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Part 2 of 3: 9 Things You Should Not Forget When Moving To or From Iowa

We’ve earlier discussed three things you should always remember when packing prior to moving to or from Iowa.

Tip no. 1: Label the Boxes

Tip no. 2: Use the Correct Packing Materials

Tip no. 3: Pack Only Those that You Need

In this article, we’ll continue the discussion with three more tips that can help your moving out simple and easy.

Tip no. 4: Separately Pack an ESSENTIALS Box

It is common for those people who are moving into a new city to assume that they can easily find everything they need at their new place. However, that is not always the case. Thus, it is important for you to pack your essentials in an easy to find box.

This should include:

  • Cups
  • Plates
  • Spoon and fork
  • Kettle and pots
  • Soap, shampoo and sanitary kit
  • Garden toys for your little ones

There may be other stuff that has to be put into this box. Think of all the things you use on a daily basis and add it.

Tip no. 5: Avoid moving on a FRIDAY

As much as you can, try your best not to schedule your move on a Friday. It may sound practical for some because the day following it is a weekend, but this is actually a very busy day for moving companies. Thus, you may end up having to pay more or find someone who will do the move for you.

Other problems that may arise when moving out on a Friday includes estate agents and solicitors often closed during the weekend, thus any problem you may encounter while moving in may only be resolved on the weekday, Monday. This could result in more costs that could have been avoided if you do your move on a different weekday.

But does it mean you can’t move on a Friday?

Not exactly. You just need to properly plan it and ensure all possible issues on availability can be resolved even upon your arrival. In the end, it all boils down to communication.

Tip no. 6: Get the RIGHT KEYS FROM LABELS from the previous owners

So you have the keys to the front and back door, but do you have the keys to the sheds, garage, garden gates, and conservatories? How about the rooms and windows?

These may not look obvious, but the front and back door keys may not be the only ones you need during moving day. Thus, it is best to get all the keys for your house. Moreover, it is also important to change all the locks to ensure all your insurance policies will be valid in case of theft.

9 Things Not To Forget When Moving To and From Iowa (Part 1 of 3)

Moving your stuff to or from Iowa can be very stressful, especially if you’ve failed to plan it properly. To avoid the confusion of your move and leaving yourself devastated because of unwanted property loss and broken home items, here are some things you should NEVER EVER forget when moving to or from Iowa.

Tip No. 1: Label the Boxes

This may sound simple, but you’ll be surprised by how many homeowners have forgotten to do this basic principle.

Their reason – they did things in a rush. Thus, it is important to have a checklist of your to-do list. This will ensure all that has to be done are properly taken care of, including labeling the boxes.

What should you label?

Label items that contain fragile items. Group those that are used for the kitchen, bathroom, living room, bedroom, garage, and other places inside your new house. You’ll be surprised at how much time and effort this will bring you.

Tip No. 2: Use the CORRECT packing materials

Yes! We do understand that you want to save a couple of bucks. But that does not include the packing materials you will be using when moving to or from Iowa. You need to ensure that the boxes are strong enough for your contents, otherwise, it can simply collapse and leave your things scattered on the floor.

Oh! but this means too many boxes for me to use, what should I do?

Use all the needed boxes so you can quickly pack and unpack your items. If you do not know how many boxes you’ll need, just give White Gloves Movers a call. One of our staff will help you estimate the number of boxes you’ll need.
Do you have any food that you wish to donate? We are also affiliated with Move For Hunger. We are happy to set aside your unopened non-perishable food items and donate it for them to use it in their local food pantry. Call us, today.

Tip No. 3: Pack Only Those That You Need

This could be a bit tricky because one can easily argue that they need everything there is inside their house. But in reality, you really don’t need all the appliances when moving to your new house. You may have decided to buy a new sofa, bed, ornaments, curtains, bed-sheets, chairs and other furniture to match your new home. So what will you do with those unnecessary furniture?

It is best to have a garage sale before you move. In this way, you can raise money for your new furniture and save on the amount of space you’ll need when moving out. Otherwise, you can always donate these items to charity and let them do the selling for you.

