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4 New Tips for Saving Money on Your Next Move

A coin is placed inside of a piggy bank by a person

We all know how expensive a move can get. Last week, we talked in detail about ways you can save money on your move. If you missed the first installment of our two-part series, you can find that right here on our website. Here are just a few essential tips that we shared in part one:

1) Collect free boxes and other packing materials from your local stores and online marketplace.

2) Always move in the off-season if you have the option.

3) Check for moving specials and ask if there are any available discounts.

4) Don’t forget to turn off the utilities.

This week, we will discuss four other ways to cut costs on your next move. As the old saying goes, “a penny saved is a penny earned.” Even the smallest of discounts or savings can be helpful when tackling an expensive life change like a local or long-distance move.

Skip the Moving Truck

Renting a moving truck can get costly and quick. You will be charged a fee based on the rental period, but you will also likely be charged additional fees based on mileage—not to mention the exorbitant gas prices to keep a truck filled up. Once you add up all the costs, exploring other options that provide more flexibility for the money could be beneficial. A portable storage unit is a great way to move your things locally or long-distance. The best part is you don’t have to drive a big moving truck yourself!

Declutter First

If decluttering is wrong, we don’t want to be right! We are big advocates of downsizing and decluttering before a move. Most people have a lot of stuff that isn’t being used. We all tend to keep things that we don’t necessarily need because we may feel like we might use them in the future. Sometimes, we just keep procrastinating because who really wants to tackle the mess in the garage or attic.

Unfortunately, the more stuff you have, the more money you may need to spend on your move. More property means you need more boxes, more moving help, and extra space in a portable storage container. It could even increase the cost of your professional moving help. Take the time to complete this important task before you move. You can donate the items you don’t use or even have a rummage sale to make extra cash before relocating.

Pack Your Stuff Yourself

Hiring a professional moving company that will help you get your stuff packed can be great if you have room in the budget. Unfortunately, this service can cost a pretty penny. If you need to cut some high costs in your move, consider packing your stuff yourself. If you use a portable storage container like Zippy Shell, you can take as long as you need and pack and load at your own pace. We also have a lot of resources and guides that can give you the confidence you need to get your house packed and moved right.

Meal Prep Before You Start Moving

Food is an unexpected cost that most people don’t consider when making a budget for a move. If most of your kitchen supplies are packed up, and you are working long hours to make sure you get your things packed and moved out, it will be challenging to cook meals for you and your family.

Most people eat a lot of take-out or delivery because it is the easiest thing to do when you have so much going on at once. One way to save money on eating out is to prepare some easy meals and quick bites before you pack up your kitchen and things start to get busy. You can make some delicious casseroles in disposable aluminum pans that can be stored in the freezer until you are ready to cook them. There are also a lot of good recipes for freezer slow-cooker meals—all you need are some Ziploc bags, a slow-cooker, and some time to prep. Keep plenty of snacks and easy-to-grab foods available for your family and anyone helping you pack and move.  

Zippy Shell Is Here for You

We hope that these tips are helpful to you as you begin the planning stages of your move. We know that moving is not always easy and can be an expensive undertaking. That’s why Zippy Shell provides an affordable and stress-free option for storage and moving. Our secure shell is perfect for packing at your own pace, and when you are done, we can store it at one of our facilities for as much time as you need, or we can deliver it to your new home. So whatever your storage and moving needs are, Zippy Shell has an option for you. For more information or a free, no-obligation quote, call us at (888) 947-7974 or contact us online. We would love to help you get started!

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Tricks to Save Money on Your Next Move—Part One

A piggy bank with change laying around sits next to a small house figure

As you probably already know, moving can be a costly process. There are a lot of different expenses associated with moving, and they can add up quickly. Even a local move can get pricey if you are not careful. Fortunately, there are some ways you can save money on your relocation. If you have a local or long-distance move coming up, keep reading! In the first installment of our two-part series, we will discuss four practical tips to help you save money on your next move.

Collect Boxes from Your Local Stores

One of the easiest ways to save money during a move is to collect used boxes and packing materials from your local stores or an online marketplace. Grocery, liquor, and home improvement type stores will often have an abundance of used boxes after every delivery day. Give them a call and ask them to hold boxes for you instead of sending them out to recycling. You can also check Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for free boxes, bubble wrap, newspapers, and other packing materials.

