19 Common Moving Mistakes

Recently, Flatbush Moving was featured in a Redfin Real Estate Blog, published by Julia Weaver called: 19 Common Mistakes: What Movers Wish You Knew Before Moving Day

New Home

It’s no surprise that moving is one the most stressful life events. Moving to a new place requires careful planning, organization, and stamina. No matter how many times you do it, it never seems to get any easier.

There are many things in life that are best learned through trial and error. Moving, however, is not one of those things. Whether you’re moving to a new home in your local housing market, or from Sacramento, CA to New York, NY, there’s plenty of room for error. Redfin asked me, along with other moving experts, to share a common moving mistake we see and advice on how to avoid it. Check out what I had to say to help your move go seamlessly!

Many customers prefer to pack the more fragile and delicate items themselves; and then have the movers pack non-breakable items such as books and clothing. We encourage our customers to do the complete opposite. We are professional packers. By letting us pack, it will ensure your fragile items are safely prepared for transport and also covered by the movers liability insurance. – Flatbush Moving Van Co.

19 Common Mistakes: What Movers Wish You Knew Before Moving Day

Flatbush Moving Video Spot on ABC’s Local-Ish

Watch Flatbush Moving’s Video Spot on ABC Network’s Local-Ish TV Series Here: ABC’s Local-Ish Season 1 Episode 810

In this episode, the moving and storage industry in the COVID-19 Pandemic is the main point of focus. As people look to return to their roots and move closer to home during these uncertain times, moving companies like Flatbush Moving Van Company have played an integral role in keeping people safe during their relocation.

Check out the episode with interviews from President of Flatbush Moving – John Liantonio as well as Vice President – Joseph Liantonio.

 

2020 Thanksgiving Food Drive

Flatbush Moving In The News

Flatbush Moving Van Company is proud to have been featured on the New York Times website on August 14th, 2020 and in the New York Times Sunday Edition on August 16th, 2020.

Found in the Business Section, the title of the article is “A Century-Old Moving Company Says the Summer of Covid is ‘Insane'”. Illustrated by Julia Rothman and written by Shaina Feinberg, the article describes Flatbush Moving’s experience during the first busy season in a post-pandemic world.

Please visit the article on the New York Times website: A Century-Old Moving Company Says the Summer of Covid is ‘Insane’

For all things moving and storage, call Flatbush Moving Van Company today!

 

 

Tips for Packing a Kitchen

INTRODUCTION

The most challenging part of a move is attempting to Pack a Kitchen. When preparing to pack the kitchen, many people think its quite easy.

A non-professional may just think you can stack similar size dishes in a box. Throw some bubble wrap in and some newspaper and voila! A box is packed.Packing the Kitchen

Sadly, it’s not that easy. (Although some of my friends would disagree) That packing strategy is a one-way ticket to broken dishes, leaving your service for twelve into a service for nine and a half.

Packing a kitchen is the same in any apartment or house in New York or New Jersey. The only thing that changes is the quantity.

Most apartments in New York have a limited amount of cabinet space. A typical 1 Bedroom may have 12 cabinets total (including the food pantry). Whereas a typical home will have double the amount of space.

KITCHEN ITEMS

A basic list of Kitchen Contents to consider packing is as follows:

  • Dishes, set for 6-8 (small plates, large plates and bowl)
  • Pots and Pans (4-10 pieces)
  • Silverware, set for 6-8 (but probably more)
  • Drinkware (regular glassware, pint glasses, wine glasses, coffee mugs)
  • Miscellaneous (mixing bowls, tupperware, cooking utensils, etc)
  • Small Appliances (coffee maker, toaster)
  • Spices & non-perishable food

Keep in mind that the larger your kitchen, the more items you can fit in it.

You can easily multiply the above quantities and see a larger amount of items in any kitchen.

Your more extensive fragile collection to consider packing is as follows:

  • Grandma’s China
  • Your own set of China
  • Champagne Flutes
  • A huge amount of extra of all the above

Okay, we can go on and on, as if we’re walking through the aisles Bed Bath & Beyond. But the reality of packing up your kitchen is that it may be more than you think. And it will probably take longer than you expect.

Dishes On Counter Packing the Kitchen

As for any packing during a move, it’s better to start sooner than later.