Important Documents You Need for Your Iowa Move

There are a lot of things to check off your to-do list before moving day arrives including packing, labeling, and gathering all of the important documents you need. When working with a professional moving company, make sure you gather all of your critical forms and documents into one folder or binder.

Before you can put these items in your moving binder, it’s helpful to know exactly which documents you need. To help you stay on top of things, we’ve gathered a list of 8 must-have moving documents, forms, and receipts.

1.Your Moving Estimate

Once a professional moving company like White Glove Movers has surveyed your home in Cedar Rapids, you’ll receive a written estimate or quote for your move. Most moving estimates include the following information:

  • Transportation charges
  • Labor
  • Packing services
  • Storage availability and charges
  • Insurance
  • Accessorial services

Before agreeing to the moving estimate you’re provided, be sure you understand which kind your mover has given you. Ask if it’s a non-binding, binding, or binding not-to-exceed estimate.

2.Bill of Lading

Your professional Cedar Rapids moving company will hand you a document called a bill of lading. This is the most important document you’ll receive regarding your move. It’s a legally binding contract between you and the moving company, which means the contents of the bill of lading should be the same as those on the order for service.

Think of the bill of lading as a kind of receipt that includes:

  • Shipment
  • Moving rate
  • Payment method
  • Origin and destination
  • Insurance information
  • Mover information

3.Order for Service

Your professional mover will give you a copy of the order for service. This is for your shipment and is an important document that’s usually attached to the bill of lading. It should have the following pieces of information on it:

  • Moving estimate details
  • Pick-up and delivery dates
  • Special services needed
  • Your signature
  • Your mover’s signature

4.Inventory Documentation

Once your mover has inspected your inventory, they will give you a descriptive inventory form that describes all of the inventory loaded onto the moving truck.

Next to each item you’ll find its “condition at origin.” Did you do the packing yourself? The mover will write “packed by owner” (PBO) with the condition of the contents unknown. Be sure you review the list before tucking it away into your moving binder.

5.A Copy of “Your Rights and Responsibilities”

If you’re planning an interstate move, your mover will give you a copy of your rights and responsibilities. These documents will give you a lot of information including:

  • How to choose a reputable mover
  • Instructions on how to handle complaints
  • Questions regarding your move

If your interstate mover does not give you a copy of these documents, then consider it a BIG red flag.

6.Explanation of Liability Options

Within the Your Rights and Responsibilities document, there should be explanations of the different levels of liability. Local movers usually have multiple liability options for customers because they’re not subject to state transportation laws and federal regulations.

Get a copy of these explanations before choosing your plan so you can reach your decision with as much information as possible.

7.Statement of Services

If you’re moving out of Iowa, your interstate mover should give you a copy of the Statement of Services after your belongings are delivered. This statement will contain the final cost for your shipment and the tariff charges based on the weight of your items.

 

8.IRS Tax Deduction Forms

Are you relocating for work? You may be able to claim your moving expenses on your tax deductions using IRS form 3903. These moving expenses should be related to starting work in a new location. See all the details on the official IRS website.

Prepare for Your Upcoming Move

Whether you’re moving across town, across the state, or to the other side of the country, White Glove Movers is here for you. Our team of professional movers makes it easy to get from your old place to your new one. Give our locally owned moving company a call today to see how we can make your move affordable!

How are Mover Cedar Rapids Calculate Their Estimates?

Hiring a professional mover Cedar Rapids mover can cost you anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on who you choose, the distance of your move, and the services you need.

To avoid any unpleasant surprises, it’s best to get a quote or estimate from multiple movers so you know exactly what to expect on moving day.

What’s the point of a movers Cedar Rapids quote?

Professional movers Cedar Rapids want to have an accurate idea of what your move will entail for three main reasons:

  1. It helps them prepare
  2. It’s more professional
  3. You know the cost before moving day

Some professional movers can give you a general quote over the phone or digitally, but they are only legally bound by the information on your written estimate. In other words, if a professional mover gives you one projection over the phone but it becomes much higher when they visit you in person, you’ll have to go by the written price.

Are there different types of moving estimates?

