Moving Across Canada? ... Let Us Help!

You're looking for adventure, there is new great job opportunities, there is an outstanding post-secondary institution you would like to attend... all of these are reasons why you may decide to leave your home province and move across the country. Relocating to a new province can be a bit overwhelming and you may be unsure where to even start. The following includes the process of getting a quote and preparing for your big move.

Getting A Quote

Most moving companies provide quotes based on an approximate weight of your shipment, typically in pounds. You may be wondering how to figure this out... surprisingly the process is pretty simple.

• Looking for a quick quote? - There are many websites, for example the Canadian Association of Movers, that can help you get multiple quotes for FREE! You simply provide them with some basic information, including your name, email, origin & destination, and the size of your house or apartment. They will then send out your estimate request to multiple reliable long distance moving companies providing them with your contact information and the average weight of your one, two, or three bedroom home. 
• Looking for an accurate quote? - The first option is to visit your local moving company's website, they will likely have an estimate request form for long distance moves. Essentially, it is a checklist of all your furniture and household goods that you will be shipping to your new province. This will provide your moving consultant with an approximate weight for them to base your quote on. The more accurate you can fill this out, the more accurate your quote will be. The second option, which is the most accurate, would be to book a FREE in-home estimate with a professional moving company. The moving consultant would come to your home and make a list of everything you would like shipped and will be able to calculate an approximate weight and quote for you. 

Keep in mind... Unless specified, the quote you receive is only an estimate. The price will most likely change based on the final weight of your shipment once the truck is loaded and scaled. 

Preparing 

Once you decide on a company to book with they are most likely going to ask you for a deposit starting around $250.00. This is usually paid by credit card. 

The booking agent will provide you with a pick up date, registration number, and a time spread of when your items will arrive to your new home. Sometimes it can take anywhere from 1 to 23 days, depending on the size of your shipment and where you are moving to. 

All of your loose items MUST be in sealed, labelled boxes. If you plan on downsizing, now is the time to do it. Since you will be billed based on weight, there is no use in paying to have things you no longer need shipped across the country. Remember, if you add anything to your shipment that was not stated during the quoting process, your final price will likely increase. 

Moving Day

Depending on your loading situation, the movers will come in either a large transport truck, or if there is no space for a transport, a straight truck (they will later meet with the transport and shift your items over). The movers will tag and list all of your items on an inventory sheet so they can keep track of your shipment. 

Once loaded you will be able to track your shipment with the registration number by calling the dispatch office. This will help you coordinate your own travel times or help make arrangements for someone to meet the driver at your new destination.

For more information please call Moving Again Inc. at 519-439-5987 or 866-358-6499

By: Michelle Langdon & Andrew Brown

Moving With Pets

So you have decided to move but are unsure how your pet will deal with relocating... Enjoy these tips on how to make your move less stressful for both you and your furry little friends!

Professional household movers do not accept the transportation of live animals, so expect to make these arrangements yourself. Some of the reasons why animals are not allowed on the truck include:

• Keeping pets safe - A good mover will pack the truck securely so furniture does not shift around, however accidents can still happen, and household items can still move while in transit. It would be tragic for a pet to be harmed by furniture that has become unsecured. 
• Reducing anxiety & stress - Moving trucks are dark and unfamiliar to pets, which can frighten them and cause more anxiety than the move may be causing already. There is no need to stress out your pet more than necessary. 
• Nature calls - Animals can't always control their bladders as well as us humans, especially when they are frightened. No one wants their furniture wrecked and smelling of animal excrement (Yuck!).

As stated earlier, moving is a stressful time, not only humans but also for our pets. The following includes some tips on how to reduce stress on your pets prior, during, and after the move for both local and long distance relocations. 

While preparing...

• Keep routines as consistent as possible, even when your house looks like a tornado went through it while sorting and packing your household goods.
• If you have access to your new house or apartment prior to the move, take your pet over so they can begin to familiarize themselves with their new home. Take dogs for walks around the new neighbourhood so they can understand the new location of their home.
• Be sure you have easy access to any pet toys, blankets, medication, leashes, collars, and of course plenty of food and water. You will need all of this during the move. 
• Remember to update any collar tags with current addresses, phone numbers, and any other contact information incase your animal wanders off during the move. 

