Moving From New York to California

Posted on September 11, 2023September 12, 2023 by BigApple

The act of relocating from one state to another is a momentous occasion in one’s life. It may be prompted by various factors such as career prospects, a desire for a different way of life, or an eagerness for novel experiences.

The decision to move from the vibrant metropolis of New York to the idyllic coast of California necessitates a significant adjustment that warrants meticulous preparation and contemplation. Our all-encompassing manual will provide you with the necessary guidance to ensure a seamless transition.

Moving From NYC to California: Tips

Transitioning from the vibrant streets of New York to the picturesque shores of California is a momentous life decision. Whether your destination is the illustrious city of Los Angeles or the technological hub of San Francisco, this shift presents distinctive prospects and challenges.

Research and Planning

Before you start packing your bags, it’s essential to do your research and create a solid plan for your move. Firstly, consider your destination. California is a vast state with diverse cities and regions, each offering a unique lifestyle. Research different areas to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Consider factors like job opportunities, cost of living, climate, and lifestyle.

Making a budget is important when moving. It can cost a lot of money, so make a budget that covers moving expenses, transportation, housing, and living costs in California. Remember to include any unexpected expenses that might come up.

Timing is also a significant factor. Consider the best time to move based on your personal circumstances, such as job commitments, family obligations, and weather conditions. Planning your move during a less hectic time can reduce stress.

Preparing for the Move

With your plan in place, it’s time to start preparing for the move. One of the first steps is decluttering. Before you pack, go through your belongings and decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. The less you have to move, the easier and cheaper it will be.

Hiring movers is another crucial aspect. Research moving companies and obtain quotes. Make sure to read reviews and check for any hidden fees. Schedule your move well in advance to secure your preferred moving date.

When it comes to packing, start early. Use sturdy boxes and packing materials to protect your items during transit. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in for easy unpacking at your new home.

Don’t forget the administrative details. Notify important parties of your address change, including the post office, banks, utility companies, and any subscriptions or memberships you have. Ensure a smooth transition for your mail and services.

The Logistics of the Move

Moving across the country involves several logistical challenges. Here’s how to tackle them:

Transportation: Decide whether you’ll drive, fly, or hire a moving company to transport your belongings. If you’re driving, plan your route and accommodations along the way. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the long journey.

Packing essentials is an often overlooked aspect. Pack a separate box with essential items you’ll need right away, such as toiletries, clothing, and important documents. Keep this box easily accessible during the move to avoid unnecessary rummaging.

Take care of legal considerations. Ensure you have all necessary documentation, including your driver’s license, car registration, and insurance updated with your new California address. Compliance with local regulations is essential.

If you have pets, make arrangements for their transportation and accommodations during the move. Research pet-friendly hotels and airlines if needed. Ensure your furry friends are comfortable and safe throughout the journey.

Settling into California

Once you’ve arrived in California, it’s time to settle in and make the Golden State your new home. Here’s what to do:

Discover your new place. Spend some time discovering your new community and town. Check out nearby stores, eateries, and green spaces to get a sense of your environment. Get to know the local customs and conveniences.

Meeting your neighbors is a great way to establish connections. Introduce yourself and become a part of the community. Building a social network can make your transition smoother and help you feel more at home.

Register your car promptly. Update your vehicle’s registration and insurance to comply with California’s requirements. Ensure your vehicle is road-ready according to state standards.

A visit to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is essential. Get a new driver’s license and register to vote if you plan to stay in California for an extended period. Complying with state regulations is necessary for legal residency.

Moving From NYC to LA

If you’re planning to make the move from the bustling streets of New York City to the sunny and sprawling landscape of Los Angeles, there are some important tips to keep in mind to make your transition as smooth as possible:

Research Neighborhoods

Los Angeles is a massive city with diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique vibe and lifestyle. Research and visit different areas to find the one that suits your preferences and needs best.
Consider factors like commute times, proximity to work, schools, and amenities when choosing your new neighborhood.

Prepare for the Cost of Living

The cost of living in Los Angeles can be high, especially when it comes to housing. Be prepared for potentially higher rent or mortgage payments compared to what you’re used to in NYC.
Create a budget that takes into account your new living expenses, including rent or mortgage, utilities, transportation, and groceries.