The short answer is yes. Let’s take a look at three:

  1. Binding moving estimate: Did your mover give you a binding estimate? Then they’re required to honor the price they give as long as nothing changes. So, say you only move the items listed on the inventory sheet, then the final price should match what was written on the binding estimate.
  1. Non-binding moving estimate: This is your mover Cedar Rapids best guess of your moving cost. It’s non-binding, so the final price will be determined by the weight of your shipment and the services rendered. There is wiggle room here, so the actual bill may be much higher than the non-binding estimate.
  1. Binding-not-to-exceed moving estimate: This type of moving estimate is straightforward. It’s meant to be the same thing as a binding estimate except you’ll pay less than the quoted price if your items weigh less than the estimate.

The Dos and Don’ts of Getting Mover Cedar Rapids Quotes

Regardless of the mover Cedar Rapids you speak to, always follow these tips to protect yourself.

  • Don’t sign blank documents. Your moving company should tell you exactly what you’re signing. If your mover asks you to sign an incomplete document on moving day, tell them to reschedule and then use a different company. You could end up paying charges you never agreed to if you do sign it.
  • Look for an experienced team. It’s tempting to choose the moving company with the lowest estimate, but you should trust your home and belongings to a team of professionals that has been in the game for a while. At White Glove Movers, we’ve been helping people in Cedar Rapids move since 2004 so we’ve gathered a lot of experience under our belts.
  • Have your moving company complete a walkthrough. You can get quotes over the phone and online but you’ll get the most accurate information when your mover inspects your home in person. Give us a call today to schedule an estimate and we’ll give you all the information you need for your short or long distance move (even across state lines).

Get Your Moving Quote Today

If a move is in your future, speak to the team at White Glove Movers today! We have a reputation of handling all residential moves with care and would love to help you out with your move. Give us a jingle and we’ll provide you with an accurate movers Cedar Rapids estimate.

5 Best Places in Iowa For Families to Move

Sometimes planning a residential move means you’re looking for an entirely different city. If you’re like the average American, you’re looking for the perfect place to raise your family and you have specific criteria.

  • A safe city
  • Affordable housing
  • Stimulating culture
  • Fun activities

Finding the perfect city for your family can be tricky. After all, you’re moving there not just visiting. So is this perfection attainable? Maybe the “perfect city” in America doesn’t exist but we’ll help you get as close as we can.

Work with a Professional Mover

Before you get settled into your new home, you have to pack up and move your current household. At White Glove Movers, we specialize in residential packing and moving services. Whether you’re making a short or long distance move, our experienced team will help you in the most efficient way possible.

Now, let’s talk about some amazing Iowa communities!

1.Pella

Population: 10,280

Closest Major City: Des Moines

Pella is a city located in Marion County, Iowa. At the time of the 2010 U.S. census, it had a population of 10,352. The city was founded by immigrants from the Netherlands and is forty miles southeast of the state’s capital.

The city is home to many noteworthy locations and attractions including:

  • Central College
  • Pella Corporation
  • Vermeer Manufacturing Company
  • The tallest working grain windmill in the U.S.
  • Lake Red Rock

2.Clive

Population: 17,022

Closest Major City: Des Moines

Located in Polk and Dallas counties, Clive had a population of 15,447 at the time of the 2010 U.S. census. The city is best known for its Greenbelt Park and trail system that runs throughout the entire community.

As part of the Des Moines-West Des Moines Metropolitan Statistical Area, Clive is the central location between the Des Moines suburbs, Urbandale, Waukee, and West Des Moines.

The city runs along major thoroughfares including I-35, I-80, and I-235.

You’ll find many fun things to do and enjoy in Clive including:

  • One-of-a-kind restaurants
  • Local beer
  • Locally grown foods

3.Johnston

Population: 19,491

Closest Major City: Des Moines

The City of Johnston is located in Polk County, Iowa and had a population of 17,278 at the time of the 2010 census. Prior to that, the city’s population was significantly lower (8,649) and it had an increase of 100% at the time of the 2010 census.