After someone moves, they often want to pass on the boxes instead of putting them in the recycling bins. However, we highly recommend securing your boxes and packing materials several weeks before you intend to pack up your home to ensure you have everything you will need. If you wait too long, you may not be able to get enough boxes, and you will have to purchase them. A few boxes will not cost too much, but if you need to buy enough boxes to pack up your entire home, you may be shocked at how much you will need to spend. If your boxes are still in good shape after you unpack and settle into your new home, pass along your free boxes to the next moving family!

Move In the Off-Season If Possible

Like vacations and weddings, there is an offseason and peak season for moving. May through September is a hectic time for moving companies. Not only is the weather more pleasant during that time, but it’s also easier for families to move during the long summer break while the kids are not in school. If the children are changing schools due to the move, it is typically preferable to allow them to finish the school year in their current school and start the new school year in the fall.

Like booking a vacation during peak travel time, booking a move during peak moving season can cost more money. If you cannot move in the off-season, we recommend reserving your dates as soon as possible. This will help ensure the best prices possible, but the dates fill up fast, and if you don’t book far enough in advance, you may not be able to get the moving dates you need.

Check For Moving Specials

When you start comparing prices between moving companies, don’t forget to check for moving specials. You will often see offers advertised on their website or even their social media pages. You are more likely to find coupons and moving specials during the off-season. If you are a veteran or active military member, you may find additional discounts. Even if you do not see any advertised offers online, calling and speaking to a customer service representative never hurts. They may have an available discount that will allow you to lower your moving costs. After you build quotes with a few of your preferred moving companies, remember that some companies will price match with comparable services.

Don’t Forget to Turn Off Old Utilities

One of the most common moving mistakes we see is forgetting to turn off the old utilities. Unfortunately, it is just one of those things that get overlooked in the chaos of moving. It may not seem like it could cost that much money to make that mistake, but it adds up fast if the meters are left running. For instance, leaving the thermostat on as the heat or air conditioner runs nonstop or if a water line breaks while the water is still running to the house—these are just two ways that leaving the utilities on can cost you up to hundreds of dollars!

You can schedule your utility shut-offs in advance, so it doesn’t get lost in the myriad of moving tasks on your list. Don’t forget to notify all your services: water, gas, electric, trash, internet, cable, phone, security, and any other home service you may utilize. At the same time, you should schedule a turn-on date for the utilities in your new home. This will also save you some money because many companies will charge an extra fee for same-day or next-day turn-on requests.

Zippy Shell Is Always Ready to Help You Move

We hope these tips are helpful as you get ready for your next move. Don’t forget to check out part two of our Saving Money Series in the coming weeks. If you are looking for a moving partner, give Zippy Shell a call at 888-947-7974 or contact us online. We would love to share more information on how we can provide an affordable and stress-free move. Call today for your free, no-obligation estimate for your local or long-distance move!  

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Moving with Pets

A dog sits on a moving box inside of a home

Our pets can be susceptible to any changes in their day-to-day lives—no matter how minor the differences are. If you have a move coming up, they will likely notice a shift in the household energy far before your scheduled moving day. So don’t be surprised if you see them acting a little anxious as you pack and prepare to move from your home. If you have a move with pets coming up, take a look at some of our helpful tips and guidelines for a smooth and stress-free transition.

How Much Does It Cost to Relocate a Pet?

There shouldn’t be too many additional costs to prepare for if you drive to your new home instead of flying. However, you may want to invest in some items that can make your pet more comfortable in the vehicle if you do not own them already. For instance, a travel crate will ensure that your pet is safe and comfortable during a long trip. If you do not have room in your car for a crate, you should use a car harness to ensure they are secure. This will protect them in the case of an accident and keep them from jumping out of the car when the door is open.

You will likely incur additional costs if you take your pets on a plane to get to your new home. Every airline has different pet policies, so we encourage you to thoroughly research the fees and policies of each airline BEFORE you book your tickets. If you have plans to stay in a hotel during your trip, you should also be sure to find one that is pet-friendly and be prepared for an additional charge. Some hotels will not charge for pets under a certain weight, but you should speak to a representative before booking.