During transit...

• It is best if you can leave your pet with a friend or family member during the day of the move, or if you know of any great kennels, consider leaving them there for the day. 
• If you must keep your pet with you, make sure they are travelling in your personal vehicle. Purchase appropriate crates or seatbelt harnesses so your pet is secure while in transit, they deserve safety in vehicles too! 
• Cats especially should be transported in crates, as they startle more easily than dogs and can effect the safety of the driver and passengers. 
• Bring along any blankets and toys that will keep them comfy and distracted. 
• Make frequent stops so they can stretch their legs, relieve their bladder, and drink some water, and eat. Never feed them in a moving vehicle, they can choke or become sick easily. 
• Do not leave your pet unattended in a parked vehicle, especially during warm summer days! Cracking your window is not a solution, your pet will get overheated, dehydrated and have some serious health risks. 

Long distance moves...

• For long drives, try your best to stop at least every 2 hours and be sure to have an extra supply of food and water on hand in case your travels are delayed.
• If driving to your new home is not an option, check with your airline, as many pets can travel in crates with the luggage. Otherwise, look into a professional pet moving service - yes they do exist!!!

Upon arrival...

• Establish old/new routines as soon as possible. Let cats roam around your new home so they can become familiar with their new territory, if they are outdoor cats give them a couple days indoors until they become more relaxed in their surroundings. Again, take dogs for frequent walks in their new neighbourhood. 

For more tips, do not hesitate to ask your local veterinarian, breeder, or kennel!

By: Andrew Brown & Michelle Langdon

Getting an Estimate

Getting an Estimate

According to the Canadian Association of Movers, Canada’s moving trade association, more than five million people move every year within Canada. They want those moves to be as pleasant as possible and therefore, give consumers some strong advice: When planning a move get several cost estimates from different moving companies. Also, understand what services and charges you are being asked to pay for and why. The cheapest price is not always the best deal.

Here’s how it should work:

•Get a visual inspection. The best (and only) way to get an accurate cost estimate from a moving company is for them to come to your home and list every article they are moving. This will avoid surprises and extra charges later.

•The mover will calculate the approximate weight and cubic content of your articles and determine what is being shipped ahead of time or there is any special packing or crating needs.

•The mover will create a cost estimate based on the weight of your items and their seasonally-based transportation rate per 100 lbs. This basic pricing formula will include loading, unloading and carrying goods from your current home to your new destination.

•The mover will provide you with the list of extra fees, such as: working after hours, moving a piano, ferry charges, packing materials, crating services, third party or appliance services or extra cargo particulars.
• The mover will also provide you with any discounts – i.e. special offers or senior’s rates.

Knowing what to expect and getting several estimates will increase your chances of getting the best deal for your dollar and having a smooth move. For more information about The Canadian Association of Movers or to ask to refer a mover: visit: www.mover.net.

By: Andrew Brown and Sharon Osvald

Moving Seniors Part One

To help celebrate National Senior's Day, we are re-posting our post: Moving Seniors Part One:

Moving is difficult for anyone, but things become even more complex when the person moving is a senior. Often they are leaving a home they’ve lived in for decades and are in a situation where there may be healthcare concerns. They need to change their lifestyle.

There are so many questions that must be asked:

•Should they buy a smaller home or rent?

If there are health concerns it might not be wise to tie up your savings with the investment of a home. However, if you are still healthy and active, you may be unhappy in a boxy little rental with no garden or garage to putter in.

•Seniors are vulnerable to scams. Many of them haven’t moved in years and are unfamiliar with the costs or expectations of a move. How do they protect themselves?

When selling their home, a senior should use a licensed and reputable real estate agent. A real estate agent knows the legal issues involved in buying and selling a home. They can refer you to trusted lawyers and other services needed for moving. A good realtor will protect you. Unless it is a family member or completely trusted life-long friend, I don’t recommend letting anyone talk you into trying to save some money by selling privately.

