Luckily, moving with pets doesn't have to be a chaotic and trying experience as long as you know how to plan for the process and deal with any challenges that may arise. 

Below, we're sharing several helpful tips to help make your upcoming move with your animal friend as smooth as possible. 

Visit Your Veterinarian

If you're moving outside your immediate area and need to find a new vet, contact your current veterinarian to ask for your pet's health records. And, if you really like your current vet, it's also a good idea to ask if he or she has any vet recommendations in your new area. 

If your vet does have a recommendation and you trust that referral, you can have your vet transfer your pet's health records to the new office to save yourself the hassle. 

Update Your Pet's Information

If your pet has a microchip, be sure to update your contact details in the microchip registry before you take off for your new home. You'll also want to have new ID tags made so they're ready to be swapped out when you arrive at your new location. 

If, heaven forbid, your animal friend somehow gets lost during the move, you'll want to have your new home address listed as your pet's contact information.

Arrange for Pet Care on Moving Day

If possible, arrange for your pet to stay in a kennel or have a trusted friend or relative watch them on the day you're planning to move out of your current home. On move day, your professional movers and packers will be in and out constantly, for hours on end. 

Neither they nor you need any little feet running around, complicating the process. 

Separate Your Pet From the Commotion

If you can't find someone to watch your pet on the day of your move, keep your animal friend away from the commotion to help reduce their stress. If you have an empty bedroom that's fairly quiet and out of the way, that'll be the best place for your pet(s) to stay on move day. 

Place a few familiar toys or blankets, their bed, food, and water in the room, and keep the door shut throughout the loading and unloading process. You don't want your pet(s) wandering around when you and your movers are working, as that creates a safety hazard for everyone — including your pet — involved. 

Pack an Overnight Care Bag

When you're moving with a pet, you'll want to make sure you're fully prepared for the journey to your new home. The best way to do that is to pack a bag for your pet, much like you'd pack an overnight or essentials bag for the day of the trip and your first night in your new home. 

A few staples you'll want to have readily available in your pet's overnight bag include:

• Plenty of food
• Collapsible water bowl and bottles of fresh water
• Pee pads (even if your pet is potty trained, keep these around just in case)
• A few towels and a pack of baby wipes (dirty paws!)
• Treats, toys, and chews (for entertainment on the road)
• A window shade for your vehicle if you don't have tinted windows
• Leash (if applicable) and potty bags (for bathroom pit stops in public places)

If you can think of anything else your pet needs daily or any other items that would make your pet feel more comfortable during the trip, toss those items in the bag, too. Change is stressful for your animal friend, so anything you can do to ease the transition to the new home will be well worth the extra effort. 

Transporting Your Pet in Your Personal Vehicles

Your moving company cannot transport your pet, so you'll need to either relocate it in your personal vehicle or arrange alternate transportation for it. 

If, for any reason, you cannot transport your pet in your personal vehicle, you can hire a dedicated pet transport company to get your animal friend to your new home safely. 

• Dogs and cats may need to be in a carrier depending on their demeanor, a carrier may be helpful, but some may feel safer without.  

• If you're transporting rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and gerbils, take any sharp items out of the cages and make sure they have lots of shade and ventilation. And if you don't have a safety carrier, place them on the floor behind the driver or passenger seat so it's less stressful for you both.

• Fish need to be placed in plastic bags use the water from their tanks, and leave lots of air in the space. You can also place them inside a styrofoam container to make sure the ride there is safer.

• If you're transporting snakes, keep a warm water bottle in or near their carrier to make sure that they can maintain internal body temperature.

• Birds should stay in their carrier and place a cover over it, however; remove any toys or perches if they have difficulty seeing in the dark. Keep them out of direct sunlight for extended periods, and make sure they have proper airflow for the duration of the trip. 

Don't Change the Schedule

As the time approaches for moving, and even after you've done the move, do your best to keep your pet on a normal schedule. 

Whether it's playtime, feeding, walks, or daily routines, consistency will help them stay happier and calmer during the process.

Have an Emergency Kit

Emergencies will happen, so make sure that you have everything you need in case something comes up, especially if the trip is cross-country. Aside from extra food and water, make sure you have the phone number for an emergency veterinarian at home and where you're moving to. 

Keep these items in a designated area so you don't have to scramble through boxes trying to get the items or information.

Get Your New Home Ready for Them

Before bringing your pet to the new space, make sure it's ready for them. A few things we recommend doing include:

• Make sure you have an enclosed space if your pet likes to wander.

• Store any unsafe chemicals or materials they may have access to.

• Reinforce windows and doors with blocks or pet entrances.

• Cover up any small spaces or holes that your pet could get into and get stuck or harmed.

• Check all screens for holes.

• Set up a designated area for them with familiar items that they can have as a safe space until you are settled.

Need to Hire Professional Movers Near Tacoma?

Looking for a reputable moving company in the Tacoma or Seattle area? Look no further than Ed's Moving & Storage! We specialize in local, interstate, and international moving services and have proudly served the moving needs of thousands of customers since 1965. 

To learn more about how we can help with your upcoming move, feel free to give us a call today at 253-581-2446 or request a quote online, and we'll get in touch!

How do you do that? By downsizing. But as easy as downsizing might sound, it's not all that simple for most people. If you've accumulated a lot of stuff over the years, chances are you're somewhat attached to it, and attempting to get rid of things — even if they're unnecessary — can be challenging.

If you're unsure how to downsize before a relocation, our Ed's Moving & Storage team is ready to help! Keep reading for a brief guide on how to get rid of your extra stuff before you move. 

Give Yourself Plenty of Time

Ideally, you should start organizing your belongings and getting rid of things at least 90 days (three months) before you move. Letting go of things you've had for years can be tough, and determining what you can bear to part with can be even tougher. That's why you need plenty of time. 