How Do you Move Long-Distance with a Pet?

Whether you are moving locally or long-distance with your pet, you must prepare to ensure you have a successful transition from one home to another. We are big fans of checklists and schedules—they are a great way to make sure everything that needs to get done is completed promptly. For a move with pets, we recommend creating a task and reminder list separated by the significant “moments” of the move: before the move, moving day, and settling into the new home.

Before You Move

The weeks leading up to your move may be the most critical part of this process. So here are some things you should have on your list as you prepare for moving day.

  1. Microchips and tags: If your pet isn’t microchipped or wearing a collar with detailed tags, we would advise you to have this done before moving day. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for a pet to slip out of the home on moving day. Doors tend to get left open as people move things out, and our pets can sneak out unnoticed. If this does happen, you will be grateful that your pet has identifying information so someone can get them back to you.
  2. Schedule a vet visit: It can be good to ensure your pet is caught up on their vaccines and physical exam before your move. You may need some time to find a new vet in your new hometown, so making sure they are healthy and up to date on their shots is recommended. In addition, now is an excellent time to get a refill on any needed medications, and if your pet is a nervous traveler, you can ask your vet for some calming meds for the trip.
  3. Schedule boarding or a pet sitter: If you have a trusted pet sitter or local boarding facility, consider scheduling a mini-vacation for your pet for moving day. Pets can get particularly antsy on moving days due to the stress and movement. Not only do some pets run away, but some pets will also get into food and other items that can be dangerous for them.

Moving Day With Your Pet

If you are keeping your pets home on moving day, we recommend making sure they have a room to be kept comfortable and secure. This will help ensure they cannot leave home or get into things that can harm them. You can secure them in a room with some of their favorite toys and keep that door shut while you are busy moving things outside. Tape a sign to the door so everyone helping knows to keep that door shut. Don’t forget to leave out your pet’s food, treats, bowls, toys, and medications you will need on the trip.

Considerations for Moving with a Dog

Unlike cats, dogs will need to go outside to use the bathroom. They also need to go on walks to work out their energy. When we get busy moving, it can be hard to remember that they depend on us to take them out for walks and use the bathroom. If you need to, set reminders on your phone to make sure that your pups get to go outside frequently during the day.

Considerations for Moving with a Cat

Cats are not typically used to staying in a carrier. It can be a problem for some cats who have issues with being kept in small spaces. If you know that your cat panics in a small carrier (like when you travel to your vet visits), you may want to train them in the weeks leading up to your move. You can do this by leaving your carrier out during this time and encouraging them to spend time there. You can place their favorite treats and toys in the carrier to make it a comfortable and inviting space for them.

Settling In Your New Home

When you get to your new home, you may have to give it a good deep cleaning to rid the house of any scents left by the previous owners and their pets. Don’t be too alarmed if you notice your pets acting moody, depressed, or anxious in your new home. They have had their whole world turned upside down, so adjusting to their new surroundings may take some time. They just need some love and attention to get used to their new residence.

Zippy Shell is Here for You

We can’t move your pet for you, but we can help make your move as easy and stress-free as possible. Our mobile storage and moving solutions are perfect for a self-paced move. So give us a call at 888-947-7974 for more information and a free estimate.

We look forward to hearing from you!

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Simplify Your Move With Portable Storage Containers

A Zippy Shell portable storage container

How do you feel about your upcoming move? Moving is often ranked as one of the most overwhelming events in life. Excitement, anticipation, relief, hope, nervousness, trepidation, and all the emotions in between can and probably will be felt during a move. After an initial excitement, the emotion that sometimes takes over is a feeling of being overwhelmed. To help ease the burden, we want to explain how ditching the moving truck rental and using a portable storage container instead can make the whole moving process more straightforward and less stressful.

Gift of Time – To reduce stress during a move, you absolutely must give yourself sufficient time to devote to each step of the moving process. After being delivered to your home, a portable storage container can be loaded at your own pace. The ability to take your time to pack your items carefully will bring a feeling of calmness over the process.

