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DIY Moving Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

While you might have a good understanding of how valuable professional moving companies are, once you read over the list of do-it-yourself moving mistakes, you will appreciate their services even more. Usually, people choose self-moves as a way of saving money, or at least that is the intention. However, without having experience and expertise, things often go wrong, ultimately costing more than it would if hiring expert movers.

Although using professional moving companies is always the best option if you decide to move your possessions on your own, learn about common mistakes and how to avoid them.

 

• Not Decluttering First – Especially if you tend to be a packrat, before packing anything, take time to sort through your belongings and discard anything broken. Then, you can either donate, recycle, or sell usable items. Decluttering will streamline the moving process. Also, with less to pack and move, you can get by with fewer supplies and a smaller truck.

 

• Poor Planning – With busy schedules, it is easy to procrastinate. However, without allowing yourself enough time, you can expect to feel overwhelmed. After all, moving requires a lot of actions. You need to secure a truck, find boxes, change utilities, round up friends and family, organize, and more. The remedy is to start planning your move at least a month in advance, more if possible.

 

• Using Inadequate Supplies – With a do-it-yourself move, it is essential that you use quality supplies, including boxes, packing paper, tape, and bubble wrap. You can avoid the bottom of a box ripping open by purchasing corrugated boxes. Also, never skimp on bubble wrap. For delicate items, this material offers the best protection. Remember, professional moving companies sell all types of supplies. While you might invest a little money, it is well worth it.

 

• No Inventory List – One of the many advantages of hiring professional moving companies is that they use a labeling system that ensures every box and container that leaves the original property arrives at the new address. Unfortunately, many do-it-yourselfers pack boxes without taking an inventory. Only after unloading the truck do they learn that something has gone missing. As a self-mover, use a labeling system like expert movers do so that you can keep track of everything.

 

• No Overnight Bag – Even if you plan to move a few miles from your current home, put an overnight bag together. Include a change of clothing, toiletries, medication, bottled water, snacks, important papers and contact information, cell phone charger, and pet food and leash, as well as a few children’s toys, if applicable. That way, you do not have to worry about digging through boxes to find necessities the first night in your new home.

 

Movers You Can Trust

The best way to avoid moving mistakes is by using professional services. Gasperson Moving & Storage offers affordable solutions for both residential and commercial customers. Contact us today for a free quote.

People often ask if they need moving insurance. A common mistake is some individuals believe insurance is not a big deal. One thing that is important to understand is that moving companies are liable for some of your items and not all. The fact is that before you agree to have any movers transport your possessions, you need a clear understanding as to the type and level of protection available.

Keep in mind, even the best full service movers experience accidents. Whether due to another driver, weather, or something else, there are times when things go wrong. Fortunately, when you hire a reputable moving company, accidents are few and far between. Even so, you need to make sure that you have moving insurance to protect your belongings.

 

Insurance is Essential

Whether relocating a few blocks away, to a different city, or to the other side of the country, you need insurance. Many movers offer only limited or basic liability, to be sure all of your items are completely protected, you need to purchase moving insurance.

For optimum protection, you want to hire full service movers that offer replacement value coverage. That way, there is no price cap. With basic liability, only a small portion of the cost of damaged goods is covered. With full replacement, the insurer covers the value of anything lost, damaged, or destroyed. That applies to packing and unpacking if performed by the movers, loading and unloading, and transport.

Ultimately, you want full replacement moving insurance. This is a worthwhile investment.

 

Excellent Service

Gasperson Moving & Storage is one of the most respected of all full service movers. Along with excellent services, we offer outstanding liability coverage. Contact us today to learn more or to have an estimator come to your home.

What to Consider When Choosing a Roommate

Perhaps one of the most critical decisions you will ever make has to do with choosing the right roommate. After all, you and possibly a complete stranger could end up sharing space within the same house. For that reason, it is essential that you know what to consider before inviting just anyone to live with you.

 

• Sleeping Habits – Whether you work during the day or at night, you want a roommate with the same or close to the same schedule. The last you want is to go to bed only for another person to make noise by watching television, playing music, or having friends or family over to visit.

