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Not all moving companies in Iowa are created equal. Some are transparent with the service fee you will be paying them, while some will keep you in the dark on what to expect when your invoice is handed over to you.

To avoid being surprised by the bill you need to pay, here are some fees and costs that may be charged to you by your moving company:

Accessorial Charges

There are certain activities that may not fall into any of the standard service charges these moving companies may charge. Some of this may include:

•  Extra pick-ups
•  Packing or unpacking services
•  Disassembling furniture

For this purpose, you may find an accessorial charge added to your invoice. To ensure you will not get one, ask in advance if they will be willing to disassemble certain furniture in your house. If so, what will be the charge for these?

Appliance service

Sometimes, you need a professional who will disassemble some of your appliances. If you do this via your moving company, then expect them to charge you for this service. Some of the common appliances that may require these are:

• Dryers
• Washers
• Refrigerators
• Dishwashers

So do think carefully if you still want these appliances to move with you, or you will be giving it up for the new owner of your place.

Auxillary Service

You never know when your moving team will encounter a problem, especially if you haven’t properly scouted your new home. An instance such as no adequate parking or narrow road can restrict your moving truck to pass along. This would require your moving company in Iowa to transfer your goods to a smaller truck.

These hassles have auxiliary fees that will be shouldered by the customer. So if you wish to avoid paying any of these, it is best to check if nothing will block the truck’s entry to your new locations.

Elevator Carry

Are you moving to a condo unit in Iowa? Will this require your mover to carry the furniture through an elevator?

Inquire in advance if there will be additional charges for these types of move. Most movers will charge you for this service. Thus, it is best to be aware of how much you will be charged for this purpose.

Flight Charges

Your furniture may not be flying, but if your mover will need to carry your items to the next floor of the building then additional charges may apply to this. If you live on the third floor then a two-level flight charge may be added to your moving fee.

Conclusion:

One of the best ways to avoid getting surprised with these fees is to ask your Iowa moving company upfront about these matters. Also, read this article to know the do’s and don’ts when dealing with moving companies in Iowa.

Moving to Iowa on a winter maybe a cheap option, but this is something you should think twice, especially with snowstorm frequently visiting this area.

What to expect during an Iowa Winter Storm?

So how does an Iowa winter storm look like? It is often characterized by rain with snow and occasional sleet. This makes it easier for vehicles to drive on the road. As a result, your moving day may be moved to a different date.

Due to this, it is important to know the policy of your moving company in Iowa for situations like this. Will they be willing to postpone to move? If so will there be additional charges if you move it to a different date?

Be clear with this and put it into writing.

As for your new home, it is also best to discuss this matter with your real estate agent or landlord. Since you can’t move out because of the storm, whoever would wish to occupy your place will also find it difficult, if not impossible to move it. What options would you be given should this issue arise.

Create a travel route

If it’s not possible to move your transfer to a different date, then the next best solution for you to make is to find the safest route. Check if the highways are open and if these areas are safe for travel.

Write emergency phone numbers and websites and place it in your wallet so you can easily ask for help should you be stranded somewhere along the road. Better yet, look for a location where you can stay overnight in case you do need to stop.

Ensure your car is well maintained

Your most trusted while on the road to your new home in Iowa would be your car. So guarantee that is in good condition before you hit the road by checking the following:

– Are all the fluids topped up?

– Are the tires and breaks working well?

– Is the engine in good condition?

Bring an extra gas can with you, kitty litter, or a windshield fluid. Pack a good snow shovel and emergency blanket should you need this while on the road.

Do you have other winter tips to share with other movers? Be happy to share it with us.

As we come to the last leg of this three-part series, we feature unique customs only Iowans would appreciate and be proud of.

14. Tacos and pizza’s go together in Iowa

Yes! You won’t have a hard time deciding whether you should eat tacos or pizza if you do decide to live in Iowa because here in Iowa, both are smashed together.

15. They love their ranch dressing.

You need to get used to ranch dressing added to almost any of the dishes here in Iowa. This means adding it to their fries, pizzas, tacos and cheese curds.

So it’s best to get used to this as well.

16. Learn the farmer wave

You know you are in Iowa when you start noticing people doing a unique wave called the “farmer’s wave.” It’s short and simple but is enough to say hello to someone.