If you try to rush the process, you'll likely end up overwhelmed and may throw in the towel altogether. Check out our 8-Week Moving Timeline for more helpful tips on organizing and planning during the weeks leading up to your relocation. 

Sort Through Large Items First

Are you moving to a smaller home? Does it have fewer bedrooms? Smaller living areas? Then, you'll want to plan out which large items you'll get rid of first. 

Why? Because many moving companies base their fees on the total weight of your belongings. The more stuff you need to haul, the more money your move will cost. 

To minimize superfluous weight and avoid moving things that won't fit inside your new place, look at the floor plan of your new home. Measure the furniture you'd like to bring to determine what will fit. 

Once you've nailed down which furniture pieces will be coming with you, it's time to sell or donate the rest. 

Organize & Downsize Your Belongings By Category

Some experts recommend downsizing by room, and that can certainly work. However, there are more organized and efficient ways to tackle the job. That's because it's easy to assume you don't have superfluous stuff until you've organized things by category and can see everything in a pile in front of you. 

When you downsize by room, you'll end up sorting through many different categories of items without seeing the full magnitude of what you own. When you divide your things into categories — clothing, shoes, kitchen stuff, bathroom stuff, linens, decor, etc. — it's far easier to see everything you've collected. More importantly, finding duplicates and the items you rarely or never use is much easier. 

As you're downsizing, remember that if you own duplicates, you don't need all of them. And if you haven't used something in months (seasonal items excepted), you likely don't need it either. 

Take Photos of Each Room In Your Current Home

Taking photos of each room in your house lets you identify the items you truly love. For example, you might have a bunch of furniture in your spare room, but only two or three of those pieces are items that you really enjoy. Take a look at those photos and see what your eyes gravitate toward first — those are typically the items you'll want to take with you.

As for the remainder of the stuff in your photos? Determine what to keep and what to let go of by assessing how frequently you use those items. Or, if they're more decorative or sentimental in nature, be honest with yourself about how important to you they really are.

Beyond decluttering, taking photos of each room can also help you arrange furniture and decor in your new home. And, if you're hiring professional movers and packers to help with your relocation, your photos will help them situate your things properly during the unloading process.

Only Keep Things You Need, Use, & Love

When it comes to our possessions, the things we own often own us, making downsizing a somewhat heart-wrenching challenge. But if you're moving into a smaller space, chances are you'll need to get rid of quite a bit of stuff. Here's a simple way to determine what to keep and what to toss.

Need It

If you know you need an item, even if you don't use it very often, obviously, you'll want to pack it and take it with you. Items in this category might include medical or health equipment that you use infrequently, small kitchen appliances, certain electronics, etc.

Use it Frequently

The items you use or look at daily, weekly, or monthly help make your house a home. Whether functional or decorative, they should come with you to your new place.

Love It

This category is where you'll need to be very honest with yourself. It's easy to claim you love something — but is that item important to you? If it has a lot of sentimental value, consider keeping it. But those boxes of old Christmas and birthday cards? Did you even know they were there? How often do you look at them?

Chances are they're just excess clutter, and if you want to downsize successfully, they've got to go. 

Create a Plan for Getting Rid of Unwanted Items

Have you thought about how you'll offload the things you no longer need, want, or use? You'll want to start thinking about that well before your move so you can start planning the details. A few options to consider include:

Organizing a Garage Sale

Want to offset the cost of hiring professional movers and packers? Holding a garage sale is a great way to do it. But if you've ever held a garage sale, you know it's a lot of work, so the earlier you start planning and preparing, the better. 

Selling Items on Online Marketplaces

Not up for a garage sale but still want to make some cash? List your gently used items on eBay, Poshmark, LetGo, and other online marketplaces. Check out Nerdwallet's 12 Best Places to Sell Stuff Online for a complete list of sites you can sell on. 

Renting a Dumpster

Chances are you own some stuff unsuitable for donation or sale. If you own a lot of that stuff, it may be in your best interest to rent a dumpster so you can avoid making several trips to the landfill. You can also schedule pick-ups with your local waste management service if you prefer. 

Setting Up Donations & Pick-Ups 

Don't want to deal with the hassle of selling your unwanted stuff? Give it away to a local non-profit. If you don't have the time to make multiple trips or the ability to transport large items, check around for donation centers that will pick up your stuff for you. 

Passing on Belongings to Loved Ones

Ever heard of a reverse house-warming party? It involves setting aside the things you want to get rid of and inviting friends and loved ones over to lay claim to those items. It's a great way to connect with loved ones before your move and get rid of superfluous stuff simultaneously! 

Renting a Storage Unit

Can't bear to part with some of the stuff you don't need? Rent a climate-controlled storage unit to ensure your belongings remain pristine even when you're not using them. 

Ed's Moving & Storage has climate-controlled units to store your items until you are ready to move them into your new space or family members are ready for them. All shapes and sizes are available, and they can be used for short or long-term situations for an affordable and secure solution.

Never put anything in storage before? Check out What You Should Know Before Renting a Storage Unit.  

Don't Assume Family Members Want Your Stuff

If you're downsizing after retirement, it's easy to assume your kids or grandkids might want your stuff — don't make that mistake. Many people put furniture and other large items in climate-controlled storage units to pass them down to their family members.

But when the time comes to hand things off, they discover that their family members have no interest in inheriting their stuff. Often, your style won't align with that of your family and friends, and if you don't ask, you won't know.  

If It Doesn't Have a Designated Space, Don't Move It

If you have items in your current home that you're unsure of, consider whether they will fit in your new space. If you can't find a designated area for something, don't take it with you.

Not only does extra stuff create a packing hassle for your professional movers and packers, but it also creates unnecessary tedium during unpacking in your new home. 

Ultimately, you'll end up making additional trips to get rid of the items that don't fit in your new space. So why not save yourself the extra effort and let that stuff go before your move?

