Category: Moving Tips

Getting goods from one place to another is a much more difficult job than you might imagine. No matter what business you’re in, choosing a logistics provider to handle your supply chain is a big decision and not one that should be rushed without much thought. 

To help you in that process, we’ve compiled a list of things to consider when choosing a third party logistics (3PL) partner.

1. 3PL’s Speciality/Area of Expertise

Many logistics companies out there cater to certain fields or regions. There aren’t many ‘one-size-fits-all providers’ when it comes to logistics. 

Therefore, you’ll need to be sure that the company you choose has the capabilities your business requires. It’s not uncommon for companies to utilize multiple providers so all their bases are covered.

Familiarize yourself with different 3PL’s points of origin and final destinations. Consider: Are they able to accommodate time sensitive shipments? Will you need access to storage and warehousing? Do their capabilities, generally, match your needs?

2. Customer Service

Another big thing to look for in a logistics company is their customer service record. Generally speaking, customer service and reliability go hand in hand.

Ask potential providers for references from current clients; this typically gives you the most nuanced picture of what working with a particular company is like. 

Reviews of many 3PL companies are available online as well. Although the reviews may not be as in depth as a phone call or email exchange with a current client, it gives you a broader idea of what can be expected.

3. Scalability

One aspect that is often overlooked is scalability. Your needs this year will be different than your needs two, five, or ten years from now. 

Your 3PL will need to adapt to those changes as well. As your company grows and it’s demands evolve, your logistics provider will need to be able to evolve with you. Consider the clients they currently serve and how long they’ve been together.

Before approaching potential providers, make sure you have a sense of your business’ potential growth and future requirements.

4. Company Stability and Experience

As with any industry, experience is invaluable.

A 3PL with several years of experience, at the very least, is a necessity. With experienced companies, you can feel a little more secure knowing they have the needed stability and won’t shut down on you a few months in.

Moreover, an experienced and stable company is less likely to become a liability for your supply chain. This is a must since any hiccups become a liability for your business; your customers won’t know or care if your company is at fault or if the issue is with the logistics company.

5. Cost

While price will certainly play a big role in your decision, it should definitely not be the only factor you look at. 

Cutting corners on cost of service isn’t something you want to do. A bump in the supply chain can cost you a lot more in the long run, both in headaches and financially. 

As a partner with United Van Lines, Schroeder is able to provide reliable corporate services including logistics and supply chain management, last mile delivery, and more!

Whether you are relocating to a new home or a new office, you have to pick the best option for you making your move as stress-free as possible. Continue reading to learn more about which five questions to ask about a long-distance moving company before choosing a mover.

1. Are You a Certified, Licensed Moving Company?

Any reputable business will have no problem providing you with documentation proving that they are, in fact, a licensed moving company. 

You want to make sure that the moving company that you choose is verified by the United States Department of Transportation (USDoT) under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA). 

2. Do You Offer All of the Services That I Need?

Can the moving company you’re looking into do it all, from packing supplies to shipping your belongings to unpacking the truck? A long-distance move is about more than the loading and delivery of your belongings.

Ask your potential moving companies about all of the services they offer and match up to the requirements you have set for your movers.

3. Should I Expect Any Additional Fees?

Moving is already a stressful feat. The last thing you want is to find out at the last minute that there are additional fees for something you thought was standard. You don’t want any kind of surprises on moving day. Ask the movers from the beginning if your move requires any special services that require additional fees.

4. Do You Have References?

Ask potential professional moving companies for references before hiring them. You will be trusting your expensive belongings and keepsakes to them during the move. An experienced, professional, trustworthy moving company will be happy to provide you with references. 

Also, take the time to explore and do your own research about the company. In addition to references, Don’t rely on references alone, also pursue online reviews. See if you can get input from friends, family, and others in your community who have used the same professional movers. 

5. When Can I Expect My Delivery?

If you are working on a set timeline or are a little impatient when it comes to waiting, you want to know when to expect the truck’s arrival. Maybe traffic or other issues may prevent you from making it to the new house or office on time, so you want to be prepared.

Most companies will have a time frame for estimated arrival or offer a tracking system to know exactly when the truck will be at the new home or office. 

Choosing a Mover, Making the Right Choice

Now you know what to look for when choosing a mover for your next relocation; you’ll be prepared to hire your new mover. Pick the right one for you!

Contact us today to get started.