Also, when choosing a moving company, find a reputable moving company with good references and lots of experience. Ask lots of questions. You may want to involve a family member or trusted friend to help you with this.

Finally, never give anyone your private banking information like pin numbers over the phone. (Never give anyone your pin number). It is probably a good idea to bring a trusted friend or relative with you to the bank, if you are unsure of yourself during the financial aspects of the transaction.

More next week on Moving Seniors- By: Sharon Osvald and Andrew Brown

Moving 101 - Re-posted from Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Step One

Moving can be very exciting. There’s something wonderful about a fresh start, a clean slate, a new beginning. However, moving is also a very stressful time. There is so much to do, so many details to think of and so much to remember. To make your move a little easier, I’ve broken it down for you.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

• As soon as you have confirmed your move, firm up your moving plans. Whether you’re booking a mover, calling on friends or renting a vehicle, get these plans done as soon as possible. This is not one of those items you want to leave to the last minute. Since most people choose to move around the same time of year and time of the month, you may be surprised to find trucks and moving companies book up quickly. If you are choosing a moving company, get referrals and be sure you are dealing with an experienced and reputable company.
• If you are moving locally and can afford it, try to book a little overlap in your move dates. If you can give yourself a week or two where you can get into your new place, without having to rush out of your current home, this will allow you time to clean, paint and plan – decreasing your stress.

A Month or Two Before

• Declutter. Declutter. Declutter. The rule of thumb for keeping items is if you haven’t used it in six months- you don’t need it. I’ll be more generous and say one year. Now is the time for a fresh start. Get rid of those unused clothes, books, electronic equipment, papers and gadgets. Why pay to move things you are not using? There are many organizations like the Ontario Cerebral Palsy Organization and the Cystic Fibrosis Organization that will do donation pick ups right from your front door. If the season is right, make a little extra moving money with a garage sale.
• Contact your utility, phone and Internet companies to book the end and beginning of services.
• Create an inventory of items being moved and begin packing them in categories that make sense for you, i.e. “Knick knacks from Living Room” etc.
• Begin to use up food in your freezer and canned goods in your pantry. Again, it cost money to move these items and transporting frozen foods can be unsafe. Begin shopping with more of a short-term mind set.
• Notify your post office, bank, magazine/ newspaper subscriptions and family/ friends of your upcoming address change.
• Contact your insurance company about changes to your mortgage and content insurance.
• Research and contact schools your children may be attending (if applicable).

Visit www.movingagain.ca  for more info about how we can help you with your next move.

By: Sharon Osvald and Andrew Brown

Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Mover...

There is such a large number of moving companies across Canada that sometimes it can be difficult to choose one to hire for your relocating needs. There has also been an increase of small "fly-by-night" moving companies (that are most likely unregistered businesses) as well, which can create confusion amongst which companies are reliable and which ones are scammers. Below I have listed the top 10 questions to ask prior to booking a mover.

1. What are the rates and is there a cheaper time to move? It is very common for moving companies to vary their rates through-out the month based on busy and slow times. The end of the month is one of the busiest times, which means you are more likely going to end up paying an increased rate for your move. If you can manage to move during the middle of the month, better yet a weekday during the middle of the month, many companies will drop their rates and offer you a deal.


2. Is there a charge for travel time? When paying an hourly rate, many customers believe the clock starts when the movers arrive at their door. In many cases this is not true. Most moving companies will start charging from the time they leave their location and will also charge you for the time to get back.


3. Is there insurance and what does it cover? Some companies will include insurance automatically into their rates, however others (especially "fly-by-night" companies) will not offer anything at all. Sometimes the insurance that is included in the rates will cover next to nothing after deductibles. Be sure to ask what there policy is, and have them send you a copy of their policy so you can read it over more thoroughly. Often, any boxes you pack yourself, particle/chip board furniture, and electronics are not covered. 