Need a Moving Company Near Tacoma? Request a Quote From Ed's Moving!

Not a fan of packing? Don't want to load and transport all of your belongings? That's what our team at Ed's Moving & Storage is for! Since 1965, our professional movers and packers have helped thousands of Seattle and Tacoma residents relocate, and we'd love to make your move easier, too! 

From full packing services to storage solutions and everything in between, we offer a wide variety of services designed to make your move as simple as possible.

To learn more about how we can help you, feel free to give us a call today at 253-581-2446 or request a fast quote online, and we'll reach out with more information. 

However, it's worth mentioning that moving in the summer isn't exactly as easy as it sounds. We're going to elaborate on a few methods that can make your summer move a breeze.

Survey Your Belongings

Get an idea of what kind of furniture and other large items you'll need to get hauled from one place to another. Doing so will make your moving experience run much more smoothly and keep your moving experience organized so that you don't leave behind anything you want in your new home.

Take Care of Your Items

Remember that you'll be putting your personal property in a hot moving truck. Items that can be damaged by heat might have to be transported by you or packed with extreme care. 

Candles, vinyl records, and sensitive electronics are some of the many things that require extra care because they can be warped or ruined by heat. It may be in your best interest to transport these items yourself to guarantee A/C while moving. 

Move On The Least Busy Days

Moving on the least busy days is incredibly important for your move. Weekends, the month's beginning, and the month's end can be the most busy times in which people plan on moving. 

Memorial Day weekend and the weekend of July 4th are also days that can be especially busy due to people and their moving plans. 

The best time to move is usually during the middle of the week or the middle of the month since people are generally at work during these times.

Think Ahead of the Heat

Try to plan a move in the morning if possible. It's usually cooler in the morning, so suffering from extreme heat is less likely. In addition to this, try to remain hydrated throughout the move and wear light clothing. Heat stroke is a real danger during a summer move, so be careful.

Plan Ahead

Understand that moving during the summer is incredibly popular. Many people wait for months and plan their move very far in advance before they begin filling boxes with their items. 

Make your moving reservations as soon as you get a move-in/move-out date. 

Thankfully, Ed's Moving & Storage is here to make the nightmare of moving as smooth as a summer breeze. Whether packing, storing, or moving, we’re here to simplify the process!

How Does Early Planning Benefit You? 

Taking the time to plan your move comes with multiple perks, and our top three favorites include:

Makes the Process Easier

Let's face it: moving is stressful, especially if you wait till the last minute. Taking the time to plan sooner than later means you're going to have enough time to get organized and give you an opportunity to go through your things and choose what you really want to keep and what may not be as important so you can get rid of extra items you no longer need.

Saves You Money

Early planning can also get you better rates if you work with a moving company. The further in advance you book, the more likely you'll be able to get a discount or even a promotion to save you a few bucks.

Better Selection of Movers

The truth is not all companies are created equally, and you need a company that always provides professional moving services. Booking in advance means you get a better chance of choosing from the top companies in the area and that they will have the right equipment you need for your move.

Why is Ed's Moving & Storage the Best Choice Around?

Our team has been in the business long enough to know how critical it is to give yourself enough time to pack your items properly and to stay organized, and we customize our packing services for you. 

We specialize in residential and commercial moves, only use professional-grade crates and boxes, and offer full packing services that work around your busy schedule.

Streamline Your Summer Move with Ed's Moving & Storage

As you can see, planning in advance for your summer move can help you stay more organized, and if you're looking for custom movers in Seattle and Tacoma, Ed's Moving & Storage has you covered. 

With over 50 years in the business and as a family-owned company, customer satisfaction is our priority, and we offer everything from international to military moving services.

Don't leave your move to just any company; give our office a call at 253-581-2446 or send us a message online for a quick and easy quote.

Ed's Moving & Storage can provide professional-grade boxes that protect and pad your valuables en route from point A to point B. To find out what we have available for moving and storage solutions, you can contact us today!

Moving Box Types

Moving boxes come in many sizes, but just because your items can fit in certain boxes doesn’t mean you should use them, especially when it comes to your more valuable pieces. Before you start packing your stuff in any old box, check out our summary of the best types of packages for moving all sorts of items, large and small. 

Small Boxes

In the moving industry, a small box has a dimension of close to 1.5 cubic feet. Little boxes are great for moving bulk items or small but heavy objects. Examples include books, canned goods, or things made from heavy materials like thick wood or metal. 

Medium Boxes

Medium boxes measure around three cubic feet and are commonly referred to as all-purpose boxes. These are for medium-sized items that one to two people can carry. A medium box can carry children's toys, sturdy dishware, toiletries, or garage tools. Since they can carry more, you need to be aware that they can be twice as heavy as a small box. 

Large Boxes

A standard measurement for a large box is 4.5 cubic feet. They're great for packing sizable items that are not too heavy. Larger boxes can hold lots of clothing, bedding, pillows, curtains, etc. Again, adding too much weight to these boxes is not a good idea. Even if you have multiple people who can carry the load, the box may not withstand the weight. 

Dish Packs

The best way to preserve your beautiful china is to purchase dish packs. They are boxes with dividers that separate plates, saucers, stemware, or bowls to keep them from scratching, chipping, or breaking.  

Mattress Box

Mattresses are among the valuables that receive the most damage during a relocation. Homeowners often place them in compromising positions against metal or pointed objects. The solution to the problem is to put a mattress inside a mattress box. You can get mattress boxes to fit mattresses of all shapes and sizes.

Mirror Boxes

Just like a mattress, mirrors also take the brunt end of moving. No matter how many blankets or pillows you surround a mirror with, strange things can happen in the moving truck. Your best bet is to put the mirror in a padded box designed to withstand impact. Mirror boxes come in many shapes and sizes. 

