Movers Love These Items:

1. Uniform, Stackable Boxes
   These are the golden retrievers of moving: friendly, reliable, and always do what they’re told. They stack like Jenga blocks, ride like a dream, and don’t surprise us by spontaneously exploding on the stairs. Want us to weep tears of joy? Label them “Books – Heavy!” so we can mentally prepare.
2. Pre-Disassembled Furniture
   A disassembled table is like a gift from the Moving Gods. Nothing says “I respect your spine” quite like pre-removed legs and bagged-up screws. You did your homework, and we salute you.
3. Lightweight, Sealed Containers (That Don’t Make Noise)
   Bins full of seasonal clothes? Bins full of loose change, live batteries, and 47 pens with no caps? That’s how you summon chaos (and possibly a small fire).

 Movers Hate These Items (But We’ll Still Move Them)

1. Fish Tanks
   Glass box. Slippery bottom. Sloshing water. If you leave the fish in, we’ll have an accidental aquarium tour on the highway. Pro tip: Fish don’t like road trips. Neither do we—when they’re in the back seat.
2. Packed Garbage Bags
   Is it trash? Is it your winter wardrobe? A cursed bowling ball collection? We’ll never know. What we do know is: they rip, they leak, and they never stack. Moving them feels like playing Jenga… blindfolded… during a windstorm.
3. Pianos
   Graceful in a concert hall, but in a stairwell? A vengeful beast with 88 teeth. And let’s not forget: it only takes one bad angle to start a full-blown, furniture-based Tetris meltdown.
4. Loose Items That Roll or Slide
   Carrying 12 rogue brooms and curtain rods down a hallway is the closest we’ll ever get to being in a slapstick comedy. And don’t even get us started on rolling suitcases that develop a mind of their own halfway down the ramp.
5. Plants. Giant, Branchy Plants.
   At Big John’s Moving, we love your love for greenery, but moving a six-foot palm is like wrestling a leafy octopus. It pokes, it sheds, and if we had a dollar for every time someone whispered, “Please don’t damage its spirit,” we’d be rich enough to retire from moving plants altogether.

Moving Tip: If it wiggles, leaks, rolls, or requires an emotional support group to lift, it’s probably in our “not-so-favorite” column. But rest assured—we’ve seen it all, moved it all, and lived to laugh about it.

The Bottom Line

At Big John’s Moving, we move it all with care, strength, and the occasional muttered joke about your collection of lava lamps—but that doesn’t mean we don’t have favorites. Want to make your movers’ day? Ditch the mystery bags, empty the fish tank, and consider leaving the grand piano to the professionals.

We’ll treat every item—beloved or bizarre—with the respect it deserves.

The post Why Your Movers Secretly Love or Hate Certain Items appeared first on Big John's Moving Inc. NYC.

The House is More Than Just a Building

For many older adults, a longtime home isn’t just where they live, it’s where they raised families, hosted holidays, built traditions, and weathered life’s ups and downs. It holds echoes of laughter, love, and sometimes loss. Letting go of that space can feel like letting go of a piece of one’s identity.

That’s why downsizing can stir up a wide mix of emotions: sadness, anxiety, guilt, and even fear. And that’s perfectly normal.

Start With Conversations, Not Checklists

Before sorting a single drawer, begin with open conversations. Talk about the reasons for the move—safety, convenience, community, or simply wanting a more manageable lifestyle, and what the new chapter could bring.

If you’re the one helping a parent or loved one, remember: this is their story. Listen with empathy, not urgency. It’s tempting to focus on logistics, but what’s often needed first is time and space to emotionally process the change.

Memory Lives in the Heart, Not Just in Belongings

Sorting through decades of possessions can be overwhelming. A well-worn chair, a stack of holiday cards, a set of old baking pans, these aren’t just things; they’re keepsakes tied to meaningful moments.

Make the experience more gentle by:

• Taking photos of cherished items before parting with them

• Creating a memory box of small treasures

• Gifting select pieces to loved ones who will appreciate the sentiment

Approaching this with patience and care goes a long way toward easing emotional tension.