17. Try the Iowa Martini

This Iowan Martini is a combination of beer and olives. Yes! It’s olives placed on beer.

So don’t be surprised if you see someone in Iowa drinking this in a bar.

18. They travel just to see a cow made of butter

It is a wonder how someone can create a cow made from butter, but this is a delight to many Iowans. Thus, they travel miles just to see the Iowa State Fair.

Once you move into Iowa, you’ll appreciate why this is such a phenomenon.

19. Trick or Treat is indeed practiced during Halloween

Your kids may find it a bit odd that they do need to do a trick, may it be corny Halloween Joke or song, before someone gives them their goodies. But this is one thing that distinguishes Iowa from other states in the US.

20. Politics is a big deal in Iowa

Politics is just not a name one writes come election day. It is strictly scrutinized. No wonder the phrase “Iowa First” has been coined because citizens in this area do sit down to know what the candidates are going to offer them.

21. You are guaranteed to enjoy your Quaker Oat Cereals here.

This is home to Quaker Oats, the largest cereal company in the world. That only means one thing – you’ll never run out of your cereals.

22. See the view of three states through the Fenelon Place Elevator in Dubuque

Yes! It is only possible here in Iowa via the Fenelon Place Elevator in Dubuque. Head over there and see it for yourself.

Another unique trivia about this elevators is this:

It’s the shortest and steepest railway in the world.

23. Climb the Big Treehouse

Feel like a kid once again while climbing the BIG TREEHOUSE in Marshalltown. This 12 level treehouse is complete with running water, porch swings, electricity, and a connected museum.

This is really one thing you shouldn’t miss to explore.

24. Have a Drive at the Roller Coaster Road

There is always something unique to find and enjoy in Iowa. It is found in Northeast Iowa’s Allamakee County. Bring the kids and your friends over for a road trip escapade because this is truly one thing you will remember for the rest of your life.

25. This is not to brag but ultimately, a good reason why you would want to be coined as an Iowa is because of the following:

1. It has one of the highest literacy rates, if not the highest, in the nation.

2. It has the highest graduation rate.

3. It is hailed as one of the safest states to live in.

Source: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/iowa/13-reasons-proud-ia/

Are you still having second thoughts on why you should move to Iowa this 2020? I think we’ve covered all the basics. It is one of the best choices. So what are you waiting for? Call us so we can help you with your move.

Send us a message.

Here are unique foods to explore when moving to Iowa, which makes it worth considering your new home. Tell us which among these foodies and drinks made you fall in love with the place, even more.

8. Have a taste of the  Zombie Burger and Shake Lab

There is a sudden fascination with dead people walking – “Zombies” and here in the Zombie Burger + Drink Lab, they have embraced it.

Are you ready for this “extraordinary” experience? Then head on to Iowa to experience eating on a blood-spattered table with lifeless eyes gazing out of the walls watching you.

9. Indulge with Blue Moon Icecream

This popular ice cream in Iowa tastes neither like the sky or the ocean, but it has become a Midwestern favorite.

Ask those who have tasted it and you’ll be surprised how many different answers they will provide. Some will say they have tasted almond extract while others will attest to its citrus that they have tasted.

Fans of cereals are also confused if they should consider it as Fruity Pebbles, Froot Loops or Trix. But the rest remain and argue that the secret taste must be due to the marshmallows.

Taste it for yourself to know more about this beloved blue icecream of Iowa.

10. Delight Yourself with Snickers Salad

Next time someone advises you to just eat salads, simply say YES! Especially, if you are in Iowa because of this Snickers Salad treat.

This Iowa specialty is made of candy and cool whip. No wonder this has become a mainstay in many Midwestern potlucks.

What does this treat contain?

Cool Whip

Sliced Granny Smith apples

Snicker bars

Vanilla pudding

All of which is enough to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.

11. Be happy with your daily dose of breaded pork tenderloin

Hailed as the number one producer of pork in the US, enjoying a daily dose of breaded pork tenderloins is not impossible in this state.

Do you want to know where the best-fried pork in Iowa can be eaten? Try going to either Nick’s or The Lucky Pig in Ogden.

