Tips for packing the garage

Packing the garage and storage shed for moving can be a little more time consuming than you first think. These areas are usually filled with an odd mix of stuff, from lawn mowers to weed whackers to racks and hoes and your grandmother's collection of garden gnomes. These areas also hold items that can be harmful if they spill or leak such as fertilizer, gas, antifreeze and oils.

Decide What to Move

As with all your packing endeavors, you need to sort through the items to decide what to move and what to sell or give away. If you're moving a short distance, then moving most items will save you from repurchasing them later; however, if you're downsizing to a home that has a smaller yard or a condo where pruning sheers just won't be needed, try to sell your unwanted items before you move.

1. Gas-powered Items

• These items are usually an odd shape, heavy and awkward - not easily packable. To prepare these items for moving, drain them of all harmful liquids. This includes oil and gas from lawn mowers, weed whackers and chain saws.
• Purchase protective covers for chain saws, lawn mower blades and grills.
• Remove all attachments and pack these separately in well-protected boxes. Label them accordingly.
• Remove and empty propane tanks from barbecue grills and purge the hose thoroughly. Make sure lids and all parts are secured.

2. Tools

• Collect all tools that are the same length and secure them together using strong plastic tabs or cord.
• Keep small tools in the toolbox. For tools that do not fit or if you do not have a toolbox, use a strong box and pack the items well to ensure they don't shift during the move.
• Use bubble wrap, old rags or linens to protect any sharp edges or blades before you pack them. If you're packing sharp-edged tools in a box, make sure you properly label it to make sure whoever is unpacking the items is aware of the contents.

3. Lawn and Deck Furniture

• Clean furniture and dismantle it as much as possible, including umbrella from the table, table legs, and any glass table tops. Place chair padding in a separate box or clear garbage bags that can be used to cushion other items on the moving truck.
• Wash down the umbrella, let it dry then collapse it and use a mattress bag to wrap it. Secure the plastic bag by winding packing tape around it. If you prefer, bundle the umbrella with other same-sized tools.

4. Cars and other Motorized Vehicles

• Check with your mover to see what the best way is to move your vehicle. Most people opt to drive it or use a trailer behind the moving truck. If you have more than one vehicle, you may opt for towing a trailer.
• For all other motorized items, check with your mover for moving options. This includes a boat, jet ski ,four wheeler, motorcycle, etc.

5. Children's Stuff and Outdoor Equipment

• Dismantle all swing sets, slides and climbs etc.. Keep bolts, screws and other small parts in a strong, clear plastic bag. Secure this to one of the larger pieces of equipment or store it in a box that is properly labeled. If the equipment seems complicated, write down the steps you're taking to dismantle it so when you go to set it back up again, you can read your instructions backwards to reassemble it.
• For long distance moves, it's best to box bicycles to ensure they aren't bent during the move. Contact your local bus or train service and ask for bicycle boxes. If you're using a moving company, they can also provide you with information on where to obtain these specialized boxes.
• For satellite disconnection or TV antennas, contact the dealer or company who did the initial installation. Ask for packing instructions and reassembling information

6. Planters, Pots and Bedding

• If you're moving out of state, check to see if plants can move with you. If you're moving locally, ask your moving company how they prefer to move potted outdoor plants. There are several way of transferring bedding plants, check out our section on How to move your plants.
• If you cannot move potted plants, give them to a neighbor or friend. If you want to keep the pot, transfer the plant, then pack the pot as you would any fragile item. Wrap it well then place it in a box. Planters can be stacked one inside another, just as you would with plates and bowls Just make sure the box does not get too heavy.
• For large planters or planter boxes, clean them thoroughly and if appropriate, mark them as heavy items.

Tips for moving with pets

As you prepare for your move, you should plan on preliminary preparation for your pet so they too can be well prepared. There are many things you can to do make the move less stressful for your pet. This guide will help make your pet's transition into a new home much easier.  Get the Facts Once you've made the decision to move to a new home, you will need to do some research. Certain localities may have stringent requirements or restrictions regarding pet ownership. You may need permits or registrations. Don't forget to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Your pet should have a check-up before moving. Be sure to attain your pet's veterinary records so that they can be forwarded to your new veterinarian. A Short Move For local moves, it probably makes the most sense to transport your pet in the car with you on moving day. Remember to make sure that your pet is safe. Keep your pet in an unused room, or perhaps even outside. And of course, as always, your pet should have plenty of fresh water, and enough toys to occupy their time.

