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Tips, Advice & Events from local professional movers that specializes in all aspects of transportation / moving services, including office relocations, industrial moves, corporate relocations, trade show displays, and high value electronic equipment.
house surrounded by fall foliage

3 Benefits to Moving in the Fall

Most families are in a rush to move well before summer ends. However, some people move to their new home in the fall. This happens for a number of reasons; either they waited to move until fall, or simply couldn’t cope with the competitive summer market.

When it comes to those who waited until the weather got cooler and the kids’ school year started, you’re probably wondering why they made such a decision in the first place. The truth lies in the benefits of moving during the fall; here are the perks of local moving till September.

You Can Leverage Buying Power

One of the biggest benefits of residential moving in the fall is that you can leverage buying power over sellers. The reason is that they expect to complete the sale by the time summer ends. It’s true that options will be limited because most people chose summer for house hunting, but this small market will prove to be much less competitive.

For starters, there’s no pressure about losing a home to another buyer so you won’t impulsively make offers to sellers before you’ve thoroughly considered buying the home. In addition, there are also fewer chances that you’ll be caught in a war, bidding against other buyers.

In addition, sellers will be more accommodating and flexible compared to how rigid they are in the summer. Here, the ball is in your court and you can negotiate with the seller on the price, allowing you a price much lower than what you’d find in the summer.

Residential Moving Will Be Less Tiring

The stifling heat in July can make long distance moving very tiring. On the other hand, residential moving in the fall will be much easier since there’s already a cold breeze that can keep you energized throughout the day and you won’t be completely exhausted during the afternoon.

Pleasant weather conditions mean that your kids will be in a much better mood while moving too so you don’t have to waste time tending to fussy kids. If you’re hiring a moving service, you’ll benefit from efficient workers who are quick on their feet because of the cool weather. Also, let’s not forget that you’re benefitting from avoiding the heat because it reduces risks of heatstroke and migraines.

Residential Moving in the Fall is Much Cheaper

Since everyone’s in a hurry to move in the summer, many services such as pickup and moving, get much more expensive to reflect the rise in demand. In the fall, prices drop back to normal, maybe even lower and you can take advantage of this.

Aside from being able to hire a moving service at an affordable rate, you can also control things like timings and days to pick what’s more convenient for you. After all, the company will adjust their schedule to accommodate you.

These benefits make it a much better option for you to wait until fall to move to your new home. Not only will you meet pleasant weather but also you’ll get moving services at affordable prices and can get better prices on the housing market. If you are interested in moving this fall with a quality and trusted moving company, contact MacDonald Moving Services today!

6 Tips for Moving in the Fall

Whether you’re interstate moving to your new home in the summer or in the fall, it’s always a hassle. Nonetheless, seasonal requirements make it important that you take precautionary measures while local moving in the fall. Here are six tips for moving in the fall.

Cut Down On Items

For starters, you should consider lessening the packing load by throwing away or donating things you don’t need. You can sort through all your things to see what you’ll eventually throw out next season, and donate them. Moving out is also a great opportunity to donate any warm clothes that your family may have grown out of before the season arrives.

Pack for Fall

Since you’re already moving for fall, it’s a great chance to look through the garage for items you’ll need in colder temperatures. You can pack away all the summer items that you won’t need until next year and keep all the outdoor furniture in storage to avoid bringing it home right away. You can pack specific crockery, clothes that you need in the fall, and keep them organized so they’re right where you need them; not buried under mountains of other stuff. When packing you will also want to keep in mind to have certain boxes for different rooms to help with organization. Here are some videos to help with packing!

Prep Your Home Before You Arrive

You’ll need to make sure that your home is in perfect and inhabitable condition before you’re at the doorstep with all your furniture. Aside from making necessary repairs months ahead, you should do a check one week prior to moving, to see whether there’s electricity, water, and heating; you don’t want to arrive at a home that’s cold and dark.