 

• Cleanliness – Especially if you like to keep a clean and organized home, you should look for the same qualities in a roommate. That way, you avoid a messy house that would turn into an embarrassment, followed by arguments. If the two of you have too many possessions, storage units make an excellent solution. In fact, you could go in on one unit to help make the house less cluttered.

 

• Quirks – Unfortunately, someone’s quirks and pet peeves do not come out until being around that person for some time. When interviewing different candidates, ask for honesty. While you both need to make some concessions, make sure the roommate you choose does not have some crazy quirks that would make life miserable.

 

• Background Check – In addition to running a credit check, always have a background done on any potential roommate. That includes looking for any past criminal records but also checking with people that a candidate lived with prior. Often, talking to previous roommates will yield a wealth of helpful information to help with your selection.

 

• Pets – If you have pets, you want a roommate who loves animals. If not, but you would accept a pet, you should first meet the animal. Ask whether a dog is potty trained, a cat declawed, if either has behavioral issues and so on.

 

• Values and Morals – While two roommates do not necessarily need to share the same religious or political views, there does need to be common ground for values and morals. By having an honest conversation, you can learn a lot about a person.

 

If you want a roommate to move into a new home with you, you might look at options for storage units where you can place things until learning what all the other person plans to bring into the relationship. Depending on the scenario, you may need to consider either short- or long-term storage units. Regardless, select a facility with affordable space, climate-controlled units if needed, and most of all, excellent security.

 

Clean and Secure Storage Units in Asheville, NC

In addition to providing superior-quality moving services, at Gasperson Moving & Storage, we have clean, secure, and affordable units for storage. Contact us today to learn more.

Tips for Moving While Pregnant

 

While moving during your second trimester would probably be the easiest, if you plan to relocate while in your first or third trimester, the need for professional services becomes even more important. As you research different companies, remember that you can use a variety of keywords to find one that stands out. For instance, search by “moving companies near me,” “professional movers,” “moving and storage,” and even “expert furniture movers.”

 

Using the following tips, you will have a much easier and safer time moving while pregnant.

 

• Doctor’s Permission – Before you even start searching for furniture movers, talk to your doctor to ensure the safety of both you and your unborn child. Especially if you have a higher risk pregnancy, moving could further complicate matters.

 

• No Lifting – Being pregnant is not the time for a self-move. Regardless of whether you feel great and have lots of energy, the process could create a risk. At no time should you lift anything over 10 pounds or whatever weight your doctor recommends. Professional movers do all the lifting on your behalf. Even for lightweight items, always follow your doctor’s orders to avoid injuries commonly associated with pregnancy like pubic symphysis dysfunction, sacroiliac joint pain, back strain, and carpal tunnel pain.

 

• New OB/GYN – If you plan to move to a different city or state, arrange healthcare from another reputable provider. Your current OB/GYN can likely offer you several suggestions. Also, schedule a checkup immediately following the move for peace of mind.

 

• Accept Help and Delegate – If you have a Type A personality, meaning you like staying busy and in charge, while pregnant, you need to accept help and learn to delegate responsibilities. In addition to depending on the services of professional furniture movers, ask family and friends to help with other items like packing, organizing, donating, making phone calls and so on.

 

• Advanced Planning – Because moving around while pregnant becomes more difficult, allow yourself plenty of time to prepare for the upcoming move. If you decide to handle the packing yourself, that will take a tremendous amount of strain off your body while giving you ample time to rest.

 

• Avoid Brain Fog – Brain fog, also referred to as “pregnancy brain,” is common among pregnant women. Especially when moving, you have hundreds of things going through your mind at the same time. To avoid that, make lists and use a calendar.

 

• Moving Day Kit – For a long-distance move, be sure to put a moving day kit together. After all, once the furniture movers leave with your possessions, you have no way to access anything. Include a few outfit changes, toiletries, snacks and bottled water, medication, crucial documents, important phone numbers, a first-aid kit, clothing, toys for other children, and supplies for any pets.

