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How to prepare a car for shipping

Preparing things for shipment is never fun and nobody looks forward to it. This is especially true if you need to ship large and valuable items. So, it only makes sense that shipping a car is not an easy task to accomplish. To make sure you have some help, we will give you some tips on how to prepare a car for shipping.

Continue reading “How to prepare a car for shipping”

Office relocation – the fun way

The process of achieving the advantages of office relocation can appear daunting, at least in the planning stage. But when done right, an office move can be extraordinarily rewarding and not that stressful. One of the most important parts of relocation is preparing employees for it, which people often don’t treat as such. You should be at ease knowing that Arizona Moving Professionals are here to help you by breaking down your relocation into a series of simple tasks. The only challenge here is to prepare for the change. If there are considerable changes, such as moving to a different country, it can be a sensitive subject to approach with your staff. Use the situation as an opportunity to re-establish and build your company culture and get it organized in an improved way.

Include everyone to avoid the biggest mistake during an office relocation

The first thing to do when organizing an office relocation is to include your employees into the process from the start. That’s how you avoid doing tasks under pressure or superficially. You should get your staff engaged in the office relocation plan. If there is no empathy between the leader and his team, you will not be able to understand how office relocation affects your company. Communicate and ask questions from the start. That kind of approach creates loyalty. If you don’t hide anything, the employees will appreciate the honesty. Once you notify everyone, you can start to come up with some incentives to motivate a few of them who are reluctant. The incentives can be related to office space, game rooms or helping your people find their new homes in family neighborhoods. Whether big or small, people will welcome the incentives and you will have happy people once again after the office relocation is complete.
Office talks - people in a company talking in the lounge area
Your number one priority should be happy workers. At the end of the day, they are the ones who keep your business running.

Office relocation resistance

Any decision you make means you’ll have people satisfied with office relocation and the ones who won’t be. The best way to handle this is by acknowledging the reasons for resistance and making an objective to create balance. What is the first worrying question for employees here? They are wondering if they are keeping their jobs or they are experiencing fear of change. Are there going to be employee layoffs? Will the organizational structure be the same? You want them to understand change is good and everybody will benefit as a team. On the other hand, if you are planning to downsize, then be honest and let those people know immediately. A change in environment can be a huge morale boost which encourages proactive work and positive working experience. Start establishing your main requirements and get your employees involved in the move. Delegate roles and responsibilities. This helps to keep the team motivated and such a team effort creates positive energy in the collective that can do a lot for your company.

Estimating office relocation costs

Once you have everyone on the same page, you can start estimating moving costs. Don’t let the expenses throw you off completely when you check them too late. First, you need to choose an experienced and reliable moving company. Truth be told, this part of the process might be the most boring one. It can bring a lot of frustration if you don’t get organized and put no effort into it. It might be slow and painfully tiresome, but should be your priority number one. Get a precise and most favorable estimate from the moving company, and find out the full costs. Arranging different surveyors to visit your office is inconvenient. Meeting times get all mixed about and this stage can last as long as two or three weeks until you decide. Phone surveys are not much easier and also inaccuracies can occur. This is where video surveys come handy, so we advise you to try hiring a moving company that offers them. It’s a totally different experience when having to plan an office relocation.
Video chat through this blue Web cam is the best way to start organising an office relocation
Video chat is the best way to start organizing an office relocation for any busy entrepreneur.
You can talk to your mover through a video chat, record your office inventory and receive a super accurate estimate – all on the same day. This is the most attractive way to make sure you there are no more hidden fees and moving costs to pay attention to later on. Schedule a time that is suitable for you and you can make an appointment anytime you see fit.

You’re planning an office relocation – but where to?