Crates

We provide crating service for home and business owners in the Seattle and Tacoma, Washington areas who want to move expensive items such as antiques, chandeliers, artwork, or anything that is large and takes up a lot of space but is delicate. Ask us about our crates!

Packing Fragile & Valuable Items: Tips for Success

Whether you're moving across town or relocating internationally, it's important to pack your valuable, fragile belongings properly. Safe packing is especially important if you plan to ship items to your new abode since you'll have little control over how boxes are handled. 

At Ed's Moving & Storage, we know how devastating it can be to find broken valuables after a move, and that's why we're here to help you out. Learn how to safely pack some of the most common fragile household items to protect your possessions during your move.  

Gather the Appropriate Materials

First things first: Gather the materials you'll need to protect your fragile items properly. Though you can use household items (such as blankets and towels) as protective packing material, opting for designated packing materials is usually best. 

Because they're designed to provide impact protection and prevent your items from jostling around during transport, these materials provide a better safeguard against damage. 

Here's what you'll need to collect:
 

• Scissors

• Packing tape or other sturdy types of tape

• Permanent markers

• Bubble wrap, packing peanuts, newspaper, or packing paper

• Appropriately sized, sturdy boxes

• Pliable cardboard

Keep in mind that though many people opt to gather used boxes to pack their belongings, those boxes may not have the structural integrity to adequately protect your things. While you can certainly pack less fragile items in those boxes, you should always use new, sturdy boxes when packing fragile valuables.  

Packing Electronics: 7 Useful Tips

Most relocators have plenty of valuable electronics that must be protected from heat, moisture, and jostling during transport. Here are several valuable tips for packing those items:

• Remove the batteries from your electronics before packing them. If the batteries overheat, they can leak potassium hydroxide, a caustic substance that can eat through your electronics. 

• Eject DVDs, CDs, and other media from your electronics before packing to protect it from scratches.

• Remove toner and printer cartridges from any printers you plan to pack.

• Remove all cables and other items from electronics before you pack them. You should also check to make sure all screws are intact and properly tightened.

• Wrap large electronics in bubble wrap and secure them with strong tape. If the device has a screen, protect it with another layer of bubble wrap or a soft cloth.

• Avoid using newspaper to protect screens as it can cause scratches. 

• Cushion the top and bottom of boxes packed with electronics. Insert bubble wrap around the outside and between items to prevent jostling and damage.

Because electronics are sensitive to heat, if you have a lengthy move ahead of you, try to pack your most valuable electronics in your vehicle so you can control the ambient temperature. The back of a moving truck can get hot in a hurry, and if you load your valuables in there, chances are you won't be able to access them throughout the drive to your new home. 

Not sure you feel comfortable packing expensive electronics? You can always opt for full packing services from your moving company! At Ed's Moving & Storage, we train our team extensively in proper packing techniques so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your belongings are well protected. 

How to Pack Plates

To pack plates safely for transport, start by reinforcing the bottom of each medium-sized box with packing tape. Don't be shy about using too much! More is better (just in case) when transporting fragile items. After applying the tape, test the strength of the bottom of the box by pushing on it with your hand. When the box is good and sturdy, move on with the following steps:

• Wad up several sheets of packing paper or newspaper (you can use bubble wrap, too), which you'll use to line the top and bottom of the boxes. 

• After lining the bottom of the box, wrap each plate in its sheet of packing paper. Fold the corners of each sheet of paper until the plate is completely covered. 

• Grab another plate, wrap it up, and stack it on top of the plate you just wrapped. You can also insert pliable cardboard between the plates for additional protection. 

• Insert both plates vertically into the box. Never pack plates flat; they're more likely to break if the box jostles or encounters impact. 

• Continue wrapping and inserting plates into the box until it's tightly packed. If there's any remaining room, insert more wadded-up paper or bubble wrap to prevent jostling.

• Cushion the top of the box with more crumpled packing paper, fold the flaps down over the top, and seal the box with more packing tape. 

How to Pack Glassware

Because glassware is oddly shaped, it's a bit trickier to pack than plates or electronics. However, with a bit of patience and a bunch of packing supplies, you can transport your fragile glass items safely to your new home. Here's how to pack glassware properly:

• Measure and Cut Pliable Cardboard: Place a piece of glassware on a sheet of pliable, strong cardboard. Double the object's size and leave about 2-3 inches around the perimeter to roll up the object inside the cardboard. Mark the appropriate size with a marker and cut the cardboard to size. If you're using pre-cut pieces of cardboard, you can skip this step and use two pre-cut pieces instead.

• Apply Bubble Wrap: Unroll a piece of bubble wrap, cut it to size, and place it bubble-side down against the glass object. Wrap the object up and secure the bubble wrap with tape.

• Wrap in Cardboard: With the bubble wrap in place, place the glass object at one end of your pre-cut piece of cardboard. Roll the object tightly inside the cardboard and secure the whole thing with packing tape. Make sure you tape the ends to prevent the object from slipping out!

• Snugly Pack Medium-Sized Boxes with Wrapped Glassware: If there's any space between the objects or around the sides, you can fill it with wadded-up packing paper or more bubble wrap.

• Secure the Boxes: Close up the boxes with packing tape, label them "FRAGILE," and inform your professional movers to exercise extra caution with those boxes. 

If you're wary about packing expensive dishes or valuable china, professional movers and packers can help make the process easier. Get in touch with our team at Ed's Moving & Storage to discuss your packing options today!

How to Pack Jewelry

In a best-case scenario, your jewelry should be transported and stored inside their boxes. However, if you no longer have them, take advantage of items like drinking straws or empty paper rolls to transport bracelets and necklaces, small plastic organizers, and even sunglass cases for earrings and rings.

How to Pack Artwork

It's always recommended to transport expensive framed art in specially designed boxes, particularly if they have glass on the front. Applying masking tape in the shape of an X along the glass surface can help stabilize glass shards if there's an accident, and use plenty of bubble wrap and packing paper inside the box for extra cushion.