Considered part of the Des Moines-West Des Moines Metropolitan Statistical Area, Johnston is a fabulous place for families to raise children.

Enjoy many Johnston staples including:

  • Miles of recreational trails
  • Trostel’s Greenbriar restaurant
  • Jethro’s BBQ n’ Pork Chop Grill
  • Iowa Gold Star Military Museum

 

4.Oskaloosa

Population: 11,538

Closest Major City: Des Moines

Found in Mahaska County, Oskaloosa gives off a comfy small town vibe. In the late nineteenth and early twentieth century, it was a thriving center of bituminous coal mining. The population increased from 10,938 to 11,463 in the 2010 census.

Annual events and fun activities include:

  • The Skunk River Art Festival
  • Sweet Corn Serenade
  • The Lighted Christmas Parade
  • Nelson Pioneer Farm (learn about agricultural history)
  • Camping at Lake Keomah
  • Three public golf courses
  • 14-mile recreational trail
  • One of the best disc golf courses in the state

5.Indianola

Population: 15,343

Closest Major City: Des Moines

Part of Warren County, Indianola is 18 miles south of Iowa’s capital. Here you will enjoy a charming community for all ages. Enjoy the following activities:

  • Hot air ballooning at the National Balloon Classic
  • Local wineries
  • Simpson College
  • The Des Moines Metro Opera

Plan Your Upcoming Move

White Glove Movers has been helping families in Iowa communities with their moving needs since 2004. We specialize in quality packing, moving, and unloading services. Our team knows how to handle all of your belongings with care, in fact, that’s how we got our name! Give us a call today to discuss the details of your move and we’ll be happy to schedule an estimate with you.

Looking for a Place to Move to this 2019? How About Iowa City?

Full of great restaurants, recreational opportunities, and shops for everyone, Iowa City is full of charm. This college town is home to a successful farmers market, the University of Iowa, fantastic restaurants, and cozy cafes where you can hang out with friends.

When strolling down the streets of Iowa City, you’ll find pianos at popular gathering spots in the summer and trees covered with sweaters in the wintertime.

If you’re planning a residential move to the state of Iowa, here are eight reasons to choose Iowa City:

1.Unique restaurants

Iowa City is has several restaurants that offer exclusive experiences such as the Hamburg Inn. Boasting a variety of traditional food options, the restaurant is a popular stop for presidents participating in the Iowa Caucus. It’s also known for its drinkable “pie shakes” that feature a blend of milk, pie, and ice cream.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, be sure to check out Hurts Donut Co. Here you’ll find a wide range of sweet and delicious donuts. Plus this donut shop is open 24 hours a day!

2.Friendly neighborhoods

The second you roll into town you’ll feel the college-town atmosphere Iowa City has to offer. You’ll also discover its many historic buildings. The Manville Heights area, located on the west side, is home to the city’s most diverse architecture.

Its proximity to downtown, to the University of Iowa, and to the university’s hospitals make it a safe neighborhood to move to.

3.The University of Iowa

The U of I is a member of the Big 10 Conference and is home to about 31,000 students in a given year. As one of the nation’s top public universities, students flock here to learn the arts, sciences, and humanities.

Home of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, the university’s prestigious two-year Master of Fine Arts residency program, the university is an excellent choice for local and out-of-state students.

4.Cultural connections

The American heartland may seem boring on the outside, but nothing could be further from the truth. Each year thousands of film junkies flock to the Landlocked Film Festival in Iowa City’s historic downtown district to watch indie films from around the world.

5.Successful writers

Designated as one of the few UNESCO Cities of Literature, Iowa City has a Literary Walk on Iowa Avenue that features bronze-relief panels in the sidewalk. They are each inscribed with the words from 49 writers with connections to the hawkeye state.

The relief panels feature work from a range of texts including children’s books, plays, and memoirs.

6.Employment opportunities

Are you looking to switch careers once you move to Iowa City? Dust off your resume because you’re in luck. Iowa City features a mix of entrepreneurial endeavors, corporate headquarters, the University of Iowa, and the UI hospitals. All of which are the area’s top employers.