Climate Adjustment

Los Angeles enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine. Be ready for a change in weather from NYC’s colder winters.
Invest in appropriate clothing for the warm and dry climate, including sunscreen and sunglasses.

Beach Lifestyle

If you’re moving to LA, you’ll likely want to take advantage of the beautiful coastline. Enjoy beach activities, but also be mindful of beach rules and regulations.
Invest in beach essentials like sunscreen, beach towels, and swimwear.

Moving From New York to San Francisco

If you’re thinking about moving from busy New York City to the beautiful and tech-savvy San Francisco, here are some helpful tips to make your transition easier:

Prepare for the High Cost of Living

San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the United States, especially when it comes to housing. Expect to pay a premium for rent or real estate.
Create a detailed budget that accounts for your new living expenses, including rent or mortgage, utilities, transportation, and groceries.

Public Transportation

Unlike Los Angeles, San Francisco has an extensive and reliable public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the iconic cable cars. Consider using these options to avoid the hassles of parking and traffic.

Microclimates

San Francisco is known for its microclimates, with temperatures varying significantly from one neighborhood to another. Dress in layers and be prepared for sudden weather changes, even within the same day.

Tech-Centric Culture

San Francisco is at the heart of the tech industry. If you’re in the tech field, you’re in the right place. Network and explore job opportunities in the thriving tech ecosystem.

Embrace Outdoor Activities

San Francisco offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Take advantage of the city’s parks, hiking trails, and nearby beaches to stay active and enjoy the scenic landscapes.

Conclusion

Moving from NYC to LA can be a big change, but it can also be fun and rewarding. To make the transition easier, learn about your new city, plan for expenses, get used to driving, and enjoy the local lifestyle. LA has lots to offer, so get ready to enjoy the sun and make your new life in the City of Angels!

Interstate Moving Guide

Posted on November 10, 2021July 31, 2023 by BigApple

So, you are getting ready for your interstate moving adventure? Congratulations on your decision to start fresh and get on such an exciting journey. Not to burst your bubble, but the road full of difficult obstacles lays in front of you. While this might be the best decision for you or your family, it is important to grasp how serious this task is.

The process of moving across a country can be overwhelming, with numerous tasks to be accomplished that can leave one feeling stressed and pressed for time. However, with the right guidance, the tension can be reduced, and the move can be made much easier.

To this end, we have prepared a simple interstate moving guide to assist you in navigating the process. By following our recommendations, you can streamline the process and ensure a successful move.

Start Planning Early

No matter when are you planning your relocation, you’ve probably already late with your preparations. If you think that you have all the time in the world, just wait until you realize how many tasks are there. Even if you hire the best NYC interstate movers, there will be some tasks that only you can handle.

All of them waiting for your attention. The sooner you start the more time will you have to make all the arrangements.

After you decide that you are definitely moving, that is the moment to start planning. The organization is everything when it comes to relocation, especially when you are crossing the state border.

Take a look at some basic moving tasks to await you, with the assumption that you are hiring movers:

Planning the moving budget;
Finding suitable movers;
Setting the moving day date;
Making the moving checklist and moving schedule;
Exploring the neighborhoods in the new city;
Selecting the new home;
Notifying friends, family, employer, bank, doctor, lawyer, insurance company and other important persons and services about your move;
Scheduling cutting off the utilities in your current home, and turning them on in your new one;
Decluttering your home;
Making a packing plan and schedule;
Packing your entire home;
Making travel arrangements for your new home.

Hire Movers vs Move By Yourself

With interstate moving, that shouldn’t even be a question. If you are wondering how much do movers cost in NYC, the answer will be – every penny. Interstate moving is triple harder than the local move. The mere fact that your things will travel hundreds of miles is a good reason to think about hiring professionals for this job.

Choosing a reputable interstate moving company is essential for a seamless long-distance relocation. The level of planning, expertise, experience, stamina, and composure required to execute such a move independently surpasses human capacity. Ensuring the safety and preservation of all belongings during the process is an insurmountable feat. Therefore, entrusting the task to a reliable moving company is the only viable option. By doing so, one can rest assured that their move will be handled with utmost professionalism and care, resulting in a stress-free and successful relocation.