While moving is exciting, it can also be stressful. Stress can be unusually high for kids who are leaving their home and friends behind. Here are some ways you can help your kids adjust to their new home.

Prepare Them

Talk with your kids before you prepare to move. Explain why you are moving. Assure your child that although many aspects of their lives will change, your love for them will remain the same. Welcome their questions, and be as open with them as possible.

Encourage Participation

Assign your child chores related to the move. Give them some responsibility. Also, encourage your child to pack their own belongings. This way they feel more comfortable that their things will be waiting for them at the new house. Let your child pack a box of their favorite items to carry in the car so that they can unpack as soon as you arrive.

Make Their Room Familiar

Children feel more comfortable when surrounded by familiar things. Set up their room as soon as possible and try to keep the same rugs, spreads, and other objects as in your previous house. If you feel you must change some item of decor, let the child help choose the new items.

Expect Regressive Behavior

Stressful situations can cause children to regress, especially with potty-training, baby talk, and separation anxiety. Stay calm if your child does regress. Allow them to adjust at their own pace. If regression continues for more than a few months, contact a doctor.

Allow Grief and Anxiety

Most kids require at least six months to become acclimated to their new surroundings. Even if your child is excited about the move, accept that they may have moments when they cry for old friends or seem cranky or out of sorts. These teary times and tantrums are normal.

Model Emotions

If you have a positive attitude about the move, chances are your child will too. Likewise, any negativity will also spread to your child. Letting your child see you experience sadness is okay; it provides the child an opportunity to learn how to manage emotions constructively.

Maintain Schedules

Children find security in schedules and rituals. Maintain similar mealtimes and family times as at your old home. Do the same bedtime rituals in the same order for toddlers. Consider putting baby to bed in the old crib or on old crib sheets.

Show Them How to Make Friends

Practice opening lines with kids, such as “Hi, my name is Joan. I moved here because my mom just got a new job.” Remind them how easily they made friends at the old house and encourage them to easily make friends at their new home.  

Explore the New Community

Take your child on a fun tour around the new neighborhood and surrounding community. Discover new places of interest for the whole family like exciting parks, playgrounds, and historical spots. Find fun places like a donut shop or ice cream shop where you can begin to create new family memories.

Getting There

If you are making plans for your move, we can help. Contact us for a free quote.

The big day is just around the corner. The house is sold, your boxes are packed, and it’s almost time to move into your new home! As you prepare for the household movers to arrive, there are a few last-minute things that you’ll want to do before they do.

Do A Walkthrough

Complete a final walkthrough of your home, and then do it again with a friend. Another set of eyes can help ensure that you didn’t miss anything. Don’t forget to check the cabinets above the fridge, the storage space in the garage, the shelves in the guest bathroom, etc. Scour the place to make sure that nothing is left behind.

Get Outside

In addition to doing a walkthrough of the inside of your home, do a walkthrough of the outside as well. Toys, hoses, and pet equipment are often left behind.

Clearly Label Your Essentials Kit

You should have an essentials box packed with everything you need to get you through until you have all of your boxes to unpack at your new home — you don’t want this box to get packed on the moving truck! Clearly label this box “Do Not Pack” or ‘Essentials Box.” Put the box in your car or on your porch. Allow no room for error when it comes to the things you’ll need to make it through the first few days or so as you get settled into your new home.

Pack Your Car

If you’re driving to your new home and its a long-distance, you’ll want to pack your car with comfort items to make the trip more pleasurable. Pack up games for the kids, pet supplies, and snacks and drinks for everyone to eat on the road trip. Make sure you place this box in a safe but accessible spot within the car.

Take Out The Trash

Don’t forget to take out the garbage for the last time. It’s crazy to think about, but many times, a full trash can gets packed right along with other belongings. Take your trash, and reach out to your homeowner’s association or trash company to find out what you need to do with your large, outdoor trash can. If you find that you need to bleach or otherwise clean the trash can, get that done before the movers arrive.

Clear a Space

Clear the driveway before movers arrive. Remove your car from the driveway so that your vehicle isn’t blocked in by the moving truck. Moving your car will also allow the moving company space to work.

Let your neighbors know about your moving schedule and ask for their cooperation ahead of time. Request that they do not park in front of your home on the day of the move. Tell them when the moving truck will arrive and how long it should be there.  

Then make sure you do the same at your new home. If you’re moving locally, go to your new house before the move, and as a courtesy, notify your new neighbors about the moving truck schedule.