7.Attractions and adventures

Who says you can’t have fun in the heartland? Iowa City boasts a range of local gems including Coralville Lake and the Devonian Fossil Gorge. Visit these places if you enjoy fishing, water skiing, and boating!

8.The world’s largest wooden nickel

Yep, you read that right. When you visit Iowa City you can see the oddity that has become popular with residents, tourists, and travelers passing through. Check out the 12-foot-wide “nickel” as soon as moving day is over and your items are unpacked.

Schedule your residential move

Whether you’re moving to Iowa City from another state or a different part of Iowa, White Glove Movers is here to help. Let us take care of your packing, moving, and unloading needs. Give us a call today to schedule your estimate!

5 Types of Moves that Need the Help of a Professional Moving Company in Cedar Rapids

As a professional moving company in Cedar Rapids, we know not every move is the same. Different situations call for different moving techniques, which is why it’s important to identify your move ahead of time.

Five Different Kinds of Moves

Before you give your professional mover a call, it’s best to determine what moving category you fit into. While most moving companies charge by the distance, the team at White Glove Movers likes to consider the number of things you’re moving.

Let’s take a look at five different types of moves to help you determine what your moving day needs will be:

1.The Small Move

Most homeowners who fit into our first category are moving from an apartment. Those who want to move a partial household are also considered a small move. Most small moves involve a standard weight of 2,000 pounds or less.

Small moves don’t seem like a big deal, but it’s beneficial to speak with a professional moving company to ensure you’re taking the right step. Remember that even if you have a small apartment, you probably have a lot of things tucked away that you’ve forgotten about.

To receive a quote on your apartment move in Cedar Rapids, speak to the experienced team at White Glove Movers today.

2.The House Move

The effort involved in house moves depends on the rooms and square footage of the home. Weight is also a factor. Though moving a household can be stressful, there are several things you can do to lighten the load (literally!):

  • Take the opportunity to purge unused items
  • Have a garage or yard sale
  • Use the extra funds to hire a professional moving company

 

3.The Interstate Move

Long-distance moves are typically the most daunting and tedious because you’re literally moving all of your belongings out of the state and sometimes to the other side of the country. Some homeowners are hesitant to hire a professional moving company for an interstate move because of the cost, however, letting a team of experienced professionals such as White Glove Movers can make it less stressful. We’ve had the pleasure of serving residential and commercial clients since 2004. At White Glove Movers, we believe in conducting every move with caution and care, which is how we earned our name!

4.The Local Move

Perhaps you’re finally ready to move into a larger house than your previous one or you’re ready to get out of your old apartment. If you’re staying in the area, you fit into the “local move” category.

Many people find local moves to be less stressful because:

  • You’re moving a distance less than 50 to 100 miles
  • You don’t have to ship your belongings
  • Professional moving companies can alleviate some of your burdens

 

5.The Apartment Move

Apartment moves are often simpler than moving 1600-square feet homes, but even the average sized apartment has its challenges.

No one daydreams about maneuvering their furniture out of their apartment, down the steps, and out onto the sidewalk, so why not let the professionals handle it?

Get started today

Once you’re ready to start planning your Cedar Rapids move, give the team at White Glove Movers a call. We’re an experienced team that offers everyday low rates so you can save some money on your move. Give us a call today to discuss your upcoming move.

9 Things Your Professional Movers in Cedar Rapids Won’t Move

Determining what items professional movers in Cedar Rapids don’t move can be frustrating and confusing. After all, it’s not like you have all this stuff memorized.

Before you start wrapping all of your possessions in newspaper and putting them into boxes, it’s important to know which items your Cedar Rapids moving team won’t handle.

Here are nine items professional movers won’t move for you:

1.Plants

It’s illegal to take plants across state borders, which is why most professional movers in Cedar Rapids decline to do so. Plants can be transported within 150 miles, however. Why do states have such laws? To prevent pests such as the emerald ash borer and other predators from becoming a real problem in new areas.

