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March 20, 2023 Movers Who Blog Uncategorized

These 5 overlooked moving essentials are key to a successful move

Moving can be a bit of a jumbled process as you prepare to buy and/or sell new home, pack up your belongings, and hire professional movers to get you from one place to the next.

With all this happening in such a short period of time, it’s easy for some things to get lost in the shuffle as you plan your move. We preach planning and organization as the biggest components of a successful, stress-free moving day because it eliminates the likely hood of having to scramble with last-minute decisions or packing.

Organizational tips like packing and planning ahead will go a long way in keeping yourself on track, but there are a few things you can focus on to take the stress out of moving day – we like to call these overlooked moving essentials.

These are the “essentials” you’ll want to have leading up to the move and on moving day that will make things much easier so you can experience a positive, efficient move!

Moving Checklists

In terms of organization and planning, perhaps nothing is more valuable than a moving checklist. This will help create a roadmap of your moving process from the time you decide to move all the way through moving day, helping you visualize where you are and what you need to work on. Moving checklists provide a detailed outline on how things will go so you can know what to expect all the way up to the moment movers arrive at your door.

If you’re asking yourself how to make a moving checklist, don’t worry – we did it for you.

Cleaning Supplies

If you’ve ever moved before, you probably know how valuable it is to having cleaning supplies on moving day. Whether it’s antibacterial wipes, cleaning sprays, laundry soap, or another cleaning supply – you’ll want to have a box handy so you can start cleaning your new home as soon as possible.

Chargers and Batteries

Everything seems to be centered around our technological devices these days, so it makes sense to have all the chargers and batteries you might need for things like phones, laptops, cameras, etc., ensuring they are in working order throughout the entire move day.

Plastic Bags

Simple, right? Plastic bags are a cheap, easy, and versatile tool to have on moving day and they make it easy to carry around loose items which didn’t get packed away. You may also want a few to use as trash bags as miscellaneous trash and debris get left behind during the move. Keep a stash handy and be ready if needed.

Tool Kit

The chances of you moving into a new home and not needing to assemble something or make a few quick fixes are very slim, which is where a tool kit comes in handy. Make sure you have one ready (or at least know someone who does and can help) so you can tend to anything that needs to be done when you arrive at the new house.

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is the first and largest franchised moving company in the United States. Let us help move you forward! For more helpful tips and information on moving services subscribe to our blog and like us on Facebook.

March 13, 2023 Movers Who Blog Uncategorized

Top 4 professional packing tips to set you up for moving success

While March is only just beginning, we’re just months away from the busy moving season and warmer months ahead!

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK teams nationwide are beginning to round their moving teams into shape in anticipation of our busiest time of year for moving. We want to be ready for you when you need to move, no matter what your moving needs might be!

When we’re not helping people on their moves, we want to educate potential customers on the best moving advice, and one of the most important ways to ensure a successful and stress-free move is with proper packing.

Knowing proper packing techniques, how to create a packing list ahead of time, and being as prepared as possible are some of the most important aspects leading up to a move that will make a huge difference. Over the years, we’ve picked up on a few important tips and ideas to share with you!

Label everything!

In terms of organization, perhaps nothing will keep you more organized than labeling. This helps the movers when they’re loading and unloading boxes, and it’ll help you as you begin unpacking so you can know what is what.

We cannot stress the importance of labeling enough!

Plan ahead

The last thing you want to find yourself doing is packing last-second. This is not only ineffective; it’s really, really stressful.

Give yourself to time to pack your home – usually starting two or three weeks ahead of moving day – so you can slowly chip away at the process and take it in stride. This will help you go room by room and get everything packed away correctly.

Protect your belongings

The whole point of packing is to keep your items safe and protected, right? This starts by using professional packing supplies. Moving boxes, bubble wrap, and packing paper go a long way with the safety of your items as they’re loaded up and moved to your new home.

A helpful packing tip to remember: the heavier the item, the smaller the moving box.

Pack room-by-room

As mentioned above, this is a process you’ll want to complete in chunks, not all at once. Going room by room will help you take down sections of your home leading up to moving day. It’s far more manageable, and can leave you room for error if you need to get something out of a box after it is already packed away.

Professional packing tips

You know who really knows the ins and outs of packing? The frontline team members at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK who do it every day. Here are some of their best tips!