This kind of a new journey can be a stressful experience for you, but not for your company. When organising an office relocation, start with a moving checklist of everything you need. Security, bandwidth, 24/7 access, air con/central heating – and so on. Do your research based on those requirements and really narrow the list of convenient locations down. Some of the booming locations (or most popular) include London as one of the major financial centers in the world. Your business there can connect with the environment. Another type of environment grabbing all the attention lately are startup hubs. They are ideal for small companies with advancing tech, software and Internet culture. Whatever you choose, office relocation is usually useful both for expanding your business and important connections.
Office buildings in a blue hue
Choose where you are expanding your business carefully, after doing a lot of thorough research.

Make your new space a home

When you complete the office relocation, and the business picks up its pace, it’s time for a break. We don’t mean stop doing what you are doing so successfully. No, but pause for a minute and smell the roses. Thank your employees by making the place theirs as much as yours. You want your employees to love their new office. Put together a calendar for the things you want to be done, and track your progress. Checklists improve efficiency and don’t leave a lot of wiggle room for mistakes. Start by going down the checklist by priority: Space decor, installing telephones, organizing security services, selecting furniture etc.

Decorating and organizing the office space to make it more enjoyable for your employees

Just think of all the wires, and all the electronic devices, docking stations, printers, folders od paperwork, and personal items on the desks in your offices. They all make a room full of open desks appear very disorganized. Spruce things up and make the environment more enjoyable by following these tips and tricks:
  • Wiring – conceal the cords in a stylish way and get that fast Wi-Fi operational
  • Liven things up – bring the outdoors in for a healthy atmosphere with plants, wooden decor elements, etc.
  • Winding down – establish and designate a comfy lounge area, add a Fussball table and some cozy furniture. Think about how cool of a boss you become when relocating a piano together with your new lounge room adds to the excitement around the firm. Trust us, adding a sleek piano for maximum relaxing effects on your trusted employees. 
  • Add a splash of color for ingenious thoughts, and to inspire creative minds
  • Community tables – arrange a place for employees to interact freely
  • Save space for the kitchen– a space to eat and get refreshed with the collective
Office with large desks and a lot of black chairs
Office decoration improves employee satisfaction, motivation to work more effectively and thus increases the company’s productivity.

Careful planning brings optimal results

We didn’t mean to make it sound like office relocation is a walk in the park. It takes a lot of careful planning. Efficient organization and proper employee management will be your two most coveted skills. However, some aspects of office relocation can definitely be fun. That’s why our main advice to you is don’t do things generically, do them differently. And do take advantage of the technology that’s out there. Hire a moving company that leverages technology and innovation for the most proficient office relocation of your career.

Relocation for Seniors – What to know!

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.

Moving to Arizona 101

Have you decided to spice up your life a little and live somewhere else? Since you’re reading this, moving to Arizona is already on your list. You’re probably wondering what would it be like to live here.

Sit back, grab a cold drink (just to get used to them), and read all about what’s it like to live in this wonderful state.

The basics

The Valley of the Sun, as it’s called, lies comfortably in the southwest of the USA. Some people call it The Valentine State, due to its statehood day – 14 February. Talk about romance!

Moving to Arizona means you’ll have to get used to a lot of new things, most of them specific to the area. We’re talking bugs here, scorpions, scorching heat, dust. On the other hand, Arizona has so, so much to offer. The Grand Canyon State, anyone? Consider this your guide to living here.

How to – moving to Arizona

You might be coming from far away, in which case organizing everything to the smallest detail will definitely require a lot of work, and some professional help. But if you’re moving to Arizona from somewhere relatively nearby, don’t think you won’t need help anyway. It’s always best to check out your options and find moving assistance for your local relocation.

This way you won’t have to worry you’ve forgotten something important, or that you missed something, realizing it when it’s too late.

Packing before the move – a nightmare?

Moving to Arizona - pack or leave?
Organization is everything when it comes to home relocation

The mere thought of boxes upon boxes is enough to invoke terror. Look, it doesn’t have to be that way! As always, organizing is everything. Do yourself a favor and accept the fact that you won’t be needing all the stuff you’d been hoarding in your old home for years. Try a tried-and-true system: toss, donate, sell, pack. You can even have some fun and make a yard sale (provided you have a yard). Check out our simple guide to moving out for extra help.