12. Learn How to Make a Maid-Rite Sandwich

This sandwich may look simple but the Iowa Maid-Rite sandwich will definitely make you think twice. Most who have tasted these sandwich has made them one of their favorites.

Who wouldn’t! It has tender and flavorful beef even with the simple ingredients added to it. The secret… hmm that is for you to discover.  But this recipe can be a good start to learn how it is done.

https://dineanddish.net/maid-rite-sandwiches/

13. Taste home grown grass-fed beef at its finest

Visit the Cider House for a taste of a simple but high-quality pub fare such as:

• Burgers
• Fish and chips
• French fries
• Coleslaw
• Potato Salad

Complete the experience with their range of drinks, primarily their in-house hard cider and their variety of whiskeys.

However, do note that they are closed only on Monday and Sunday. So plan your travel before deciding to visit.

We’ve got more to offer. Ensure to keep following our blogs for more reasons to move to Iowa.

Are you planning to move to Iowa? You’ve made a great decision as Iowa is home to 200 sunny days and four seasons for you to savor and enjoy. But before you get excited on your move to Iowa, here are some things you should add to your bucket list to ensure you get the most of your stay in this location.

1. See the Grotto of Redemption

This is the largest man-made grotto, which portrays the scenes in the life of Christ with the use of gems and stones from around the world. This makes it worth over $4,308,000.

No wonder this is visited by over 100,000 people each year. Come and explore it during your stay. It is open all year round for you to admire and explore.

2. Admire the Iowa Great Lakes

This is a charming avenue in Iowa and the perfect family getaway during the summer season. Who wouldn’t?

This brags of deep blue waters, country antique shops and meandering bike trails that you will definitely love and enjoy. Indulge with its small town wonders while sipping beer with your folks.

A week’s stay at this place is perfect for anyone who just wants to relax and unwind. Go schedule a trip during the holiday season so you can spend quality time with the entire family.

3. Explore Ledges Park

The beauty of this natural gem in Iowa may have changed over the course of the decades, but this makes it even more worth it to visit and explore with your kids. Educate them with the need to care for nature as they come face-to-face with towering trees, streams, and huge boulders.

Let them experience what it feels like without technology for a day or two to make it even more fulfilling and inspiring for your children.

4. Have a photo at the Covered Bridges of Madison County

If you are a Clint Eastwood fan, then the movie “Bridges of Madison County” is something you wouldn’t have missed.

Each year, during the second full weekend in October, Madison County becomes hoses to thousands of visitors who come and celebrate these historic covered bridges.

Why were these covered in the first place?

These were covered because back then, it was cheaper to replace the boards of the roof and walls than the heavy beams of the bridge.

5. Get Festive with the National Balloon Classic

With 100 hot air balloons floating in the sky, this is one festival you wouldn’t want to miss in Iowa. The event began in 1970 and has continued on until today.

Be amazed with the site of these hot air balloons floating in the sky every July. Move into Iowa to better enjoy these festivities this 2020.

6. Immerse in the Field of Dreams Movie Set

A classic film that brings so many memories to any baseball enthusiast, the Field of Dreams Movie set is one of those places in Iowa you wouldn’t miss.

Step into the same field that Kevin Costner and the rest of the crew of the Field of Dream walked, run and ate. Reminisce about their journey and the values that they left in the hearts of the viewers who have watched the movie.

7. Visit The Governor’s Mansion (Terrace Hill) During the Christmas Season

At Terrace Hill, Christmas is taken very seriously. Thus, each year an entire day is dedicated just to decorate each of the rooms inside the mansion for the holiday season. This means florists and organisations getting inside the mansion and adding a touch of holiday magic to it.

At present, it is available for public viewing from March until December. However, it can only be viewed with a tour guide. Self-guide tours are not allowed.

8. Bike the Crookedest Street (The Snake Alley)

There are no snakes in this alley, but the street was constructed like a snake it is really a tough challenge for any biker to complete this trail.

This alley curves over a distance of 275 feet (83.8 m), rising 58.3 ft (17.8 m), a 21% grade, from Washington Street to Columbia Street. It is composed of blue clay bricks and limestone and is a good stop-over if you are near this place.