“Have all of your loose items boxed up and packed away, and also make sure to label the boxes. Make sure to have a game plan for unpacking the boxes, too.” – Shawn – Operations Manager – Lorain-Medina, Ohio

“With your packed boxes, take them all into the garage. It’s going to save a lot of time for us with the move and will also save you some money on your bill at the end of the move.” – Anthony – Team Lead – Lincoln, Nebraska

For more information on the different types of packing services TWO MEN AND A TRUCK offers and the packing supplies we sell, visit our website.

March 6, 2023March 13, 2023 Movers Who Blog Uncategorized

Frequently asked questions about moving with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

It’s hard to believe March is already here, but for our teams at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, that’s the early sign that busy season is near!

If you’re finally looking to complete a home move in 2023, you probably have a ton of questions and concerns rushing through your mind right now as you try to prepare. Moving can be stressful, but when you hire a professional moving company like us, it doesn’t have to be. Our professionally trained, background checked, and drug screened movers are ready to help you move from one home to then next with care, compassion, and efficiency!

Now, back to those questions swirling through your head. We’re sure you have a lot of them, and we want to help. After nearly four decades of helping customers move, we know what some of the most asked questions are for people looking to move, and we decided to create a quick FAQ for you.

Listen up!

How much does a move cost?

Without a doubt, this is the most frequently asked question we hear from potential customers. The answer? It depends!

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK franchise are all independently owned and operated, and prices range from location to location. Local moves are charged by the hour, and long-distance moves are charged by weight.

Check out our guide on the typical costs for home moves here. (I’ll link the blog once it’s live).

What can affect the cost of a move?

With local moves being charged by the hour, there are a wide-range of things that can come into play to affect the cost of your move.

Walking time from the moving truck to the load/unloading zone, the amount of time it takes movers to load and unload belongings, the drive time between moving locations, flights of stairs, and much more all have a say in the final bill.

What items should I have with me on moving day?

Most of your items will be packed up and ready to be moved on moving day, so you won’t have access to a large number of personal belongings. Make sure to keep chargers, a change of clothes, toiletries, and some snacks close by if you need them. Also make sure to have any important medications or paperwork necessary to the move available as well.

How do I get a moving quote?

Very easy – just visit our website! Getting a moving quote with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK is free, and we strongly recommend it so our moving consultants can get you the most accurate price for your upcoming move. We’d recommend reaching out for a moving quote roughly one month before your intended moving day.

How do I complete an address change for my new home?

The best way to do this is by visiting the US Post office online. You will be able to fill out prompts with your change of address information to get set up.

What’s the best way to go about packing up my home?

Packing is a critical part of the moving process and making sure you do a good job on it can save you a lot of stress down the road. Planning ahead, staying organized, and slowly chipping away at it leading up to moving day are some of the best recommendations we have.

For more expert packing tips, click here.

What types of payment are accepted by companies like TWO MEN AND A TRUCK?

All major credit cards are accepted with our brand, but there may be additional payment options depending on the location you move with. Please contact the office to discuss this prior to paying for you move.

Should I tip movers when the job is done?

Our movers are trained to never ask for a tip when a move is completed, but they are allowed to accept a tip from a customer who feels they have earned it. If you feel included to tip your movers, we recommend tipping whatever feels appropriate to you.

If you are interested in moving with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK and want to get started on a free moving quote, click here!

October 17, 2022 Movers Who Blog Uncategorized

2022 Halloween “Boxtume” Tutorial: Ghost

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Ghost Boxtume — 2022 Halloween “Boxtume” Tutorial: Ghost

Halloween is approaching quickly! If you’re still looking for a costume idea, try one of our “boxtumes”! Boxtumes are quick and easy costume ideas that can be made from simple materials and moving boxes. We’ve already unveiled two new ideas for 2022 with our Snow Monster and S’Mores boxtumes.

We have one final idea for the year, and it fits right in with the Halloween season: a Ghost!

Ghost “Boxtume”

To get started, watch our video of the process below or follow along with our step-by-step guide !

Step 1: The first step is to tape the flaps of the bottom of the box together so the packing box can sit upright. Next, you’re going to cut the top middle flap of the box across like an arch of a rainbow to give the ghost a round head.

Step 2: Now, it’s time to give the body of the ghost a white, flowy figure with white party streamers. Cut long strips of the streamer just long enough to hang over the bottom edge of the main section of box. Cut enough to cover the whole front part of the box. Paste glue all across the front section of the box (including the head of the ghost) where you’re placing these streamer strips and press the strips into the glue, so they stick.