Moving Made Easy

Follow these helpful tips for prepping for moving day and your move will be a breeze.

Do you need help packing? Or, maybe you need help moving. Contact us for a free quote today. We can make your move easy.

Potential buyers start forming an opinion of your home before they even walk through the front door. Are you getting serious about selling and moving to a new home? Make sure you stage your yard as well as the inside of your home. An appealing exterior helps draw potential buyers in with a positive mindset.

Check out these tips for wowing potential buyers with your landscaping.

Stay on Top of Lawn Upkeep

It sounds simple, but it’s one of the most important things that you can do to sway potential buyers to consider your home. When you take care of your lawn, it’s clear that you take care of other aspects of your home too. 

Keep your grass trimmed, and use a weed whacker to make clean, neat edges. If it’s hard for you to keep up with your lawn, consider hiring a mowing service to come by once a week to keep it under control.

Pine Trees Go a Long Way

Planting a few evergreen trees can give your home a private look and provide an open area of some desperately needed shade. Many people use pine trees to define their property line, and this can be a great way to show potential buyers exactly how much yard space they’ll get with your home.

Use Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting doesn’t just have to be used at night —  on cloudy days; it can add an inviting touch to your home. Outdoor lighting in a few strategic locations can brighten the feel of your outdoor space. It can help your potential buyers imagine entertaining outside or enjoying a night on the back deck. You don’t want outdoor lighting to be too harsh or bright. Sticking with golden yellow bulbs provides an inviting hue to help your potential buyers get a warm and cozy feel from your home.

Add Some Color

Flowers add a nice touch of hominess and charm. Select a color theme of flowers if possible and stick to it. A pop of color can be a great sign that you’ve invested in your home’s look. Too many uncoordinated colors of flowers can create a chaotic feel that might turn potential buyers off. Consider picking a color that already exists in your home or your yard. Play up that color with your landscaping choices.

Clean It Up

Above everything, keep your yard clean. If you have kids, be sure that all toys are picked up regularly. Place them into an organized area in the garage or shed. Don’t let pet waste accumulate — pick it up daily. 

If there are rocks or debris in your yard, do an afternoon walk around to clear things out. The cleanliness of your yard is one of the most crucial selling points for potential buyers. Just like the upkeep of your lawn, the cleanliness of your yard gives buyers an idea of how you care for your home. You’ve put years of work into making your home fantastic, and you want your yard to reflect that as well.

Moving

If you are on the move and need help, contact us for a free quote. We can help simplify your move.

No matter where or how far you’re moving, packing is an essential part of the residential moving process. And packing an essentials kit for when you arrive at your new home is invaluable.

An essentials kit will help keep you organized. It keeps all of your necessary items together so that when you reach your new home, the important stuff you need right away is at your fingertips. Your essentials kit is the box you load up last, keep with you, and unpack first. 

Consider this essentials kit your first-night survival box with things like a basic toolkit, electronics chargers, and cleaning materials that will help make the process smooth.

Each family’s essentials kit should be a little different and unique to them. Chances are you can’t start packing your box right away, so it is key to make a list before you start packing your house.

Here are some suggestions about how to pack your essentials kit.

Gather Cleaning Supplies

Chances are you did a deep cleaning of your new home before the move. But on move-in day, you likely will need to do some more light cleaning. These cleaning tools will also be handy throughout move-in day.

• Sponges
• Paper towels
• All-purpose cleaner
• Glass cleaner
• Dish soap
• Hand soap for each sink
• Broom and dustpan
• Trash bags

Assemble a Small Tool Kit

You will probably need a few tools to get you through the first couple of days at your new home. These basic tools will come in handy for opening boxes, reassembling furniture, and repairing things as you go.

• Boxcutter
• Hammer
• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Scissors
• Tape
• Flashlight

Select Snacks and Kitchen Essentials

Keep up your energy on moving day by staying nourished and hydrated. Pack a few nutritional snacks, non-perishable foods, and beverages to help you get through the day. You might want to plan ahead about how you will handle meals on moving day. Decide and plan if you will make something or opt for carryout.

• Bottled water
• Energy Drinks
• Protein bars
• Non-perishable foods
• Paper plates
• Cutlery
• Napkins
• Cups
• Pet’s food and bowls

Choose Personal Comfort Items

Since you don’t know exactly when you will have access to your personal belongings following your move, plan to include some crucial ones in your essentials kit.