In order to prepare to pack your kitchen, first thing you should do is go through each cabinet and take a mental inventory of your items. As you go through each cabinet, start making decisions on what you will or will not take.

This is KEY in figuring out how much packing equipment and material you’ll need.

THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT

The best boxes to use are called Dish Packs. Most regular stores that sell boxes might call them dish boxes or large boxes with an indicator that they’re for dishes.

Dish Pack

Don’t be fooled.

These boxes may be low grade cardboard, that when packed like a Dish Pack could lack the proper protection needed.

Dish Packs are the highest grade quality of cardboard (or at least the ones that Flatbush Moving uses).

We recommend using only Dish Packs when packing the kitchen, along with a pack of white paper for every 5-8 dish packs.

In each box, the largest/heaviest items should be packed on the bottom. Then, as you fill the box in, gradually decrease the size and weight of the items.

Keep in mind that weight is important here. If you fill a box up with all the largest and heaviest items in your kitchen, that box may collapse or break in on itself.

HOW TO PACK

It is easiest to start with the basics. A dish set of eight, including the small plates, larger plates and bowls should fit in one dish pack when packed properly. Top it off with lighter utensils or anything non fragile to complete the first box.

PRO TIP: Wrap each individual dish in paper so it is protected. Slot each dish into the box and be sure to properly cushion the surrounding areas.

Your Pots & Pans can be mixed intermittently within multiple boxes. Extra appliances, especially the heavy ones should also be mixed intermittently, with the heaviest on the bottom.

Silverware and utensils can be used to top any box.

Spices could be placed in plastic baggies (in case a lid pops open to avoid spillage in box) and be used to top any box.

Glassware is the top concern for packing. It is very easy to break a wine glass, as it usually has a step and is a hollow piece of glass.

PRO TIP: The piece of paper you use to pack a wine glass should first wrap around the stem. Then cover the base and come up to wrap around the top and finishing by stuffing part of the paper inside the glass (acting as a cushion inside for support).

This tactic should be used with every kind of glassware with a void inside. And these should also be packed together with nothing topping them.

FINISHING UP

As you go through the kitchen and start packing, it may seem like a lot. But it can be accomplished in a few hours if planned properly.

For a visual check out this guide used by the second generation of Flatbush Moving. It may be dated, but it still applies today. Heaviest items on the bottom and work your way up.

This guide has been copied and transmitted so many times, the only copies we have left are a bit faded. But, they’re an amazing way to show just how long Flatbush Moving has been in business as well as a way to pack a Dish Barrel.

(Fun fact: in the old days, cardboard was scarce and movers used actual wooden barrels to pack the most fragile of items).

At Flatbush Moving, we know what it takes to pack a kitchen properly. Call Today to find out more information about your move.

 

Your Go-To Moving Box

When preparing to move, it is essential to prepare a Go-To Moving Box. Moving is almost always a stressful and hectic time, and this Go-To Moving Box will help alleviate that.

The first thing to take account is what kind of move are you doing? If it’s a local move, this could be considered a “Go-To Moving Bag”. But, if it’s a long distance move, you should consider a larger vessel such as a box.

Here are some pointers to help you figure out what you should put in your Go-To Moving Box.

  1. Money

When you are about to move, naturally you should keep track of your money.

Insurance Policy

Important financial papers, credit cards, checkbooks and cash should all be kept on person throughout the moving process.

You never want to be one of those horror stories of people who pack away their traveling budget in one of their boxes.

Losing track of these items during a move may force you and your moving crew to start a search for a specific box. This will waste valuable time and in turn, cost you more money.

Keep all of your important financial resources in your Go-To Moving Box or Bag from before the move ever starts.

  1. Electronics

In today’s digital age, it would be a nightmare to lose track of your phone. Almost everybody has it with them constantly, but that’s not the part to worry about.

The number one electronic item to put in your Go-To Moving Box is your phone charger. When moving, make sure you have your phone charger handy at all times. If your phone dies and you don’t have your charger, it’ll add unneeded stress to your experience.

Besides that, be sure to pack away any laptops, tablets or other electronic essentials in your Go-To Moving Box.Dual Work Station Go To Moving Box

When moving long distance, those above items are crucial to stay in contact with your moving company.

Beyond that, if your job is linked to the computer, then you’ll need to be sure you have all the necessary equipment to stay plugged in and productive.