Step 3: The next step is to cut out the eyes and mouth of the ghost face. Take the black poster board and draw out long eyes with a pencil so you have an idea where to cut. Do the same for the mouth, draw a wide outline for the mouth. Cut these drawings out.

Step 4: Take the eyes and lather glue across the back of the eye shapes and stick it on the face of the ghost accordingly. Do the same for the mouth and place it below the eye shapes.

Step 5: Your ghost boxtume is now ready to be shown off!

We hope our TWO MEN AND A TRUCK boxtume ideas get your kids excited about Halloween and inspire the family’s creative side. Get the whole family in on the fun project! Have a safe and fun Halloween, and be sure sure to tag us on social media with your boxtume pictures!

For more TWO MEN AND A TRUCK “boxtume” ideas, click here!

October 3, 2022October 3, 2022 Movers Who Blog Uncategorized

2022 Halloween “Boxtume” Tutorial: Snow Monster

Every year at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, we put together a fresh new batch of “Boxtumes” – which are fun, easy Halloween costumes which can be created from simple materials and moving boxes. Now that we’re into October, it’s time to show off this year’s ideas as Halloween approaches!

Snow Monster “Boxtume”

Our first affordable boxtume idea to try at home is this snow monster! Get creative with this fun project for you and your family.

Step 1: After gathering the necessary supplies, start by lathering the glue in circular motions around almost the entire middle section of the packing box. Leave room in the very center of the box for the googly eyes and fluffy pom poms.

Step 2: Take the strings of cotton balls and place each around the box onto the glue. It should end up making an oval shape of cotton ball rings that get smaller as you go around the box and cover it.

Step 3: Now you’re going to take the big googly eyes and lather glue on the back of them. Place them in the top center of the space inside the oval shape you made with the cotton ball strings. Be sure to leave space in between the eyes.

Step 4: Next, lather glue in the area surrounding the eyes – this is where the white pom poms will be placed.

Step 5: Take the pom poms and place them accordingly in the space that’s left in the oval center. Two will go in between the eyes and the rest surrounding the eyes. Space them out as needed so it covers any empty space in the center of the snow monster’s face.

Step 6: Make any adjustments to the pieces if needed and you’re ready to go!

Your snow monster boxtume is complete and ready to make an appearance at any costume parties and for Halloween night!

For more TWO MEN AND A TRUCK “Boxtume” ideas, click here!

September 6, 2022 Movers Who Blog Downsizing

Top 4 tips for an easy and efficient downsize

As summer concludes, we quickly begin planning for what needs to be done during the fall season. During this time, many are looking to downsize their homes before the winter season hits. Downsizing means freeing up the clutter of your unused items, moving to a new home altogether, or transitioning into a smaller space.

If you know you have a downsize moving on the horizon, we’re here to help you through any concerns and offer advice to make it a success. Parting ways with the home you’ve grown close to and built memories in is not an easy task, and we’re here to relieve some worries.

Follow along with these tips to make the process a little easier!

Get ahead

Start the process early. You want to have a good idea of the downsizing plan. Get started a few months ahead of the move day so you’re prepared when the movers arrive. Each day, gather more and more of your belongings to pack in boxes. Taking it day by day will allow for less chaos on move in day.

Get rid of clutter

During the packing process, it’s a good idea to sort through the items you do and don’t need anymore. Donating is a great way to give back and will free up room for you as well. You don’t want your new home to be packed with unnecessary clutter. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK offers junk removal services at select locations and can get rid of unwanted items for you! A good rule of thumb for sorting is if you haven’t used or worn it in the last year and don’t see yourself using it, it’s probably safe to get rid of.

Stay on track

It’s easy to get sidetracked with all that we have going on in our lives, but with a move its important to stay focused and be prepared. Have a checklist as well as a packing list ready to help track your progress. Remember to be flexible, as things don’t always go as planned. For more resources and checklist to help you stay on track, click here!

Be patient

Keep in mind, not everything will get done in one day. It’s important to stay patient with the process and allow yourself time to relax when you can. Take it day by day as the move approaches approaches so you won’t have as much to tackle when the day arrives.

With a downsizing move, we have all the right professional tools to help you. We can assist you with the entire move, the packing, delivery, loading/unloading, junk removal, or even storage for things you don’t want to keep in the new house. Learn more about these services by clicking here.