Reframe the Experience: This Is a New Beginning

Yes, downsizing involves letting go, but it also opens the door to new freedom. Less house to manage means more time for the things that matter: hobbies, connection, relaxation, and ease of living. For many, moving into a retirement community or assisted living facility brings a renewed sense of safety and belonging.

It’s not about saying goodbye to the past, it’s about choosing a future that’s easier, safer, and better aligned with current needs.

Trust the Right Movers to Help

During an emotional time like this, the last thing you want is a stressful move. That’s why working with a reliable, experienced company like Big John’s Moving makes all the difference.

Our team understands the unique needs of seniors and families going through this transition. We offer more than strong backs; we bring patience, respect, and care to every step of the process. Whether it’s handling fragile heirlooms or navigating tight timelines, Big John’s Moving is here to make the move smooth, safe, and stress-free.

With decades of experience and a reputation for compassionate service, you can trust us to treat your move—and your memories—with the dignity they deserve.

Make the New Place Feel Like Home

Once you’ve arrived, the emotional adjustment doesn’t stop. That’s why it’s important to bring familiarity into the new space. Favorite blankets, framed photos, and familiar dishes—these touches go a long way toward creating comfort.

Encourage visits from loved ones and explore new routines slowly and with support. This new chapter isn’t about starting over from scratch, it’s about bringing the best parts of your past into a fresh space that supports your next stage of life.

Be Gentle With Yourself—and Each Other

This is a big transition. It’s okay to cry. It’s okay to need breaks. What matters most is giving yourself and your loved ones the grace to move through it together.

And when it’s time to take the next step, let Big John’s Moving help you carry the load, literally and emotionally.

The post Moving Later in Life: Handling the Emotional Impact of Downsizing appeared first on Big John's Moving Inc. NYC.

6:00 AM – Wake Up and Final Prep

The earlier you start, the smoother the day will go. Get a good night’s rest and wake up early to allow enough time for last-minute tasks. Have a hearty breakfast to fuel your day, and ensure you’re dressed in comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. Do a final walkthrough of your home to double-check that everything is packed, labeled, and ready to go.

7:00 AM – Pack Essential Items

Before the movers arrive, pack a bag with essential items you’ll need immediately upon arriving at your new home. This should include:

• Important documents (lease, contracts, IDs, etc.)
• Medications
• A change of clothes
• Chargers for electronic devices
• Snacks and water
• Basic toiletries

If you have kids or pets, pack items to keep them entertained and comfortable throughout the move.

8:00 AM – Movers Arrive

Make sure everything is ready for loading. Walk through your home with the Big John’s Moving team to discuss any fragile or valuable items that need special handling. If you’ve labeled boxes by room, it will make the unloading process much smoother at your new home.

9:00 AM – Loading the Moving Truck

Movers will start loading your belongings onto the truck. They typically begin with large furniture items, such as couches, dressers, and appliances, followed by boxes. You can help by keeping pathways clear and directing the movers if needed. 

11:00 AM – Final Walkthrough and Lock Up

Once everything is loaded, do a final walkthrough of your home. Check every room, closet, and storage area to ensure nothing is left behind. Turn off lights, close windows, and take pictures for documentation (especially if renting). Lock the doors and hand over the keys if required.

12:00 PM – Travel to Your New Home

Depending on the distance, you may have a short or long drive ahead. If traveling far, make sure to take breaks and stay hydrated. Keep an eye on your moving truck if driving separately, and plan an alternate route in case of traffic or delays.

2:00 PM – Arrive at Your New Home

Once you arrive, do a quick inspection of the home to ensure everything is in order. Check utilities (water, electricity, gas) and make sure the locks work. If renting, take photos of the condition before moving in your belongings.

3:00 PM – Unloading and Furniture Placement

Direct movers or helpers to place furniture and boxes in their designated rooms. This will make unpacking much easier. If you have labeled boxes properly, this step should go smoothly. Prioritize setting up essential areas like the kitchen and bedroom.