 

Professional Furniture Movers in Asheville, NC

 

At Gasperson Moving & Storage, we can eliminate a lot of your stress before and during your move. With our assistance, you can focus more on you and the health of your soon-to-be daughter or son. Call us today to discuss your moving needs.

Gasperson Moving and Storage in Asheville, NC Shares Tips on Protecting Items Commonly Damaged During a Move

 

Hiring Gasperson Moving and Storage is the best way to avoid having items damaged during a relocation. However, even with a top-of-the-line mover, things happen. For optimum protection of your belongings, use the information provided to learn about things most commonly damaged and how to protect them.

 

Commonly Damaged Goods

Following are some examples of the most commonly damaged items during a move.

• Pottery and Glassware – For obvious reasons, both pottery and glassware are at the greatest risk. For these items, the experts at Gasperson Moving and Storage recommend using extra protection. Also, make sure you select the right size box and wrap everything separately.
• Artwork – Artwork is also at risk due to its fragility. Although you can carefully wrap items yourself, for your more expensive pieces, you should have the movers wrap and place them in boxes specially designed for this purpose.
• Furniture – Anything oversized, oddly-shaped, and extremely heavy is prone to damage during a move. As with artwork, it is best to leave this type of furniture to Gasperson Moving and Storage.
• Sporting Equipment – Unfortunately, many people do not take the time to disassemble sporting equipment, which can cause damage. To avoid that from happening, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for dismantling before the move.

 

Protecting Your Belongings

• Professional Moving and Packing – Professional packing and unpacking is one of the many services offered by Gasperson Moving and Storage. Beyond convenience, having experts wrap and load your goods dramatically reduces the chance of damage. For that reason, you should consider using these services.

• Packing Material – If you decide to handle the packing yourself, always start with high-quality packing material. The best moving companies recommend both bubble wrap and packing paper made for this purpose. If you want to save a little money yet still protect your possessions, you can also use layers of newspaper, linens, and clothing for wrapping.
• Boxes – It is just as important that you use only the best packing boxes available. You can purchase them for a nominal price from Gasperson Moving and Storage. Another option entails getting them from retailers the day after they receive shipments. You can even check inside of dumpsters. Just make sure that you select boxes in premium condition, meaning they have no tears, rips, or stains.
• Packing Method – Something else to consider is the way you pack things. One example is that when loading glass plates into boxes, never lay them flat. Instead, line them up on their sides. For more helpful tips, ask the professionals at Gasperson.

 

Expert Services From Gasperson Moving and Storage Based in Asheville, NC

For the best moving experience of your life, you can count on us at Gasperson Moving & Storage. We offer an affordable packing and unpacking service to put your mind at ease. For more information or to schedule a move, give us a call.

Local Packers and Movers in Asheville, NC Offer Tips on How to Pack a Kitchen

 

Of all rooms in the house, expert packers and movers agree that the kitchen is typically the most challenging to pack. In addition to dealing with food from the freezer and refrigerator, there is an assortment of small items in the drawers and breakables in the cabinets. Whether you have a small or large kitchen, the tips provided will help you streamline the packing process.

• • Give Yourself Time – Packing the kitchen takes time. For that reason, make sure you start as early as possible to eliminate rushing at the last minute. That way, everything arrives at your new place undamaged. Remember, if you have no time, you can take advantage of professional packers and movers from the moving company you hire.

 

• • Moving Appliances – When taking appliances to your new residence, the safest option is to use packing boxes made for that purpose. However, if you cannot locate boxes, use bubble wrap and moving blankets to protect the items. Before that, wrap electrical cords with rubber bands or zip ties and remove and store knobs in a zippered plastic bag that you place inside the door. That will ensure your appliances arrive without dents, scratches, or broken components.

 

• • Eating and Serving Utensils – Sort your eating and serving utensils by type, securing them with a rubber band. Then, place the items inside of a plastic or cardboard shoebox with the lid taped closed.

