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Fine art handling – tips and tricks

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They say that the transportation of fine art, antiques, and valuable furnishings is in itself an art. For most people, the artwork they own is very special to them. Not only because they are expensive and valuable but because of the beauty they bring to their home. If you are moving to another city, country, or just another house, learning how to move art and other valuable and fragile items is an important part of the moving process. It is important to do research – proper preparation is the key to fine art handling when moving. Keep on reading if you are interested in all the tips and tricks for fine art handling.

Hire Professionals

When it comes to fine art handling, be careful. It is a very delicate job that must be taken seriously. Some of your art may be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars. So, do not trust just anybody to relocate it for you. However, not all moving companies are the same. You will need to find professionals who specialize in fine art handling. Go online and do some researching on how to evaluate fine art movers. When you are moving something special like this, it is not a time to cut corners. You will regret in the end. So, do not think much and let professionals handle your art collection when moving.

A truck to do the fine art handling.
In situations like this, just call the professionals. You will not have to worry about packing materials and safety. Moving companies will do the job fo you.

Do Some Researching

As previously mentioned, companies like DA Moving NYC can do all the work for you. You will not have to lift a finger. However, if you are looking for some DIY moving tips and trick, we got you covered as well:

  • Do not try to cut corners and save some money – this is the time to go all out.
  • Use proper packing materials (never use newspaper to pack your art, because you might damage it). Instead, use reinforced boxes specially designed for artwork.
  • Pay attention to the temperature – some types of art can get destroyed if they come in contact with extremely low or hot temperatures.
  • Bigger is better – try to use much larger boxes when packing art. In this way, you can use enough bubble wrap to wrap your items.
A very expensive bowl
Moving fine art and expensive furniture is not as simple as moving a few random boxes. This type or relocation requires special care and attention. If you want to do it right, hire professional movers.

Packing Paintings with Glass

If, however, you think that you can tackle this job by yourself, you will need to purchase quality packing materials. Before putting paintings with glass into the box put masking tape across the glass. The “X” pattern works best in these cases. You should also cover the glass with a thick piece of cardboard to protect it. You can also use a foam sheet. After that, wrap the entire picture with bubble wrap.

Pack separately – never put two painting together. Fill the extra space in the box with shredded paper. Remember to secure the outer part of the box with extra tape.

Packing Oil Paintings

This can be tricky since oil paintings require special care in order not to damage their surface. If the painting is too large and very valuable, it is best to have a custom built crate made for this item. This will provide the best protection. However, if you do not want to order a special crate, buy a lot of packing materials.You should try to find wax paper, designed especially for the protection of oil paintings. After that, use the bubble wrap. You can also try to create a styrofoam crate. This will provide more safety.

An oil painting
Some oil paintings require special temperature. So, try to talk to professionals about climate-controlled environment to protect the pigments. Fine art handling can is best done by specialized professionals .

Packing Sculptures and Figurines

And now, the hardest part. Packing things like fine china, crystal, and other fragile items can be a nightmare. At least, consider having your moving company handle this one for you. However, if you are determined to this yourself, remember to use special boxes and be very gentle. Wrap each figurine with bubble wrap. Do not try to cut corners with this one. Wrap each piece many times. Purchase specialized boxes for fine art form your mover. As with paintings, you should fill inside of the box with shredded paper. Secure every box with large amounts of duck tape.

China plates
Packing plates really does require fine art handling. Always pack plates on their end, never place them flat.

When the Moving is Complete

So, the moving process is finally over and you are starting to unpack. Let the movers unload trucks for you. After unloading is completed, check each and every piece of art. Carefully open the boxes and examine everything. If some of the boxes or items are missing, immediately notify your mover. Also, accidents happen. Things as delicate as fine art can easily get damaged. So, you should consider having insurance for these kinds of things. If something does get damaged, talk to your movers about it before signing the receipt. Whatever happens, do not get too stressed out. Everything can be fixed.

Fine Art Handling – Conclusion

We covered most of the important things when it comes to fine art handling. It is up to you whether you want to do this by yourself or let professionals do this for you. If you are moving to New York, there are many people who specialize in this kind of relocation processes. Also, consider Queens when moving to NY City, it is much cheaper, and you can get more for your money. There, you can buy bigger houses or flats where you can show your art. But if your move is not local, do detailed research. Find what is best for your possessions. Whatever you decide, get insurance. Good luck!

Relocation for Seniors – What to know!