5:00 PM – Unpack Necessities

Unpack your essentials first—bed linens, toiletries, kitchen basics, and a change of clothes. If you have kids or pets, set up their space so they feel comfortable in the new environment. Order takeout or prepare a simple meal to recharge after a long day.

7:00 PM – Relax and Settle In

After a busy day, take some time to relax. Explore your new neighborhood, introduce yourself to neighbors, and enjoy the excitement of your new home. Tomorrow, you can begin unpacking and settling in more thoroughly.

Final Tips for a Stress-Free Moving Day:

✔ Stay hydrated and take breaks when needed.  ✔ Keep important documents and valuables with you. ✔ Have cash on hand for tipping movers (if applicable). ✔ Expect minor delays—flexibility is key. ✔ Make a checklist to stay organized.

By following this timeline and staying organized, you’ll make moving day a smooth and successful experience. Welcome to your new home!

The post What to Expect on Moving Day: A Timeline for a Smooth Transition appeared first on Big John's Moving Inc. NYC.

Apps and Tools

1. Sortly

Sortly is an inventory app that helps you keep track of your belongings. You can create detailed lists of your items with photos, categories, and QR codes. This makes organizing your possessions easy and ensures nothing gets lost. Sortly also offers a moving checklist to help you stay on top of tasks.

2. TaskRabbit

When you need an extra pair of hands (or several) for packing, lifting, or assembling furniture, TaskRabbit can connect you with local freelancers ready to help. You can hire Taskers for various moving-related tasks, making it a versatile tool for getting your needed support.

3. MagicPlan

MagicPlan is an app that allows you to create floor plans simply by taking photos of your rooms. This is particularly useful for planning the layout of your new home. With MagicPlan, you can visualize where your furniture will go, making the unpacking process more efficient and less chaotic.

4. Nextdoor

Nextdoor is a social networking app for neighborhoods. It can be a valuable resource during a move, helping you get to know your new community. You can use Nextdoor to find recommendations for local services, buy and sell items, and even ask neighbors for moving advice or assistance.

5. Google Keep

Google Keep is a versatile note-taking app that can help you stay organized during your move. You can create checklists, set reminders, and store important information all in one place. Google Keep’s color-coded notes and labels make it easy to prioritize tasks and keep track of your progress.

6. Mint

It’s crucial to keep your budget in check during the move. Sticking to your budget is more important than ever, and using a budgeting tool like the Mint app can help you stay organized during this busy time. Mint assists with tracking your finances by linking your bank accounts and monitoring transactions directly in the app. You can easily see how well you’re managing your spending and saving by keeping an eye on the app’s graphs and charts.

7. Zillow

While primarily known as a real estate app, Zillow can be incredibly useful during a move. It offers tools to help you find rental properties or homes for sale in your new area. Additionally, Zillow provides neighborhood information, school ratings, and other data that can help you choose the right location for your new home.

8. Big John’s Moving

Big John’s Moving is a reliable and trusted New York moving company with over forty years of experience.  Their skilled workers guarantee that your belongings arrive at their destination safely and securely. They also offer packing services, and storage options, as well as specialize in transporting fine art and antiques to make your move as stress-free as possible.

The Best Apps to Help You Move

Using these apps and tools, you can streamline your moving process and reduce the stress associated with relocation. From organizing your belongings to planning your new home’s layout and connecting with your new community, these digital solutions offer comprehensive support for every stage of your move. By leveraging the power of technology, you can make your next move the smoothest one yet.

