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Getting yourself familiarized with the packing materials to use is important for a successful Iowa move.  These materials keep your stuff safe and secure during the moving event. Make sure to have enough of these. See here the different packing materials that are significant for your next Iowa move.

Boxes

For all we know, cardboard boxes are always connected when it comes to Iowa moving matters. Boxes provide a cheap yet durable choice of material to use. They’re perfect containers for packing most household items. However, you should take note of the different types of boxes that are perfect for these specific loads.

• Lamp box: a tall and narrow box designed for lamps.
• Medium-sized box: it can load anything that can fit in it that doesn’t need a special type of packaging.
• Wardrobe box: it’s like a portable closet with a bar across its top for hangers.
• File box: a small type of box used for documents to keep them neat and fashionably organized.
• Picture box: large, flat, and adjustable box specifically made for pictures, artwork, and mirrors.
• Large box: applicable for bigger stuff like linen, clothes, and disassembled furniture pieces.
• Extra-large box: a box that will work well for large lampshade, small furniture, and comforters.

Labeling materials

These materials help you keep your stuff organized and easy to find.

• Packing tape: using this is the best way to secure the bottom of anything that holds heavy stuff and seal boxes properly.
• Black permanent marker: it is good for writing clear labels on boxes.
• Tape dispenser: this material makes packing easier. Quick and easy taping without the need for scissors. No need to find the tape’s edge too.
• Packing labels and stickers: you can use these as visual marks on the boxes. It tells which things are on the boxes or which are fragile.

Protective materials

These are the materials that help you keep everything safe and protected. Packing is more than just putting your stuff in the boxes. It is properly packing and protecting your items so they’ll travel and arrive in good shape. It’s preventing possible damages.

• Bubble wrap: you can use it on furniture and other large items to prevent dents and scratches.
• Plastic stretch wrap: this can be used to cover cardboard boxes that contain electronic items. It will help to keep the moisture out.
• Moving pads and blanket: these can help protect furniture from scratches such as chairs and tables.
• Newspaper: use this to wrap fragile items like glassware and porcelains.

These are just a few of the packing materials that are essential when you are going to move. But they’re not just for packing, they’re very useful in many different ways. So keeping these in your house is essential. Make sure to have enough stock of these items even if you’re not going to move yet. You’ll never know when you might need them.

Summer is a great time to move, but with the many hassles experienced by some homeowners due to the irresponsible moving company; it is quite scary to move during this season.

What could be the reasons for some of these disasters?

Here are some of them:

They take more than what they can handle

With a flock of people wanting to make the move during summer, it’s hard to resist the temptation of no saying YES to these clients. This is amidst the fact they  honestly know they have reached their capacity limit as shown in the “blackout dates” they have listed on their calendar.

This puts them at  high risk for not satisfying their customers because they end up not delivering what they have promised.

The temptation of long-distance pick ups

Long-distance pick-ups are priced much higher than shorter distance travels. This becomes tempting for new moving companies. However, with 100% capacity filled up, this means no room for potential driver illness, truck breakdowns and other factors that may result in a delay. This becomes a chain of events that end

Stranded Shipments

This may be due to a logistics errors on the part of the moving company, especially when moving items to or from a remote location. Thus one should be extra careful when calculating the load of all the items that will be placed in the truck, otherwise, they will get themselves stranded while moving these items.

Use of Temporary Labor

Ultimately, you can blame it to the use of temporary and unskilled laborers to help with the sudden demand for movers. This ends up in a less professional moving service at the cost of the customer.

What do we learn from this experience?

You should remember that every move is different thus accurate weight estimation, packing lists, and access issues should be carefully considered. Work with professional moving companies in Iowa that have years of experience and will not compromise the quality of their service with greed.

Talk to us, so we can properly plan your move without adding stress to you.

Moving from one place to another can exhaust and stress you. There are a lot of things to do. You might think that you can handle it all by yourself without any professional help. If you haven’t had many moving experiences in the past, we can not guarantee that you can go on alone.

A lot of unexpected things may happen like injuring yourself by lifting your furniture. In the end, you might not get everything ready before your moving date. That is why hiring a professional local mover in Iowa has all the benefits you need in moving. Read more in this article.