4. Are the employees covered by WSIB? Ask if the moving crew is covered by WSIB so you are not held reliable for any injuries that may occur on your property. 

5. Do you offer free in-home estimates? When receiving a quote over the phone, it is usually just based on averages from previous moves. The person on the phone does not know how much furniture and household goods you have, which varies from home to home. The best way to receive an accurate quote is to have a representative of the moving company come by and conduct a free in-home estimate. 


6. How will my furniture be protected? Damages can happen easily when furniture is not properly protected. A professional moving company will wrap all of your furniture in moving pads and occasionally shrink wrap to prevent damages. The moving pads will also protect the furniture from scuffing any floors or walls. If you are concerned with your flooring or have light coloured carpet, ask the movers to lay down floor runners. 


7. Are you members of any associations? Most reliable moving companies will be registered with the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM), and the company may also be registered with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Even if they are not registered with the BBB, still do a search on the company (www.bbb.org) as you can find useful information as to how reliable the company may be. If you can not find the company on the BBB website, or anywhere online when doing a basic google search, take that as a warning that they may be an unreliable "fly-by-night" company. 


8. Are there any hidden fees? Always ask if there are any hidden fees, as there have been tragic stories of customers who may think they are getting a deal, but later find out the mover charges for every step they take, or every box they lift. Surprises like these can lead to lawsuits involving extortion. Here is a perfect example.

9. Is there any risk with booking in the afternoon? During busy weeks moving companies will often book multiple moves throughout the day. If you are inquiring about a start time around noon, ask if there is any potential for delays. Sometimes moves are booked without knowing the exact size of the shipment, or a customer may be completely unprepared causing delays. Ask if this could happen, because if you need a guaranteed start time due to elevator schedules it is best to book a morning time slot. 


10. What differentiates your company from the rest? Ask the movers you are considering for hire why you should hire them. What makes them different from the rest? Sometimes companies will offer you discounts on packing materials, or include the free use of wardrobe boxes, flat screen t.v boxes, or mattress bags. You may find that they are a local family run business, which some may prefer to deal with over large corporate companies. It never hurts to ask about a companies history. 


Best wishes on your search for the right company!




By: Michelle Langdon and Andrew Brown

Save some time... and some money!

So you have booked your movers... now what?!

We all know that moving can be a very stressful, time consuming, and expensive transition. Being well prepared can save you both time and money on your moving day... and who wouldn't want that? Here are a few tips to help organize yourself as you await the big day.


1. Make a list - having a checklist of everything that must be accomplished before moving day is a great start. It will allow you to see what needs to be done, how much time you have to do it, and provides a sense of accomplishment as you check off completed tasks.


2. Downsize when possible - moving is a great time to figure out what items you actually need and use, and which ones you can do without. Downsizing the amount of "stuff" you have in your house will definitely cut down on moving time. Make a garage sale if possible and earn a little cash to help pay for the move.


3. Pack everything in boxes - besides the large furniture of course, pack everything possible into sealed boxes. One of the most time consuming parts of moving can be collecting small appliances, lamps, and items that are loosely thrown into baskets to be put on the truck. Loose items are not very stackable, requiring the mover to make multiple trips in and out of the house. When everything is sealed in boxes the mover can take multiple boxes in one trip therefor saving you time and money (and saving the mover some energy).


4. Disassemble bed frames - although most movers can do this for you, if you are looking to save some time and money, have your beds disassembled and ready to go. If you know of any other furniture that requires disassembly, let your mover know ahead of time so they can come prepared, or do it yourself to save some time.


5. Leave clothing in your dressers - if your dresser is strong and only has clothes in the drawers, save some packing time and leave them in the dresser. Most movers will wrap the dresser in moving pads to keep the drawers in place and prevent the dresser from being damaged.


6. Ask about wardrobe boxes - Moving Again Inc. offers their customers the free use of wardrobe boxes for clothing hanging in closets. Ask your mover if they have wardrobe boxes to offer you as it will save you packing time and save your clothing from being wrinkled or ruined.