Posted on by Editor

There are many reasons why elderly people consider moving to another area. Some of those reasons may be retirement, changes in lifestyle or health or just a better climate. Moreover, some seniors want to move closer to their family members because they need help. Another reason may be moving to a smaller home which is more convenient and easier to maintain. Whatever the reason may be, this is a hard decision to make. So, if you are a senior who is making another important life decision, keep on reading. And even though there are many things to remember when moving, relocation for seniors does not have to be a struggle.

Family Meeting is a Must

First things first, organize a family meeting. Invite all of your closest friends and family members, order some pizza, or if the weather is nice, have a barbecue. After the meal is taken care of and everybody is there, start talking. Explain the reasons for the move. Tell them that you will need their help. Help is necessary, especially when it comes to heavy lifting and packing, so make sure to get everybody involved. Also, do not wait for the last minute to seek their support. This family meeting can also be a kind of “goodbye party” so be prepared for the emotional side of this relocation. It is normal to feel a bit sad and overwhelmed when making this type of transition, but do not worry. After you move to a place which is more convenient for you, you will change your mind. Relocation for seniors is a common thing, just remember to start early.

Two elderly people walking down the street
Although, relocation for seniors may seem scary, do not be afraid to take this step.

Choose Your New Home

It is important to start this process early. Do detailed research. See what you are looking for when it comes to your new place of living. Decide whether you want to live in a house or in an apartment. Our advice – search for a smaller place to live – it is easier to maintain. Look for amenities that you will use. For example, if your choice is to live in an apartment complex or condo association, you will have access to some great amenities.
Swimming pools, gyms, restaurants and entertainment spaces are just a few of the potential perks. Also, do not forget to check if your new place has an outdoor space. It will come in handy! You will also want to find a flat neighborhood which has easy access to walking trails, banks, grocery stores, etc. Whatever you decide, try to think about the next phase of your life and how you need to choose the best place for yourself that will support your changes.

Downsize!

Now that you know how big your new home is going to be, It is time for decluttering and downsizing. You do not need all of your things, just bring what is necessary and things that have a sentimental value to you. So, go through each room and see if some of your old pieces of furniture could fit into your new home. See what the weather conditions are going to be like in your new place, and pack clothes only for that climate. Moreover, try to downsize, focus only on the possessions that are important to you not just what you like or are used to having around. After everything is done and ready for packing, decide about the rest. You can organize a yard sale, and sell everything. Or, you can give the stuff to your family members, friends, charities or to an auction.

A photo album - a must item during your relocation for seniors.
Do not forget to bring your treasured items. Photo albums, favorite pictures, books, or even t-shirts do not take a lot of space, but can make the relocation for seniors much easier.

Stay in touch

As previously mentioned, you should organize a “goodbye party” before you move to your new home. Tell everyone about your change of address. Besides telling this to your friends and family, remember to notify the bank, post office, network service and all other utilities you may have. Write down all important phone numbers of your closest relatives. You can also add them on social media like Facebook or Skype, to make this transition easier.

Family members talking to each other over Skype
Do not forget to keep the most important people on speed dial.

Relocation for Seniors is easier with Professionals!

Since you are an elderly person you should not be bothered with packing and lifting and finding moving trucks. This can all be avoided if you hire a moving company. It may seem more expensive in the beginning but it will be a good investment in the long run. You will not have to worry about the packing materials like cardboard boxes or bubble wrap. Moreover, you will not have to bother your entire family to pack your belongings and place them in trucks. This is a long process, and it can all be avoided. If possible, when looking for moving assistance in your area, hire a company with the highest ratings. This will ensure a safe and fast relocation.

A truck for relocation for seniors.
Most moving companies will provide you their own packing materials and moving trucks. So, your only job will be to sit back and enjoy.

Best Places to Retire Internationally

If your choice is to make the rest of your life as extraordinary as possible, then moving somewhere far far away is a great idea! Here are some of the best places that make relocation for seniors worthwhile:

  • Brazil – If you are a sea lover, then this is a place for you. Beachfront properties are still affordable. With a rich culture and changing landscapes, Brazil will be a place where you will fully enjoy your retirement.
  • Costa Rica – It is a place which has one of the highest life expectancies in the world and with excellent health care system. It will provide you with great beachside communities.
  • France – If your dream is to retire even further, why not Europe. France has a great health care system, but foreign retirees need to purchase private insurance. It has a rich culture and cities with moderate climates.