Read more fun and unique places to go and explore in Iowa. Keep on following our blog for more info and tips.

If you are into wine tasting, boating, hiking, caving or even enjoy spa treatments; then Iowa is the perfect place to move to, especially with its numerous weekend getaways for you to choose from. Here are some of them.

Get Historical with Four Mounds Inn

This 60 acres of land along the Mississippi River is a gem in Iowa, especially with its historic gardens, prairie lands, rare oak savanna and woodlands. Built in 1908, this has been considered a Dubuque Landmark Site and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is meant to be preserved for the new generation to appreciate the history of our forefathers.

Stay conveniently at this place and enjoy their Bed and Breakfast while you get immersed to its well-lit living room, carpeted entrance, and spacious dining room, which will transport you back in time.

Underground Caves in Iowa

Iowa is not only home to historic places, but to different caves – underground caves.

Yes, there are many caves to explore in Iowa for you to enjoy whole year round this includes the following:

• Spook Cave
• Maquoketa Caves State Park
• Ice Cave State Preserve
• Crystal Lake Cave
• Wapsipinicon State Park Caves

All of these caves have their unique characteristics that will keep you in awe while you step inside its premise. Add this to your travelogue, today.

Chasing Waterfalls in Iowa

Oh yes! Iowa has caves and also waterfalls. Here are 13 of these waterfalls for you to start considering this 2020 when you move into Iowa:

• Dunnings Springs
• Siewer’s Springs
• Malanaphy Spring Falls
• Bridal Veil Falls
• Beulah Springs Falls
• Backbone State Park Spillway
• MacBride Falls
• Duck Creek Waterfall
• Union Grove State Park Spillway
• Brigg Woods Waterfall
• Ledges State Park
• Needs Lake Spillway
• Willow Creek Waterfall

With these 13 waterfalls, you’ll even have one extra waterfall to go and visit for the entire year.

One of the first questions any homeowner asks is, how much should I be allocating for a professional move to and from Iowa? This is one of the reasons homeowners will invest in getting various quotes just to get the most affordable rates from professional movers. Sadly, some end up paying more or getting more stressed because of the inefficiency of the movers they get.

So how much does it cost?

At an average, apartmentlist.com has given an average moving quote for various types of bedrooms as follows:

• 1-bedroom apartment or house: $200-$500, 3-5 hours of labor
• 2-bedrooms apartment: $375-$750, 5-6 hours of labor
• 3-bedrooms apartment: $800-$1,500, 7-10 hours of labor
• 4-bedrooms and up: $1,000-$2,000, 10+ hours of labor

The price becomes higher if you plan to move longer distances.

Given these price range, you can now easily see if the quote provided by your Iowa moving company is reasonable or not. Anything higher is outrageous and anything lower is dubious. To free your mind from doubts, do a second degree of research by:

Reading reviews

There are now many ways to see and check the efficiency of a moving company in Iowa. Go to their FB pages or Google Reviews. See how other people are fairing the services they have delivered. Based on these comments, evaluate if you are willing to choose them as your professional moving company of choice.

Check their insurance and license

You will have a better peace of mind if you know that you are working with a licensed and insured moving company. So take the time to see if their are licensed with the Department of Transportation.

See their affiliations

Are they giving back to society? Are they affiliated with any organization?

White Glove Movers supports Move For Hunger to ensure any of your unopened non-perishable items can be used to make food for families who need help.

So what are you waiting for? Choose a licensed and insured moving company in Iowa that supports the community. Get your free quote from us. Send us a message.

Adults find it easier to adjust to a new location after a move, but kids may have a bit of a struggle adjusting to their new home. Follow these tips to make it easier for them:

1. Tell your kids ahead of time

Don’t hide it from your children. The earlier they realize your plans of moving to a new destination, the easier it is for them to make adjustments and to accept these realizations.

2. Allow them to ask questions

Your child may have different questions. Encourage them to be open with you about these. Ask them how they feel and any regrets they may have. Give them the assurance that the move will bring them more joy so they would have less worries.

3. Give them a glimpse on how their new room will look

Show them a glimpse of the new house and how it looks. If possible, let them have a tour of their new rooms. You may also ask them on how they want to decorate these rooms so they will look forward into moving to it.