Lastly! Don't Forget to Organize

While this might be obvious, it's worth mentioning, especially when it comes to your valuables. Always have an inventory because it will save you time if something gets damaged in the move. For high-profile items, take photographs or video footage and keep documents like certificates of authenticity, receipts, and warranty cards together for insurance purposes.

Ed's Moving & Storage Offers Custom Packages

No matter what you need to move, we have the right box or package to transport it. Our Moving Company can help you with every part of your move, from providing you with a moving truck to helping you hire a team of movers who can do the work for you. Call us today and ask us about all of our moving services. 

To schedule a moving date, contact Ed's Moving & Storage at (253) 581-2446, or you can message us online. We are professional movers who serve home and business owners in Seattle and Tacoma, Washington.

Learning the benefits of booking through a moving company will help you understand why they may be better for your move than a moving broker.

What Is a Moving Broker?

Moving brokers are sales teams that take the responsibility of booking your move, turning it around, and selling it to a moving company. Their main job is to pair the customer with the right carrier, and they look at different critical pieces of information like moving distance, budget, and location and then use that information to find the right mover.

They generally work with multiple carriers and have a legally binding contract that lays out the terms like:

●        Insurance details

●        Due dates for payments

●        Invoices

●        Pay rates for the carrier

●        Outline of services

Benefits of Moving Companies vs. Brokers

A broker might be the right choice in some situations. However, many moving companies locally and nationwide offer professional and reliable moving services, so you know you are getting the right company with the right coverage for your move. Here are a few benefits a moving company has over a moving broker.

You Are Dealing With the Company Moving Your Belongings

One of the biggest advantages of working with a moving company is dealing directly with the company that provides your moving services. When you hire a moving broker, they act as a middleman. They handle booking your moving services, and you don't have any say in who moves your belongings.

In fact, you may not know until the day who will be arriving to pack or move your belongings or what their reputation is. When you hire a moving company, you can research their company and learn who they are.

Moving Companies Are Often Cheaper Than Moving Brokers

The other major advantage to hiring a moving company over a moving broker is that working directly with a moving company is often the cheapest option. A moving broker, or middleman, has to make money. So they charge you a percentage of the movers' fee.

The average cost of hiring a local mover can run between $920 and $2530. While brokers might make researching moving companies easier, they typically cost anywhere from $1700 to $2500, keeping 20%-40% of the total as part of their finder's fee, and you will still need to pay some of the moving costs.

Moving Brokers Cannot Guarantee Delivery Dates

The last major advantage is that moving companies can guarantee delivery dates as they move your belongings. Brokers are not legally allowed to guarantee dates because they do not handle the transport. They can state the items should be there by a specific date, but they cannot guarantee it.

If you need your items by a specific date and time, you should use a moving company.

When You Need Expert Moving Services, Ed's Moving & Storage Has You Covered

If you want to book a move in the Tacoma, Washington, area and wish to work with a moving company rather than a broker, contact Ed's Moving and Storage. Since 1965, we have been your local expert for port services, military moves, home moving, apartment moving, condo moving, packing services, and climate-controlled, secure storage facilities.

Our team is happy to answer all your questions, so give us a call at 253-581-2446 or contact us online to get an estimate for your move or to schedule services.

If you have never hired a mover for port services, you may have many questions about the process, and Ed’s Moving & Storage has the answers!

What Are Port Services?

Port services consist of many services needed to ship or retrieve your belongings from a U.S. port. Port services include various services, all of which are necessary to help you send your items from one port to the next, as well as the services that help you retrieve your items. This includes hiring a company to pack and crate your items, prepare them, and ship them.
 

Packing items to be shipped by sea takes extra attention because if they aren't packaged correctly, your items will be damaged by the salt water and the sea air while being shipped. Beyond packaging and shipping your items, port services also include handling the paperwork and customs forms that accompany international shipments.

Who Needs Port Services?

If you are moving overseas, you need to decide whether you are moving your belongings with you or selling them and buying new ones. If you only move with clothes and essential papers, you may wish to ship your belongings via air to your new location. 

However, if you are moving large items or a lot of items, you may need to ship them via boat. Those in this situation need to utilize port services to ship their belongings off and retrieve them once they arrive at their new destination. 

What Are the Benefits of Letting a Mover Handle Your Port Services?

Can you ship your items from one port to the next on your own? Yes, you can, and there are benefits to hiring a moving company to assist you that often outweigh the challenges of doing it on your own.
 

Correctly Filled Out Customs Forms

Filling out customs forms can be challenging. If you don't fill out the forms correctly, you may experience delays in sending or retrieving your items. Customs forms vary from country to country, so even if you have a friend who has shipped items overseas unless they shipped to the same country as you, they most likely had different customs forms than what you'll need to fill out. 
 

Working with an experienced company ensures that your forms are completed correctly, removing the worry of the paperwork not being ready or complete when it's time to move. 

Properly Packed Items

Water, especially salt water, can damage your belongings. Special care and attention need to be put into packing items transported overseas to protect them from rain and salt water. A moving company that specializes in port services ensures your items are packaged correctly, keeping them protected from water damage.
 

Peace of Mind

Moving from one place to the next in the U.S. can be challenging, but moving overseas comes with extra stress. Hiring a moving company to handle port services for your large items removes some of the stress and lets you put your energy into learning about the new city you'll be living in and worry less about your belongings.

From Interstate to Port Services, Ed's Moving and Storage Can Help! 

If you are moving to the Tacoma, Washington, area and are looking for professional movers to help you, call Ed's Moving and Storage. We are a moving company that can assist you with port services, military moves, home, apartment, condo moving, packing services, and climate-controlled and secure storage facilities. 
 

Call us today for a free estimate, or message us online to schedule services for your upcoming move.