NYC relocation made simple and easy – simple guide

Posted on by Editor

If you have decided to live in the Big Apple, it just might be the best decision of your life. But before you start the next phase of your New York City adventure, you first need to complete your relocation. This means that you should prepare for moving day (or days) in one of the biggest and busiest cities in the world. It may sound scary. And intimidating as well. However, if you get ready in advance and follow some simple advice, you should have no problems. This will help your NYC relocation made simple and easy. And your household relocation made easy means a wonderful beginning of a new chapter in your life. Do not think that moving to New York City has to be hectic and stressful. There are simple steps to take and make it easier.

You may find NYC intimidating, but you will quickly get used to its charm.

Hire a professional moving company to make your life easier

There is a chance you thought that you would not need to hire movers. Trust us, NYC relocation can be quite complicated. You need to have any help you can find. This includes the help of professional movers. If you choose an experienced and reliable moving company, your NYC relocation made simple and easy will not just be a wish. It will become reality. You will be able to relax and simply oversight the process without feeling stressed and pressured. They know how to handle your belongings. They also know their way around New York City. Let them gather all the necessary information about your relocation. This will help the movers perform better and help you feel more confident about the moving process. You can even estimate the cost of your move online using the moving company’s website. You will be able to plan your moving budget in advance by using this useful feature.

Do the research on your neighborhood

New York City does not lack in diversity. It is a city where you could find anything from a family-friendly, quiet neighborhood to hectic, noisy and overcrowded streets. So you need to do thorough research of your new neighborhood. Do an online search and check for comments and reviews. Furthermore, you can walk around your new neighborhood before you move. See what it looks like on a workday as well as during the weekend. Are there lots of children? This can be significant if you are moving with kids. Do houses, buildings and yards seem neat and organized? All this might help you prepare and definitely make your relocation easier. In New York City, there is a vast variety of styles and sizes of properties. The most numerous buildings in NYC are walk-ups. However, there are many types of buildings:

  • Brownstones
  • Pre-War
  • Post-War
  • Lofts
  • Luxury Doorman Buildings etc.
Moving to NYC means choosing among various types of buildings
There are many different types of buildings in NYC

NYC relocation made simple and easy is less than easy with a pet

There are several types of household situations that might make your relocation more complicated. Of course, one of them is owning a pet. Specifically, a dog. Moving with a pet is complicated. Nevertheless, preparing in advance will make your relocation much easier. Firstly, you need to ask around and check if your building has any kind of ban on dogs. Many NYC buildings prohibit dogs. Actually, any kind of pets. Others have different rules and regulations involving pets that you need to be aware of. While checking the neighborhood, see if there are parks nearby. If you see people walking their dogs, stop and ask them about their experience. Gathering any necessary information in advance will make the relocation easier for both you and your precious pet. In the end, your beloved dog will need time to adjust. So, you need to make the relocation simpler for it as well.

NYC relocation made simple and easy could be a bit complicated with a pet
In NYC you need to prepare in advance for the relocation of your pet as well

Plan, but also pack well in advance

There is one important advice you can take before you move to NYC. This is to plan everything and pack everything in advance. It takes a couple of months to be well-prepared for a relocation. And if you are moving to the Big Apple, you need to be ready in time. This will make your moving day simpler and easier. Moreover, it will make you feel more relaxed and easy-going about the whole moving process. Make a list of things to remember when moving. Also, go shopping for packing equipment. It is never too early to do this. And if you forget to purchase anything, you’ll have plenty of time to make up for it. You will need plenty of boxes, duct tapes, a label maker, plastic and paper bags, etc. All of this will come in handy when you start with the moving process. Being prepared in time is one of the basic conditions for simple and quick relocation.

Do you feel more confident about your relocation after reading? You should. Also, you should be relaxed knowing that NYC relocation made simple and easy is not an impossible task especially if you hire a moving company with a reputation such as Heart Moving Manhattan NYC. They are all the help you need to prepare in time. This way there will be no surprises and headaches.

Being ready and making timely preparations also means that even if something unexpected was to happen, you would have enough time to handle it. And most importantly, you wouldn’t need to worry about it. So, you can slowly start getting ready. Do your research, make the calls, ask around, and go supply-shopping. You can handle moving to New York City stress-free. And being relaxed will make the entire process feel like a walk in the park. Central Park perhaps! Go on and start your Big Apple adventure as soon as you can.

How to avoid injury when moving

Posted on by Editor

Relocating with your family is an important part of your life. You are heading to a new home, new town, possibly a new state or even a country. This entire relocation process produces a lot of stress, and if you are not used to it, you will have to learn what to do. When people are under a lot of pressure, they do not concentrate enough, and this is how injuries happen. Injuries during moving are a common thing, and they may occur suddenly. To be able to avoid injury when moving, you must prepare yourself for every situation.