Cost-effective

People always think of the price to pay in hiring local movers. There’s the question – is it worth the price? Well, to be honest, yes it is worth it. Hiring a local mover in Iowa actually saves you money.

Professional movers have the right equipment to use in the job. Making the move easier and safe. They are expert in their job. Unless you’ve moved many times, you wouldn’t know how to do it properly, smoothly, and fast. You can end up wreaking havoc on your belongings and to yourself.

Save time

If you plan to move all by yourself, you will surely not be able to do within a day only. That is why hiring a professional mover can save you time in moving your things. They have the proper vehicle to transport your belongings and they can also help you in packing – which is, by the way, a very tedious thing to do.

Your stuff is safe and secure

Taking care of things by yourself such as packing everything, hiring a truck, loading it, and moving it all can drain you. You cannot also be sure of the safety and security of your belongings with the truck driver. By hiring a professional local mover in Iowa takes away these dilemmas. With a professional mover, you’ll be dealing with them legally. So there’ll be legal papers before the move. That makes you sure that your stuff is safe and secure.

Avoid injuries

Getting injured will not only hurt you, but it will also hurt your budget and your frame time. By hiring a professional mover, you can avoid these things. They are well-trained in heavy liftings and safe packing.

Planning the move is on them

If you are to move by yourself, again, you will face things such as planning. You’ll have to plan and do things long before the move date. Whereas, hiring a professional local mover can do it all properly for you. Last-minute issues are lessened as they have prepared it all up – the packing day, the loading and the exact moving day. It’s like getting a personal secretary just for that move.

There it is, the 5 most obvious benefits of hiring a professional local mover in Iowa. Yes, you can say that you can do it yourself but be aware of all the hassle that can take a toll on your schedule. Hiring a local mover can help you avoid leaving for work just to pack things up and move. You’ll be able to have peace of mind and focus on other things such as your work and the legal stuff.

Need a professional local mover in Iowa? Call us now and book your appointment!

Doing your research before closing a deal with a moving company in Iowa is one of the wisest decisions you can make. This will not only help you save up money, but it also gives you more time to enjoy your move without any hassles.  So what are you waiting for? Consider these five tips when choosing a moving company in Iowa.

Authenticate and verify their credentials

A reliable moving company in Iowa must have a number license issued by the Department of Transportation. It identifies the commercial vehicles used in transportation. The moving company must be able to show you their DOT number. They must also have a carrier number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier  Safety Administration.

Check the reviews and complaints

By searching on the web, you can check what the other customers and past client of a moving company tell about them. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau if that company has a report or record with them. They have a review of more than 20,000 moving companies.

Get an estimate

Before closing a deal with any moving company in Iowa, make sure to get at least 3 written estimate of the job to be done. Be suspicious and don’t take things too lightly. If an estimate seems to be too low or too high be sure to make further inquiries. If the moving company gives you an estimate without checking personally the scope of job it’s a clear sign of a scam.

Be mindful of the large deposit requirement

No more than 20% of the estimated cost must be asked as a deposit by the moving company. Some might not actually require any payment until the job is done. Use a credit card for any payment to make sure that you can contest any charges if something wrong came up.

Hire a local mover

Hiring a local mover in Iowa can help you avoid being tricked by an unscrupulous company. Dealing with a local mover gives you the chance to personally visit their office. You can check how they communicate with their clients and staffs. This way, you shall get a personal first impression on them.

If ever, unfortunately, you became a victim of unreliable movers, immediately report this matter to the police. If they try to get hold of your belongings and force you to pay more than what you agreed, call the local authorities. Make sure to file a complaint to the Better Business Bureau and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to alert others, as well.

If you are thinking that a mover’s job is always boring, this list will definitely make you think again. Yes, oftentimes, it’s a tedious job but these weird encounters make this job unique.

1. Taxidermy Cat

Ever heard of the art of stuffing dead animals? Taxidermy is the art of using the dead animal’s skin to make it look alive. Transporting taxidermy materials are one of the most genuine things a mover have transported. An old woman who had lost 4 cats insisted on making taxidermy to keep them in their house.

2. Python

Of all things that a mover can transfer, why on earth a Python right? But yes, a ball python came across the movers in Iowa. At one moment, the mover’s day can be tiring, exciting, fun, then it can turn into an exotic one. A ball python in its huge tank was experienced by a moving company.