It can be really stressful if you’re tasked with moving these items, because they are valuable and if they’re damaged and require a repair, or worse yet, need to be replaced. Below are some tips to help protect your company’s electronics. 

Back Up Your Data

Even more valuable than the physical electronics themselves is the data the electronics hold. You can always replace an electronic, but if you lose the data on it, that’s not something you cannot easily re-create. That’s why completing an entire backup of all your data is the most important step you can take when moving electronics. 

Hiring professionals to move your electronics provides an added layer of precaution, but even if you go this route, there’s always some risk involved when moving electronics. This is why we recommend completing an entire off-site backup before moving day. You can backup the data on a cloud server, where you’ll always be able to access the data. 

Complete the backup before moving day, and test the information to make sure all items have been properly backed up and are accessible. Once confirmed, you can move your electronics without worrying about losing the information they store. 

Communicate with Your Moving Company

You’ll want to make sure to provide Ed’s Moving & Storage (or whichever moving company you hire) with an inventory list that includes all electronic items that need to be moved. Electronic devices require extra attention beyond what other items require, because most electronics use magnetic media. There’s a chance that magnetized items can cause damage, and because of this, need to be handled with extra care.  

Include All Cords and Label Them 

The last thing you want to do when you get to your destination is spend hours trying to figure out which cords belong to which electronic items. Although it will take some extra time before moving day, it’s important to make sure to label all of your cords and keep them connected to their corresponding electronic items. If you take the time to do this before you move, it will make the move and unpacking much more enjoyable. 

Another thing that can be helpful is to take pictures of all the cords with their applicable electronic items, so in the event items get separated, you can rely on your photos to sort out the mess. 

Use Climate-Controlled Storage Units

Electronic items can be negatively impacted by extreme fluctuating temperatures. If your devices have screens, they are susceptible to both heat and cold. Products without screens can be negatively impacted by heat as well. To ensure your electronics stay safe during the move, store them in a climate-controlled storage unit. 

Purchase Additional Insurance for Expensive Items 

If you’re moving expensive items, one thing you can do for extra protection is to insure each item individually. Another option is to insure the value of the information and business as a whole. 

You can often purchase insurance through your moving company. Depending on what type of insurance your business has, you might be able to purchase additional coverage through your existing provider. Take the time before moving day to explore your options and find out what will provide the best protection for you. 

Pack Devices Properly

Aside from getting all your user manuals together, remove all batteries from remotes and electronics to reduce the risk of leaking and overheating. We also recommend ejecting DVDs, CDs, and Blu-rays and charging any rechargeable batteries for extra measure.

Take Out Toner and Printer Cartridges

Regardless of how well-built your printer is, it is one of the more fragile items, and if not handled properly, it can be damaged. Aside from having the right moving box, remove and eject any toner or printer cartridges and keep them wrapped in a resealable bag to avoid leaks.

Protect the Devices with Proper Packing 

Your user manual might have some tips on what the manufacturer recommends for packing, but the best way we found is to make sure there's plenty of cushion on the top and bottom of the box. Use bubble wrap or towels and if it has a screen protect it with an additional layer and cover with cardboard. Never use newspapers and try to place the items back in the original packaging to reduce the risk.

Keep Your Electronics Safer with Ed’s Moving & Storage

Are you feeling more confident about moving your electronics? If you take the time to communicate with your moving company and accurately prepare for your move, the process will be as efficient and stress-free as possible.

If you want assistance, Ed’s Moving & Storage is here to help! Not only can we help you move your electronics, we also offer assistance for military moves, intrastate moves, and full packing services. Call us today at (253) 581-2446, or send a message online, we can’t wait to connect with you and get your move booked today! 

What kind of precautions should you take? Read on for helpful tips and tricks that’ll help you avoid common mistakes and protect your most prized possessions throughout your move. 

1. Hire a Professional Moving Company

If you are worried about the condition of your valuables when moving them, it’s probably in your best interest to hire a team of professionals to help you pack and transport your high-end items. 

When you hire professional movers, you get access to a variety of services designed to protect your belongings and make your move as simple as possible.

Opt for Full Packing Services

This comprehensive service includes safe and secure packing of almost all of the things you own. The pros will not only pack your whole house but also load everything onto the truck, transport your stuff to your new home, and unpack everything for you. 

At Ed’s, we offer hand wrapping, specialty container packing for delicate items, hanging clothes in wardrobe cartons, and custom crate building for large, specialty items upon request. Whatever you need to make your move as easy as possible, we’ll do our very best to make it happen! 

Plus, we’ll get rid of the packing materials, too!

Enjoy Custom Crating

Do you own anything valuable that might not fit in a standard moving box? If so, your movers can hand-build custom crates that will keep those items safe and secure throughout your relocation. 

Moving crates are an ideal solution for packing and transporting large, delicate, valuable items, such as paintings, chandeliers, antiques, sculptures, and awkwardly shaped objects. Or, if you’re planning a commercial move, crates are also a great option for businesses that must transport large pieces of office equipment, such as file cabinets, printers, and certain types of furniture. 

Please note: If you’re considering hiring full packing services, you should be aware that professional movers cannot pack or transport certain hazardous items. Under some circumstances, they may also prefer not to pack or transport specific items.  

2. Know How to Handle Valuables Movers Won’t Transport

Your movers can only transport so many items, and there are many different things they can’t transport because of high liability risks. Things like perishable foods, flammable and hazardous materials, and even pets should not and cannot be placed into the hands of the movers, and you will need to find alternate transport options. 

Keeping your pets in a carrier close by, using a cooler for perishables, and consulting with local regulations for hazardous and flammable materials is the best choice. If you still have questions about the stuff your moving company can’t handle, check out our tips for moving items your residential movers won’t transport. 