Luckily, we are here to share our knowledge and give you some tips and tricks that will help you avoid injury when moving. And not only that, these suggestions will make your relocation easy and smooth.

Most common injuries when moving

To be able to avoid injury when moving you need to know what kind of injuries to expect. Most common injuries when moving are:

  • injuring your lower back
  • cutting yourself
  • falling while carrying heavy items
  • injuring your joints

These four types of injury are most common when preparing for a move. We are going to cover them one by one and show you how to avoid them or what to do if you do get hurt.

Lower back pain
Lower back pain is the most common type of injury

Do not lift heavy items

The number one rule when preparing for a move is not to lift any heavy items if you don’t have to. It is fairly easy to hurt your lower back or spine. It only takes a second to hurt yourself, so have this in mind.

If you need to move a couch, always ask for help. One of the best advice that we can give you is to consider hiring a reputable moving company. It’s a great way to deal with packing your possessions, without worrying that you might hurt yourself.

However, if you are relocating on your own, you need to find reliable friends who can help you. If you have a dolly, use it! It is an essential tool to use when packing for a move.

When you are lifting boxes, it is of utmost importance to do it from your hips. Never bend your spine, this is how injuries happen!

Working with sharp objects

If you are packing knives, be extra careful. If you have a case for knives, it is best to pack them inside. It is best to wear protective gloves when handling sharp objects.

Also be careful if you are using scissors, although these types of injuries are more common with children.

Another way that you can cut yourself is when moving electrical appliances. There are a lot of sharp edges that you cannot see, so be sure to use gloves.

Avoid injury when moving sharp objects like knives
If you cut yourself while packing knives, remember to apply pressure to stop bleeding

Be careful when carrying boxes

If you already packed boxes for moving, be careful when loading them to the moving truck. Best is to make a clear pathway, so you don’t trip over something. If you have a choice between pulling and pushing, always push. It’s the safest way to move heavy objects.

Also, remember never to lift anything above your head. It is bad both for your spine and shoulders. Make yourself learn how to lift boxes properly.

It is smart to think when you are packing boxes. For example, if you are packing books, do not use a large box. Lifting it will be impossible. Instead, use a couple of smaller boxes. It will be much easier to carry them.

Take care of your joints

It is quite easy to heart your elbows or knees. Joint injuries are very common. If you are lifting something heavy, the biggest mistake is to bend your knees all the way. You will feel a lot of pressure once you get up. Have a firm grip instead and only slightly bend the knees.

Remember to rest enough, do not overwork yourself. If you get tired, the bigger the chances are that you will hurt yourself.

When we talk about carrying boxes, do not lift more than one box at a time. It is fine if you are lifting pillows, but do not try to rush the packing process by lifting more than you can take. You have to think smart to avoid injury when moving.

How to avoid injury when moving with pets

If you are moving with pets, you have to remember that they like to get in the way. A cheerful dog might jump at you at the wrong moment, and you might end up hurting both yourself and your dog. Feed them, so they are not hungry, and close them in a room until you finish packing.

Plan ahead

It is common to make a plan when moving. It is much easier to organize. Take a few moments and think is there anything that will be hard to pack or move. You will remove the element of surprise, and you will be able to plan on time how to do it.

Pain pills
Always have some medicine to lower the pain if you get hurt

What to do if you get hurt

Sometimes it is not possible to avoid injury when moving, and if that situation arises, you must know what to do. In case of feeling any back pain, immediately stop whatever you are doing. Same goes for any injury.

Always have sports cream close to you, it will come in handy. If your joints are in pain but you need to continue, wrap them tightly using bandages. It will provide support and relieve the pain for a moment.

Have a save relocation

We gave you general tips and tricks on how to avoid injury when moving. Nevertheless, always be extra careful and do not rush anything. Take your time in packing and loading boxes to the moving truck, and always remember to ask for help if you are handling heavy or bulky items. Good luck!

Hidden moving costs to pay attention to

Posted on by Editor

Moving is never easy, and no one likes to do it. Those who try to do it by themselves loose large amounts of time, energy and nerves – only to end up hiring movers. And, those who hire a moving company to take care of their relocation usually overlook hidden moving costs and end up paying much more than they have initially planned to. But, there is a way to have a perfect relocation – quick, efficient and affordable. Stay tuned, and learn how to do it and how to avoid any hidden moving costs.

