple movers might be the right solution for you. Get online or contact us directly to get all the information about our business. We are happy to answer all of your questions and find the solution to all of your concerns. Our company has been successfully executing short-distance and long-distance moves. We also have skills and tools for any type of relocation, including office and commercial relocation. Contact us today to get free moving quotes NYC.

4 Useful Tips for Finding a Great Moving Company

Posted on 08/05/202008/24/2020 by BigApple

If you’re planning on moving soon, you’ll need to hire a reputable NYC moving company. While it is possible to DIY your move, it’s not recommended. Moving by yourself is a major hassle, and moving furniture and heavy boxes is easier said than done. If your budget allows for it, it’s a better idea to hire a professional moving company. Unfortunately, moving scams are surprisingly common, so it’s important to find local movers who have a good reputation and are properly licensed. Follow these 4 useful tips for finding a great moving company.

1. Ask around in your network to help you find a great moving company

Word of mouth is a coveted (but hard to get) form of marketing. That’s because it has to be legitimately earned through exceptional service. One of the best ways to find a great moving company New York is to ask people you know for a recommendation. Chances are you have a friend, neighbor, or co-worker who can recommend someone. Ask around in your network if anyone has moved recently. If they have a good experience, it is a great reference. Successfully completed move from a close person is a pretty good bet. Remember to do the same for someone after you complete your move by leaving a review.

Speaking of reviews, the online era gives you the freedom to do a complete check on the company you are eyeing to hire. Go online and search for NYC moving companies reviews. Read impressions from their previous customers to see how many of them were satisfied with a service. Search for comments relatable to your situation. For example, if you are moving long-distance, read comments specifically addressing that type of move. Don’t get discouraged if you come upon one bad comment. However, pay attention if movers respond to the complaint in a professional manner and if they are searching for ways to solve the issue. The way they handle problems will tell you a great deal about how they run their business.

2. Look up moving companies on the USDOT website

Interstate movers are regulated by the US DOT. They maintain an online database of moving companies, which lets you see their previous consumer complaints and safety performance records. You can view their US Department of Transportation (USDOT) number to verify that they’re registered with the federal government. You can also look up the company on other resources like the Better Business Bureau. That is a non-profit organization that works to protect consumers and expose fraudulent or poor service. Each company needs to go through a vetting process to become a BBB member.

You can also check the company’s license and insurance number to make sure they operate in a legal manner. Furthermore, get in touch with movers. Give them a call and speak to the representative that can answer your questions about the company’s credentials. Feel free to ask them if they can provide proof of their license number, and pay attention to the person you speak if they are polite and open to answering your questions. It will give you some more insight into the way they operate and if you want to make arrangements with them.

3. Get estimates from more than one moving company

Shady or illegitimate moving companies often give suspiciously low estimates. If you’re not even sure how much your move should cost, you may not realize that you’ve been given a low-ball quote. It’s a good idea to get estimates from more than one moving company, to get a better idea of reasonable pricing. All reputable movers will offer an on-site estimate to determine the price. Take this with a grain of salt because it might be easier to get an online estimate due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Whatever the case might be, keep in mind that movers have to see your property in order to provide a quote. Compare quotes from a few different movers to find the average price. After you decide what works for you regarding the budget, you can proceed to details regarding the services they are offering.

4. Don’t go with the lowest bidder

It’s only natural to look around for the best deal. But be careful because an abnormally low estimate can be a sign that something’s not right. It could be that the company doesn’t do good work, or it could even be a scam where they’ll bill you for a lot more on moving day. Normally, your final cost won’t be more than 110% of your original non-binding estimate, but some companies will pull a bait-and-switch that lures you in with a lowball estimate. You already got several quotes, so it’s easy to see whether one of them stands out. If the price seems too good to be true, it most probably is. Be very careful not to hire the lowest bidder in case it differs extremely from all the others.