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Your Unpacking Strategy

1. Start with a Plan
Before you begin, take a few moments to plan your unpacking process. Consider the layout of your new home and prioritize the rooms you use most frequently, such as the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. Create a checklist of tasks and set realistic goals for each day to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
2. Label and Sort Boxes
If you’ve labeled your boxes by room and content, unpacking will be much easier. As you unload the moving truck, place each box in the corresponding room. This simple step saves time and reduces the chaos of searching for items later on.
3. Unpack Essentials First
On your first night in your new home, you’ll need some basics to get by comfortably. Unpack an “essentials” box containing items like toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, basic kitchenware, and bedding. This box should be easily accessible and unpacked first to meet your immediate needs.
4. Tackle One Room at a Time
Focus on one room at a time to maintain organization and prevent clutter from spreading throughout your home. Starting with essential rooms, such as the kitchen or bedroom, allows you to quickly establish a sense of normalcy and functionality.
5. Set Up the Bedrooms
Having a comfortable place to sleep is crucial, especially after a long day of moving. Begin by assembling beds and unpacking bedding. Setting up the bedrooms first ensures you have a restful space to retreat to at the end of each day.
6. Organize the Kitchen
The kitchen is often the heart of the home, so it’s a good idea to set it up early in the unpacking process. Start by unpacking and organizing essential items like pots, pans, utensils, and dishes. Arrange your pantry and food items in a way that makes sense for your cooking habits.
7. Create Functional Spaces
As you unpack, think about how you want to use each space in your new home. Arrange furniture and decor to create functional, inviting areas. For example, set up a cozy reading nook, a practical home office, or a welcoming living room.
8. Organize Closets and Storage Spaces
Properly organizing your closets and storage spaces from the beginning can save you time and frustration later on. Use organizers, shelves, and storage bins to maximize space and keep things tidy. Group similar items together for easy access.
9. Decorate Thoughtfully
While it might be tempting to rush through decorating, taking your time to thoughtfully arrange your decor can lead to a more cohesive and personalized space. Hang artwork, arrange furniture, and place decorative items with intention, reflecting your style and making your new house feel like home.
10. Tackle Less Urgent Areas Last
Once the essential areas are set up, you can move on to less urgent spaces like the garage, basement, or guest rooms. These areas can be unpacked gradually, allowing you to focus on the main living spaces first.
11. Stay Organized
Throughout the unpacking process, maintain organization by breaking down boxes as you empty them and recycling or disposing of packing materials. Keep a running list of tasks to stay on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
12. Take Breaks and Pace Yourself
Unpacking can be physically and mentally exhausting, so it’s important to take breaks and pace yourself. Set realistic goals for each day and reward yourself for completing tasks. Remember, it’s okay to take your time to ensure everything is unpacked and organized properly.
13. Involve the Whole Family
If you’re moving with family, involve everyone in the unpacking process. Assign age-appropriate tasks to children and encourage them to set up their rooms. Working together can make unpacking more efficient and enjoyable.

Settling into Your New Home

You’ve decluttered, organized, packed, and chosen a reliable moving company like Big John’s Moving. But, you’re not done. Unpacking and settling into your new home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With an unpacking strategy, you can efficiently transform your new space into a comfortable and functional home. By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your new surroundings and start creating memories in no time.

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Packing Glassware

Glassware is one of the most common fragile items in any household. Here’s how to pack it safely:

Materials Needed:

• Sturdy cardboard boxes
• Packing paper or bubble wrap
• Packing tape
• Dividers or cell boxes (optional)
• Labels and markers

 Steps:

1. Preparation: Start by gathering all the glassware and the packing materials. Ensure the boxes are sturdy and can withstand the weight of the glassware.
2. Wrap Each Item: Wrap each piece individually with packing paper or bubble wrap. For extra protection, use both. Ensure that the entire item, including handles and spouts, is covered.
3. Box Lining: Line the bottom of the box with crumpled packing paper or a layer of bubble wrap to create a cushioning base.
4. Packing: Place the wrapped glassware in the box. If using a divider, place it in the box first and then insert the glassware into each section. For stemware, place them upside down to prevent damage to the stems.
5. Fill Empty Spaces: Fill any gaps in the box with crumpled packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent movement during transit.
6. Seal and Label: Once the box is filled, add a final layer of packing paper on top. Seal the box securely with packing tape, label it as “Fragile” and indicate the contents (e.g., “Glassware”).