No matter how you look at it, interstate moving is simply not suitable for brave DIY relocation attempts. Also, this is a rare case when the moving costs will actually be lower when you hire moving experts. Simply putting on the paper all the costs will show you that.

Check the list of the moving tasks above. That is just what awaits you when you DO hire movers and retract the hardest tasks. Imagine how much longer it will become when you add all the choirs that movers will do for you. Now you can see why hiring experts for an interstate relocation is always the best decision. In the capable hands of movers, your things will be safe, moving costs under control, you will have the piece of your mind and truly stress-free relocation.

Budget For Interstate Moving

When you are moving to another state, it is vital to make a moving budget. It doesn’t have to be the exact amount but you should have at least an idea about what you can afford and set a limit on your budget. It will help you avoid overspending and also find ways to cut moving costs and your overall moving expense lower.

In order to do that, you should know what perimeters are used for calculating long-distance moving costs. You’re probably familiar with the fact that local moves are usually charged by the hour since they normally take a few hours to be completed.

On the contrary to the local moving, the interstate movers won’t charge you by the hour. The cost of moving to another state is calculated on several factors, so let’s look at the most important ones.

Weight of the Total Shipment

The cost of moving services in NYC is directly proportional to the number of items that require relocation. A reduction in the weight of the shipment will result in a corresponding decrease in the overall moving bill. For those with budgetary constraints, it is advisable to declutter the home and transport only essential items.

This approach not only ensures that one is left with only necessary possessions in the new home but also significantly reduces the cost of moving. It is recommended to leave behind heavy and bulky items as purchasing new ones is often more cost-effective than transporting them across state borders.

Distance Between Two Homes

The longitude of the road separating your current home from the new one will dictate the moving costs. A larger distance will mean higher expenses. It’s quite logical when you think about it – the more gas money, the more to pay for moving labor, etc.

Unfortunately, the move distance remains constant. You can’t do anything to change it and diminish the costs so this is not something you can change in order to save some money. Luckily, there are other ways you can affect your moving bill so look into all the money-saving options if you want to stay on budget.

Additional Services

Speaking of ways to save money or overspend when moving, this is one of the most important parts to look into. Additional services are optional but can mean the difference between an enjoyable move and a nervous breakdown. Considering that packing is one of the most overwhelming moving tasks, many decide to purchase professional packing service from their movers.

It can affect the wallet significantly but it can make the entire experience completely convenient, so you must decide what you need and what you can afford when it comes to moving services. Moving companies are offering a lot of additional services such as junk removal, but keep in mind that they do come at additional costs.

Beware of hidden fees and only choose licensed and reliable movers that support the transparent payment system and wouldn’t add those “hidden charges” to your bill. You shouldn’t be surprised by your moving cost but should know the amount in advance without any unpleasant additions.

Give Yourself a Break

According to many studies, moving is one of the most stressful life events, but you can beat those odds. Just by hiring reliable movers, you are taking a lot of the burden off your shoulders. Surely, there will be huge issues for you to handle, but give yourself some time to relax.

When you don’t have to worry about the true moving part of your relocation, you will have more time and energy to focus on other tasks. Just don’t let them overwhelm you. Any time you feel like tension is tightening its grip, do something relaxing. At least for a couple of minutes.

Keeping your head clear and your body healthy is the most important thing when it comes to international moving. Its hardest part is the job of the movers, so let them be in control.

As always, the most convenient way to move across state borders is to find trustworthy and experienced long-distance movers. If you try to go for a DIY interstate move, you may find it to be too complex and downright stressful to deal with. Plus, driving for a couple of thousands of miles can make the whole process overwhelming. So, most people choose to simply hire movers and travel without belongings to their new home.

If you choose to do the same, you can just hop on a plane and find your things delivered after you arrive at your new address. While you’re searching for the best mover to trust your relocation to, check out Big Apple. We’re at your service and we’re more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Reach out to us so we could chat about your upcoming move to another state and create a personalized moving plan to best fit your needs. Also, you will receive a free moving quote so don’t hesitate to give us a call or send us an email. Let’s connect!