Easier Loading –  All on-site storage containers feature barn-style doors and ground-level design, making them easy to load. The innovative design of our containers allows for placement in tight spots and at challenging angles. This eliminates the need for dangerous and challenging loading ramps.

Painless Transportation – There are countless horror stories of DIY movers getting into an accident in their rental truck or having the truck break down on moving day. Moving trucks are longer, wider, heavier, and much taller than the typical car or truck, requiring you to seek an alternate route to accommodate the larger size of the rental truck. When using a portable storage unit, all you need to do is load and unload your container. Leave the driving to us! After picking up your loaded container, we’ll take it to a secure storage facility or transport it directly to your destination.

Security – Your stored items are always safe in Zippy Shell’s street-legal mobile containers because you are the only one with a key. We know how precious your belongings are, which is why our portable storage containers are all-steel and weatherproof. If you need to store items for any length of time, your secured storage container will be delivered to a temperature-controlled storage facility where your belongings will be safe and secure.

Flexibility –  It’s not uncommon to find yourself with a few days, weeks, or months to spare in between moving dates. You can cut your work in half by only loading and unloading your belongings one time into portable storage containers. These can be stored until you’re ready for the second phase of your move. Feel confident knowing that your furniture, appliances, and personal belongings are safe while waiting to move to your final destination.

We invite you to compare Zippy Shell to moving truck rentals. We think our portable storage and moving containers offer tons of flexibility with a predictable cost that will simplify your move. Using a portable storage container allows you to have a little more control over the moving process and moving timeline. This shell has you covered! Call Zippy Shell today to get a quote.

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The Top 10 Best Wintertime Moving Tips

A woman is cold in her home bundled up on a couch

Wintertime moves can come with their own set of unique challenges. The biggest challenges being the unpredictable weather and the cold temperatures! So what do you do? You expect the best, but prepare for the worst. Be prepared for a wintertime moving day with the following tips.

  • Don’t pack away all of your winter supplies. Place supplies like your shovel, ice scraper, salt, and winter accessories like gloves, scarves, and hats in the car with you. You never know if you will need to clear a path in the snow with the shovel or throw some ice down on the sidewalk to keep everyone safe on moving day.
  • Make sure that all of the utilities at your new home are turned on and actually working before you start moving. We recommend getting everything turned on about two days before your move. You are going to need to be able to heat your new place right away!
  • Allow extra travel time as street conditions can be very unpredictable in the winter. Keep your eyes on traffic reports and use a map app that will adjust your route if there are possible traffic issues that might slow you down.
  • When dealing with a wintery moving day, the goal should be to get everything moved to or from the truck/container and out of the weather as quickly as possible. This means parking your moving vehicle at whatever door you can get physically closest to. This will allow you to move your items quickly and efficiently while also keeping them out of the weather as much as possible.
  • Another way to move items out of the weather quickly is to use an assembly line strategy with a dedicated indoor crew and outdoor crew. The outdoor crew will move items to and from the truck/container and then hand off to the indoor crew. This is an efficient way to move boxes and other smaller items. It also prevents sludge from being tracked inside.
  • In wintery weather, use plastic trash bags, heavy blankets, tarps, and moving pads to wrap items that are not secured in a box. You can add extra layers of protection to electronics or other cold/moisture sensitive items by first wrapping them in blankets and then securely wrapping in plastic to form a protective barrier.
  • Be sure everyone is wearing enough appropriate winter clothing to stay warm and safe. Take special care to keep extremities like your head, hands, and feet warm with hats, gloves, and boots. Consider offering everyone on your crew “hot hands” packets to place in their pockets to warm up frosty fingers.
  • For extra protection, line the entryway to your home with old rugs and towels to catch the sludge off everyone’s shoes. You can also use dry cardboard or newspapers on your floor to protect them from the elements.
  • Keep plenty of dry towels on hand. Use them to quickly dry snow off of any items that could be damaged by excess moisture.
  • Have plenty of hot cocoa or hot cider available to keep your crew warm from the inside out!

Moving in the winter can be a challenge, but it is a challenge that Zippy Shell bravely accepts! Using Zippy Shell portable storage and moving containers allows you to pack and move at your own pace. Call (888) 947-7974 to schedule your move today.

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Housing Considerations for an Aging Relative

An older woman discusses real estate options.