3. Batmobile in Real Life (Batman’s Car)

The movers’ ordinary day turned to a laughable and hilarious one. A client asked the movers to transport a fake car – which was in real life size and a replica – this wasn’t mentioned by the client. Just imagine the movers’ surprise!

4. Trophy Animals

Aside from taxidermy materials, here’s another weird stuff that a mover had encountered. Trophy animals came face to face with the movers as one of their clients was an avid game hunter. 35ft truckload of trophy animals with an 8ft tall stuffed bear surprised the movers. It wasn’t that heavy but rather awkward to deal with. However, the movers still kept their professionalism while moving.

5. One single chair – to another room

The items to be move is weirder than the job itself. The movers got a moving job wherein they need to transfer a single chair to another room right away at 3 a.m. By the way, the chair can be moved even by a kid.

These are just a few of the disturbing weird things a moving company had to deal with. Do you have weird things moved by movers experienced in the past? Share it with us. It’s great to add that to our list.

Before making your big move to a new house in Iowa, you need to take your decisions into consideration. From choosing the supplies you need for moving, the moving date, There are simply many questions you need to ask yourself. Thus, your to-do list can be overwhelming and long.

Due to these reasons, the most significant decision you can make is finding the best moving company in Iowa for your needs. How do you know if they are the best in Iowa? Here are some questions you need to ask:

1. Are they licensed?

Checking the moving company’s license is important. There are movers out there that work illegally. If you end up with them you are risking yourself from scams and unprofessional movers. All professional moving company are registered and has a license number given by the government authorities.

Selecting a licensed moving company to help you move in Iowa ensures you, your family, and your belonging’s safety. You can hold them liable for any damages with your stuff.

2. What’s their experience in your type of move?

Your moving type can either be different or the same with their past clients. You can ask them if they have any experience with your specific type of move. You might be moving from a high-rise apartment building to a new residential house in Iowa. You can ask if they have experience with steep stairs, elevators, small pathways or parking restrictions.

3. What will be the coverage of their liability?

Before signing a deal with a moving company and letting the handle your valuables, check their liability coverage. Mishaps while transporting your things can happen, so you should know the liability coverage they offer. You can also check the company’s licensed insurance. The insurance takes the cover of any damages.

4. Can they provide you a binding quote or a not-to-exceed estimation?

Make sure to ask for a binding quote or a not-to-exceed estimation so you are aware of the possible fee for their service. Ask for the condition that can make the fees change. For example, if you need more man-hours or if your things are heavier than their quote, you might need to pay more. Also, check for possible add-ons and service fees. For a better option, choose a moving company that offers a binding quote.

5. Check their references

In hiring a moving company, you are like the employer and you wouldn’t hire an employee without background checking right. Same goes with hiring a moving company. Have a background check and see for any references for that company. Ask for customer reviews to see what are the experience of their past clients.

Before your big move to Iowa, do some homework in finding the moving company that will match your needs. If you are looking for professional movers in Iowa to help you, call us now and get quoted.

Being a first-time renter can be a little scary. It’s the moment you are going outside your comfort zone. You are about to live on your own. There’ll be a lot going on and tasks to do. But don’t worry as we are here to guide you on your way.

In order for things to be easier, here are some guidelines you need to know.

First Time Checklist Questions for an Iowa Renter

These are simple questions but significant for a first-time renter.

1. How much is your budget?

Your budget is the most important question when you are opting to rent an apartment in Iowa. This can make or break your lifestyle’s comfortability. List how much you make in a month then list down all the expected expenses. These expenses may include your:

• Monthly rent
• Utility Bills
• Food

You may also leave some for emergency expenses and savings if you can.

2. How much is the overall cost of the apartment? (Rent, Security Deposit, etc.)

If it’s your first time to rent, the ideal ratio of your rental fee should be 25-30% of your monthly income. If it goes higher than this, your budget might be constrained. Be sure to add all your utilities – even the internet bill on your budgeting.

3. Will you need a co-signer?

This usually is needed. For example,  students may need their parents as co-signer. The co-signer will vouch for your rent and will sign a contract. If ever you won’t be able to pay your rent – your co-signer has to pay for it.