Also, check if proper paperwork is following because you should always get a signed contract with your movers. It can be binding, non-binding, or binding-not-to-exceed, it depends on your preference which you will choose. But if your amazing-low-price movers are not providing a written and signed contract, you are better off finding another one.

Moving Companies in NYC

Moving in NYC? At Big Apple Movers, we provide residential and commercial relocation services for both local moves and long-distance moves. To find out more, call us anytime, or get in touch today to get a free moving quote.

Importance of Moving Companies Reviews

Posted on 07/24/202009/05/2023 by BigApple

Finding the right moving company in NYC can be a challenge with so many options available. Reputable movers should be your ally during relocation and make it a convenient and stress-free experience. If you are wondering how to make a choice, keep reading to learn about moving companies reviews in NYC.

How to Find for Moving Companies Reviews

Online

In contemporary times, a majority of corporations acknowledge the significance of social media networks as a potent tool for online information retrieval. Utilizing one of these platforms, one can easily locate and evaluate potential movers for hire by perusing customer reviews.

Established moving companies are likely to have a substantial number of comments on their pages on popular networks such as Facebook and Instagram, where previous customers share their experiences. Additionally, official websites of such companies often feature a dedicated section for customer feedback and reviews.

Ask around

An effective approach to obtaining a review is to request recommendations from acquaintances regarding a moving company. It is advisable to seek a referral from someone who has had a positive experience with the company recently. It is recommended to approach friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, and other individuals within your network to suggest a company.

Inquire about their experience and the specific aspect that they found most satisfactory. Obtaining feedback from actual individuals may provide sufficient insight to assist in making an informed decision and ensure that a reliable company is hired.

Negative comments

If you see one bad comment, don’t let it discourage you, as no service will ever satisfy every single person equally. As long as most of the reviews are positive, that can be a good sign. However, pay attention to how movers respond to those negative comments.

This will tell you about their customer service. Check if their replies are focused on finding a solution rather than blaming a customer or being rude and disregarding a problem. Also, check if those comments seem reliable and relevant to the service you are looking for.

Importance of Moving Companies Reviews

With many choices in NYC, it can be easy to overpay for services that are not the best. If not checking ratings and credibility, you might easily get caught up in a scam. For those reasons, you want to make sure that movers have satisfied customers to prove their services are up to standards.

What to Look for in Moving Companies Reviews

Start from the big picture

Commence by obtaining a comprehensive impression from the customer. Was their experience convenient and stress-free? Are they content with the final outcome? The ultimate result of their collaboration with the movers is of utmost importance as it will provide pertinent feedback and aid in the search for comparable services.

Situation

Check if there is a description of the situation. Consider information such as destination, the size of the household, time of the year, etc. This will help you identify your needs in their comment. For instance, they might be writing about long-distance while you need a local move service, so it’s easier to look for comments relevant to your situation.

Customer service

This is a very important aspect for many customers. Everyone wants to get great customer service and trust the company they are paying. Check if there were any particular situations included in the review. Pay attention if they pointed out things like good communication, taking time to answer questions, being polite during the interaction, etc.

Issues

Search for comments that are describing any incidents that occurred during the moving process. It is important to find out the way that movers handled the incident because it will explain their customer service and their expertise.

What to Do After

After you have done your research and found a company that has good reviews it is time to give them a call. Speaking with a representative will give some insight into the way they operate.

Even when other people are satisfied, it is always best to see for yourself. Ask your movers as many questions as you need to understand their services and credibility. It is also a good time to see how their customer service is.

If they are not open to answering your question, search for a different company. They should also ask questions to understand your needs and meet them accordingly.

Questions to ask your movers

1. License number

Ask if they can provide proof of their license and insurance number? Check websites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), requiring a company to go through the vetting process before being BBB accredited. Another great organization is the American Moving & Storage Association whose membership confirms that a moving company is credible and trustworthy.