Cover All The Boxes

Fall means rain and if any of your furniture or boxes get wet, there’s a risk of damage and mold, not the best way to start your time at your new house. Luckily, you can avoid these problems by using plastics to cover cardboard boxes. For bigger things like furniture, you can use umbrellas or hold up larger sheets of plastic over them to keep them from getting wet.

Run Leftover Errands

When moving to a new home, you have an excuse to run any leftover errands that you’ve been putting off since months. This applies especially when you’re moving in the fall since the colder and wetter weather is approaching and it’ll put you in lazy mode. Hence, you can choose to get your car serviced and buy some necessary items that aren’t available near your new home, before moving.

Keep It Clean

We know that you’re excited to be residential moving to your new home, but let’s not forget that you haven’t necessarily moved out either i.e. you still have to collect that security deposit. Therefore, you want to avoid any unnecessary stains, damage, and dents. The wet fall weather means that mud, leaves, and dirt come inside very easily. You can avoid this by laying down plastic at the entrance when you’re moving out, as well as when you arrive at your new home. In addition, make sure to keep your cleaning supplies at hand in case you need to clean up quickly.

You can implement these tips while long distance moving to your new home in the fall. Try these out the next time you move so that you move comfortably and without much trouble. If you are interested in any of our moving or storage services, contact us today!

5 Things To Know About Moving In The Summer

It is common knowledge that the summer season is the most popular time to move, as well as being the busiest season of the year for professional moving companies. Whether the move is local or people are moving out of state, more people use the extra time in the summer to complete this big task. Most would advise you to stay away from summer moving as it could be hard to find a moving company as well as the humid climate. However, dealing with sunlight is a lot better than dealing with icy/snowy conditions and cold weather. With this in mind, we have come up with seven tips to know and use when moving in the summer.

Plan As Far Ahead As You Can

In general, no matter when you are moving you will want to plan for the said move as far in advance as possible. That way you are not slowed down by any surprises and know exactly how everything will be executed. This goes especially so for the summer as it is the busy season for moving. If you are planning to move in July you will want to start researching companies and begin planning probably sometime around May. A good rule of thumb is to book movers if you are using them, at least six weeks prior to the move.

Plan To Move On the Least Busy Day of The Week

Since summer is the busiest season for moving you will want to plan the actual day of the move on the least-busiest day of the week. That way you are not dealing with heavy amounts of traffic and your move can be done as smooth as possible. Try to aim for a weekday in the middle of the month, as most people are on vacation during the middle of the summer months. In addition to this, you will want to plan your move with extra time in mind. Unexpected occurrences happen all the time and it is best to leave extra time for it just in case. Some instances include truck breakdowns, unexpected traffic, and possible personal issues arising to delay the move.

Know What Not To Put In The Moving Truck

While throwing all your belongings in boxes and then into a moving truck for your move is an easy and preferred method. You will want to make sure you know which items are heat sensitive which could get damaged in the heat of the moving truck. You will want to separate these items from your other belongings and put them in a box properly labeled letting the movers know you will be taking this box as it needs to be in an air-conditioned vehicle. Some items that fall under this category include CDs, videos, cassette tapes, candles, and leather upholstered furniture that is wrapped in plastic wrap. If you find yourself in a situation where you cannot carry these items, you may want to see if the moving company you hired has any storage services to protect these items while you move.

Air Conditioning 

Your biggest threat during a summer move is the heat and humidity. The doors will be open when you are loading your belongings from your old home into the moving truck. As well as when you are unloading the truck into your new destination. To ensure everyone is comfortable try to put on some fans and if the utilities are on, set up the air conditioner so that there is no discomfort during the move.

Plan For Kids

If you have a family then you will want to make sure that they are taken care of during the move so that they do not get in the way. If you have little ones that cannot help with the move, make sure they are set up with a safe and climate controlled room for them to stay, play, and nap while you are doing the move. If they can assist you, make sure they feel apart of the move by assigning them special projects that are not too hard for them and that makes them feel like they are contributing. Having them pack and clear out their rooms and play areas is a great start as they will know how they want their toys and belongings handled.