Many families struggle with the best way to adapt housing to help an aging relative. Whether this means making modifications to keep them in their own home, moving a parent into your home, or moving with an aging parent into a new place altogether, there are many factors to consider. Fortunately, you can take steps throughout the entire process to make the experience easier for your aging relative.

The first step is to have an open discussion. The best thing you can offer to yourself and your aging relative is a candid assessment of the situation. Even if a sudden illness or a financial setback seems to be forcing a decision, it’s worth exploring how that decision will impact the entire family.

Creating a Safe Environment

If the aging relative is in overall good health, there are many things that can help seniors continue to live independently. If you need to make modifications in the home for an older adult, consider hiring professionals with accessibility improvement experience who can complete the work successfully.

  • Decluttering helps clear out rooms and walkways, giving older adults more room to move, hopefully reducing the possibility of trips and falls.
  • Create a more open environment, ensuring all hallways, stairs, and paths are well lit and clear of random objects.
  • Moving kitchen items that are frequently used to lower shelves can prevent older adults from reaching and losing balance or using stools or stepladders to reach what they need.
  • Set the thermostat on the water heater no higher than 120° F to prevent accidental burns.
  • Replace standard doorknobs with lever handles that are easier for older adults to grasp.
  • Thoroughly inspect the stairs looking for uneven steps or wobbly floorboards. Apply non-skid treads on the steps if necessary. You can also paint stair tops contrasting colors, making them easier to see.
  • Install grab bars around the tub, shower, and toilet. You can also get a unique shower chair or bench and a raised toilet seat.

Moving an Aging Relative

Moving is a stressful life event, and it can be even more stressful for older adults. Aging relatives may need a lot of help and support during a move, but they are usually the expert on exactly what they need. Also, be prepared for the emotions. If the move requires a significant amount of downsizing, it can be emotionally and physically challenging. You can eliminate some negative emotions by making sure your aging relative has a fair amount of control over as many aspects of the move as is reasonable. Having others around to share memories with can make the process less painful. Also, engage in regular talks about current feelings and fears of what may come.

Your communication, patience, and support will help make the transition smoother for your aging relative. The most important thing to focus on is their physical and emotional health.

If you are moving an elderly relative to a new home, Zippy Shell is a terrific moving and storage option for you! Zippy Shell can service both local and long-distance moves, no matter how big your move might be. If you need time in between your move or aren’t ready to move just yet, we offer flexible storage options as well. Go online and get a free quote today and see how we can make moving and storage simple for you and your family!

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Avoid Moving-Related Stress with These 5 Tips

A couple looks at a computer in their home.

At Zippy Shell, we understand just how stressful a move can be, whether you are moving cross-country or just relocating one town away. Even thinking about the enormity of a move can bring on stress. Here are a few tips to help you overcome the anxiety of moving-related stress and help you tackle this like a pro!

Get Organized!

There is a reason why the word ‘’organized” or “organization” is consistently mentioned regarding moving and moving-related stress. When you plan ahead and implement organizational tools, your chances of a successful move (and less stress!) are much greater!

Implement a Schedule and Stick with It!

Whether you use an online calendar and to-do list, or go “old-school” with an Erin Condren LifePlanner, use what system works best for you to stay organized. Get the family involved. Post a hanging calendar on the fridge and circle essential dates (the day you want your kids to pack up their rooms, moving day, utility cut-off date, etc.). If you are a visual person, seeing the dates right in front of you in bright colors can effectively remind you and your family!

Kick Out Procrastination!

If you wait until the last minute to plan your move, you will be scrambling to finish, and this will undoubtedly cause stress. This isn’t the time to procrastinate. Give yourself plenty of time in your schedule to find a moving provider (or round up some friends and family), pack up your belongings, change addresses, disconnect utilities, etc. Procrastinating will not only cause stress, but it will also cost you money.

Enlist Friends and Family to Help!

If you are lucky to have friends and family nearby, enlist their help! They are a vital resource on moving days and will help relieve some moving day stress! Enlist those that are the most helpful. If your fraternity brother still dresses like he’s going to a big hair 80’s band concert and just came for free pizza and beer, you may want to leave him off the list. Be sure and offer your gratitude, and some food and beverage, to those around you that offer their help!