2.Chemicals and hazardous materials

There are several items that you may have in your garage or basement that are considered hazardous. These include items such as:

  • Paint
  • Aerosol cans
  • Paint thinner
  • Batteries
  • Fire extinguishers

As a professional moving team in Cedar Rapids, White Glove Movers will give you a list of the items we consider hazardous and instructions on how to pack those items up yourself before moving day arrives. The best thing to do is dispose of them properly ahead of time.

3.Perishable food

The average professional moving team won’t move anything that will spoil including perishable food, frozen food, or open containers. Try your best to consume these items ahead of time so you’re not throwing them away before moving day.

4.Explosives

For the average professional moving company, the following items are no-gos:

  • Ammunition
  • Black powder
  • Primers
  • Propellants
  • Souvenir explosives

5.Pets

Your pet should be by your side on moving day. This is because for one, they’ll be stressed out. And two, professional movers are busy. They have an established routine and it’s best to avoid distractions.

Make arrangements for your pet to be either with you, a family friend, or boarded during the moving process.

6.Flammable items

Certain materials should be discarded instead of moved. They include:

  • Kerosene
  • Charcoal
  • Lighter fluid
  • Paint remover
  • Gas

7.Valuables

While professional moving companies carry movers’ insurance, it’s best to handle valuables yourself. This includes important documents, jewelry, and cash. Instead of placing those items onto the moving truck, keep them with you.

8.Corrosives

Professional movers in Cedar Rapids won’t handle corrosive items including:

  • Muriatic acid
  • Nitric acid
  • Batteries with acid

9.Specialty items

Some moving companies in Cedar Rapids prefer to skip the heavier objects, but White Glove Movers is happy to do the job. If you have a grand piano, hot tub, pool table, or other large objects that need to go to your new home, give us a call!

Get a moving quote today!

If a move is in your future, give the experts at White Glove Movers a call. We are a group of professional movers in Cedar Rapids that specializes in residential and commercial moves. Whether you’re moving across the state, country, or town, we’ll take the stress out of moving.

Moving Day 101: Things Your Professional Movers in Cedar Rapids Want You to Know

Most of us have jobs that require us to interact with other humans on a regular basis. Whether you’re helping customers, speaking with colleagues or service providers, there’s probably a list of things you wish they knew that would make your interactions smoother.

Your professional movers Cedar Rapids team feels the same way. They’re there to make moving day as easy as possible for you, which means they need to stick to a schedule.

Here are 7 things your professional movers of Cedar Rapids want you to know:

 

1.Step aside

 

You can help your movers Cedar Rapids team the most by letting them do their job. This requires staying out of their way. It’s tempting to think that you know the best way of handling everything in your home, but you hired a professional moving team for a reason, right?

A company like White Glove Movers in Cedar Rapids has a professionally trained team to move couches, dressers, boxes, and fragile items so you don’t have to. Skip the stress by letting them do their thing.

2.Wrap up the packing

If you hire a professional movers Cedar Rapids team to do the packing for you, then finishing packing isn’t such a big deal. However, if you’re doing the packing yourself, then it needs to be done before moving day.

Movers will have an easier time getting things out of the house if you’re ready to go the moment they pull in.

If they have to wait in the driveway for you to wrap everything up, then it’s a waste of their time and your money.

3.Carry valuables with you

There are certain objects your movers won’t touch, which is why it’s best to carry them with you. Don’t burden them with any of the following:

  • Cash
  • Jewelry
  • Prescription medications
  • Personal papers
  • Other valuables

 

4.Label boxes properly

Want your movers to place boxes in their desired destination? Label each box clearly with its room of destination so your movers don’t have to wait for your instructions. If you’re paying an hourly wage this is a BIG time saver!

5.Mark items and boxes as fragile

At White Glove Movers, we wish we could say we’re psychic, but sadly, we’re not. Please clearly label which boxes are fragile ahead of time so we know to handle them with extra care during the entire moving process.

6.Clear a path

Come moving day, make sure your professional moving company has room to park their truck, how they can access your home, and if there are any parking limitations in your neighborhood.

The moving team will show up assuming all of this has been researched and that there will be a clear path to your belongings.