 

3 Packing Tips To Safely Pack A Mirror

Are you planning on doing an interstate move or relocate your business late this summer? Use the beginning of the summer to begin packing, as the weather is milder. As the summer looms on, weather conditions become overbearing with intense temperatures and humidity levels. Getting a head start on the packing gives you more time to make sure your belongings are properly packed to avoid damage. One set of household items you that will require special care during the packing and transit process of your move, are your mirrors. You will need to ensure that the frame and glass of the mirror are properly secured and protected during your move. Follow these three tips to move your mirrors between during an office relocation or interstate move safely!

Use Strong Packing Materials For Wrapping the Mirror

While you may be tempted to use the ever resourceful newspaper to wrap your mirror, we caution that you opt for a more sturdy material. Such strong and sturdy material is packing paper. This material will not rip during the course of the move unlike newspaper. In addition to packing paper, you will want to use packing tape for extra protection.You can draw a large X  with the tape on the glass to keep the glass together in case it drops or shatters during the move.  Using packing tape will also keep the frame together if the mirror collides with hard surfaces in transit. Before wrapping the mirror, place a sheet of cardboard around the mirror for added protection and padding so this will be the first thing the glass and mirror frame come into contact with if dropped. Cardboard will reduce the risk of cracks and scratches on the glass and frame during the move. 

Secure the Edges

The corners and edges of your mirror will be vulnerable throughout the move without proper padding and coverage. Round mirrors should be wrapped in a layer of bubble wrap over the cardboard covering to protect the glass. In case the mirror is dropped, the cardboard will be able to keep the glass intact, rather than having it shatter over the padding. If you have a square mirror with sharp or right angles along the edge, invest in corner protectors. These are readily available at chain stores or wherever you have purchased your moving supplies. 

Label the Mirror Clearly for Transit

After tightly wrapping your mirror with cardboard, paper, and bubble wrap, cover the entire bundle with a layer of plastic wrap. The added layer protects the mirror from moisture forming on the mirror and mold developing between the glass and frame. Using a thick permanent marker, label the mirror as FRAGILE on each side to make sure whoever is moving it will move gently, without risking the mirror breaking. 

Summer Moving Safety Tips

Summer is generally regarded as the most popular season for moving. It is warm and dry, makes moving easier than it would be in the winter time, and is the ideal time for a garage sale and to put your house on the market. Between May and September, moving is less likely to interrupt your kids’ routine and for some parents, life slows to a more comfortable pace. The summer brings heat, which can have an impact on your move. Check out these summer moving safety tips that could prove beneficial and make your moving experience a good one.

Start Your Move in the Morning

Moving earlier in the day is vital during the summer and this means heading out in the early morning. Take advantage of the cooler temperature in a hot climate. This will help to keep your energy levels up and make the physical labor easier to handle since the intensity of the sun is strongest between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Stay Hydrated

During a summer relocation, movers should know that dehydration is a common health risk of extreme heat. Moving is a tedious, physical activity and the summer heat increases the risk of dehydration, overheating and sunstroke. Have some bottles of water handy to stay hydrated on moving day and sip regularly to avoid keeling over in the sweltering heat.

Wear Appropriate Summer Clothing

Since the heat is such a huge factor during a summer move, safety precautions begin with wearing summer-friendly clothing. Dark clothing should be avoided because they absorb more heat, which gets transmitted to the skin. You want to keep your body as cool during the heat to prevent dehydration. Wear proper shoes that are comfortable and covers your feet entirely.

Apply Sunscreen

When moving in the summer, it is important to protect your skin from the heat of the sun. Choosing the right sunscreen can help you to avoid getting horrible sunburn. Protect your skin with an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen, and take care to apply it to your face, neck, ears, and shoulders, which are more likely to be exposed. Do this roughly 10 minutes before going out in the sun and remember to re-apply it every hour for maximum protection. These safety measures are essential for a successful summer move because hot weather can be dangerous if proper care and good judgment are not exercised to help protect you and your family.