Packing Electronics

Electronics require special care due to their sensitivity and value. Follow these steps to ensure their safe transport:

Materials Needed:

• Original packaging (if available) or sturdy boxes
• Anti-static bubble wrap or foam
• Packing paper
• Ziplock bags
• Labels and markers

Steps:

1. Back-Up Data: Before packing, ensure all important data is backed up on an external drive or cloud storage.
2. Disassemble: Carefully disassemble any removable parts like cables, batteries, and accessories. Place small parts in labeled Ziplock bags.
3. Wrap Components: Wrap the main components in anti-static bubble wrap or foam. If the original packaging is available, use it as it is specifically designed to protect the item.
4. Box Lining: Line the bottom of the box with packing paper or foam padding.
5. Packing: Place the wrapped items in the box. Ensure that there is no space; fill gaps with packing paper or foam.
6. Seal and Label: Seal the box with packing tape and label it as “Fragile – Electronics”. Note the contents and which room it belongs to.

Packing Artwork

Artwork can be particularly challenging due to its size, shape, and value. Here’s how to pack it securely:

Materials Needed:

• Sturdy cardboard boxes or custom-sized boxes
• Glassine paper or acid-free paper
• Bubble wrap
• Packing tape
• Corner protectors
• Labels and markers

Steps:

1. Preparation: Measure the artwork and find appropriately sized boxes or custom-crate a box.
2. Wrap Artwork: Place a layer of glassine or acid-free paper over the artwork to protect it from dust and moisture. Then, wrap it with bubble wrap, securing the edges with packing tape.
3. Protect Corners: Use corner protectors to safeguard the edges of the artwork, which are particularly vulnerable during a move.
4. Box Lining: Line the bottom of the box with packing paper or bubble wrap for added cushioning.
5. Packing: Place the wrapped artwork in the box, ensuring it fits snugly. If there is extra space, fill it with packing material to prevent movement.
6. Seal and Label: Seal the box with packing tape and label it as “Fragile – Artwork”. Note the contents and the room it should go to.

The Ultimate Guide to Packing Fragile Items

• Do Not Overpack: Overpacking can cause boxes to become too heavy and more likely to be dropped.
• Label Clearly: Always label boxes with fragile items clearly and indicate the correct side up.
• Use Quality Materials: Invest in high-quality packing materials to ensure maximum protection.
• Take Your Time: Rushing can lead to mistakes. Take your time to ensure each item is packed properly.

You can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your fragile items during your move by following this guide to packing fragile items. Transporting and storing delicate items requires skilled handlers and master packers, as well as the highest standards in shipping crates, wrapping materials, and climate control.  Big John’s Moving will make your transition smooth and easy and deliver your purchased supplies free of charge. Happy moving!

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Packing Tips For Couples

1. You Don’t Need Two Of Everything 

When moving in with a significant other for the first time, you will likely have duplicates of many household goods, like kitchen appliances, dishware, furniture, and linens. Your new home will need to contain all of your belongings and all of your partner’s belongings, so it makes sense to get rid of, or at least externally store, duplicate items to save storage space. 

2. Take This As An Opportunity To Declutter

Many newly combined households suffer from clutter because two homes worth of stuff are now being stored in one home. Beyond just getting rid of duplicate items, you and your partner should also take the opportunity to generally declutter and get rid of other items you no longer want. There is no reason to pack and ship items you no longer want into your new home. Take the opportunity of moving in with your partner to get rid of household items you no longer want or need by selling, donating, or throwing out these items.

3. Consider Renting A Storage Space 

If you do not want to throw out duplicate items, or you just generally are worried about lacking storage in your new home, consider renting an external storage unit. A storage unit will allow you to keep more of your possessions, without cluttering up your new home. Our modern storage facility offers regularly cleaned, climate-controlled units with 24/7 security, so your belongings stay safe, secure, and in excellent condition for as long as you need them stored with us.  