• Medicines
• Toiletries
• Toilet paper
• Bathroom towels
• Contact lens supplies
• Bandaids
• Alcohol wipes
• Antibacterial cream
• Pajamas
• Change of clothes for a day or two
• Phone charger
• Toys for kids
• Dog leash

Include Bedding

As soon as the beds are assembled, use the bedding packed in your essentials kits to make the beds. You will want to have a comfortable spot to rest on moving night so that you’re ready for a full day of unpacking and organizing the next day.

• Bedding
• Pillows

Complete Your Essentials Kit

Label your essentials kit as soon as you have it packed, then make sure it’s the last item loaded onto the moving truck or your vehicle so that it’s the first box to come off. It might be more convenient to keep your moving day essential kit with you in your own car. Keeping it with you is particularly handy if you arrive at your new home before the movers. 

Additional Moving Help

Your personalized essentials kits will help you on moving day. Let us also help you navigate through the residential moving process. Contact us today for a quote.

Ah, the exhilarating feeling of moving to a new city. There are all kinds of new sites and sounds, new friends that you have yet to meet, and new tastes to explore.

No matter where you go, you will want to make sure you have a job secured to help take care of your finances. After all, the bills aren’t going away just because you moved. That said, it can be more than a challenge to find a place to work in a new territory.

With the right tools and knowledge, however, knowing how to find a job in a new city can be made a simple task. Here are some tips for landing yourself a new job in a new city. Keep reading to find out more!

Research the City

Above all, before you make plans to move, do your homework. 

Consider if a move to this particular city is a good fit for you. Does this new community align with your lifestyle, personality, and career goals?

Research the industries and companies hiring in the new city. Pinpoint industries and areas where you’d like to work.

Use Your LinkedIn

LinkedIn is perhaps one of the most effective tools for finding work, and you should use it to your advantage when making a move. Updating your account is one of the best things you can do to help find a new job.

The trick is to plan ahead. Before you relocate to a new city, make sure to change your current address on your LinkedIn to the one you are planning on moving to. This gives any potential employers ample time to notice you and give you a call before you even move to your location, increasing your chances of securing a job.

Join locally-focused LinkedIn groups such as job-seeking and networking groups. Also, participate in discussions and establish relationships with members in those groups.

Build a Network In Your New City

A considerable challenge you will have in leaving your current city is not being able to use the local network you’ve developed thoroughly. So, it’s essential to start building a new network in your new city. 

Reach out to friends, associates, or family members in the new area. Check to see if they know anyone in your field that they could introduce you to. Also, use your alumni networks on social media to make contacts and connections. 

Pursue Additional Resources

Check area-specific job sites and local publications for job listings. Contact a headhunter in the new city to help you identify and find jobs.

Take Your Job With You

Maybe you love your job but want to explore a new part of the country, and the best way is a relocation. So, why not see if you can take your position with you when you move? If you’re on good terms with your employer, they value your work and would hate to lose you; maybe they would be willing to let you work remotely from your new city. This is particularly a possibility if you’re able to travel back to the office for meetings.

Let’s Get You Moving

Now that you know how to find a job in a new city, you’ll be ready to work as soon as you move into your new home. But first, you’ll need to find a way to get to your new place so you can start transforming your life. Luckily for you, we can help you do just that.

Ready to get started with your moving experience? Give us a call or send us a message. Let us help with your relocation!

Getting ready to move? If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Many people feel like the moving to-do list is endless. 

Whether you’re just starting to set your move-out date, or you’re already collecting boxes, following a task list is helpful. Resist the urge to keep a list going in your head. Writing down your to-dos can be a lifesaver. 

Let’s take a look at how you can break down essential moving tasks week by week, starting with a month before your move.

4 Weeks

1. Purchase your moving supplies. Include boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, tape, labels, markers, and box cutters. Check with your moving company to order specialty boxes like dish pack kits, wardrobe boxes, and special TV boxes.
2. Start packing the non-essential items. Get the things you use the least into boxes first. While you probably won’t miss old sporting equipment, you’ll want to hold off on packing up your bed and bath towels. A good rule of thumb: if you haven’t used it in the past two months, you can pack it.
3. Get on the phone with utility companies. Set up the cancellation date for your old services, and set up the start date for your new services. Don’t forget to save the phone numbers of new service providers in case there’s a problem at your new home.