4. What will be your means of transportation?

You have to take your means of transportation into consideration. Whether it’s a trip to the nearest mall, clinic, convenience store or school. Will you be riding public transportation or a bike will do? Make sure that you know your transportation method in your new area. This way it’ll be easier for you to travel around.

These are just a few of the things to be in your question list as a first-time renter in Iowa. Hopefully, this may guide you on your journey of standing out on your own. Should you need help in moving to your new apartment. Just send us a message.

Have a nice day!

Once you found a house to rent after rambling through the whole of Iowa, you might want to move in right away. But, don’t get too excited as there are things you must consider before settling into that rental house. Here are some of the things that need to be in your checklist.

1. Read the Rent Agreement Carefully

When it comes to finalizing the agreement, make sure to read it thoroughly. Take note of the clauses that state your starting and ending date of stay on that house. Also, check if there will be an additional rental fee and how much will it cost once you exceeded on those dates. If ever you find any disagreeable part, terms, and condition talk about it and ask for changes.

2. Know What You are Entitled To

A rental agreement makes your right limited to the house you’ll be renting. You have to set these things clear to your landlord. You must know your rights and the things you are prohibited to do while staying in that house. Things such as – visitor’s time, curfew hours, allowed noises, personal lifestyle etc. You can also let your landlord know some of your conditions.

3. Check the Locality’s Condition

You must consider the location’s condition. As much as possible it is close to your school or work. This can make you save travel time and money but these are not just the things to consider. You may also check the area’s social infrastructure. Is there a nearby convenience store, market, clinic or hospital?

4. Ask Some Neighbors

Asking the neighbors regarding the house, landlord, locality, and surroundings can be the best opinion you can get. Since they’re the one who’s already settling in there, they can give you reliable feedback about the place.

5. Read the Meters

Before stepping into the house you’ll be renting, make sure to check the reading of the meter. Will it be sub-metered or it has its own meter? It will better if you can take note of the meter reading before starting your stay. This way, you’ll be able to check the accuracy of your bills.

6. Have Some Basic Checking

Make sure to check the inside and outside of the house. See to it that all the light bulbs, switches, faucets, and other electrical fixtures are working properly. You can also check the house paint if is it newly painted or not. If you found something you don’t like, don’t hesitate to talk to the landlord.

Another thing you need to check before moving in is your house safety locks. Check the doors, windows, and locks of the property. Make sure that the locks are sturdy and the doors and windows are fixed. If you found any fault ask for repair from the landlord.

7. Consider How much will It Cost

As you know that you’ll be renting, a monthly rental fee will be one of your bills. Also, by shifting to a rented house, your landlord might ask for an advance and deposit payment before the move-in. There may also be other fees that your landlord may require. Consider these things and set your budget.

Hopefully, this list has helped you about the things you have to check before shifting to a rented house. Do you have other ideas? Come, Let’s hear about it.

Are you considering to make the big move to a smaller place?

Have you taken things into consideration?

If not yet, this article is for you!

Tired from the city lights? Are you planning to trade it to somewhere smaller and quieter? Here are some insights from people that already moved to the countryside.

Variety can come in different forms

As people are different, places are also different. You might be surprised about the culture, the plant life, the scenery, or just the town itself. It can get you overwhelmed. So before moving to to a new place; it is best to check it out first.

See if these differences can be a relief and whether the place can be considered a better home for you and your family.

The value of education may vary

For city people, finishing college is an utmost priority. But for townfolks, this may not be the case. So if you feel that you share the same principles, then moving to a little town will be a great idea.

It’s a slow motion

Living in a smaller town can slow things down. Things don’t need to be in a hurry, so you can enjoy real moments with the family.

This is not the same in large cities where people have their plates full of appointments. Their time there is fast pacing. So if you are looking for this kind of lifestyle, move to a little town in Iowa.

It is refreshing, peaceful and quiet

This is one but the obvious things you can have for living in a place where there are fewer people. Sometimes, less is more.

Parking will never be an issue

Have you ever been in a situation wherein you have spent an hour just to find a parking space in a convenience store or in the mall?

Living in the countryside can put this dilemma past behind. Since there are fewer people in these locations, there will also be fewer cars in most, if not all of these parking spaces.

You can enjoy strong community ties

A smaller town, with few people living in it, has a stronger sense of community. Since communication is easier because of the area’s size, calling for help, or support is not a big deal.