Moving from NYC to Seattle

Posted on March 5, 2021September 5, 2023 by BigApple

The primary factors driving people to relocate from New York City are the exorbitant cost of living and the frenetic pace of life. The incessant commotion is understandably unappealing to families and individuals who prefer more tranquil surroundings. If you share this sentiment and seek a more spacious and cost-effective dwelling, we recommend contemplating a move from NYC to Seattle.

We’ll show you the fantastic benefits of living in Seattle. Please read our article below and find out why Seattle is among the most popular cities for ambitious singles, growing families, young entrepreneurs, and retiring seniors. Hire long distance movers NYC and relocate your household to Seattle quickly and without stress.

Those of you that are planning on moving soon and need help deciding whether or not Seattle is the right place, please read the following text.

Moving from NYC to Seattle: Things To Know

Prior to relocating from New York City to Seattle, it is imperative to consider several noteworthy facts. Seattle has been recognized as the fourth fastest-growing metropolitan area in recent years and is the largest city in the American Pacific Northwest, as well as the 15th largest city in the United States.

Situated on a land strip between the Pacific Ocean and Puget Sound, Seattle boasts an extensive natural harbor and serves as a significant trade route for most goods between the Americas and Asia.

The economy of modern Seattle is based on the high-tech industry with leading companies like Microsoft and Amazon.com. Costs of living, housing, driving a car, healthcare, everything is more affordable than in NYC. Are you looking for professional moving services? Check commercial movers NYC and choose the best services.

Recently, Seattle was ranked as the 4th fastest-growing metropolitan area, where companies like Amazon and Microsoft have their bases among many other business conglomerates- the main reason why Seattle represents a perfect opportunity for business-driven enthusiasts and entrepreneurs.

More Sunny Days in Seattle

Are you fed up with cold and snowy days in New York? If you’re in doubt about moving from NYC to Seattle, think about the weather. The snowfall rate in Seattle is much lower than NYC’s, and temperatures are more consistent. You’ll be able to enjoy more beautiful and sunny days outside.

The summer days are warm, dry, and mostly sunny. And it doesn’t get as hot as other parts of the country. There can be periods with rain, but many Seattleites argue that the gray days fuel the culture and inspire the people. Before relocating, make sure to discover your rights and responsibilities when you move.

Relocating from New York City to Seattle entails bidding farewell to the inclement and chilly days that were previously despised. In addition to the aforementioned factors, the move to Seattle presents numerous prospects for tranquil weekend leisure, free from the commotion and pollution.

Great and Affordable Neighborhoods

Yes. There are more affordable neighborhoods in Seattle than in NYC. Moving on a budget? You can always find some useful tips and learn how to negotiate cheap rent. But, choosing the right neighborhood won’t be necessary. Whether you’re seeking a stable, family-friendly neighborhood or exciting location, Seattle has something to offer for everyone. We’ll give a few suggestions:

Kirkland – a safe and homey neighborhood with a rent of under $2,000.
Madison Park – a luxurious beachfront community with a monthly rental rate of $3,753.
Queen Anne – one of Seattle’s largest neighborhoods where you can find everything, from houses, multiplexes, condos, and apartments with the median rent of $2,387.

As is evident, the rental rates in this locality are significantly lower than those in New York City, rendering it an ideal option for families seeking a secure and reasonably priced neighborhood. Relocating to Seattle affords the opportunity to select from a plethora of spacious homes at affordable rates, thereby eliminating the need for cramped apartments with exorbitant rents in New York City. Furthermore, for those with a penchant for opulent abodes, Madison Park offers a glimpse of the luxurious lifestyle synonymous with New York City.

Crime Rate is Low in Seattle

When it comes to moving from NYC to Seattle, the question about crime and violence is very important, and we have great news. Seattle is considered one of the safest cities in the United States. Seattle has seen a major decline in any criminal activity in recent years.

The safety survey has shown that 78% of Seattleites stated they felt safe walking around the city at night, compared to only 43% in New York.

In comparison to Seattle, NYC is known for its high crime and violence rate, especially when it comes to walking around the city at night. For instance, if you have teenagers at home, it would be much better for them to “party” or hang out in a city like Seattle, particularly at night.