  1. Clothing

Whether you are moving locally or long distance, it’s always smart to have a change of clothes.

If you are moving locally, one change of clothes is smart to keep on the side. It is suggested to make sure those are comfortable clothes as the unpacking process can be uncomfortable in nature.

If you are moving long distance, multiple changes of clothes is critical. Especially if you have to stay in hotels over multiple days or are driving cross country, this will prevent you from being uncomfortable and feeling dirty.

The number one and two suggested items to have multiple pairs of are socks and underwear. Never underestimate the power of a fresh pair of socks, especially after moving around for hours on end.

Pack away some extra clothing in your Go-To Moving Box. You’ll thank us later.

  1. Toiletries

Whether you are moving locally or long distance, your overnight toiletry bag will be useful.

Act as if you’re going away for a long weekend. Bring those same items with you on your moving trip.

If you’re moving locally, it’ll be useful to have those items handy while unpacking.

If you’re moving long distance, then you’ll need these things on a daily basis until you find your way to your new home.

Some items to consider: toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, deodorant, contacts and solution, hand sanitizer. Even consider a spare roll of toilet paper and paper towel. It can’t hurt.

Pack these items in your Go-To Moving Box as you’re packing the bathrooms and kitchen.

  1. Prescribed Medications

If you take prescribed medication, it is urgent that you keep track of these and pack them for safe keeping.

A basic kit of other over the counter medication is also encouraged, as you never know when you’ll need something.

It is pretty simple; keep track of the medications you need and prepare for medicine you might need. Put them all in your Go-To Moving Box and you’ll be okay.

  1. Children’s Items

Moving with children can be stressful to begin with. But not being prepared can be even worse.Child Holding Go To Moving Box

It’s highly recommended that you pack away a few items of distraction for your children during the process. They may feel displaced by the move itself and having a few items of comfort can help their mood tremendously.

Maybe a child’s stuffed animal or their iPad will help ease their behavior during a long trip.

Of course, you will want to add some extra clothing for your child as well. You never know when that ice cream reward will turn into a ruined shirt.

Make sure you put aside extra sets of clothes for children. Also, any child care necessities such a baby wipes and diapers.

Adding these items into the Go-To Moving Box will help you in the long run.

  1. Pet Items

Moving with Pets can also be tough.

Be sure to pack food, medicine and other essential items for our furry friends.

If you have the room to pack, a small toy or favored blanket can also help them get comfortable in the new home quickly even while the moving in process is ongoing.

  1. Snacks & Water

The most obvious and underrated item of all, food and water.

Pack some snacks for the family or yourself. Pack some water. It’ll be much easier to have these items handy as opposed to buying them along the way.

Be sure to pack non-perishable food.

Some items to consider: protein bars, nuts, trail mix and granola bars. Bottled water is an easy way to stay hydrated on the road.

Pack these items in your Go-To Moving Box in advance so they are there when you need them.

Go To Moving Box

Conclusion

In conclusion, act like you’re going on a long road trip and pack similar items. Be prepared for any situation and your life will be easier in the process.

Take some personal accounting of what you use and need day to day. This is the best marker for what you will require to keep with you during the moving process.

Hopefully some of these points of interest can help you plot out your own “essentials” checklist. Saving you the time, and headaches of going without in a time of need.

Contact Flatbush Moving Today for a Free Quote on Moving.

 

Tips for Packing and Moving a Bedroom

Moving a Bedroom is challenging, and should be appropriately managed as such. The bedroom is one of the most personal spaces in your home.

Considering this, you may want to take some extra care when preparing and carrying out a move of your bedroom items.

Here are some highlights to Moving a Bedroom:

Jewelry and Valuables

Moving a BedroomOften the smallest & most important items in your bedroom, jewelry can be a point of stress during the move.

It can be very easy to lose these small items while Moving a Bedroom. Usually, they are found lying loose along the tops of dressers, night tables, and inside drawers.

You will definitely want to take care when clearing your space for further packing and moving in the room.

Locate all loose jewelry and valuable items and pack them somewhere safe during the moving process.

We suggest you pack away your jewelry and valuables ahead of the move, or to keep on your person during the move.

This will save you the headache of trying to find any possible missing or broken keepsakes after the fact.