Moving Pets by Car Many dogs and cats may find car travel extremely distressing. Some may even get car sick.  You will have to be ready to make many stops along the way.  Several small pets (such as birds, guinea pigs, birds, etc.) can be easily transported via automobile.  A good, simple way of keeping them calm and quiet is to cover their cage with a cloth. Long distance moves may required an overnight stop. Remember to call hotels in advance  to make sure that they will allow your pet to stay in the hotel. Moving Fish It's wise to visit your local Aquarium or Pet Shop and ask for special fish containers to transport your fish.  They should be able to offer suggestions on what's best for different types of fish. Creating A Pet Pack If you're moving your pet by car, there are several things you should plan on taking with you on moving day: An old bed sheet or blanket will protect your car upholstery. A favorite toy or two, and an old T-shirt or rag with your scent on it. Two plastic containers - one should have fresh water, the other should have food and treats. Medications that your pet may need. A leash for when you make rest stops with your pet. Even if your pet doesn't typically get car sick, it is better to be safe than sorry…bring paper  towels, a sponge, and plenty of plastic bags. Pet Transport Depending on the temperament and size of your pet, as well as the distance you're moving,  it may be make sense to enlist the help of a pet transporter. Reputable pet transporters can  organize every aspect of moving your pet from beginning to end. Services provided may include the following: Sensible advice on preparing your pet for the trip Specific details about requirements or restrictions on pet ownership in your new locality Collecting your pet at the airport Boarding your pet until you arrive Delivery of your pet to your new home. If you will be transporting your dog or cat by air, you must have the following details in order: A recent health certificate provided by your veterinarian A pet carrier that complies with airline regulations Don't forget to confirm rules and regulations with your pet transporter so that you can purchase any pet  products that may be needed.  Trip Tips Always take your dog for a long walk before the trip. Remember to advise your pet transporter of any specific requirements for your pet. You should keep your cat indoors for at least 24 hours at your new home. Never feed your pet too much before the trip. Unless it is absolutely necessary, it is best not to sedate your pet. Visit us at www.sunshinemovingcompany.com

Tips for packing your bathroom

When it comes to packing this means that you should take a good look at every room – what’s to move and what’s not. Although packing your bathroom may sound like a simple task, there are a few specifics that you should pay attention to. First of all, if you go to your bathroom and take everything out you are very likely to notice that you have been keeping a lot of things you don’t use anymore. And surely a lot of expired items. Packing up this part of your home means getting rid of these things. So, take a look at these tips below on how to pack the items in your bathroom.

Packing your Bathroom when Moving 

• In order to establish what to take first check everything in your bathroom. Look at the cupboards, shelves and drawers. Are there any worn out items or empty bottles? You can just throw these away along with any package that is broken or leaking.

• When it comes to medicines that have expired and chemicals do not take them to the garbage. They may be dangerous and contain substances that are not safe for the environment.  Instead you better take them to the pharmacy where they will be disposed of without any risks. Be especially careful with medicines. If you see a bottle without its label or if it has changed its smell and consistency do not use it. Pack the medicines separately from the toiletries.

• If you have electronics inside your bathroom also pack it separately.

• If there are some medicines in your bathroom that you are using do not pack them – take them with you.

• All the items in your bathroom that are dirty and contain bacteria should go away, too. Use the opportunity that you are moving to clean up your bathroom. You can wash the rugs that are inside and take them clean to your new house or just give it to the dry cleaners.

• Before placing anything inside the boxes close tight all bottles and put away the ones that contain lotion, perfume, creme or make up. Anything can be spilled or possible to leak should be packed first in plastic bags that are sealable and use tape to fix it well. These along with all the towels and curtains should be dry before being placed inside the box. Since cardboard is very susceptible to moisture anything wet inside can make it break.

