1. Start Early and Plan Ahead
   
   One of the best resolutions for a successful move is to start planning early. Moving isn’t something you want to leave until the last minute. Begin by creating a timeline that breaks down each task, such as scheduling movers, packing rooms, transferring utilities, and notifying change-of-address forms, well in advance. Planning allows you to handle challenges before they become urgent problems and ensures a more relaxed moving experience.
2. Declutter Before You Pack
   
   A New Year is the perfect opportunity to start fresh, not just in your life, but in your home. Take the time to declutter before packing. Go through your belongings room by room and make thoughtful decisions: keep what you love and use, donate what’s still in good condition, and discard items that are worn or unnecessary. Not only will this make packing easier, but it will also save you time and money during your move, and give your new home a cleaner, more organized start.

3. Organize and Label Boxes

Packing can quickly become overwhelming, but organization is key to a smooth move. Use sturdy boxes and high-quality packing materials to protect your belongings. Wrap fragile items carefully, and don’t forget to clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in. Color-code boxes by room to speed up and streamline unpacking. By staying organized, you’ll spend less time searching for items once you arrive at your new home.

4. Create a “First Night” Box
   
   Even with the best organization, some essentials are worth keeping separate. Pack a “first night” box containing the items you’ll need immediately, like bedding, toiletries, phone chargers, snacks, medications, and important documents. This way, when you arrive at your new home, you won’t have to dig through multiple boxes to find what you need. It’s a simple step that reduces stress and makes your first night in your new home much more comfortable.

5. Hire Professional Help When Needed

One of the most important resolutions you can make is knowing when to ask for help. Moving is physically demanding and time-consuming, and sometimes professional assistance is the best way to ensure a smooth transition. Hiring a reputable moving company, like Big John’s Moving, can make all the difference. Their experienced team handles every aspect of the move efficiently, from heavy lifting to careful transport, so you can focus on settling into your new home. With professional movers, your belongings are protected, your timeline is realistic, and you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your move is in capable hands.

6. Review Your Budget
   
   Financial stress is a common challenge during a move, so one of your resolutions should be to create and stick to a moving budget. Account for moving supplies, transportation, professional help, and any unexpected expenses that might arise. By planning financially, you’ll avoid surprises and can focus on making your move as smooth as possible.

7. Take Care of Yourself

Finally, prioritize your well-being throughout the moving process. Moving can be physically and emotionally exhausting, so make sure to take breaks, stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy routine. Don’t hesitate to ask friends or family for support when needed. A calm, healthy approach ensures your move is not only successful but also a positive start to the New Year.

A Smooth New Year Move

By turning these steps into your New Year’s moving resolutions, you’ll be prepared for a seamless relocation. Start the year on the right note by staying organized, taking care of yourself, and enlisting professional help when necessary, especially with trusted movers like Big John’s Moving. Your fresh start in a new home awaits!

The post Resolutions for a Smooth Move: New Year Moving Checklist appeared first on Big John's Moving Inc. NYC.

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.

1. Explore Online Resources

The internet is your best friend when researching a new community. Websites like Google Maps, Yelp, and even local government or tourism pages offer valuable insights into what the area has to offer.

• Neighborhood Reviews: Use platforms like Nextdoor or Niche to read reviews and experiences shared by current residents. These reviews often highlight the pros and cons of living in the area.
• Community Events: Check out local event calendars to see what’s happening. This is a great way to gauge the community’s energy and find events that match your interests.
• Social Media Groups: Search for Facebook or Reddit groups dedicated to the area. Joining these groups can provide insider tips on restaurants, services, and neighborhood quirks.

2. Partner with a Reliable Moving Company

Choosing the right moving company can make all the difference in your relocation experience. A trusted company like Big John’s Moving ensures your belongings arrive safely, allowing you to focus on getting to know your new community.

• Time-Saving Services: Big John’s Moving offers professional packing and unpacking services, so you can dive straight into exploring your neighborhood instead of wrestling with boxes.
• Stress-Free Transitions: Their experienced team helps ensure your items are handled with care, giving you peace of mind during this big life change.
• Local Expertise: If you’re moving within the same city, their knowledge of the area can help you save time and energy.

With a professional moving company handling the logistics, you’ll have more bandwidth to focus on settling into your new environment.