Clothing and Bedding

Once the jewelry is secured, you can move on to the much easier process of packing your clothing and bed linens.

Whether you are doing the move yourself, or hired a professional moving company, boxes for bedroom fabrics are easy to come by.

Wardrobe boxes are taller boxes which have a central metal beam inside the box. That beam is used for hanging your clothing directly from closet to closet without the pesky need of removing hangers. Wardrobe boxes make it unnecessary to fold and wrinkle clothes for transportation.

For other clothing and bedding, it’s best to pack these items away drawer by drawer for easy unpacking in your new home.

Pro Tip: use the bottom of the wardrobe box for loose items like shoes, hats, bags and other miscellaneous closet items!

Be very careful not to pack any liquids, such as perfume or lotions with your clothing as even the smallest leak could ruin certain fabrics.

Television and Appliances

Depending on the television set up in your room, you will have to approach the preparation accordingly.

Flat Screen TV Mount

If your TV is mounted on the wall, it will have to be brought down and packed separately from the mount.

It’s not as difficult as it seems, but if you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself, ask for help from a professional.

Most moving companies will gladly take the television off its wall bracket to be packed. However, most companies will not install the television back onto the wall once you are in your new home. You may have to plan to have the TV remounted.

Check out Amazon Home Services for a super easy and cheap way to remount the TV.

When packing a flat panel TV, it’s integral that the corners and side of the screen are properly cushioned in its box. Most cracks and damage to the screen starts with the corners and sides of newer flat panel televisions.

If you still have the box your TV came in, with its protective cushioning, it is highly recommended you use the same box to move the TV in.

However, all is not lost if you don’t have the original box. A professional mover can easily repack even the biggest modern TV’s using custom made television cartons and packaging.

Other items such as cable boxes and modems may have to be returned to your local cable provider. Be careful not to pack these items away, especially if you’re moving out of town.

Other smaller appliances, such as alarm clocks and bedside lamps, can be packed into more common boxes. Although they still require safe packing to ensure maximum protection during the move.

Take care that everything has been properly unplugged and disassembled (if needed) before grabbing items to box.

Pro Tip: Lamps should never travel with their shade and bulb still attached. Pack them separately, with shades in one box and the bases in another.

Bubble wrap, newspaper, air pocket cushions, Styrofoam. These are your best friends when packing a box with glass, breakable or expensive items.

If you think you need more packing paper around your Grandmother’s favorite lamp, then you need more packing paper.

When it comes to packing, be liberal with your cushioning.

Furniture

Most bedrooms have a familiar set up. You have the bed, one or two night tables, a dresser and possibly an armoire or vanity.Moving A Bedroom

Once you’ve packed the bedding, you’re left with a bare mattress and box spring. As you can imagine, it’s very easy for these pieces to get dirty, soiled or even possibly ruined during the moving process.

It’s very important to for the safe transit of these pieces that you cover them with protective covering. Many stores sell large plastic bags which you can slip up and over your beds. This will help ward against moisture as well as possible soiling or staining of the mattress and box spring.

Professional movers are known to double protect the mattress and box spring. Using plastic wrap and fresh paper padding, it is protected against possible damage along the way.

Once you’ve packed and emptied your drawers, all that’s left is the wrapping of furniture for safe travel.

If using a professional moving company for your move, this will be done by them during the facilitation of the move.

If you are going to pull off a “Do-It-Yourself” move, moving pads are available from some resources such as Home Depot or U-Haul.

Keep in mind, depending on how much furniture you have to move, this can be a rather costly expense not readily in mind from the start. As always, when possible it’s best to leave things to the professionals.

Other Points of ConcernMinimalist Bedroom Set

During the move, be sure to check your bedrooms. Make sure there aren’t any items which haven’t been properly packed and prepped for moving.

It’s very easy to forget what’s under the bed, or what may have fallen behind a piece of furniture over time.

Bedrooms should be thoroughly checked before you or the mover leave to head to destination so that nothing is left behind.

Contact Flatbush Moving Today for a Free, No Strings Attached Moving Quote!

Moving Appliances

Moving to a new home can be an exciting experience. With this process, there are some major decisions that must be made.

New Home Appliances

With every move, you have the “Who? What? When? Where? Why?” questions.

The most important question of all is “What am I going to move?”