Driving a Car is More Affordable

In all honesty, the traffic conditions in Seattle are not markedly dissimilar to those experienced in New York City. However, relocating from New York City to Seattle affords the opportunity for car ownership and operation at a more reasonable cost. It is noteworthy that over 56% of New York City residents do not possess a vehicle, due to the exorbitant expenses, parking difficulties, and severe traffic congestion, which is a comprehensible predicament.

New York City is ranked second in the nation for traffic congestion, whereas Seattle is ranked ninth. The City of Seattle and the State of Washington are actively pursuing enhancements to accommodate the city’s growth, with ample room for improvement. They are endeavoring to alleviate traffic congestion by providing public transportation alternatives and enhancing the efficiency of roads and highways.

Driving a car in Seattle is much affordable than in NYC, but unfortunately, Seattle doesn’t have a subway like New York. Some might argue that the absence of a subway might represent a disadvantage for New Yorkers since they are used to this specific means of transport. However, Seattle is much smaller than NYC, meaning you’ll probably get used to it in a second.

Growing Business & Education Opportunities

New York may be the dream place for fulfilling your dreams and pursuing your career, but Seattle is not far from that, too. Business and education are constantly growing in Seattle, denoting great potential. Did you know that over 50% of Seattleites have a bachelor’s degree or higher? It’s an excellent place for growing startups and young entrepreneurs looking for talents while being fairly cheaper than NYC. The economy of modern Seattle is based on the high-tech industry.

Seattle is home to several prominent corporations such as Amazon.com, T-Mobile, Alaska Airlines, and Microsoft. Additionally, Seattle is renowned for being a significant influencer as the birthplace of the renowned Starbucks Coffee. The city boasts of several thriving industries, including electronics, travel and tourism, aerospace, and food, among others. Furthermore, Seattle is home to one of the most prestigious universities in the United States, the University of Washington.

Students report Seattle is a great city for attending a college since it is quite cheap while owning decent transport ( not that much fuss like in NYC).

Hire Professionals To Move from NYC to Seattle

And the last but not the least important thing to consider before moving from NYC to Seattle is to hire professional movers. Wondering how much does it cost to move? Don’t worry; it won’t cost a fortune.

You can find affordable movers on a budget, but research carefully. There are moving scams and fraudulent movers who offer low prices to attract people’s attention. Unfortunately, there is a bunch of shady companies out there, so make sure you pick a service with decent customer support and work ethics.

Read online feedback and NYC moving companies reviews to avoid rogue movers and moving scams.

4 Useful Tips for Finding a Great Moving Company

Posted on August 5, 2020August 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.

How to handle relocating from Long Island to Manhattan

Posted on February 11, 2020 by BigApple

Every relocation is unique and unpredictable. That’s because many little tasks may involve hard labor. Keep in mind that you have to think thought all these minor processes and make decisions that can be crucial for relocation. Situations like this can be frustrating, but if you had a proper preparation, this might not be the case. Your goal must be to concentrate at relocating from Long Island to Manhattan in an efficient way and with minimal fluctuations in the final investment of money. All those tasks carry great responsibility, and this can look like a too heavy burden on the average person, but the reward is outstanding. Once when you are aware of all the benefits of living in Manhattan, you will accelerate your relocating process significantly! Continue reading “How to handle relocating from Long Island to Manhattan”

Insightful tips for getting a home renovation permit in NYC

Posted on January 23, 2020 by BigApple

Renovating your own home in NYC or anywhere else for that matter is a really big step in anyone’s life. Still, if you are in a position to renovate or build one, you should most definitely go ahead with your plan. While you may be scared of it, you shouldn’t let that inhibit your dreams from coming true. Still, there are going to be some different things that you’re going to have to deal with on your way to refurbishing your own home. Finding a lot where you are going to build is just one. You are also going to have to find a reliable contractor to take care of the building, movers Manhattan to help you relocate, etc. Still, before you start digging, you should obtain a home renovation permit. To help you with it, we have compiled some insightful tips for getting a home renovation permit in NYC. Continue reading “Insightful tips for getting a home renovation permit in NYC”