7. Properly package electronics - Be sure that all electronics are safely packaged (original boxes work best) and all cords are tied together to avoid tripping. Moving Again Inc. offers the free use of flatscreen t.v boxes for those who no longer have the original. See if your movers offer anything similar, and let your movers know the size of the t.v so they can come prepared.


Best of luck with your move!


By: Michelle Langdon and Andrew Brown

Creating Curbside Appeal

If you are planning a move this spring/summer but still need to sell your home, there are some things you can do to make your house stand out above the rest. We’ve talked about staging the inside of your home, but many people neglect the outside – which is also important.

Here are a few tips:

1.The inside of your house can be pristine, but if you can’t get people through the doors, it won’t really matter. Start with the entrance. If your porch or front door has chipped paint or is looking tired, dress it up with a coat of paint. Sometimes just painting your front door with a more modern colour (black or a dark red) can make a huge difference.

2.Adding a few seasonal flower pots, some simple plants or flowers and mulch to your flower beds creates instant warmth. If you don’t want a lot of work, consider easy-care plants like hostas or sedums to fill in space and create beauty.

3.A fresh coat of white paint on window sills and tired looking garage doors will also spruce up the front of your home.

4.Get rid of the junk. You may not notice the broken barbeque or the ugly trailer at the side of your place with garbage that needs to go to the landfill site, but buyers definitely will.

5.Cut grass and trim hedges. Sometimes when people know they are moving they stop trying. Now more than ever your home must be “show-ready”. Make your home look like you care about it. This will tell buyers you aren’t hiding a lot of problems they can’t see.

Best wishes selling your home and taking the step to moving on.

By: Sharon Osvald in collaboration with Andrew Brown

The Flat Pack

With more and more of our readers buying flat screen televisions, we realized it might be helpful to know how to pack them if you are moving. So here is our version of "Step by Step" instructions of how to pack a flat screen television. Please note, it is safer and easier to do this job with two people than solo.


1) SUPPLIES (and TV's cords all unplugged and removed).

2) Remove tv stand from the tv... (be sure to keep tv stand, cords, and any tv related electronics together in one box so nothing is misplaced when reassembling)

3) Be sure all supplies are in the package (tv bag, two narrow 1/4" thick foam pieces, two 1/4" thick larger foam pieces)

4) Assemble box and place both narrow 1/4" thick foam pieces in bottom.

5) Place and wrap tv in protective bag.

6) Wrap the outside edges of the tv in both sheets of 1/4" thick larger pieces of foam and tape in place.

7) Place wrapped tv in box.

8) Be sure excess edges of the thick foam are tucked down the inner sides of the boxes so the tv is snug and does not move around.

9) Seal the box and handle with care.

Enjoy your safely packed Big screen TV!

By: Andrew Brown

While You Are Waiting

You’re moving.

Congratulations! Your house has sold or you’re nearing the end of your lease. You’ve already got your new home all arranged but you aren’t moving until the summer. There is nothing to do but wait. Not so. There is a lot you can do while you wait, that will make less work for you later on.

Here are a few ideas (besides packing of course):

•Have a garage sale. Take a look at all that extra stuff you’ve accumulated while you’ve been in your current home. If you haven’t used that tread mill, downhill skis or watched those movies in two years, it is time to get rid of them – and make a little money at the same time.

•Get rid of hazardous chemicals. Throw out your old paints cans and cleaning chemicals. Most dumps have special dates you can dispose of these chemicals. Check with your local landfill sites. Don’t forget to empty the fuel from your lawnmower/snowblower.

•Take a good hard look at your clothes closets. Again, if you haven’t worn something for a year – it is time to set it free. There are many places that would benefit from the donations of your gently used clothing, coats and bedding or towels. There will be less to move and you’ll be helping someone.

•Create your change of address list. With email this is a lot less expensive and time consuming than it used to be. Make a list of the relatives, friends and businesses/services that will need your new address.

•Contact your utility companies, insurance company etc. and make sure you have given them your end/ new start dates for services.