7.Don’t overload boxes

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make during the moving process is over-filling boxes. If you fill a box too full it could burst open on the move. If you’re short on boxes, ask the team at White Glove Movers. We’re happy to supply you with the moving supplies you need!

Get a quote today



Trust the professional movers Cedar Rapids team of White Glove. It has been serving Cedar Rapids since 2004. Call the them today to receive a quote on your move and to take advantage of their great prices!

Money-Saving Hacks to Use When Relocating

One of the biggest concerns homeowners face during the moving process is cost. On top of the cost of your new home, you now have to think about all the supplies you need, phone calls to make, services to switch, and movers to pay.

As a team of experienced professional movers, we’re here to give you some important money-saving tips that will help you keep money in your pocket as well as alleviate some of the stress surrounding your move. 

1.Get an early start

When it comes to moving, the early-bird gets the cash. Starting your prep work early means you’re more likely to stay organized but it also means you can save coins. The moment you find out you’re about to move, start creating a list of items you’re donating and those you’re selling.

2.Make some extra cash

Procrastinating leads to last-minute franticness and nobody has the time for that. Start posting the items you’d like to sell on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace early. This will help you avoid the setup hassle and marketing fees for garage sales. You’d be surprised by how much you can get for your items online whether it’s children’s toys, electronics, unused makeup, or furniture. 

3.Avoid leaks

 As a professional mover based out of Cedar Rapids, we’ve seen our fair share of liquid leaks. While our team is happy to provide you with packing services, we understand if you’d prefer to do it on our own.

Because items such as toiletries can shuffle around in their boxes, we recommend you remove the cap to each item and place a layer of cling film on top. Then, replace the cap to seal the item thus preventing leaks! This money-saving hack will spare you the unwanted clean-up and save cash by not having to purchase replacements. 

4.Eat up

You know that spare freezer you have in your garage or basement? It’s time to clean that baby out. Frozen foods won’t survive a long-distance trip and since your deep freeze will be out of commission during the move, it’s best to eat those foods now.

5.Pack carefully

Though professional moving companies such as White Glove Movers have insurance, it’s best to avoid breaking items altogether. Here are some money-saving hacks that can prevent the loss of valuables and keep some cash in your pocket:

  • Store glasses in wine glass boxes: Stop by your local wine and spirits store and ask if they have any extra wine glass boxes. These boxes will protect your cups, glasses, and wine glasses!
  • Stack plates: This is an easy way to protect your glass plates. Swing by the local grocery or dollar store for a pack of those cheap foam disposable plates. Then, slide one foam plate between each glass plate to prevent them from moving around during your move.
  • Protect valuables with clothing: Save yourself some money on bubble wrap by using clothing to protect your dishes, glassware, cups, and more. This will kill two birds with one stone and spare you the expense of extra wardrobe boxes.

Book us for our move today

As a professional moving company that’s been in business since 2004, White Glove Movers knows how to make the moving process a smooth one. We’d love the opportunity to work with you on your residential, commercial, long-distance, or short-distance move. Give us a call today to receive a quote.

5 Helpful Moving Tips from Your Professional Movers in Cedar Rapids

Moving can be a stressful time but the entire process doesn’t have to make you miserable. As a team of professional movers in Cedar Rapids, White Glove Movers knows how to make moving a smooth process.

To avoid injury, headaches, and frustration, follow these 5 moving tips on the big day:

1.Work with a professional moving company

To be honest, letting a team of professional movers help you relocate can be one of the best decisions you make regarding your move. A professional moving company will take a look at your possessions, give you an estimate, help you do the packing, and move all the bulky stuff. The best part is that it doesn’t have to be as expensive as you think.

At White Glove Movers, we’re locally owned and operated which means we have a low overhead cost. As a result, we pass the savings on to customers like you!

2.Avoid overpacking

If you opt to do the packing yourself, try not to overdo it. Just because you can fit 75 books in a box doesn’t mean you should. Moving boxes are designed to hold a certain amount of weight and putting too much in one box will strain your back, knees, and other joints. As an experienced Cedar Rapids moving company, we know you shouldn’t pack more than 50 pounds in a small box, 65 pounds in a medium box, and 70 in a large moving box.