• Separate chemicals and cleaning detergents. Place them also in a plastic bag and tie it up well to prevent any children from opening it. You can also use tape to ensure the safety of the packing.

 The best way to pack your bathroom is to make sure that everything going into the boxes is dry - towels, shower curtains, bottles, etc.

• When packing the stuff from your bathroom separate plastic and metal things and the soft, unbreakable things on one side. They will go together in the boxes. Estimate how many boxes you will need and distribute the heaviest items equally. That way your boxes won’t weight too much and will be easier to carry. You can use this way of packing for any item in any room of your house. But for the bathroom – because of its specific content – it is best.

• Separate one or two boxes in which you will place breakable items like glass bottles. Wrap each of them with bubble wrap before arranging it in. This is necessary because you don’t want any of your items to get smashed or broken.

• When arriving at your new home  clean your bathroom. This includes floor, walls, windows, toilet and sink, shelves, bathtub or shower cabin and the ceiling as well – a complete cleaning. In the meantime also take all the appliances out so they don’t get wet. Once the area is clean and disinfected you can take in the appliances and the boxes and start unpacking.

Visit our website at www.sunshinemovingcompany.com

Choosing The Right Rental Truck Size

Choosing your truck size:

The size of the vehicle depends on the amount of items that you have in your home. And while there are some companies that would assist you in choosing the right size truck, other won't do it. So what do you do? You want to be careful not to pick a truck size that is too small so that you items don't fit. You also don't want to pick a truck that is too big as you items will be sliding around and may become damaged. We have devised a way for you to get the truck size you need based on the items you have in your home.

Remember the golden rule, if you're ever unsure you should always defer to a larger truck size. This is especially true if you are relocating long distance and multiple trips is not an option. 

Rental Trucks for Small Moves 

• Small rental trucks should be used primarily for local moves. Only consider renting a 10'-12' truck if you have a studio or small one bedroom apartment with minimal furniture.
• Most small moving trucks have rear wheel wells that stick out and reduce the amount of flat cargo space.
• You will likely find that a larger truck (see medium sizes below) costs the same or sometimes less than a small truck. This is because most companies don't have an extensive inventory of small trucks whereas they usually have a large inventory of medium trucks.
• Fuel economy for small rental trucks tends to be 9-14 MPG.

RENTAL COMPANY	TRUCK SIZE	SIZE of home
U-Haul	10'	Studio (Very Small)
Budget Truck	10'	Studio(Very Small)
Penske Truck	12'	Studio (Small)

Rental Trucks for Apartments and Small Homes

• Moving trucks between 14'-17' are the most common sizes rented. They tend to be the most inexpensive trucks because of the quantity available.
• Medium truck sizes are best used for 1-2 bedroom apartments as well as small homes. We typically don't recommend this size to anyone with more than 1200sqft of living space.
• Fuel economy for medium rental trucks tends to be 8-11 MPG.

RENTAL COMPANY	TRUCK SIZE	SIZE of home
U-Haul	14'	1 Bedroom (Small)
Budget Truck	16'	2 Bedrooms (Medium)
Penske Truck	16'	2 Bedrooms (Medium)
U-Haul	17'	2 Bedrooms (Medium)

Rental Trucks for Single Family and Town Homes

• With the exception of the 20' U-Haul, all of the trucks in this size range require diesel fuel. Remember to factor the cost difference of diesel fuel into your overall moving budget.
• Larger rental trucks are best utilized for single family and town homes. If you have any doubt about whether or not your household goods can fit into a medium truck size you should always defer to this range.
• Fuel economy for large rental trucks tends to be 4.5-6.5 MPG.

RENTAL COMPANY	TRUCK SIZE	SIZE of Home
U-Haul	20'	1 to 3 Bedrooms (Large)
Penske Truck	22'	1 to 3 Bedrooms (Large)
Budget Truck	24'	3 to 4 Bedrooms (Large)
U-Haul	26'	4+ Bedrooms (Large)
Penske Truck	26'	4 + Bedrooms (Large)

Still Not Sure? 