3. Scout Essential Services

Before you settle in, it’s essential to locate key services that you’ll need regularly.

• Schools and Daycares: If you have children, research schools and daycare facilities in your area. GreatSchools.org is an excellent resource for ratings and reviews of schools nearby.
• Healthcare Facilities: Identify nearby hospitals, clinics, and dentists. Look for reviews online and confirm that they accept your insurance.
• Grocery Stores and Pharmacies: Find the closest grocery stores and pharmacies to your new home. This can save you a lot of time once you’ve moved in.
• Public Transportation: If you rely on public transit, explore bus routes, train stations, and ride-share availability in your area.

4. Walk or Drive Around the Area

If possible, take the time to explore your new neighborhood in person. Walking or driving around allows you to see things you might miss online.

• Parks and Recreation: Look for local parks, walking trails, or recreational facilities. These spaces can be great for family outings or meeting new people.
• Local Businesses: Discover unique local shops, cafes, and restaurants. Supporting small businesses is not only good for the community but can also help you find hidden gems.
• Safety and Cleanliness: Pay attention to how well-maintained the area is. Well-lit streets, clean sidewalks, and active neighborhood watch programs are positive signs.
• Libraries: Libraries are the community hubs, even for those without children. They offer free resources like Wi-Fi, community programs, and local history archives. Visiting these spaces can help you learn more about the area and its culture.

5. Get to Know Your Neighbors

Building relationships with your neighbors is one of the fastest ways to feel at home in your new community.

• Introduce Yourself: A friendly smile and a quick introduction can go a long way in breaking the ice.
• Attend Community Events: Festivals, farmers’ markets, or block parties are perfect for meeting people and learning about local culture.
• Volunteer Opportunities: Getting involved with local charities or community projects can help you connect with like-minded people.

6. Learn About Local Laws and Regulations

Every community has its own set of rules and guidelines. Familiarizing yourself with these can help you avoid unnecessary stress.

• Parking and Zoning Laws: If you’re bringing a car, find out where you can park and whether permits are required.
• Trash and Recycling: Research pickup schedules and recycling policies.
• Homeowner or Tenant Responsibilities: If you’re renting, understand the rules outlined by your landlord or homeowners’ association (HOA).

7. Research Crime Rates

Safety is a top priority when moving to a new area. Use tools like CrimeMapping.com or check local police department websites to understand crime trends in your neighborhood. While no area is completely crime-free, having an understanding of local safety can help you make informed decisions.

8. Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from locals. Whether it’s your new neighbors, coworkers, or even strangers at a coffee shop, people are often happy to share their favorite spots or tips for getting around.

Research your New Community and Settle in with Confidence

Researching your new community can transform an unfamiliar place into a home that you’re excited to be a part of. By using online tools, exploring the area in person, and connecting with locals, you can start building a life that feels comfortable and fulfilling. Moving is always a transition, but with the right approach and moving company, it’s an opportunity to embrace new experiences and grow in ways you never imagined.

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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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Professional Management

• Expertise in Handling and Storing

Storage facilities are managed by professional movers who specialize in handling and storing various types of items. These experts ensure that your belongings are packed, stored, and handled with care, reducing the risk of damage.

• Inventory Management

Professional storage often includes inventory management services. This means that every item stored is cataloged and tracked, making it easier to locate and retrieve items when needed.

Enhanced Security

• Advanced Security Systems

Storage facilities typically employ advanced security measures to protect your belongings. Big John’s Moving and Storage includes 24/7 surveillance cameras, armed guards, and trained guard dogs.

• Controlled Access

Access to storage is usually restricted to authorized personnel only, providing an additional layer of security and ensuring that your items are safe from theft or unauthorized access. Big John’s clients are escorted to and from well-lit storage areas.

• Climate-Controlled Environment

Your belongings stay damage-free at moving company storage facilities. Many facilities offer climate-controlled environments, maintaining consistent temperature and humidity levels. This is crucial for protecting sensitive items such as electronics, artwork, antiques, and important documents from damage due to extreme temperatures or moisture.

• Pest Control

Storage facilities often implement robust pest control measures, preventing damage caused by insects or rodents. This ensures that your belongings remain in pristine condition during storage.

Scalability and Flexibility

• Customizable Storage Solutions

Storage facilities can accommodate a wide range of storage needs, from a few items to the contents of an entire house or business. This scalability allows you to choose the amount of space you need without paying for unused capacity.