As you go through the list of items you want to bring, many people moving forget a major detail: Appliances.

When buying a new house, it is important to find out if the sellers are going to include their appliances in the sale.

Types of Appliances:

  • RefrigeratorRefrigerator Moving Appliances
  • Dishwasher
  • Oven
  • Built in Microwave
  • Washing MachineWashing Machine and Dryer Appliances Moving
  • Dryer

Then there are the more exotic or extra appliances:

  • Garage Freezer
  • Wine Fridge
  • Outdoor Fridge
  • Garage Fridge

Decision Making & Appliances

In this section, we discuss how to decide which appliances to move (if any).

When negotiating for the purchase of a new home, keep in mind that new appliances cost thousands of dollars!

The seller may bring any and all appliances with them when they move.

Now you must decide if you will move your old appliances or purchase new ones.

If you have any favorite appliances that you want to move, then you have to properly plan and alert your mover that these items are coming.

Tips for Preparing Your Appliances for Moving:

In this section, we give tips on how to prepare your appliances for moving.

There are proper steps to be taken in order to have these appliances prepared for moving day.Do not assume that they can just be unplugged and go as is.

  • Refrigerators must be unplugged and defrosted with the doors open at least one day in advance.
  • Dishwashers must be unhooked from the water line and dried out and drained at least one day in advance.
  • Washing Machines must be unhooked from the water lines and dried out and drained at least one day in advance.
  • Dryers must be unhooked from any gas or power line in advance of the move. There may also be a vent involved and that must be properly dismantled.
  • Ovens must be disconnected from the gas lines in advance of the move.
  • Microwaves are easily unplugged, so no real worry there.Woman Setting Dryer Moving Appliances

When planning on moving any appliance, be sure to let your professionals at Flatbush Moving Van Company know in advance so they can be prepared.

With the proper equipment and handling, these items can easily be moved from any room in the house to any other room in your new home.

Whether these items are in the basement, in the kitchen or in the attic, Flatbush Moving has the tools and wherewithal to successfully move all of your appliances.

Call Flatbush Moving today for a free quote and with all questions on how to move appliances.

Moving with The Weather

The weather is a very important factor during the moving process. Living in New York is a humbling experience. Thus, one of the most humbling factors is dealing with the weather.

This isn’t Los Angeles. This isn’t Florida. We get Four Distinct Seasons.

Preparing for the weather is KEY and every season has it’s own guidelines when it comes to moving.

  1. Moving In Winter

Winter in New York & New Jersey can be amazing and magical (said no one ever).

Winter Home - Moving with the WeatherSure, the Christmas season is super awesome for tourists and holiday enthusiasts; but, for the rest of us, it can be too cold to function.

Getting out of bed on a cold morning only to walk to the subway and get into work with a bit of frost bite is not fun.

Well, moving in the winter is not fun either. BUT, it can be.

With proper planning, moving in the winter can be easy.

A couple of key tips for moving in winter:

  • Don’t disconnect utilities/heat until move is complete.
  • If you see snow in forecast for your move date, consider an alternate date (discuss with move coordinator).
  • If you have no choice but to move in the snow, expect longer move time and longer drive time.

There is nothing you can do about the snow, but you can certainly prepare for it properly.

 

  1. Moving in Spring

Congrats on choosing to move in the spring.

Spring Home - Moving with the Weather

Whether it was your choice or not, this is a great time to move.

The winter chill is gone, the summer heat is still a little ways away and odds are you’re going to get an unbelievable day for your move.

However, as the old adage goes: “April Showers Bring May Flowers”. So, rain in the spring is completely normal.

A couple of key tips for moving in spring:

  • Keep an eye on the forecast! See if it’s going to rain on the day of your move – check out the hour by hour. Discuss with your move coordinator!
  • Weather proof as many things as you can. For items you are specifically worried about, wrap in plastic to avoid getting wet.
  • If the rain looks bad, talk to your moving coordinator and change your date.

Moving in the spring is usually okay; but rain can happen. Only real thing to worry about here

 

  1. Moving in Summer

Moving in the summer?

You and everyone else.Summer Home - Moving with the Weather

Summertime is the busiest time for moving.

Kids are out of school, people take their summer vacations and real estate deals are closed on (following the spring show season).

It’s busy. It’s hot. It’s light outside all day long.