4. Hire A Professional Moving Company

Moving is a stressful process and it can put a strain on even the strongest relationship. Moving in with your romantic partner for the first time is stressful enough without personally managing all of the intricacies of packing, heavy lifting, renting a moving truck, and unpacking all by yourselves. Calling Big John’s Moving to help you with your move will take some of the burdens of this process off the shoulders of you and your partner, allowing you to focus on building your new household.

Call Big John’s Moving

The most important tip for all couples moving in together for the first time is to contact Big John’s Moving for all of your professional moving and storage needs.

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Pre-Move Resolutions

Moving Resolution 1: Make a checklist/schedule for your move.

There are obviously many things that need to be done before you and your family can move from your current home into a new one. Not only do you need to pack or get rid of every item in your current home you may also need to perform other tasks. Some non-packing, pre-move tasks may include buying packing supplies, booking movers, filling prescriptions, switching doctors, finding baby/pet sitters, and more. You should make a resolution to put all of your pre-move errands onto a single list, with set deadlines to make your move go smoothly.

Moving Resolution 2: Declutter your home before moving day.

Decluttering is a New Year’s resolution that many people struggle to fulfill every year, but moving allows you to achieve it. There is no reason to use precious time and money transporting the possessions you do not want or need. Take this opportunity to sell, donate, give away, and throw out any unwanted items that will make your move easier.

Moving Resolution 3: Learn how to pack correctly.

If you commit to learning how to pack correctly, you will protect your possessions and make unpacking less stress-inducing. Some rules for correct packing include putting heavier items at the bottom of boxes, not leaving empty spaces in boxes, using detailed labels, properly taping boxes closed, and not packing items from different rooms in the same box.

Moving Resolution 4: Start packing early and do a little bit each day.

If you make and keep a resolution to start packing early, and gradually, it will save you a lot of stress. It is a lot easier and less stressful to pack up your home, and accomplish all of your other pre-move tasks over a month than it is to do so in just a few days. You will be very happy you made this resolution when moving day finally arrives. 

Resolutions For Moving Day

Moving Resolution 5: Make sure your kids and pets are prepared for moving day.

Moving can be stressful for anyone, but it can be particularly hard on children and pets. You should make a resolution committing yourself to giving your kids and pets extra love and attention during the packing process, on moving day, and in your new home. Both kids and pets also benefit from their routines being maintained before, during, and after the move as much as possible. 

Moving Resolution 6: Have an essentials bag. 

Another potential moving resolution you can attempt to achieve is to create an “essentials bag” and add any items you may need during or immediately after the move. Items to put in an essentials bag include daily medications, a change of clothes, toiletries, pet supplies, your child’s favorite toy, phone chargers, and other similar items.

Moving Resolution 7: Take a family photo in your old home and your new one. 

While this resolution is not necessary to have a stress-free move, it can be fun and meaningful. You may have had some great memories in your old home, and you may want to look back on your last days there at some point in the future. On the other hand, you may want to look back on your first day in your new home. Commemorating your move with family photos is just a good way to mark the occasion. 

Resolutions For After The Move

Moving Resolution 8: Create an effective unpacking system.

Creating an effective unpacking system will make the process of getting settled in your new home much easier. Unpack your boxes methodically, in order of importance to you and your family. It can make sense to start with your essentials bag and then move on to the kitchen, bedrooms, bathroom, living areas, and finally the garage/attic.

Moving Resolution 9. Keep in touch with friends and family.

Moving can be emotionally difficult, especially if you are moving far away from friends or family. It is emotionally and psychologically beneficial to keep in touch with friends and family, no matter how far away they live. Thanks to the internet, maintaining long-distance connections is easier than ever. Take advantage of this technology and stay in touch with the people that matter to you, whether you are just moving to a new neighborhood or across the country.

Moving Resolution 10: Make an effort to meet your new neighbors.