UniGroup Sustainability Challenge Performance Award 2017

UniGroup sustainability award

 

MacDonald Moving Receives Sustainability Award

MacDonald Moving Services is proud to announce we’ve been awarded the UniGroup Sustainability Challenge Performance Award for 2017. This National Award for Green Sustainability, given by transportation leader Unigroup, recognizes the efforts and abilities of MacDonald Moving Services for offering top value service while maintaining green practices. UniGroup has been outspoken about their commitment to the environment and has since encouraged each of their associated brands to pursue more sustainable practices. The UniGroup Sustainability Challenge was established in 2014 to assist agents in implementing sustainable practices in their organizations. The challenge recognized agents for improvements in the business while taking the planet into consideration.

Other Recent Moving Awards We’ve Received

MacDonald Moving Services has proven ourselves as a top-performing branch within the United Van Lines moving family not only from receiving this sustainability award multiple times but also in the accolades of our drivers. One of our beloved drivers, Jeff Clark, was just awarded the United Van Lines Logistics Van Operator of the year! With more than 2,500 total drivers working for United, Jeff was this year’s stand out. Click here to learn more about the award including the ceremony in St. Louis!

Sustainable Moving Services in Massachusetts & Beyond

We are happy to announce that this sustainability award was the third award we have received in just a few short years. We recently received the United Van Lines Performance Excellence Award as Most Improved Agent, and The Fleet Safety Award as Top Performance by an agent. Call us at (800) 225-0394 or visit our website to learn more about how MacDonald Moving Services can help with your moving needs for your home, office, or relocation while keeping the environment in mind. 

apartment

Moving Into Your First Apartment After College

From College to the Real World

Moving on from college life to your first job and apartment is a big transition loaded with tough decisions to make. Use our tips to help make this transition smoother and guide you along the way! 

Decide What You’re Taking With You

Between your belongings in your dorm room and childhood bedroom, decide what you’ll be taking with you and what will stay behind. Be sure you have a list or mental note of which items are coming with you so you can be aware of space and which items you’ll need to purchase.

Looking for an Apartment

If you haven’t already found an apartment, it is best to start looking three months before you plan on moving in. Maintain an understanding of your priorities for your new apartment whether they are location, laundry options, size, or another feature. If you’ll be living with roommates, be sure to communicate these preferences so everyone is on the same page.

Shopping for Your First Apartment

Shopping for your first apartment can be overwhelming, especially if you need a lot of items but the key to doing this effectively is to be prepared and plan ahead. Hold off on shopping until you know where you’ll be living so you can properly plan with the space you have. Always purchase your most important furniture items first, such as a mattress and bed frame, so you are able to plan the rest of your bedroom around these items.

Hire the Right Moving Company

Choosing the right moving company can ease a lot of the difficulty of the moving process. Do your research, looking into the various options in your area and reading their online reviews. You can also contact each prospective moving company you’re considering and request a free estimate on your job. MacDonald Moving in Bridgewater MA offers a range of services including helping you move into your first apartment. With decades of experience, we’ve helped countless recent college graduates move into the next chapter of their lives but don’t just take our word for it, check out our testimonial section to see what we’re talking about!

new home for sale

A Guide to Moving Across the Country

Moving to a New State?

If you have a big cross-country move coming up, it is imperative to prepare to the best of your ability so the move will go smoothly, leaving you with the fewest amount of tasks to complete in the final hours as possible. Follow along for some tips on how to minimize the stress of a cross-country move and get ahead of the stress!

Make a List

When you decide you are moving, immediately begin making a list of the things you’ll need to do, buy, and plan for throughout your moving process. You can go through it down the line and organize it into more specific, action-based lists but by starting a list early on, you will be more organized and prepared for what awaits.

Do Your Research

Not only will you want to research moving companies to find the best fit for you, you will also want to be sure to do plenty of research on your new city or town. If you have children, be sure to include them in this research and get them excited about the upcoming move! Learn more about your new home, the school systems, and attractions you’ll be close to.