4. Let them pack their own things.

Make it fun for them by letting them decorate their own boxes and pack their things. This will give them a sense of responsibility. For more fun ways to make your move fun, click here.

It is not only you and your children who need to prepare for your Iowa move. You also need to prepare your pets. Do so by considering the following:

5. Let your pets wear an ID collar

It is possible for your pets to get lost while relocating to your new Iowa home. Ensure they can easily be found by putting ID collars on them. Include your phone number and new address in their collar so you can be easily notified.

6. Make them comfortable inside a travel kennel

Don’t assume that your pet will easily enjoy travelling in a kennel. Make it comfortable for them by letting them more accustomed to it. So it is best to buy their travel kennel in advance.

7. Ensure your home is pet friendly

Welcome your pet in their new home by checking lease arrangements. The last thing you want to see is a house that does not want pets to be inside. So, carefully read your tenant agreement and see if this is indicated.

8. Prepare some treats

Just like your kids, your pet will not be at ease without some treats to munch at. Give them these delights to ensure they will be comfortable during the long journey.

Do you have other suggestions on how to help your kids and pets adjust with your Iowa move? Share it with us.

The stress level of your Iowa move can be BIG or SMALL depending on how you prepare for it. Read on to see if you have the following checked before your move:

When preparing the boxes, ensure you do the following;

1. Delegate a priority box

This should be a box where you put all the important items that you will immediately need upon arriving at your new home. This includes:

• The Coffee Pot
• Cleaning Supplies
• Toilet Paper
• Personal Essentials
• Important Clothing Pieces

2. Color Code and Label the Boxes

To make your move more fun, ask the kids to add decorations to their boxes. Otherwise, you may put labels on it based on the rooms where they will go too in your new house. This makes it easier  not only for the movers but also for you.

3. Put Heavy Items in Small Boxes

The common notion is to put heavy items in huge boxes, but that is not logical. It is easier for your movers to carry these heavy load if they are strategically placed on small boxes.

4. Keep everything under 22.5 kgs

Do your best to keep each of the boxes under 22.5 kgs so it will be easier to be transported and moved around. In doing so, you’ll keep the smiles on the faces of your mover.

5. Put fragile items in a separate box

To ensure your fragile items will not easily be broken, put it in a different box. Ensure it is clearly identified so your mover will take extra care when moving these boxes.

6. Photograph items that has to be assembled

Items that has to be assembled back when arriving to your new home can be daunting. So ensure you know how to put everything into place by taking a picture of the before and after. If possible, it is better to have a video of how you disassembled it. You may also add number to these parts so you know which one fits the other.

Now that you have these boxes prepared. It is time to prepare your body and mind for the move, as well. Condition your mind that no matter how much preparation you do, there will still be room for chaos. So, get enough sleep and eat healthy foods before the move.

To ensure you have a smoother relocation, choose a reliable professional company to handle it for you. Send us a message.

Moving to a new place in Iowa can be both sad and exciting.  For your kids, it may not even be something for them to look forward to, especially if they have created a bond with their classmates and friends in your current neighborhood. The same goes for the parents.

But everyone needs to move forward and there are many unavoidable circumstances that would force a family to leave their old community, one of which is a new job. Nevertheless, you can still make it fun and exciting for them to forget about their frustrations by doing the following tricks:

1. Turn the Music On

When choosing music, choose something that is lively and energetic. Refrain from sad songs as it will only remind your family members of the time they spent with people from your old neighbourhood.

To ensure you have the perfect soundtrack, download the best on the road music with a mixture of everyone’s favourite bands and singers. This will help lighten everyone’s mood.

2. Prepare delicious foods.

One of the worst sins you can commit when moving is not having enough food to eat while on the road, or arriving at your new destination. An empty tummy can easily change the mood of anyone. So, make an effort to pack foods that everyone can eat while on the road.

You may even find a place where you and the family can have a picnic to sauce up the feeling of depression others may be feeling.

3. Celebrate upon arrival

We know everyone is tired on moving day. Keep your kids momentum by assigning them a task prior to arriving at your new home. Let them plan how they want to celebrate your arrival at new home. This includes the food they want to prepare and any games they wish to play with everyone.