While maintaining social relationships after a move is important, it is also important to make an effort to meet your new neighbors. When people move, they can often feel socially isolated. To combat social isolation, you should make an effort to introduce yourself to your new neighbors. 

Moving Resolution 11: Explore your new neighborhood.

The world is an interesting place and you are getting the chance to live in and explore a new slice of it. Make a resolution pledging to take advantage of this opportunity. Walk around your new neighborhood to get the lay of the land. Take note of nearby restaurants, stores, parks, and other points of interest.

The Most Important Moving New Year’s Resolution

The most important of all potential moving resolutions is promising yourself that you will call Big John’s Moving to assist you with your move. Big John’s Moving offers professional moving and storage solutions for residential and commercial customers throughout New York City. Fulfill this resolution and call us today!

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Ancient History of Moving

For thousands of years, humanity survived without the use of professional movers. Before the creation of agricultural society, people had to transport whatever possessions they had themselves using livestock, simple boats, family, and their own muscles. When most humans lived in nomadic hunter-gatherer societies with relatively few possessions, this was not a big deal, but as humans settled into sedentary agricultural societies, this became a bigger problem. As human society advanced human labor, animals (including animal-drawn vehicles), and more advanced boats were used to move people and goods between locations. 

However, for most of history, only the rich and powerful could utilize the labor of other people to move their belongings from one place to another. For instance, Mansa Musa, the emperor of the Mali Empire during the 14th century, relied upon a caravan of 60,000 people to bring his numerous treasures with him on his pilgrimage to Mecca. Most people had to handle the transport of their own possessions personally until millennia later.

Covered Wagons

The first hints of the professional moving industry began to appear in North America during the 1800s. In this era, Americans used horse-drawn wagons and carriages to move their household items between residences both within cities and across the continent. Most notably groups of covered wagons organized into wagon trains were utilized by settlers to move their possessions and supplies to their new homes in the American West. Settlers typically walked alongside their wagons with only drivers, the injured, and sometimes young children riding within the wagons themselves. Since covered wagons were used primarily for moving the possessions of settlers and not the settlers themselves, it can be argued that they were the moving trucks of their day.

Trains and Early Moving Industry History

The first professional moving companies in the U.S. emerged alongside the railroad industry. As railroads were constructed across America, small transport companies called “wagon firms” popped up near rail stations. Wagon firms would use horse-drawn carriages to bring goods to and from long-haul trains packing goods into crates in warehouses adjacent to rail lines. A wagon firm would pick up your household items, pack them into crates in their warehouse near the train station, and deliver them to the train. A different local wagon firm would then pick up your crates from the destination train station, bring your crates to their warehouse, and eventually deliver them. Wagon firms actually offered these household moving services as a sideline to their main business of local transport, but over time it would become increasingly important, especially with the invention of cars.

Automobiles and The Modern Age

The number of paved roads in the U.S. exploded during WW1, making automotive transportation more practical. In 1919, Ward B. Hiner founded the American Red Ball Transit Company which used motorized vans to quickly become the nation’s first interstate mover. By the mid-1920s, motorized vehicles were an integral part of the burgeoning professional moving industry. The industry also benefited from government subsidization of highway and road construction enacted to limit national economic dependence on the railroads. Still, the industry remained relatively small and fragmented and had to return briefly to relying on trains during WW2. However, after the war, the professional moving industry expanded massively as soldiers returned home. The professional moving industry has remained an integral part of American society ever since.

Big John’s Moving 

Big John’s Moving was founded in 1977 as a one-man operation, and today it has grown into a leading full-service independent moving company. If you require professional moving and storage solutions in NYC call Big John’s Moving!

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Pre-Move Preparation

Pack gradually

Start leaving boxes and packing supplies around your old home weeks before the move and start gradually packing your possessions. Gradual changes to your pet’s environment will be less stressful than sudden changes. At first, your pet may be curious or nervous about packing supplies but over time they will get used to their presence. 

Maintain your pet’s routine 

Feed, walk, and play with your pet at the same times as usual. Dogs, cats, and other pets are creatures of habit and sudden changes to their schedule can cause unnecessary stress.