Your move to Arizona – but where?

First of all, it’s a big ol‘ state. By now you probably have an idea where to settle down. In case you still need some info, here are some useful facts:

  • City living is what folks opt for. Phoenix, Tucson, Glendale, Scottsdale, pick yours.
  • If you choose Phoenix, there are many of the best neighborhoods for families
  • to choose from.
  • If you’re a smaller town person, there’s plenty to choose from. And the scenery is so worth it!

Once you’ve made your pick, it’s time to find a place. Regardless of the size of your family, and the type of life you lead, don’t worry about whether you’ll manage to find what you’re looking for. Realty prices are just above the average in the country, and this means that, with some smart saving, you’ll do just fine.

You can expect the prices to vary between cities and towns, and the towns are obviously cheaper. Bear in mind that the location matters: the jobs, schools and universities, family activities, even weather is all to be taken into account.

The job market in Arizona

Chances are, you’re moving to Arizona because of a job relocation, or a new job opportunity. In that case, congrats!

If it’s the other way around, and you need a job after you start living here good news. Arizona is known for its progressive stance on the job market. In fact, since the beginning of this century (so, for two decades now), many world’s large companies have decided to move their HQ here. Also, it’s a great place for startup businesses, whether founding one’s own or jumping on the bandwagon and offering your skills to one. It’s important to know how to find a job prior to moving.

Let’s talk about nature

Even if you’ve never seen the Grand Canyon, you’ve definitely heard of it. It’s a famous landmark of nature all Arizonans are proud of.

Sunset in Arizona, one of many perks of living here
Classic Arizona landscape

You must be thinking that moving to Arizona is all about the desert. You’re wrong! All over the state, you can encounter various wonderful nature spots, with greenery and animal life. Many people even take up gardening! The trick is to learn about the land and the type of plants that grow there.

As far as animals are concerned, however beautiful they all may be, Arizona is a home to some potentially dangerous. Venomous centipedes, scorpions that would like to be your roommates, bees, ants, rattlesnakes, the list goes on. If you move to Arizona, being careful not to stumble upon them is a must.

The weather and how to cope with it

The Valley of the Sun really lives up to its name. On the average, the state has around 300 sunny days a year. This means, no worrying about that forgotten umbrella and definitely no snow days out of school. It does rain and snow occasionally, but it’s very rare.

If you’re moving to Arizona from a different climate, it’ll take you some time to get used to this. Some tips are:

  • Carry a lot of water at all times. Dehydration is a real problem!
  • You might be needing oven mitts to drive.
  • Never, ever leave anyone in the car even for a short time. Especially pets and children!
  • Expect your air conditioning to be working seven days a week.
  • Make sure you have a freezer full of ice packs once you move to Arizona.
  • If possible, find a house with a pool in the back yard. You’ll thank us later.

Food

Eager to learn all about the food? You’re in the right place! Arizona showcases a variety of cuisines, with many people saying that it’s the second best place to eat Mexican food.

Mexican food
Arizona is famous for the variety of cuisines

Let the adventures begin!

When you’ve moved and settled, it’s time to start exploring and experiencing all that life in Arizona has to offer. Due to its geographical position, it’s fairly easy for the people to go on a road trip to California, Mexico, or Las Vegas. So make that road trip playlist as soon as possible!

Guide to moving to Phoenix

Ah, Phoenix! A city of beautiful desert landscapes, citrus groves and sunny days all-year round is certainly a great place to move to. It is also by no means small. Being the largest city in Arizona and fifth in size in the US, makes Phoenix into a pallet of various different communities and areas that only add to its diversity. However, said diversity also means an abundance of choice when it comes to moving to or within Phoenix.  Therefore, choosing the right neighborhood to fit your specific needs might seem like a daunting task, but worry not, because we’ve put together a Guide to moving to Phoenix to help you with just that. Continue reading “Guide to moving to Phoenix”