It will provide you with  unique experiences and opportunities

Take them! You will surely get a chance to try something new and different. Make sure to grab that opportunity to go out of your comfort zone. Whether it may be about sports or foods you haven’t tried before, go on and try them!

The medical facilities may be limited

Since it is a small town, there might be fewer medical facilities in it compared to the big cities. It can leave you fewer options or you might have to travel to neighboring cities just to find a specialist for your condition.

Business and personal matters can be mixed up

Business and personal life can get messy! Well you know, hiding something from just a four corner area can be hard. Transparency is everywhere. Everyone knows everyone. Hiding from their eyes will need some magic.

So if you want to remain private – choosing a little town may not be a good choice.

Long travels will be a norm

For small local areas where there are fewer stores, traveling lengthy roads and hours is just normal. This is especially true if you are suddenly craving for that frozen yogurt in the middle of the day.

You’ll have a limited job opportunity

Small place with few stores and businesses running around results in fewer job opportunities. Be sure to be prepared working out of your degree for an income. If you don’t want to, you might as well create your own or put up a business.

Everyone is sure to know everyone

Do you remember when we told you that business and personal matters can be mixed up? That is because everyone knows everyone in this little town. So be careful with your words, they are attached and related to everyone. Loose lips are strongly prohibited.

Do you think moving to a little town is the best option for you? Send us a message so we can help you in moving in.

Moving from a new state can be both startling and exciting. Imagine a new place, a new environment, and a new group of people where you will dwell together with our family. It can feel a bit weird, so we have listed some of the things you may experience while moving to a new State.

Here are 5 weird side effects of moving to a new state

1. You Will Miss Things

Habits are hard to break. Thus, it is common for you to miss things you have been accustomed to with your new home.

You will miss things you never thought you would. These might be the small stuff you didn’t care about before. For example, the taste of coffee from that coffee shop you always go to before your work. or the street light’s timing.

For some, this may even result in a culture shock. So do prepare yourself physically and mentally for your new surrounding. Read facts and places to hang-out in your new destination so it wouldn’t feel that strange.

2. You may have the tendency to be a “state-loyalist”

John Barth once said, “All men are loyal, but their objects of allegiance are at best approximate.” You will feel this, especially when you go to a new state.

You will easily distinguish the difference between the two, thus you may have a tendency to prefer your old state with the new one. This is not surprising because every state has different standards, especially if you move from a smaller state to a larger one. This includes the following:

• Cost of living
• Price of foods
• Traffic rules

Due to your old habits, you may wish you can stick with the old customs from the state where you have moved from.

3. You may be a “The Grudge” of the neighborhood

Since everything is different from what you have gotten used to, you may get irritated for the first weeks, or even months.

Simple things like the price of your cup of coffee, the smiles of your neighbor, the color of your lawn and many more can all be disturbing for you. But hopefully, you can soon cope with it.

4. You feel like going back to your old state

As you stay in the new state, you will slowly cope up. Once you come back or just simply visit your old place, it will be back to zero. Since you are used to the things in the new state you are in, the difference between the two states will be obvious for you. You will notice simple differences and will have to adjust again

Before deciding to move to another state, be sure to list down the important things you need to consider. Such as the cost of living, medical accessibility, and other convenience stores. Make sure to be prepared, physically and mentally.

Hopefully, this list has helped you to prepare yourself before your big move. If you need assistance in moving to and from Iowa, Contact us now.

When moving from one location to another, whether it’s a residential or commercial area, professional movers can make your life easier. Isn’t it nice to have a stress-free moving experience? Here are some reasons why you should hire a professional mover.

Reasons why you need to ask for professional help in Cedar Rapids

1. Quickly Move Your Things

A professional moving company in Cedar Rapids will set an exact date and time in packing and moving your things to your new house. They can lift your things from places faster than you can since they have enough hands. Less tiring for you if you’ll be on your own.

2. Heavy Lifting is On Them

Since they have staffs, the heavy loads are on them. No need for you to ache your back with your huge furniture and appliances. They shall provide assistance on your move.

3. Reliability

By hiring a professional moving company in Cedar Rapids, you can be sure that your things are in good hands. Professional moving company’s movers are trained for their job to ensure reliability. This is a better solution than asking for help from family and friends when moving.