August 22, 2022August 18, 2022 Movers Who Blog Moving, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

Customer testimonials give a glimpse into the moving experience with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

Before you put your trust in a company, it’s always a good idea to hear from customers themselves about their experiences. You want to make sure your money is in good hands with a team that cares, and ensure you hire a business you can trust.

As the largest franchised moving company in the U.S. and a 96% customer referral rate, it’s fair to say you will be in good hands here at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK! Our team is professionally trained and background checked with drug-screened movers who use professional moving equipment to ensure your belongings are properly cared for. We specialize in all types of local and long-distance moving with trained professionals to tackle any situation.

Additionally, we have a variety of services to accommodate our customers’ moving needs outside our traditional home moving option, including junk removal, storage, packing/moving supplies, and more.

Check out what a few of our recent customers had to say about their moving experiences with us!

Customer Testimonial: Holly Cash, Dallas, TX

Customer Testimonial: Sam Upton, Dallas, TX

Customer Testimonial: Richard Daddi, Dallas, TX

August 1, 2022August 26, 2022 Movers Who Blog Uncategorized

15 tips when moving with pets

One area of moving that is easy to overlook but very important to consider is what you’ll do during the move if you have pets.

Often times, pets can be territorial and anxious about moving to an unfamiliar setting, which is why we’re breaking down some of our best tips to help with your pets’ transition to a new home. Helping our little companions with this process will ensure they grow to love their new home space!

Whether your pet is a cat, dog, fish, or any other small furry friend, these are a few suggestions that can ease any concerns.

Dogs:

Be sure to do an introduction to the movers that your dog will be around during the entire process. Dogs can be protective over their families, so familiarizing them with the new faces will help to ease their worries.
Bring their favorite toys or other comfort items to keep them calm and comfortable. Incorporating these items in the new home will make them feel more at ease.
Treats! Dogs love treats and will be very pleased with you if you bring along their favorite treats to keep them preoccupied. Dogs can have a one-track mind when it comes to food anyway, so this will be a good distraction amid the chaos.
Have a plan when it comes to the actual moving of your pets, as moving companies cannot handle this part. The best plan would be to transport them in a crate in your own car alongside your family where they would feel most comfortable.
Stay up to date with their health by ensuring they have all their necessary treatments or medications from the vet, especially if you’re moving far enough away to require a new vet office. . If your new home will be near a woody area or one with lots of other dogs, you will want to make sure your dog stays healthy through any new exposures they may experience.

Cats:

Cats can be hesitant around strangers and dislike commotion, so be sure to keep them in a calm, quiet, and trusted location in your home during the packing or unpacking process. Check in on them during this process to calm their anxiety.
Bring a crate with a bed in it for your cat to rest in during your drive to the new home. Put any familiar toys and treats in the crate to keep your cat preoccupied.
Introduce them to the new home slowly, as too much all at once is not good for cats. Give them time to adjust to their new space and they will come around!

Fish:

To begin the relocation process, make sure the fish tank is cleaned out right before you make the move.
Have a secure place to transport your fish. Place them in a proper container with fresh water and food for the trip.
When you arrive at your new home, set up the same tank so they feel they are still in a familiar place. You want them to feel at home even though the environment may look a bit different to them.

Small Pets:

Other pets could include anything like bunnies, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, mice, and more. These little pets also need your help in getting acquainted with their new homes.
House these pets in a trustworthy cage so they can’t get out during the transportation process.
They may feel better if you provide them with familiar toys and a private area in their cage where they can unwind and hide from any chaos.
Make sure their cage has enough food/water, is clean, and kept at the proper temperature to ensure maximum comfortability during the process.

We hope these suggestions ease any concerns you have with transporting your pets during this hectic time. Follow these tips and your pets will get acclimated in no time. Your pets will soon love the new place as much as you do!

July 18, 2022July 18, 2022 Movers Who Blog Uncategorized

8 tips for preparing your kids for a positive moving experience

-Written by Megan Loop

Change can be hard for kids – especially moving homes – as they uplift their life from a place they’re used to and start somewhere new.

As overwhelming as this might be, there are some steps you can take to make the process a bit more digestible and comforting for them as they adapt to their new surroundings. You may find these tips make the challenge a little less overwhelming for the entire family!

Sit them down for a talk

The first step in this process is sitting your kids down for a talk to explain the transition. Tell them why the move is necessary and listen to any concerns they may have. Be honest and open with them so they feel inclined to ask any necessary questions about the process.