A man on stairs sign.
F
Follow our easy steps, and you will avoid having to pay for hidden moving costs


Be prepared

To avoid hidden moving costs and mistakes that can cost you a lot of money – you must come prepared. Get informed, and learn everything there is about the moving company of your choice. How to do it? It is quite easy!

Get references

Think twice before you choose to hire a moving company to take care of your relocation. Never jump to conclusions. Try to find a reliable mover with many years of experience and even more satisfied clients. Get referrals from your family members, friends, co-workers, and neighbors. The best way to get a reliable mover as your ally is to find the one that has already been checked out.

Do a background check

Make sure you know who you are about to hire. It is quite easy to get the right information nowadays – just open your Internet browser and start your search. Never make a decision based solely on an official website of a moving company – always check out other sites with reviews to get the clearer picture.

Get an accurate moving estimate

You can get an estimate in one of three ways:

  • Over the phone.
  • Over the Internet.
  • In-person, at your house or business address.

Many people feel uncomfortable with movers going through their every drawer – but this is the only way to get an accurate moving estimate and to avoid hidden moving costs. If you try getting a quote over the phone, the chances are you will forget to mention some details that can change the price of your move drastically. The same stands for Internet moving estimates, but if you find a moving company with a good online quote calculator – your chances at getting an accurate quote will rise.

Laptop and a computer.
If you don’t want movers in your house before the moving day comes – go for an over-the-Internet estimate.

Never sign blank or unclear documents

If you want to avoid hidden moving costs – you should make your every step count. And when it comes to signing documentation – you should be especially cautious. Why is that? A moving company can legally charge you for anything if you sign it. Overlooking costs isn’t the same thing as getting scammed with hidden moving costs. You should do everything in your power to get a positive moving experience – and reading documentation before signing it is a big part of it.

Good communication is the key

Get to know your movers. Don’t be shy. These people will come to your house, and there is nothing wrong with you asking some questions. Everyone wants to get informed, and there is no shame in doing it. If something is unclear, seems wrong or you have a problem with any part of the relocation – talk to your movers. Ask about prices. Try to get to know what costs add up, and what for can you be additionally charged.

People shaking hands on a meeting.
To avoid paying for hidden moving costs – you will need to know your movers.


Look for red flags

It is common for people to pay for hidden moving costs. But, in most cases – it is their own fault. Why is that? If you don’t do your part of the job and sign off on anything – don’t be surprised with the final cost. On the other hand – moving scammers will do everything in their power to take as much as they can. So, make sure you hire a reliable moving company. There is no way to tell how much can it cost if you get scammed.

To prevent getting scammed from ever happening, make sure you know your mover. Search for the red flags. Look them closely. Think in advance. Ask for proof of their license and ask if they are properly insured.

What are some of the most common hidden moving costs?

  • Additional services. Moving companies will always offer additional moving services, and if you accept – you will have to pay for them. It is really not a big surprise.
  • Additional charges for – extra stops, elevator fee, and similar.
  • Express delivery fee.
  • Canceling of a relocation fee.

Just like we have already said before – get to know your mover. Ask about its pricing system, and you will avoid paying hidden moving costs for sure.

What are the makings of a reliable moving company?

Every moving company is unique, but there are some characteristics that are same for every and each one of them. Look for companies that have highly trained and well-experienced moving specialists. Ask if they have the tools needed to complete your relocation – and if they are a reliable moving company, they do. Every member of their team should have passed a training and strict tests to determine if they are ready for the job. Make sure the moving specialists you get are screened for drugs and alcohol. And if moving company of your choice has all these qualities and is fully licensed and insured in addition to that – think no more and hire them.

Summary

Even if there is a risk of having to pay for hidden moving costs – in the end, it will be cheaper than having to pay for possible moving mistakes. The more complex your move is – the more reliable mover you will need. And if you are moving interstate or overseas, let professionals handle your complete relocation– and focus on other, more important matters. There are many things you should take into consideration – not only moving costs.

How to find a good mover’s company?

Posted on by Editor

When you are moving, it is extremely important to find a good mover’s company. You shouldn’t let just anyone move your items. Finding a good movers company means that you won’t have to think about and worry about your belongings. When you find s good movers’ company you move is good as done. However, there are some steps to follow in order to get this done. Your part of the work is to investigate enough so that the company you find is a company that you would recommend to someone else. Finding a company that doesn’t suit you has its consequences, so make sure to do your homework find a good mover’s company by following some of the following advice. Continue reading “How to find a good mover’s company?”