3.Wrap sharp objects

Any professional mover will tell you to wrap sharp objects, especially gardening tools and cutlery. Because our knowledgeable moving staff provides packing services, we’ll take the time to wrap sharp items such as knives in packing paper and bubble wrap. If you want to do the packing yourself we recommend doing that and wrapping the item in a dish towel and then securing it with a rubber band.

4.Dress for the weather

Moving involves going in and out of your new space plus protecting yourself. Since Iowa weather can be unpredictable, we recommend paying attention to the forecast a day or two before the move. Avoid wearing baggy clothing that can get caught on furniture and boxes. Instead, opt for something that’s tight-fitted, flexible, and breathable. You should also wear tennis shoes or boots as opposed to flip-flops or sandals that can trip you up.

5.Lift what you can

Moving day is not the day to turn into Superman. Stay safe and avoid causing injury by lifting only what you can handle. If you’re working with a professional mover, let them do the heavy lifting and stay out of the way to avoid any confusion or disruption. When lifting heavy boxes, bend at your knees instead of your waist. Avoid twisting your body while lifting and carrying items. If you do have to maneuver, turn your hips first and not your feet.

Is a residential or commercial move in your future? Speak to the professional movers of White Glove Movers. We’re happy to help you move to the other side of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, or the country! Give us a call today to receive an estimate.

5 Eco-Friendly Moving Tips

Moving requires planning, making phone calls, organization, and patience. It’s one of the busiest times you’ll ever experience, which means it can also be a waste of resources if you’re not careful.

In our modern times, we each have a responsibility to look after our planet, which means looking at things from an eco-friendly perspective. Moving day is no exception.

To remain eco-friendly during your move, we suggest implementing the following tips:

1.Donate your unwanted items

The moment you start evaluating the items you have in your home is the moment you realize you have more than you thought. Moving time is the perfect time to donate clothing items you no longer wear, kitchen items you no longer use, and unwanted holiday decorations that are collecting dust in your storage area.

Taking your unwanted items to the nearest Cedar Rapids Goodwill or Salvation Army will ensure you’re not contributing to the 9.8 million tons of landfill waste that pile up each year. If you have some high-quality items that you’d like to get some money back on, consider hosting a garage sale or consigning them at Stuff Etc.

2.Recycle EVERYTHING

One of the nicest things about living in eastern Iowa is that cities such as Cedar Rapids, Marion, and Hiawatha have clean-up days where local law enforcement assist with the disposal of used batteries, prescription medication, eyeglasses, paint cans, and more.

Take advantage of these opportunities and if there isn’t a clean-up day during your moving prep, take your old appliances to Best Buy and your batteries, medications, etc. to the local recycling center.

3.Reuse moving boxes

Do you have a family member or friend who recently moved? Ask them for their moving boxes! You can also check out Craigslist, social media, and your workplace for sturdy boxes.

At White Glove Movers, we have the packing and moving supplies you need to make moving a breeze, but we fully support your efforts to be eco-friendly. Just let us know if you need some moving boxes on top of what you collect.

4.Forward your mail

You probably have forwarding your mail toward the top of your moving list because of the convenience factor, but have you also considered how much this benefits the environment? If you submit a forwarding request ahead of time, it will save the post office the trouble and fuel (that means C02 emissions) to deliver your mail to the wrong address.

5.Stop after a couple quotes

Most professional moving companies need to visit your home to give you an accurate quote. While this is convenient for you and necessary for the mover, it’s a waste of gas if you call mover after mover.

Arrange for two to three professional movers to come to your house after doing your initial research online. Look for moving companies that have excellent reviews, proof of insurance, license numbers, and packing services. Then once you find a few you’re comfortable with calling, invite them over for a quote.

Start planning your move today

Here at White Glove Movers, we strive to make the moving process an easy one. We’re a locally owned and operated moving company based out of Cedar Rapids, Iowa that offers residential and commercial long and short distance moves.

If you’d like to be kind to the environment during your move, we suggest that you follow our eco-friendly moving tips and give us a call today to receive an estimate.