2. Experience

Ask your moving company how much experience they have. Check for how many years they have been in business. Not necessarily a rule of thumb, but it is much easier to confirm credentials if movers have been operating for years.

3. Hidden costs

It’s crucial to understand what is included in the price and which services they are offering. Always opt for movers that support a transparent payment system. That means that you know exactly what to expect and no unexpected costs will appear after the move.

4. Paperwork

Reliable movers will make sure both parties involved are protected. That means that you and they have a signed agreement with details about your move.

5. Estimate

A very important question to ask is how they provide a moving estimate. A reputable moving company will always offer to visit your home. They should also offer to do a walkthrough over a video call. Most companies will have measures of precaution for moving during the coronavirus outbreak, so online estimates can be more convenient for you.

If you are searching for a reputable moving company with good reviews, Brooklyn movers and storage might be the right fit for you. Big Apple Moving is an NYC based company with over 40 years of experience. Contact us anytime to get free moving quotes.

Why You Should Move From Brooklyn To Raleigh

Posted on 07/06/202008/02/2023 by BigApple

The act of relocating from one city to another is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Each location presents its distinct combination of culture, prospects, and way of life. Should you find yourself pondering a move from the vibrant streets of Brooklyn to the hospitable ambiance of Raleigh, you are embarking on a life-altering expedition.

This article explores the compelling factors that make relocating from Brooklyn to Raleigh a decision that can have a profound impact on you and your loved ones.

Affordability and Cost of Living

Brooklyn’s appeal is accompanied by a substantial financial burden. Escalating rental and living expenses can exert pressure on your finances. Conversely, Raleigh presents a considerably lower cost of living, affording you the opportunity to relish more expansive lodgings, plan for the future, and partake in experiences without persistent financial concerns.

Job Opportunities and Economy

Raleigh has been consistently garnering attention as a flourishing technology hub, frequently dubbed as the “Silicon Valley of the East Coast.” Prominent corporations and emerging businesses are establishing their foothold in the area, leading to a surge in employment prospects.

For those seeking a promising career, Raleigh’s job market is brimming with potential in various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and research.

Quality of Life

Raleigh offers a harmonious lifestyle that seamlessly blends urban amenities with a serene ambiance. The city’s verdant expanses, parks, and leisure pursuits offer abundant prospects to relish the outdoors. Notably, the traffic congestion in Raleigh is significantly lower than that of Brooklyn, which fosters a more tranquil daily routine.

Cultural Scene and Entertainment

Education and Family-Friendly Environment

Raleigh’s reputation as a family-friendly destination is well-earned, particularly for those relocating with or planning to start a family. The region is home to exceptional educational institutions, both public and private, that offer children a solid foundation for their future. These institutions are renowned for their quality and provide a nurturing environment for children to learn and grow.

With a focus on education, Raleigh is an ideal location for families seeking a supportive community that values academic excellence. Whether you’re looking to relocate or start a family, Raleigh is an excellent choice for those seeking a family-friendly environment.

Diverse Culinary Experiences

Raleigh, much like Brooklyn, is renowned for its culinary variety. The city’s burgeoning food scene offers an array of delectable options, ranging from Southern comfort food to international cuisines, that are certain to tantalize even the most discerning palate.

Community and Welcoming Spirit

Raleigh’s southern hospitality is renowned. The warm and welcoming community atmosphere provides a stark contrast to the often fast-paced and detached nature of larger cities. Building connections and making friends can be more accessible and meaningful.

8 Things People Forget To Do When Moving

Posted on 06/15/202009/05/2023 by BigApple

Moving is a long process during which you need to be concentrated and focused all the time. If you happen to be thinking about something else, you may forget to do some things and only figure out when it is too late. That is why we have composed this list of things people usually forget to do when moving.

Go through it carefully, and then print it and place it on your fridge. In this way, there is no chance that you will forget to change your address on time or redirect your main, for example. For everything else, we can recommend great movers and storage.