3 Weeks

1. Take a look in your freezer and make a meal plan that lets you use up food that you don’t want to move to the new house. Two weeks should be long enough. Once you are a week out from your move, it’ll be time to resort to takeout as you dismantle your kitchen. Plan to donate nonperishable items that you don’t want to take with you to your local food pantry.
2. Set up mail forwarding to your new home – it’s easy to do this online.
3. Stop in at the mechanic for a once-over on your car. If you need an oil change, this is the time. If your mechanic typically books up early, you may need to do this even sooner.
4. Check to see if you have overdue library books, rental items, or things borrowed from neighbors, and return them. Also, pick up any dry cleaning and other items that are out for repair.

2 Weeks

1. Pack with a purpose. Label each box with the contents and the room to which it is to go to at the new house. Consider color-coding by room.
2. Pack your valuables and important documents in a special box. Include things like checkbooks, wills, and insurance documents. These items should stay with you and be transported by you and not be loaded onto the moving truck during the move.
3. Properly dispose of restricted items that can’t go onto the moving truck like cleaning supplies, propane tanks, paint, other flammable items. 
4. Secure a cleaning company for cleaning your new house before moving in.
5. Talk with babysitters, your employer, your children’s school, daycare centers, etc., about final dates for attendance.
6. Figure out the things you want to do one last time in your area with your family. Visit your favorite restaurant, have one more movie date with a friend, or check out that new coffee shop you’ve been eyeing for months.

1 Week

1. Time to pack your overnight bag! Pack like you’re going on a weeklong vacation, and assume that you won’t have access to any of your things for at least that amount of time.
2. Stop by the pharmacy to get prescription refills for you, your family, and your pets.
3. Confirm the moving company’s arrival date and time. Finalize any loose ends with the movers.
4. Unplug your electronic appliances, including computers and video equipment 24 hours before the move, so that they’ll be at room temperature on moving day. 

Move Day

1. Have everything packed before the movers arrive, and be ready when they get there. The movers will want to begin as soon as they show up.
2. Indicate to your movers all extra-fragile items that need special care. Have those boxes and items set aside, so they are separate from the other general moving boxes.
3. Leave your new home address for the new residents. This will allow them to forward any stray mail that comes in.
4. Pack your car with your overnight essentials bag. Also, pack your valuables and essential files box with you. 

Settling In

Moving can be stressful, but making a list makes it easier. When you finally get settled in your new home, don’t forget to kick your feet up and congratulate yourself on a job well done.

You’re moving – the list of things you need to do seems endless. Your days are filled with setting up utilities, making travel plans, boxing things up, and more. No matter how many things you check off, more seem to be added. For many people, this can result in a high-stress level and a sense of being overwhelmed. 

It’s important to remember that you’re not the only one who is feeling this way. Your pets are getting ready for a huge adjustment too. They’re depending on you to get them through the moving process. 

While helping your pets adjust to a new home can be a challenge, it’s far from impossible. Here are some tips.

Provide Plenty of Snuggles

You love your pet – don’t forget to let them know it during your move. Take time out of your busy schedule to give your pet some extra playtime, exercise, and cuddles. Spending some time together will reassure your pet that not everything is changing. You’ll also benefit from taking some time to relax with your pet.

Keep the Routine

Your pet knows what to expect on a daily basis right now, and that’s all about to change. Keep a sense of consistency for your pets whenever you can. This can mean keeping them on their regular eating schedule. It can also mean taking them to a dog park they know and love, if possible. Providing their favorite treats can help too. Keep their bedtime and wake up time on a schedule, and make sure they get their regular exercise.

Expect An Adjustment Period

Just like the human members of your family, it will take your furry friends some time to settle in. It’s normal for unusual behaviors to arise as you move into your new home. Struggles with pets may include chewing, urinating in the house, becoming destructive, or showing anxious behavior. Try not to worry – these behaviors usually dissipate as your pet gets used to their new home.

Baby Steps When It’s Time To Explore

Your pet is curious, and you love to watch them explore. While it’s fun to watch your pet get used to their new home, take it slow. Limit your pet to one room at a time to start. Slowly expand the area they can explore. This will stop them from becoming overwhelmed and help them to feel safe.

Talk With The Vet

Your vet knows the nuances of your pet’s health and behavior. They’ll be able to give you unique tools and tricks to help your pet settle into your new home. 

Moving is never easy, but you and your pets will settle into your new home in good time. Take it slow, and if you have any questions, reach out to your vet.