We know choosing your rental truck size can be difficult, especially if your moving long distance. We leave you with some final tips and advice not otherwise covered in this blog:

• If your moving locally this should be a no-brainer. Truck rentals used for local moves are billable at a per day and mileage rate, the daily price may vary by $10-$20 depending on the size. In other words, spend the extra few bucks and get the larger truck just to be sure.
• If you plan to pack and load your moving truck by yourself or with help from your friends you should defer to a larger truck size. Professional movers are trained to maximize the overall space, whereas those not professionally trained may not be able to achieve the same level of efficiency. If you are concerned about space consumption consider hiring moving labor to properly load your truck.

Need assistance with Loading or Unloading your rental truck?

We offer labor only services and would be more than happy to professional pack or unpack your rental truck. 

Visit us at www.sunshinemovingcompany.com or call our office at 407-862-2217

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Tips For Packing Your Electronics

Tips for Packing Your Electronics

Packing electronic items can be very much challenging. Extra care should be taken while packing the electronic items. Since, these items are fragile and expensive, they need to be packed and handled carefully to minimize the risk of damage.

You should pack each electronic item in a box that is only slightly larger than the size of items itself. The more strongly fitting a box is, the more protected your electronic item will be. 

Basic Requirements

· User manual or guide.

· Original packaging box.

· Antistatic bubble wrap, peanuts.

· Small color-coded labels.

· Sealable bags.

· Markers, packing tapes.

Just read on the following tips to secure your electronic items while packing and transporting –

· Computers

oBackup all of your important data on a DVD, CD or Portable device.

oRefer to the user guide or manufacturing guide for disassembling instructions.

oBefore disconnecting any plugs or wires, mark the wire and the port you're removing it from, with the colored labels. Color aids in coding the cables and ports so that you can reconnect them later.

oOnce you have the wires disconnected, use twist ties to secure the wires, so they do not disentangle. Place the wires into a sealable bag and secure them with tape.

oIf you have the original packaging, including box, use that to pack the equipment. If you don't, acquire electronic specialty boxes directly from the manufacturer or from a moving company.

oRemove or disassemble all parts from the computer that can be disconnected.

oUse antistatic bubble wrap to cover each part one by one and secure ends with tape. Use a thick layer of bubble wrap to line the bottom of the box.

oPlace the largest piece of equipment on the bottom and smaller protected items on top of the box. Fill empty spaces and holes with antistatic packing materials like peanuts, inflatable bags, etc.

oAfter packing, seal the box with packing tape and mark it as “Fragile” and also indicate which end is up.

· Printers, Fax Machines and Copiers

oWhen packing printers (laser or ink jet), fax machines, and copiers, remove the toner or ink cartridges. For other types of printers, the printer head should be removed.

oAfter removing, place cartridges or head in a plastic bag and secure it with sealing tape.

oUse the original box for packing, or purchase a specialty box.

· Refrigerators

oRemove all contents, including freezer items.

oAfter removing, unplug the refrigerator and let the freezer defrost.

oWith a strong rope or cord, tie the doors of refrigerator by wrapping it around the fridge.

oIf you are unsure about moving it, hire professional movers. Since refrigerators are awkward and heavy, moving them incorrectly can cause permanent damage.

· Televisions

oFirst of all, make sure that all outside antennas have been disconnected.

oRefer to the user manual or guide to protect your TV in the best possible way.

oWrap the TV with padding or blanket carefully.

oIf you have the original packaging, including box, use that to pack the equipment.

oKeep the box in its upright position as you lift it, and also keep sharp objects away from the screen.

· Other Electronic Items

oRemove all parts from the electronic items that can be disconnected.

oWrap each part separately by using antistatic bubble wrap and secure ends with packing tape.

oIf you think that you will have trouble reconnecting the items, take a picture of the configuration. Use the picture as a reference while reconnecting all of the wires for your electronic items.

oPlace the wires into a sealable bag and tape it to the piece of equipment.

oPlace the item in the box and fill the empty space with antistatic packing materials. Whenever possible, pack electronics in their original box.

oSeal the box with packing tape.

Visit our website at www.sunshinemovingcompany.com