•If you are leaving the area, begin researching and making arrangements for a new veterinarian, family physician, dentist, optometrist etc. You can also take this time to research schools, family and recreational activities and churches.


Happy Planning!

By: Sharon Osvald and Andrew Brown

Home Sweet Home?

If you are moving this spring or summer, you may be considering whether or not to purchase your very first home.
You are probably asking yourself: Am I ready to buy?

Here are some things to consider before taking the leap:

1. Are you really in a good financial place to handle such a commitment? Have you saved up the down payment? Have you paid off or in the process of regularly paying off outstanding debts, student loans or credit card debts?

2. Could you afford to pay your mortgage payments if the interest rate jumped? Currently, in Canada the interest rate for borrowing is at an all-time low. Many borrowers are paying 2% interest on their mortgages, but in the 1990’s people were paying closer to 14% interest. Although, you are able to lock in for a term where your rate remains the same, be certain you could manage an eventual price hike.

3.Have you truly considered the cost of maintenance, property taxes, insurance and utilities? Are you aware of the large one-time costs like legal fees, title insurance, home inspection, property transfer and taxes?

If you have prepared and are ready to buy your first home, here is a good website where you can learn more about how to arrange a mortgage, how to calculate what you can afford and much more at www.howrealtorshelp.ca/planning-finances.php#Buying-Step-4

Happy House Hunting! If we can be of help in your upcoming move visit www.movingagain.ca

By: Sharon Osvald and Andrew Brown

Moving Military

For many Canadian military families, spring is the time of year you are anticipating a move to a new posting and military base. If you’ve never been through this process before, here is what you can expect:

1. The military will arrange a packing and moving company for you. A few days before your move, people will arrive and pack and box all the belongings you plan to move on the truck to your new destination. Although the lion share of the work is being done for you, purging items you really don’t use and compiling your belongings into practical groupings (for example by room) will make things easier for you once you arrive.


2.Be sure to keep important papers, jewellery, plants and items you will need during the move separately and bring them with you.


3.Not only will the packing company pack all of your belongings, but a company will unpack fragile items for you to ensure nothing has been broken in the transition.


4.Be very mindful before and after move of damage and marks that may already exist on your furniture, instruments or cabinets and take a thorough look at items after moved. If there is any damage, it will be repaired or replaced.


Wishing you and your family a safe and enjoyable move.


By: Sharon Osvald and Andrew Brown

Moving Again's Top Online Moving Tips

With so many resources, tips and articles online, here are some of Moving Again's favourites. Enjoy!

How to Pack a Room:
http://www.servicemagic.com/article.show.Moving-How-to-Pack-a-Room.12079.html

Moving Out on Your Own - Prepare Financially. Are You Ready to Move into Your First Home or Apartment?

http://moving.about.com/od/preparingforyourmove/a/first_home.htm

Moving Your Beloved Plants:
http://moving.about.com/od/movingityourself/a/moving_plants.htm

Checklists for moving:

http://www.mysmartmovers.ca/Moving_Tips.html

Moving Seniors ~ Part Two

Last week we talked about the unique challenges of moving seniors. However, what happens when the senior selling or moving needs more assistance to live day to day.

Where do they go then?

Firstly, it is important to determine what assistance they need and to understand what options exist for them. Here are some types of providers that can assist you or your loved one when moving is required. This information was found in The Care Guide.

Independent/Supportive Living: Apartment Style accommodations exist with services like meals, home making, 24 hour staff and social activities. Sometimes they are rentals, life leases or owned.

Retirement Residences: Retirement Homes are supportive residential settings for people who can no longer manage living with independence. They offer meals, activities, 24 hour staffing, laundry, housekeeping services and various levels of personal care. Rates are not subsidized.

Assisted Living: This refers to providers that assist people who are frail, require supervision and hands-on personal assistance with daily activities like dressing or bathing. Often this care is provided in a designated section of the residence.

Long-Term Care Homes: Known as nursing homes, these are residences for people who can no longer live independently and require 24 hour-nursing services. Eligibility for placement is based on needs and is arranged by Community Care Access Centres.