Find the Right Moving Company

By choosing the right moving company to meet your needs, you will eliminate the stress that comes with the physical action of moving your belongings and thereby reduce the overall pressure of the move. Thinking of any needs you may have during your move (long distance, valuable items, etc.) will make it easier to pick a moving company that specializes in the services you need. If you are moving across the country, you should choose a moving company that has the experience and skills needed to conduct successful cross-country moves.

Moving with MacDonald Services

At MacDonald Moving Services, we cover a range of moving and storage needs including local moves, interstate moves, global relocation, commercial storage, and much more. Our employees have experience in all kinds of moving jobs and are well prepared to handle your cross-country move! Contact us today and we’ll get back to you with an estimate on moving you to your new home!

How to Safely Move Items to a Trade Show or Exhibit

moving items to a trade show

Traveling to a Trade Show

If you are traveling to a trade show and need to get your valuables there in pristine shape, be sure you take the necessary steps to do so. Use our blog for tips on how to safely transport your materials so they are ready for display.

Planning Your Trade Show Trip

A crucial aspect of attending and selling anything at a trade show is to prepare well. Being organized in your preparation will make the entire process much easier. If you are new to trade shows, you will surely learn a lot right off the bat. Frequent exhibitors typically have one or more moving company who they rely on to get their items where they need to be, alleviating a great deal of the work. As soon as you commit to attending and selling at a trade show, you should begin tackling the logistics it will require for both and your belongings to get there on time.

Do Your Research

In order to find the best fit for you, do some research about companies who provide a moving service that will work for you. Try to find prices for this service as well so you can consider this factor when comparing companies later on. For the moving companies that stand out to you, request a price estimate to get an even better idea of what you can expect to pay for shipping your goods. Be sure you are looking for experienced, reliable movers who will not only get the job done but who you trust to get your items there just as they were when you left them. When you have a few viable options, weigh the pros and cons of each to come to a decision.

Trade Show & Exhibit Moving in Massachusetts

MacDonald Moving Services has been helping exhibitioners move their materials to and from trade shows for decades. Our professionals are trained to handle such moves with precision, ensuring your items are kept in mint condition throughout the moving process. Contact us today for a free estimate to move your items whether it’s just down the road or across the globe!

How To Safely Move Valuable Items to A New Place

transportation of valuable item

Moving Sensible Items

If you have a large item you need to be moved, you’ve come to the right place. With decades of experience moving sensitive items of all sizes, MacDonald Moving Services has the skill and insight to help you get your item safely to its next home. Continue reading for all the industry secrets and keep our tips in mind when you need to move an item of value in your possession.

Consider the Size of Your Object

If your object is above average in size, it is crucial to know exactly how big your item is. Whether you’ll be transporting the item yourself or will be contracting a company for assistance, knowing the precise measurements will be necessary. Take the measurements of the item in question and also measure the vehicle that you will be transporting the item in to be sure it will fit. 

How Valuable Is Your Item?

Knowing the value of the item in question should be a priority. If your item is worth more than one thousand dollars, you should certainly invest in professional help to move it to ensure it is done correctly and safely. The risk of damage to your item is always possible so be sure you know the value of the item in the case anything happens to it so you can get reimbursed.

How Far Is Your Item Going?

If your item is being delivered to a new home and you will no longer be in possession of it, you should certainly invest in a company to safely transport it for you. If you’re shipping your item a considerable distance, there’s no need for you to transport the item yourself. Take the distance into account along with the previously mentioned factors to decide what plan makes the most sense for you.

Choose a Trusted Moving Professional to Handle the Job

By trusting a moving company who is experienced in handling valuable items, you can rest assured knowing your item is in good hands. At MacDonald Moving Services, we’ve been handling high-value item transportation for decades, helping our customers to get their sensitive items where they need to go. Contact us today for a free estimate on moving your item!