Give your pet more attention

Moving even under the best circumstances is stressful for animals so it is important to give them more attention than usual. For instance, take your dog for a longer walk to tire them out and burn off some of their anxious energy. 

Set aside quiet space for them

Consider setting aside some small portion of your home for your pet and keeping it clear of the clutter and chaos that will consume the rest of your home as you are packing your belongings.

Contact your veterinarian

Call your veterinarian and ask them what stress-relieving techniques and supplements they recommend. If you are moving far from your current home and are switching veterinarians schedule a last appointment to make sure your pet is healthy and up to date on vaccinations. You should also refill any prescriptions for your pets and request a copy of your their medical files. 

Acclimate your pet to their travel accommodations 

If your pet is not used to long car rides or being confined to a pet carrier get them ready by taking them on practice drives. You can also use positive reinforcement methods like treats and toys to get your pet to have a positive reaction to their carrier and the car.

Never abandon your pet

You should never under any circumstances leave your pet behind or release them into the wild. If you are for any reason unable to take your pets with you to your new home it is your responsibility to find them a home or surrender them to a shelter. Abandoning your pet on the street can result in their death. Abandoning your pets is illegal and immoral.

Moving Day

Pack an emergency bag for your pet

The night before you move pack a bag with your pet’s essentials including food, medicine, water bowls, kitty litter, poopie bags, treats, grooming tools, and any other supplies they may need during the move or immediately after arrival at your new home.

Keep your pet away from the action

On moving day it is best to keep your pet away from the chaos. Consider having the animal stay in one quiet room with the door closed or even in a kennel or friend’s house until it is time for you and your family to leave. Be sure to keep your pet somewhere that is secure, so they do not run away. Check on them regularly. 

Take your pet in the vehicle with you

When moving with pets, always take them to their new home with you in your vehicle. The safest place for your pet is to be secured in their carrier, in the backseat of your car. Make sure there are no loose bags or boxes that can fall on them. You can also put a blanket over their carrier to reduce stress during the move.

Fish, birds, reptiles, and rodents.

Fish are particularly vulnerable to stress and moving can be dangerous for them. Fish can be transported for short distances using plastic bags filled with their old aquarium water. However, if you are moving a long distance (like to a new town, city, or state) you may want to consider rehoming your fish, to avoid accidentally killing them. Birds and rodents can be moved in their usual home containers but these containers should be covered to regulate temperature and reduce stress. Reptiles should be transported in an insulated box with plenty of air holes and a damp cloth inside for moisture. All of these animals should be transported safely by buckling them in the backseat of your vehicle, just like a dog or cat.

Make sure you have pet-friendly accommodations 

If you are traveling a long distance and will need to stay in a hotel overnight, make sure to find a pet-friendly hotel ahead of time along your route.  

Pets In Your New Home

Pet-proof your new home

Do not just release your pet into your new home. First, make sure the house is safe by ensuring that all doors, windows, vents, balconies, toilets, and backyard fences are secure. You should also search the home and remove rodenticides, poisonous houseplants, and any other pet dangers that may have been left behind by the previous residents. 

Introduce pets to the new home slowly

Get your pet used to your new home gradually by starting them off in a single quiet room, and gradually expanding the areas of the house to which they have access over time as you unpack.

Update their tags

Update the collar tags and microchips of your dogs and cats with your new address and contact information as soon as possible after a move (if not shortly before it). Ten million pets go missing in the USA every year, please make sure your pet is prepared.

Reestablish routine

Reestablish a predictable routine for your pet as soon as possible by walking, feeding, grooming, and playing with them at set times of day preferably the same times they were used to at your old house.

Big John’s Moving Makes Moving With Pets Easy

Moving with pets can make the process more of a hassle but with these tips, you and your pets can have a much more enjoyable moving experience. If you are planning a move in the near future please contact Big John’s Moving so that we can help you plan a stress-free move for you and your pets. 

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