3. Use the Appropriate Packing Materials

Would you rather pack up your house on your own? Then you must make sure you’re using high-quality packing products and that you’re using the right materials for the job. 

That means you’ll want to avoid using second-hand boxes you found behind your local grocery store and random materials from around your house. Quality packing supplies are specifically designed to protect your valuable belongings — that’s why they exist. 

Make sure the packing supplies you choose for your long-distance move can withstand all that goes into the transport process. Choose multiple boxes with large, medium, and small sizes, and invest in containers specifically made for mattresses, mirrors, and dishes for the safest transport. Ed’s Moving Storage has the necessary packaging, including bubble wrap, boxes, tape, and other supplies.

Small Boxes

Compact boxes are great for moving collections of small, dense items, such as trinkets, jewelry, figurines, books, and glass objects. It’s safer to keep your small, priceless valuables in your personal vehicle when you move simply because you know exactly where to find them and what happens to them throughout your move. 

Before you pack, we suggest compiling an inventory of your small valuables to make sure you transport everything successfully to your new location. Plus, an inventory can help you locate which boxes contain your most valuable possessions, so when you arrive at your destination, there’s no panic about whether you accidentally left something behind. 

Small boxes won’t hold oodles of objects because they’re only 1.5 cubic feet, so if you have an extensive collection of small items, plan accordingly.  

Medium Boxes

Medium boxes are typically called all-purpose boxes because they can contain a wide variety of heavy and less dense items. They’re great for packing children’s toys, garage items, and kitchenware due to their size, which, in most cases, is around three cubic feet. 

Medium boxes can also contain a substantial amount of protective packing material, which makes them great for transporting possessions that must be wrapped or insulated to prevent breakage. 

Large Boxes

Large boxes have a volume of 4.5 cubic feet and are well suited for transporting larger, lighter items, such as bedding, curtains, decorative pillows, blankets, and throws. Due to their larger size, they’re not the most appropriate choice for heavier items, simply because the bigger the box is, the lower its relative rigidity is. 

To properly safeguard your valuables, you’ll want to contain them in the most sturdy packing material for their size, and larger boxes tend to bend inward or buckle slightly under pressure or force.  

Dish Packing Boxes

If you have valuable china, dish packing boxes are the perfect solution to keep it in flawless condition throughout your move. Dish packing boxes contain protective dividers that separate plates, saucers, cups, bowls, and stemware to prevent them from chipping, cracking, or breaking during transport. 

Consider adding protective, insulating material around each dish to help absorb vibrations and shock.

Mattress Boxes 

Modern mattresses can be incredibly expensive, so safely transporting your existing bed can potentially save you thousands in relocation costs. One of the biggest issues with mattress transportation is cleanliness, followed closely by unintentional damage from pointed or metal objects within the moving truck. 

Wrapping a mattress in flimsy plastic and precariously positioning it against the truck's inner wall is asking for a puncture wound – in the mattress, that is. Instead, a mattress box functions to protect the mattress’s delicate exterior from accidental damage while keeping it clean and fresh for your new location. 

Mirror Protection

Everyone knows breaking a mirror is bad luck, right? So, do you really want to start your move off on the wrong foot? Even if the mirror myth is just a silly superstition, no one wants to come across a shattered surprise as they begin the unpacking process. At Ed’s Moving & Storage, we have the perfect solution: mirror boxes. 

Mirror boxes are fully lined with protective insulating materials that absorb shock and vibration during transport. Of course, you can always attempt lining a box with blankets and pillows, but doing so will leave substantial room for wobbling and shifting, which, unfortunately, is a primary reason mirrors are highly prone to breakage.

4. Pack Your Belongings Correctly

Aside from purchasing high-quality materials, you’ll also want to ensure you pack your belongings properly. That means using the appropriate size of box for the weight of the items you’re packing, as well as using enough protective material to cushion and insulate your stuff sufficiently. 

The more fragile the item, the more essential it is to pack it well. If you’re moving long-distance, boxes can get lifted, shifted, and stacked throughout their journey, so keep that in mind. 

Fragile Valuables

The last thing you want is your favorite vase or cherished family heirloom broken during the move, so first and foremost, ensure you have documentation of the items if a claim needs to be opened. Then follow up with proper fragile item packing, like using the right size boxes and packing materials that provide extra support while in transit.  

Electronics

Before you start packing your electronics, make sure all data is backed up onto a cloud server, so in a worst-case scenario, you can still access all your information. Keeping the cords bundled and labeled will save you some time when you're unpacking, and if the items are expensive enough, invest in additional insurance for total protection.

Small Kitchen Appliances

The biggest consideration with packing small kitchen appliances is having the right size box and enough protective material to keep them secure. You want to avoid leaving gaps inside the box, and make sure that you wipe the appliance down and detach any loose or removable parts before placing them inside.

5. Consider Climate-Controlled Storage

Do you think you may have to store some of your valuables when you move? Then you’ll want to seriously consider putting them in a climate-controlled storage unit. 

This indoor storage solution maintains a consistent room temperature and humidity level to help prevent moisture- and temperature-related damage to vulnerable items. It also provides high-level protection from theft or vandalism.

Truly, there’s no substitute for climate-controlled storage. If you store your valuables in a standard, outside unit, there’s nothing to keep them from cracking, warping, or growing mold. There’s also minimal defense against temperature-related deterioration and insects and rodents. 

If you need to store any of the following items, it’s in your best interest to opt for a climate-controlled unit:

• Wood or leather furniture

• Special collections or keepsakes

• Comics, magazines, etc.

• Portraits, photo albums, or other memorabilia

• Wine collections

• Musical instructions

• Artwork

• Expensive clothing

• Important documents

• Electronics and media (CDs, DVDs, records, cassettes, etc.)

For more helpful information on storing your stuff, check out Storage Solutions 101: What You Need to Know Before Renting a Self-Storage Unit. 