• Short-Term and Long-Term Options

Whether you need storage for a few weeks or several years, warehouse storage offers both short-term and long-term options. This flexibility makes it easy to adjust your storage needs as circumstances change.

Convenient Access and Services

• Pickup and Delivery Services

Many moving companies offer convenient pickup and delivery services as part of their storage solutions. This means you don’t have to worry about transporting your items to and from the storage facility, saving you time and effort.

• Additional Services

Storage facilities often provide additional services by the moving company such as packing, crating, and unpacking, making the entire process more convenient and stress-free. Some facilities may also offer specialized storage options for unique and delicate items.

Cost-Effective Solutions

• Efficient Use of Space

With storage, you only pay for the space you need. Facilities are designed to maximize storage efficiency, allowing for cost-effective solutions compared to renting additional residential or commercial space.

• Reduced Liability

Storing items in a professional warehouse can reduce liability for businesses. With enhanced security and professional handling, the risk of damage or loss is minimized, potentially lowering insurance costs.

Support for Business Operations

• Inventory and Equipment Storage

For businesses, storage can be an invaluable resource for storing excess inventory, seasonal stock, or large equipment. This helps to keep operational spaces uncluttered and optimized for daily activities.

• Streamlined Logistics

Using a storage facility can streamline logistics for businesses by centralizing storage and distribution. This can lead to more efficient order fulfillment and better inventory management.

Storage solutions offered by moving companies provide a range of benefits, from enhanced security and professional management to flexible and cost-effective options. Whether you’re an individual looking to store personal belongings or a business needing extra space for inventory and equipment, storage offers a reliable and efficient solution. By choosing services from Big John’s Moving and Storage, you can ensure that your items are well-protected and easily accessible whenever you need them.

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Oops, No Internet? No Worries!

Start by planning ahead for a seamless transition. Before you dive into decluttering, packing boxes, and enlisting the help of a reliable moving company like Big John’s Moving, Inc., it’s wise to get your utilities sorted out. Trust me, without cable or internet, youngsters can stir up some chaos! Here’s what to do:

• Scout Out Service Providers

Before you even think about settling into your new home, take some time to research the utility service providers in your area. Look into who offers essential services like electricity, water, gas, internet, cable, and even trash pickup. You can usually dig up this info online, or simply ask your real estate agent or landlord.

• Reach Out Early

Once you’ve pinpointed the necessary service providers, don’t procrastinate—reach out to them well before your move-in date. Aim to schedule setup appointments at least a week before your move, to ensure everything’s up and running smoothly when you arrive. Share your new address and move-in date to speed up the process.

• Get Connected
  When you make that initial contact with the utility companies, ask about their process for getting you hooked up at your new place. Some may need you to fill out an online form or chat with a customer service representative.
  
• Schedule Installations:

Depending on your needs, you might need to pencil in installation appointments for certain utilities, like internet or cable. Work with the service providers to find a time that works for you, keeping your move-in schedule in mind.

• Set Up Automatic Payments

To make life easier, consider setting up automatic payments for your utilities. Most providers offer this option, letting you link your bank account or card for seamless monthly payments. This way, you won’t have to worry about missing due dates or service disruptions.

• Double-Check:

As your move-in day draws near, take a moment to touch base with each service provider to confirm that everything’s on track for activation. This little double-check can save you from any last-minute hiccups, and ensure a smooth transition into your new home sweet home.

Test the Waters

Once you’ve settled into your new home, give those utility connections a once-over to ensure everything is in working order. Test out the lights, faucets, HVAC system—basically, anything essential—to make sure it’s all good to go. If you spot any issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to the provider for assistance.

• Update Contact Information

Last but not least, don’t forget to update your contact information with each service provider. Make sure they have your new address and contact details so you don’t miss out on any important updates or correspondence.

Setting Up Utilities in Your New Home

By following these simple steps, you’ll breeze through the process of setting up utilities in your new home. Big John’s Moving will get you there easily, but by tackling these tasks ahead of time, you’ll ensure a seamless transition and enjoy the comforts of your new home from day one—without any fuss from your children!

The post Setting Up Utilities in Your New Home: A Step-by-Step Guide appeared first on Big John's Moving Inc. NYC.

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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