1. Making Moving Checklist

It usually takes between 8 and 12 weeks to properly organize and perform a local move. For an interstate move, it takes even longer, up to 16 weeks. Whether you are moving locally or internationally, you need to have a guide in the form of a moving checklist. At the beginning of your preparations, put all the things that you need to do on a simple checklist, and check it out on a daily basis. This will be your anchor when you get lost amidst all the tasks ahead of you.

2. Pack an Essentials Box

It is common for individuals to overlook the importance of preparing an essentials bag during a move, leading to regret and inconvenience. Simply hiring affordable movers in Brooklyn does not guarantee a stress-free relocation. To ensure a smooth transition, it is imperative to have an essentials bag readily available. This bag should contain essential items required during the move and within the first 24 hours after it.

Pack all of your essentials in this box, so that you do not waste even a minute of your time searching other boxes. Phone and laptop chargers, clean clothes, toiletries, your kids` favorite toy, or a blanket. You can place keys, personal information, and your toothbrush here. This is a savior bag that you will love.

3. Label the Boxes

Moving boxes are a major part of your packing supplies. Find out where to get free boxes for moving in NYC and save some money. After you obtain moving boxes and fill them up with your household items, do not forget to label them. Labeling moving boxes is an essential part of moving, as it can literally save your items from being damaged. If you write fragile on your boxes, your movers will handle them differently, so they won`t break. Plus, it will save you a lot of time once you start unpacking in your new home.

4. Pick Up Items from Dry Cleaner’s and Return Books to the Library

It is understandable to overlook the task of picking up and returning items, as it can be a simple oversight amidst a busy schedule. The absence of visual cues and a multitude of other responsibilities can contribute to this mistake.

It is recommended that immediate action be taken to retrieve the items from the dry cleaners and return borrowed books to the library. Alternatively, adding these tasks to a moving checklist can serve as a helpful reminder.

5. Hire a Babysitter on a Moving Day

Moving day is usually the day when you can just feel the tension in the air. While you are waiting for your affordable movers, wondering if they will be late or not, checking the forecast and monitoring those clouds, remember that your kids should be out of the house, enjoying themselves. It will be a lot easier for them to play rather than be under stress inside the house.

Your movers will greatly appreciate it if you arrange for your children to be supervised during the move, as they often carry heavy items and children can impede their progress. The same consideration should be given to your pets. If feasible, it is advisable to enlist the help of someone to care for your children and pets on moving day, as this will alleviate stress and facilitate a smoother transition for all parties involved.

6. Change Address

Moving is not just about moving your items. There are so many administrative things that you need to do, that it is easy to forget all of them. Luckily, we are here to remind you.

Change your address – And inform your bank, friends, relatives, etc.
Redirect your mail – Once you change your address, you need to notify the post office as well, so that you do not miss out on your mail due to an administrative mistake
Turn utilities on and off – Remember to turn off the utilities at your old house and turn them on at your new house. You do not want to enter your new home and find out there is no water or electricity.
Cancel subscriptions – Magazine subscriptions are cool, but you do not want to lose both money and the magazine if it arrives at the wrong address.
Cancel gym membership – Or any other membership for that matter. Since you will not be living in the neighborhood anymore, it is only fair to cancel all the memberships and search for new ones in your new neighborhood.

7. Change the locks after you move

This is one of those things that you should always keep in mind. Whether you are moving into a new home, or just renting it, remember to change the locks. Just think about how many of your friends might have the keys to your old home that they did not return to you.

In your new space, you will never know who might have the keys to the front row, and you do not have to. Just change the locks once you move in, and you will not have to worry about it ever again.

8. Relax

No matter how stressful the moving process may seem, remember to relax as much as you can. This is also something that people tend to forget when moving. Always leave an hour or two just for yourself. Take a long bath, watch your favorite music, play some loud music, and just enjoy yourselves.

The moving professionals from Big Apple Moving hope that list of those things people forget to do when moving can help you become more organized in your move.