6. Take Out an Insurance Policy

Several insurance options are available if you wish to protect your high-dollar or highly-valued possessions during your move. At the very least, all moving companies are required to offer you two levels of valuation coverage: released value protection and full value protection. Many moving companies also offer higher-level coverage options aside from those required by federal law. 

If you currently have homeowners or renters insurance, your policy may also provide some degree of coverage for your move. Contact your provider to determine whether you have coverage and what it entails. You can also purchase insurance through a third-party company specializing in moving coverage. Shop around to see which provider can give you the best coverage at the right price.

No matter how skilled your movers are, you’ll want to take out moving insurance to cover your possessions in the event of any loss. Coverage is affordable and can give you peace of mind while your valuables are on the road. 

If you have any questions about insurance, feel free to contact Ed’s Moving & Storage for more information. State Farm also has some excellent information on valuation coverage for your move. 

7. Create an Inventory

Although it might seem like documenting every single item in your move isn’t necessary, it’s definitely a good idea. If you do end up needing to file an insurance claim because something incurs damage, it’s much easier to file that claim when you have proof of an item’s original condition. 

Luckily, creating a thorough inventory is as simple as busting out your smartphone and taking photos of everything you plan to move. Sure, you can write everything down, but we all know photos are far easier and faster, and as the saying goes: A picture is worth a thousand words. 

8. Keep Super-Precious Stuff With You

Even if you’re hiring professional movers and packers to shoulder the bulk of your move, it’s in your best interest to keep your most valuable belongings with you. And yes, that’s even true if you’re taking out an insurance policy. 

In fact, many moving companies prefer not to move highly valuable items like heirlooms, jewelry, and expensive collectibles because they don’t want the liability. The bottom line is that if you’re hiring a moving company with years of expertise and the highest-quality packing and moving materials available, there’s still some risk involved. 

Accidents happen, and no one can anticipate them, so take it upon yourself to protect the things you love most.  

Choose Ed’s Moving & Storage for Your Tacoma Relocation

Trying to undertake a moving project all by yourself can be exhausting and time-consuming. That’s why our Ed’s Moving & Storage team is here to help you shoulder the load! Our team specializes in full packing services, appliance moving, custom crating, piano moving, and much more. 

Hiring the pros means you won’t need to worry about how much protective packing material you need or whether you’re actually packing your valuables safely. If you want the best protection for your pricey and irreplaceable belongings, having the experts pack your stuff is the only way to go.  

We handle small and large-scale moves for residential and commercial customers throughout Tacoma, Washington, and the surrounding areas. To learn more about our services or get an estimate, give us a call at 253-581-2446 or request a quick and free quote online, and we’ll be in touch!

Why Pack One Room at a Time When You Move? 

Even the smallest of spaces can feel overwhelming if you have a lot of items that need boxing up. Implementing packing practices can help you save some frustration and keep your things safer, and it's always recommended that you pack one room at a time for several reasons:

You Can Stay Organized

Going from room to room lets you have a place to keep empty and fully packed boxes, which means clear walkways and living areas so you don't have to try to maneuver around all your belongings and start with rooms that are used less frequently for more space.

It Makes Unpacking Easier

The easiest way to unpack and unload is by using full moving and packing services, but if you opt out of this option, we recommend organizing your items inside your moving truck based on the room the boxes belong to. This makes unloading easier, so you don't have to spend time looking for important items because they've been placed in the wrong area.

Challenging Items Won't Be Left for Last

It's easy to put off the harder items and tackle simpler rooms first, but this is never recommended when it comes to moving. Moving is challenging enough, and many things can complicate the process, so don't wait to pack complicated items or rooms until last. This step removes some of the stress and lets you stay focused on tasks like cleaning your residence or moving large objects when moving day arrives.

Tips to Help You Pack Your Kitchen

We provide full packing services for home and business owners in the Seattle/Tacoma area. Here are some tips below on how to pack up your kitchen simply and efficiently.

How to Lift & Move Appliances With Ease

Instead of lifting the appliances yourself, the best option is to leave it to professionals with the experience and the tools necessary to lift and transfer them. 

Our staff of professional movers has the strength and endurance necessary to pack and move heavy appliances such as stoves, dishwashers, refrigerators, and other items. We use high-end equipment and tools to help us along the way. 

Careful With the Dinnerware

Place two layers of bubble wrap or packing paper at the bottom of the box or container. Wrap each piece of dinnerware with a thin layer of packing paper and stack each dish one at a time in the box, adding an extra layer of bubble wrap or paper in between every three dishes. 

For extremely fragile items such as wine glasses and coffee mugs, wrap them individually in T-shirts or tank tops and save the expense of extra bubble wrap.

Mind the Silverware

Silverware is a headache to assemble and keep together during a move. We can help you make the process easier by sorting the silverware according to function and type. Group the types using rubber bands. Do not use tape. You'll regret it later. 

Instead of throwing the silverware in a large box with everything else, try dedicating it to a smaller long box, such as a shoe box. Keep as much of it together as possible. It will be easier to find when you're unpacking.

How to Pack Pots & Pans – Small & Large 

Pots and pans are always a challenge due to the handles. Although it may be tempting to remove the handles to create more space, we recommend you find a bigger box. Place the pot or pan in the box horizontally and diagonally. 

The box is big enough if you can close the lid after stacking the pots and pans. Try packing the pots and pans separately. It will create more space for both. 

Hire a Professional Moving Company

The best choice you can make when moving is to hire a company to do it for you. Sure, you'll spend a little more but save much more time and energy. Your items will also be safer with residential movers with years of experience moving valuable and delicate household items. 

Ed's Moving & Storage offers complete packing and transportation services for homeowners in Seattle and Tacoma, Washington. You can depend on us for affordable rates and fast, dependable services. To schedule a move date, call us at (253) 581-2446 or message us online to connect with our team.