For detailed information about these different types of living arrangements (in your area of Ontario) and even more services for seniors visit: www.thecareguide.com.

Some other helpful links are:

http://www.culture.gov.on.ca/en/seniorsguide/docs/seniors_guide_final_english_web.pdf

There are 14 Community Care Access Centres throughout Ontario in alignment with the Province’s newly established Local Health Integration Networks. To contact them or find more information online, including the local branch offices, visit: www.ccac-ont.ca

www.211ontario.ca

www.mymotherscaregiver.com

By: Sharon Osvald and Andrew Brown

Moving Seniors ~Part One

Moving is difficult for anyone, but things become even more complex when the person moving is a senior. Often they are leaving a home they’ve lived in for decades and are in a situation where there may be healthcare concerns. They need to change their lifestyle.

There are so many questions that must be asked:

•Should they buy a smaller home or rent?

If there are health concerns it might not be wise to tie up your savings with the investment of a home. However, if you are still healthy and active, you may be unhappy in a boxy little rental with no garden or garage to putter in.

•Seniors are vulnerable to scams. Many of them haven’t moved in years and are unfamiliar with the costs or expectations of a move. How do they protect themselves?

When selling their home, a senior should use a licensed and reputable real estate agent. A real estate agent knows the legal issues involved in buying and selling a home. They can refer you to trusted lawyers and other services needed for moving. A good realtor will protect you. Unless it is a family member or completely trusted life-long friend, I don’t recommend letting anyone talk you into trying to save some money by selling privately.

Also, when choosing a moving company, find a reputable moving company with good references and lots of experience. Ask lots of questions. You may want to involve a family member or trusted friend to help you with this.

Finally, never give anyone your private banking information like pin numbers over the phone. (Never give anyone your pin number). It is probably a good idea to bring a trusted friend or relative with you to the bank, if you are unsure of yourself during the financial aspects of the transaction.

More next week on Moving Seniors- By: Sharon Osvald and Andrew Brown

Staging For Success

Spring is just around the corner, now is the time of year that many will begin listing their homes to sell. If you are one of these homeowners and you can’t afford expensive renovations or changes in your home, there are some simple and affordable things you can to do make your house stand out ahead of the rest.

First impressions are SO important. Here are a few tips to make your house beat the competition:

•Clean. Clean. Clean. It might seem like a small thing, but a home that is dirty looks unloved and older. Making those windows, mirrors, floors, bathrooms and appliances shine will make a big difference.

•Clear away the clutter. People are looking for bright and spacious homes. The less items, knick knacks and excess belongings you have, the bigger and more open your home will appear.

•Sell, throw away or store extra furniture away in order to make your rooms as open as possible. You also won’t have unnecessary items to move to your new location.

•When setting up a room, don’t ignore focal points like fireplaces and large windows by blocking them with furniture or large television sets. Show off your house’s assets.

•Neutralize. You may love dark or vibrant paint colours, but the best way to appeal to the biggest group of people is to keep your paint colours neutral. They also make rooms appear larger.

Wishing you all the best in your upcoming move!

By: Sharon Osvald and Andrew Brown

Dare to De-clutter

It is one of the least favourite but most important parts of moving – de-cluttering. Whether you are selling a home and need to stage it, are moving your business/office or just don’t want to pay to move items your family doesn't need or use, it is step one in planning a move. Here are some tips to get you going:

1.As soon as you begin contemplating moving, start thinking smaller. Begin selling, giving away and throwing out your excess belongings. A clear clutter free home will be easier to “stage” if you are selling and will even help you think clearer. Even if you’re renting, as soon as you decide it’s time to go – start thinking smaller, smarter and leaner. Ask yourself: “What do I really need?”

2.If you are like most people your “paper work”, photos, bank statements, saved letters and important papers are stored in not one – but several places around your home. Again, throw out what you don’t need and create one home for all these papers and belongings. Then when you move they can all go into one easy to access box.