4. Accountability

If you hire a professional moving company in Cedar Rapids, your belongings are in their account. They shall be held accountable if your things got missings or broken. Making sure that your belongings are safe and complete when moving will be their responsibility.

5. Professional Inventory

When moving, making an inventory of your things can be exhausting. If you hire professional movers, they can handle this for you. By this, you can ensure that your things are on a safe list.

6. Skilled Movers

Being skilled and experience in the job is a plus point. Skilled and experienced movers shall be able to address all your needs while providing you an efficient, quick, and secured moving.

7. Safety

If you are to transfer valuable stuff, safety must be your concern. By hiring professional movers, rest assured that your things are traveled safely. Professional movers in Cedar Rapids will use proper moving materials to limit damages on your things. They know how to properly transport different stuff.

8. Efficient

Professional movers in Cedar Rapids shall be able to load your boxes, heavy furniture, and appliances on their truck then transport it to your new home efficiently. This is what they were trained for.

9. Less Hassle

Hassle is sometimes inevitable but by hiring professional movers, your hassle in moving is lesser. Since there will be people who can help you check your things and pack them properly. They know the proper way to pack things such as fragile stuff, small things, and heavy things.

10. Peace Of Mind

This might be one of the best things you can have when you hire professional movers. The overall process of moving can leave you exhausted and stressed out. Starting from the planning to the packing then the actual moving is a lot to take.

Professional movers in Cedar Rapids can give you your peace of mind. They can give all the help that you need regarding your moving. And knowing that your things are in good hands, you shall be at ease on your moving day.

Hopefully, these few reasons have helped you to understand the benefits of hiring professional movers in Cedar Rapids. If you need professional help, let’s have a talk. We’re glad to help!

Move in day is also as exhausting as the actual moving. It can be tiring, stressful, and exciting at the same time. If you have prepared for your moving day, you should also be prepared for your move-in day on your new home. This will help you ease your transition.

You can prepare a kit that will serve as your handy kit on your move-in. This will help you get essential things at hands reach. Listed below are the 7 essential things your kit must have.

1. Food and Water

This is an obvious essential thing to have. Food when you get hungry and water if you get thirsty. Moving into your new home can leave you hungry and thirsty. These essentials are a must. You can also use a cooler so your water is nice and cool when you need them.

2. Flashlights and Tool kits

These things will surely come in handy. If you need to assemble your furniture you will need your tools and surfing deep into your belongings can be hard. Keeping things such as pliers, hammer, and screwdrivers at hands reach will make things easy for you.

3. Cleaning Supplies

These are things for your health benefit. You wouldn’t want to work on a dusty flooring right? If you’re lucky to access your new house before your move-in day, you may stock up your cleaning supplies. But if not, dedicate a box for your basic cleaning supplies. Here are some of those you can keep in hand:

• Hand soap (for each sink)
• Paper towels
• Dish soap
• Sponges
• Dust clothes and rag
• Dustpan and Broom
• All-purpose cleaner

4. Bluetooth Speaker and Phone Chargers

Your phone’s battery might drain on your move-in day for calls, messages, and even music. So keeping a charger at hand can leave you the stress of hovering your piles for it. You can also have your Bluetooth speaker close for some upbeat while working on your things.

5. Papers, Pens, Tapes, Scissors, and Utensils

These might be the things you wouldn’t think you’ll need. But these can help you in ways you didn’t think of. For example, you can write labels on your rooms as a guide for the movers in unloading your things. If your family or friends are on the help, labeling your cabinets and drawers will make it easy for them to arrange your things.

6. Clean Beddings and Pillows

Of course, the day will come to its end you will need to rest. Having clean beddings and pillows at hand will make rest time easy for you. Well, you can also use them if you or your kids want to take a nap. You can lie down on a clean bed with no problem.

7. Overnight Bag

Prepare a small bag like you are staying overnight somewhere. This bag can hold stuff like a pair of pajamas, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, medicines, and clothes for the next day. You might not be able to finish pulling out all your things on your new home, so preparing an overnight bag will be helpful for you.

Move-in day can be energy and time consuming but keeping essential stuff at hands reach will make things easier for you. Hopefully, this list can help you with your move-in day!

Have a safe trip!!!