Remind your kids they can easily remain in contact with friends

Typically, the most common issue kids have with moving is the fact that they are leaving their friends. It’s important to remind them to stay in touch with friends and that there will still be opportunities to see them, especially with technology making it easier to stay in reach.

Introduce them to the movers

When the movers arrive, introduce them to your kids so they will feel more comfortable with the team handling their belongings. Establishing trust will make kids feel more at ease with the process. Our teams are professional and friendly and will always do their best to make sure it is a pleasant experience for all.

Encourage them to make new friends in the area

Remind your kids that they now have the chance to get out there and meet new people from different backgrounds in the area you are moving to. Setting up playdates with the neighborhood kids will make them more at ease with the change. Maybe walking over to the houses next door and introducing your kids to the new families will be the start of something great!

Take them on a tour around the new area

Taking a break from getting the new home ready and exploring the area will help your kids get acclimated. Check out restaurants, ice cream shops, parks, and fun activities to do nearby. Getting them used to your new neighborhood and area will help them become excited and comfortable with the change.

Create excitement around their new room

Be enthusiastic about the fact that they get a brand new room and can decide for themselves how they want to set it up. This part is aways exciting for kids. Set aside an area for play that they can go to when they’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

Find a fun new use for the packing boxes

Give the kids fun projects with the boxes that’ll keep them busy. Have them get creative with making fun box costumes or drawings on the cardboard! Keeping them preoccupied with a fun new project while you work on unpacking can be beneficial to all.

Keep a positive attitude

Set a positive demeanor for your kids to look to for encouragement. If they see that you are happy with the new home and area, then they may look at the bright side as well! Encourage them to see it as a new adventure that you will take on together.

Utilize these helpful tips to allow for a smooth transition for the entire family. Here at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, we want the move to be as seamless as possible!

July 11, 2022 Movers Who Blog Uncategorized

Follow these 6 important safety tips as a new homeowner

Being a new homeowner is an exciting and new experience as it signifies a huge steppingstone in your life with making such a big purchase.

With this huge step comes responsibility, which is why we are breaking down 6 safety measures to consider after the big move. With our more than 35 years of experience in moving people in and out of their homes, we’ve picked up on some helpful tips to share with you.

Check out this safety checklist to ensure your new home experience will be a safe space moving forward!

Electrical hazards

Follow your gut when you notice something off regarding anything electrical. Hazardous situations may arise from a damaged cord, wire, or outlet. It’s best to get it checked out by an electrician to ensure a problem doesn’t arise. Make sure everything is working properly and in the case of an emergency, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the electrical box.

Locating the water and piping system

Take the time to locate the water and piping system so you can familiarize yourself with the inner workings along with how to shut your water off. This is prudent information in the case of a broken pipe or flooding. By knowing this information, you would be able to locate it and turn off the water quickly in any emergency.

Invest in a security system

Nowadays, it’s very common to have security cameras surrounding your home. This could be a Ring camera on your doorbell or some sort of alarm system that will alert you when there is an entry breach. This is always a smart idea in the case of a burglary attempt, or just for monitoring any strange behavior or activity taking place near your home.

Check your smoke alarms and detectors

Ensure that your new home has working smoke alarms and that you and your whole family know how to operate them. Look around to see where they are and if there are enough alarms in the proper places as well.

Check the battery life and ensure you have backup batteries in an accessible place. It also doesn’t hurt to test these alarm systems so you know they will work when an emergency arises. Knowing how to function these devices will save your family from panicking and not knowing what to do when the time comes.

First aid equipment

Be sure to have a designated area in the house for first aid supplies. This could be anything from band aids, bandage wraps, ice packs, antibiotics/creams, thermometer, and so forth. Also make sure you have other emergency items such as flashlights, non-perishable foods, water, batteries, multi-purpose tools, medications, etc. readily available.

Create emergency plans

There are extreme situations that can arise where it is crucial to be prepared, such as tornados, hurricanes, flooding, fires, and so forth. Sitting down with your family to discuss a detailed plan in the event of these emergency situations is critical.

For example, understanding where to go in your home for tornado shelter, how to react to a fire, or having an escape route. It is also a good idea to have emergency contact information in an easily accessible place, especially if there are kids in the household. This way they know exactly who they can call in an emergency situation, especially if parents aren’t home or available.

Follow these safety measures and you and your family will feel more at ease in your new home. It is always wise to be safe rather than sorry, so be sure to educate the whole household on the proper safety measures to be taken. Once this important step is taken you are ready to enjoy this exciting new chapter in your life!