Prepare Mentally and Physically to Move!

Regardless of the enormity of your move, whether moving cross-country or across town, the process can still be stressful. If you are physically prepared (get a good night’s sleep, eat a healthy and fueling breakfast, be in healthy shape), you will be ready to tackle your move easier. Mentally you have to push out any anxiety or trepidations about your move and focus on the positives of this overwhelming task. Maybe you are moving closer to family or closer to the beach! Focusing on the positive can help push out the negative!

Take these five tips to heart when preparing for your next move, and you will be relieved to see how much easier your move can be! If you aren’t organized and tend to procrastinate, identify someone in your family or even a close friend to help you along the way. Share these tips with them, and you might be surprised how efficient you can become! Be sure to give Zippy Shell a call if you need any moving and storage help!

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Step By Step Guide to Packing Your Kitchen

A modern kitchen in a home.

The kitchen is probably one of the most challenging rooms in your house to pack. There are so many small and odd-shaped items to account for when packing the kitchen. Here is a step-by-step guide to save your sanity while packing this important room.

Gather all your supplies. You will need sturdy boxes of multiple sizes. The trick is to keep each box under around a 40lb limit whenever possible. Have plenty of unprinted newspaper or packing paper on hand. The ink on standard newspapers can bleed onto your belongings, causing discoloration, so be sure to choose the unprinted variety. Bubble wrap is suitable for wrapping fragile or breakable objects before placing them in a box. It can be used for dishes and glassware in the kitchen. The most time-saving tool for packing is probably a tape gun dispenser. It allows you to seal the bottom and tops of all your boxes quickly. Be sure to have a permanent marker or a pack of labels to place on all the boxes after they are packed.

Set aside a box for kitchen essentials. You can pack the majority of your kitchen up to about a week in advance of your move, but you will need to leave out some essentials to get you through the days surrounding your move. The bare necessities are a few dishes, mugs, cutlery for each family member, a good pan, a cutting board, and the coffee machine. Add any other kitchen items you can’t live without for a few days to this pile as well.

Start by packing less frequently used kitchen items like vases, serving dishes, special occasion items, wine glasses, wall hangings, cookbooks, and small appliances. Before packing each item, think about the last time it was used. If you haven’t used it in the previous six months, don’t pack and move it.

Pack the drawers and shelves. Sort your silverware according to type and give each group a tight wrap with a rubber band. If you have a cutlery tray, it is easiest to use plastic wrap to wrap around the tray and then place it flat inside a box—stack pots and pans with the smaller ones nestled into the larger ones. Add a piece of packing paper between them to prevent scratches. Keep like-items together as much as possible to make unpacking easier.

Wrap each plate or bowl separately before placing them in a box. Once you’ve wrapped a few plates, stack them and fully wrap the entire stack together. Place the stack into the box vertically instead of horizontally for the best protection. Use whatever material you have left to pad the bottom, sides, top, and empty spaces of the box – your extra packing paper or towels are perfect for this as they will need to be packed anyway. Extra room in boxes can cause them to collapse.

It is best to pack glasses and stemware in a divided box. Even with dividers, you’ll still want to wrap each item in packing paper. Don’t pack anything on top of glasses as they are too fragile. Fill out the box with packing paper and label “this side up” and “fragile” to help keep your cups and glasses safe while in transit.

Zippy Shell storage centers are equipped with climate control and added security to keep your belongings safe and secure. When you are ready, we can redeliver your storage container or move it to your next destination.

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Eliminate Safety Concerns on Moving Day

A young couple holds their newborn baby

The average moving day usually passes without incident or injury, but moving can be more physically challenging than most people realize. Protecting yourself and everyone involved with your move should be a top priority on moving day, especially if you have opted for a do-it-yourself move. On moving day, protecting yourself and your loved ones is even more important than protecting your belongings. Find out how to eliminate safety concerns with these top suggestions.