A couple of key tips for moving in summer:

  • Book your mover as early as possible. So many people move this time of year and moving companies book up FAST. Don’t get stuck last minute searching for a mover only to end up with an unlicensed, untrained crew in a small van.
  • Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. You should stay hydrated throughout the moving process and you should help the crew stay hydrated as well. To make sure of this, I recommend getting a case of water or a couple of gallon jugs in advance to serve to the crew throughout the move process.
  • Let your air conditioner be the last thing moved. Keep it going during the move to ensure everyone is comfortable. Also, the last thing moved out is the first thing moved in. Know in advance where the AC is going in your new place so that it can be set up and turned on before the rest of your items are moved in.
  • Avoid FRIDAYS. If you’ve lived in New York or New Jersey for at least one summer season you know that Fridays are chaos. Everyone is trying to get to their summer weekend destinations (see: The Hamptons; Jersey Shore). This affects traffic patterns and could extend your moving day.

Moving in the summer can be unavoidable, the best way to do it is to be prepared (like every other season!)

 

  1. Moving in Autumn

Autumn Home - Moving with the Weather

Congrats on choosing to move in the Autumn.

The weather is mild, the traffic is light and the leaves are starting to change (this doesn’t affect the move).

Only thing to keep an eye on is the forecast. Rain? Inclement weather? Early snow? Reschedule or discuss options with your move consultant.

A couple of key tips for moving in Autumn:

  • Just keep an eye on the forecast
  • Be sure to have a sweater handy; it may be warm in the day but cold in the night.
  • Be prepared just like every other season

Moving in the autumn is ideal for everyone.

 

Moving, no matter the season, is a challenge. But, with proper planning it can be easy as 1, 2, 3!

Contact Flatbush Moving today for more information on what to expect when moving with the weather!

 

Do It Yourself (D.I.Y.) Move

The Do It Yourself Move is a popular option for young professionals in New York City as well as people with a small amount of furniture, light furniture and mostly boxes.

New York City DIY Moving

Maybe a Do It Yourself move makes sense for people with easy access to pick up trucks or vans.

People who have a lot of friends or family near their home are also big fans of the Do It Yourself move.

Although a professional moving company will always encourage their potential customers to use professionals, if you decide to take on the task of moving on your own here are some tips to make this experience as easy as possible.

5 Tips for a Do It Yourself Move

  1. Who.You are going to need some help.Start asking at least one week in advance so you can get as many people as possible.

    Lunch With Friends DIY Move

    Bribe your friends with beer and pizza; and if they have an SUV, pick up truck or van, offer gas money.

    Even offer to pay for a car wash when the move is done!

  2. When.Naturally, you won’t want to take time off from work to do your move.If you are moving from a private home to a private home, then you can make this happen easily by moving on the weekend.

    But, if you live in an apartment building and are moving to another building, confirm that you can move in on a weekend.

    Not all buildings allow this, so it’s best to check in advance

  3. How.
    Rental Truck for DIY Move
    Figuring out how to move your items is key.If your friends don’t have cars or you need more than a couple of sedans, consider renting a truck.Daily rates for small box trucks are very reasonable. Check out U-Haul for cheap rentals; but make sure you read the fine print!

    Although if you’re in a city like Manhattan, finding a truck rental place may take you into the outer boroughs.

  4. Where.Street Parking in New York  can be rough.Finding a place to leave a rental truck can be even tougher.

    Depending on which street you’re moving from and to, as well as where your building is, you may need to double park (potential traffic hazard) or park by a fire hydrant (potential BIG parking ticket).

    If you have friends and family helping, designate one person to be on truck/car duty.

    They will help load but also be on the look out for traffic cops looking to issue tickets.

    Be sure that person knows how to drive in the event they have to move the vehicle.

  5. Why.

    A DIY move can be a great, bonding experience with you and your friends and family; but keep in mind that the reason for the DIY move is to save money.Try not to splurge on a bunch of expensive meals for everyone and stick to domestic beer (if that’s part of the plan).

Happy People DIY Move

Flatbush Moving can help you if you bit off more than you can chew.

A Do It Yourself move on paper looks much more attractive than when you are carrying furniture down four flights of stairs.

Call Flatbush Moving today to discuss your options. We provide free consultations to figure out the BEST way to do your move.