4.  Dress Up

Yes! Most people don’t dress up on moving day. But why shouldn’t you? Make a good first impression to your neighbours by dressing up on this important, today. Agree on a theme so you can feel the excitement of your new move.

5. Decorate the boxes

Make it more creative. Assign each family member to decorate their boxes. In this manner, you are not only encouraging them to be more creative but you are also helping them express themselves. This is also great in helping them detach from the old neighborhood.

You can move anytime of the year, but many believe that doing it during FALL is the wisest decision you can make. Here are some reasons why many think this to be true:

It is the end of the busy season.

Since almost everybody wants to move around summer, fall season means more dates to choose from. It is your choice of date rather than fighting over the free dates of your chosen moving company in Iowa.

It is cheaper, much cheaper indeed.

With the decreased demand of relocation to and from Iowa, expect that moving companies will charge you with a cheaper rate. If you want to save even more, do it on a weekday and you’ll be happier with the invoice they will give you.

Another reason for cheaper rates is the lower fuel prices during this time of the year.

It is more convenient.

Weather can be a friend or foe. With summer, you combat the surging heat of the sun while in winter it is the cold snow. During fall, expect a moderate temperature. This makes it the perfect time for moving.

With a cooler temperature, expect your professional movers in Iowa to move more efficiently. This makes moving faster and quicker.

It provides the perfect scenery.

With the changing of the season comes beautiful display of foliage on trees. Admire these natural wonder while you travel to and from Iowa with your family.

Enjoy more festivities to meet new people.

Festivals commonly happens during fall. With your recent move, expect more people to casually invite you for community events. Consider this a good opportunity to know more about them.

Reduced rental rates

Since fewer people are moving during fall, expect landlords and landladies to be more lenient with their rental rates. Negotiate with them and you may even get a better deal.

Are you looking for a reliable moving company in Iowa to handle your relocation? Let’s talk. Send us a message for a free quote.

Labeling your moving boxes properly will greatly remove the stress from you and your movers. It can also save you time during unloading. This will be more effective if the label contains details on what room these boxes should go, as well as its content.

So how do you do this?

Here are some of the best ways to label your moving boxes.

The best time to label

Oftentimes, stress is inevitable. Even a little amount of it can cause judgment errors during the move. Thus, its best to avoid these mistakes:

• Do not label after you’ve packed for a long time – you might forget what exactly the things inside.
• Do not label before packing – you don’t know what precisely it will contain.

Do it this way – PACK, SEAL, then LABEL. The most perfect time to label your moving boxes is right after you you’ve packed and sealed it closed. You shall be able to put a detailed and accurate label on it as it is still fresh in your mind.

Purchase quality markers

Color coding is one easy way to identify, label, and organize your stuff. Make sure to buy good-quality markers for this task. Just imagine the hassle of an easily drawn out of ink marker to you. You’ll have to run back to the store for a new one. Which can cause you money right? Make sure to purchase the following.

• Dark bold color markers
• Water-proof markers
• Permanent ink
• High-quality markers
• Smudge-free markers

Most common label or tag

Try on these following ideas in labeling and tagging your moving boxes.

• “For me” for the boxes that are on you
• “Please be careful” or “Do not break” for the boxes that contain fragile stuff
• “Last please” for the boxes that contain things you’ll need instantly
• Add what room should each box go
• Try listing down each content of every box to exactly identify what’s in it

Additional tip: assign a number on each box and list them down. List down its contents too. This will help you in the unpacking time. You’ll easily find what you’re looking for. You can also easily check your records if some things are missing.

Use color code labeling

A color-coded system is an easy way of labeling moving boxes. Use different colors for different room assignment. Pick one color per room designation and stick to it throughout the labeling process. For example, BLUE for BATHROOM, then PINK for BEDROOM, GREEN for KITCHEN, so on and so forth.

Make sure to mark and color-code accurately. List down a record of the color and the room it’s assigned to help you keep track of it. Do not forget to add a label and color code to the rooms too. Make sure that they match the boxes’ color-coding assignments.

These are simple yet the best way you can apply to easily label your moving boxes. For more moving tips, visit White Glove Movers Cedar Rapids, IA.