  • Dress appropriately on moving day. Extra thought should go into your shoe selection for the day. Select fully closed shoes that are comfortable but will also offer protection, flexibility, and traction. While you also want your clothing to be comfortable and flexible, avoid wearing clothes that are too baggy as they can easily get caught on things. Wearing high-quality work gloves will give you a better grip on items and protect your hands throughout the day.
  • Sturdy boxes are a must. Weak or overused packing boxes can break down when being carried, leading to an injury to the foot or toe. Before packing your boxes, double tape the bottom with strong packing tape to minimize breakage risk.
  • Don’t overpack your boxes with heavy items. As a general rule, smaller boxes should be used for heavier items such as books. Larger boxes should be used for bulkier items, not necessarily heavier items. Each box should not be packed to exceed over 50 lbs.
  • Prevent injury by using proper lifting techniques. When lifting a box or other heavy item off the ground, squat down, bending at the knees, never at the waist. Slowly lift by straightening your hips and knees, not your back. Carry heavy items close to your body while keeping good posture. Avoid lifting heavy objects above shoulder level unless you absolutely must.
  • Hand trucks or dollies are a safer way to move boxes or heavier items. When loading a stack of boxes onto a dolly for safety, be sure you have straight, balanced, fully aligned stacks that won’t topple over once you start rolling. Place heavier boxes at the bottom of each stack for stability. Also, make sure the top box is not blocking your view and that it is at least partially resting against the bars so that it won’t slide off.
  • Eliminate tripping hazards by keeping all hallways and pathways clear on moving day. The outside path leading to the storage container should be kept clear of debris, mud, water, snow, and ice.
  • If your moving day involves children, pets, or anyone with special needs, arrange for help to keep everyone safe. Ask a trusted neighbor, grandparent, or loved one to care for them on moving day or at least part of the day. Moving a day with a baby can be especially challenging. If baby proofing can’t be done right away, create a smaller space in your new home that is safe for the baby until you can get it completed.

If you have a move coming up this spring, give Zippy Shell a call. We would love to explain how our moving and storage services can help you achieve a smooth and stress-free move. We look forward to hearing from you!

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6 Tips for Moving in With Your Significant Other

A couple unpacks items in their home

If you have decided to move in with your significant other, you may be wondering how you can combine two households smoothly and peacefully. We have put together a few points you should consider before taking the leap. With some preparation, we know you can work together to plan a pleasant and fulfilling move.

  1. OPEN COMMUNICATION: Before you make any tangible moves toward cohabitation, you should have a sit-down conversation to discuss any aspects of living together that are unclear or causing anxiety. Share your expectations, goals, and boundaries for the new living arrangements. If you enter the experience with open communication and understanding, the process will be more enjoyable, and you are less likely to have unexpected roadblocks.
  2. BE PATIENT: Remember, you are taking two separate lives and merging them into one. This is a big deal. Prepare yourselves in advance to be patient and kind with one another as you traverse this new landscape.
  3. BE READY TO COMPROMISE: Any relationship is going to require a degree of compromise. No two people are exactly alike with identical tastes and ideas. Be ready to make concessions and to work on compromises that will make both of you happy.
  4. EVALUATE YOUR STUFF: When two people each have an entire house or apartment worth of stuff, it will take some honest evaluation to decide what gets kept and what goes. You won’t need two sets of dishes, two sets of living room furniture, and so on. Work together to decide what is going to work best for the both of you. You can sell or donate what you don’t need. If you have any sentimental items that you do not have room for, you can put them into secure storage.
  5. DON’T FORGET TO DISCUSS FINANCES: Maybe even more important than going through all your stuff is going through the finances. Expectations on who is paying what should be discussed before the move. If you intend to share a bank account, you should consider creating a budget you both intend to stick to.
  6. ASSIGN HOUSE DUTIES: Okay, so assign is a strong word. Maybe you and your partner don’t need a chore chart on the fridge. You do need to have, at the very least, a loose understanding of who is doing what around the home. Maybe the house chores rotate based on each other’s work schedules or specific tasks they always do. Determine what is going to work best for both of you to keep the household running smoothly.

We hope these tips help as you prepare to move in with your significant other. If you have any other suggestions that we missed, stop by our Facebook page and share with our online Zippy Shell community and us. When you are ready for your move, give us a call at 888-947-7974 or contact us online. We offer services for local and long-distance moves, as well as storage for every need. We look forward to hearing from you!