3.Be ruthless. Take serious inventory of the items you have in your home and if you really need them – right down to furniture, clothing, appliances, toys, books and the dreaded knick knacks. It costs you more money to move items you don’t really need or use. Also, when you arrive at your new home you’ll have that sense of a clean slate to begin in a new home.

4.Despite the hassle, sometimes it is worth it to try and sell your items. Websites like www.kijiji.ca are free and easy to use. You will be able to connect with people in your area looking for the items you are selling i.e. a used computer desk, a toddler bed (that you haven’t used in six years) or one of your three stereo systems. The extra cash will also help go toward the cost of your upcoming move.

5.Garage sales are the best way to sell small or “cheap” items. Again, you might not think it is worth it, but it is not difficult to make two or three hundred dollars in a morning in your driveway. In the end it will cost you to take these items to the dump. Not to mention, if you are sentimental about a particular item, sometimes it is easier to let it go when you see someone else enjoying it.

Dare to de-clutter, you’ll be glad you did.

By: Sharon Osvald in collaboration with Andrew Brown

Preparing Your Items for Storage

Last week I shared some tips about what to look for when putting your items into storage. This week I want to share some ways to “prepare” your items for storage. Again, some of these come from the Canadian Association of Movers which can be found at www.mover.net.

•Wrap sofas and large upholstered items in protective material. Place sofas on sofa racks to keep them safe.

•Wrap finished furniture to protect it from scratches and marks.

•Moth proof and wrap rugs and place them on racks when storing.

•Wrap anything fragile like mirrors, pictures and smaller delicate items.

•Leave fridge and freezer doors open (or have them serviced) to prevent mold and mildew from growing in them.

•Consider purchasing depository insurance or for if you are really concerned: full protection to value. This will cost you a regular monthly fee, but may be worth the peace of mind, depending on the items.

•Do not store dangerous or perishable goods.

By: Andrew Brown and Sharon Osvald

For more info on how we can help make your move a smooth move, visit www.movingagain.ca

Storing Your Stuff

With our world being so mobile, it is more common for people to need to place their belonging into storage. It is important that you are certain your items are being stored safely and securely.

The Canadian Movers Association makes the following recommendations when choosing a storage facility:

1.Find out the reputation of the storage facility you are considering.

2.Make sure you completely understand the services that the company is offering, what your responsibilities are, the liability of the company in the case of damage or theft, how the items are secured and if you have access to your items while being stored.

3.Ask what the additional charges are. Are there charges for wrapping or protective materials, moth-proofing, packing items like mirrors or servicing appliances to prevent the growth of mildew?

4.Keep complete lists of all the items being stored. Compare lists with the company storing your belongings to ensure it matches.

5.Visit the storage facility to see if it is clean, dry and rodent-free. Ask about climate control and security.

For more information visit www.mover.net
By: Andrew Brown and Sharon Osvald

Damages

Damages: What to expect when you’re moving?

Besides having a mover pack up your belongings and selling them on E-bay, damages are the biggest fear when choosing to move your home or office.

Even the best movers can cause damage or scratches to your property when moving. Since home owners insurance doesn’t usually cover your items while in transit, it is so important that you choose your mover carefully, ask lots of questions and get things in writing. You need to know: Who is responsible for payment or replacement of furniture if it is damaged in the move? Does the mover pay for damages to items that we packed or they packed?

According to the Canadian Association of Movers, the liability for loss or damage is shared between the consumer and the mover. By law, a mover’s liability is only 60 cents per pound per article moved and the consumer assumes the rest of the risk. This is not something many consumers know.

The CAM says, “This means that for a 50-pound TV the mover’s liability is $30. This coverage is obviously not sufficient to protect the customer. Your household goods, on average are worth $10 per pound or more. A reputable mover will offer to accept the customer’s risk for a fee or include this coverage in the price of the move.” Make sure you clearly understand what you are getting and that it covers your needs and protects your belongings.

ASK LOTS OF QUESTIONS!!

Get all your agreements in writing.

Choose your mover carefully and get lots of references.

By: Sharon Osvald and Andrew Brown