 

• • Glass Dishes – Professional packers and movers suggest placing a piece of bubble wrap in the bottom of the moving box when you are dealing with dishes. After wrapping individual plates with newspaper or bubble wrap, set them on their sides as opposed to laying them flat. If the box is large enough, place a flat piece of cardboard on top, followed by another sheet of bubble wrap. On the top half, you can put any bowls, cups, and glasses also protected by newspaper or bubble wrap. When you are finished, add a final layer of bubble wrap on top before sealing the box.

 

• • Cookware – Stack pots and pans to fill a moving box. From there, wrap the glass lids with newspaper or bubble wrap, placing them handle side down on top of the stacked cookware.

 

• • Miscellaneous – For small things like corn cob holders, skewers, scales, and so on, place them in small boxes that you put inside of appliances. If you are not moving appliances, you can put the boxes in void spaces like luggage, clothes hampers, or other boxes with a little room available.

 

• Food – As you go through your cabinets and pantry, pay close attention to expiration dates. Toss out anything that is too old to use. If you know you will never eat an item, give it away. Professional packers and movers suggest waiting until the last minute to pack cold food. If your new home is nearby, you can transport the food in boxes. Otherwise, use coolers with ice.

Residential Moving Companies in Asheville, NC

 

Tips for Moving into a Smaller Space

Whether you are moving into a smaller space out of necessity or desire, it does not come without challenges. Especially if you currently have plenty of available space, you might find it hard to imagine your life in cramped quarters. Fortunately, there are several solutions to help you get through the moving process, and enjoy your smaller space. Take a look at some of the tips from one of the top residential moving companies in Asheville, NC, Gasperson Moving and Storage:

 

• • Change Your Mindset – The first thing you need to do is change your mindset about living in a smaller home. After all, less space comes with benefits. For instance, there are fewer rooms to clean, decreased utility bills, and after decluttering, you stay more organized. As suggested by the best residential moving companies, focus on the positive.

 

• • Declutter – Next, you need to start decluttering. After setting up different boxes for trash, donating, and recycling, be honest with yourself about the things you need and want. Anything damaged, outgrown, outdated, or even duplicated should go. You can even make a little money if time allows by holding a garage sale. While this process is often difficult for some people, after you finish, it will leave you feeling rejuvenated and in control. Keep in mind that before going through this process, you should find out the dimensions of the rooms at your new home.

 

• • Packing – You can make the move to your new place easier with organized packing. In other words, keep items from the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, living room, and so on together. If you feel overwhelmed or have limited time, remember that reputable residential moving companies offer professional packing and unpacking services for a nominal price.

 

• • Furniture Disassembly – Often, smaller homes mean dealing with narrow hallways, staircases, and doorways, as well as low-hanging ceilings. If that is the case for your place, you will find it easier to move your furniture by disassembling everything possible. As with packing, the top residential moving companies provide a service for disassembling and reassembling items as well, saving you both time and effort.

 

• • Focus on Larger Pieces First – Another helpful tip when moving to a smaller home consists of focusing on the larger items first. Especially with limited room, you will find it easier to move small boxes around than appliances and furniture.

 

• Vertical Space – Even in an extremely small house or apartment, you can take advantage of vertical space. For instance, instead of setting up a bookshelf that takes up an entire wall, consider adding vertical shelves for all your favorite books.

House Movers in Asheville, NC

Tips for Moving with Small Children

Although you love your children to pieces, when it comes to moving, you need to factor in different things to make the process as easy for them as possible. After all, small kids do not understand everything that is going on, which, when combined with all of the chaos that comes with moving, can cause meltdowns. For a seamless move with your children, the following tips will help reduce stress and make the event more enjoyable.

 

• • Early Information – If your children are old enough, start talking about the upcoming move months out. Patiently answer questions and show them photos of their new home, as well as local parks and places they would love to visit. As the moving day approaches, they will feel less vulnerable.

 

• • Packing – Unless you use professional house movers to help with packing, get your children involved. Even toddlers can participate in this process. Set up boxes and have them place stuffed toys, clothing items, and other non-breakable things inside. Involving your kids will make them feel important, and it will help you by reducing the load of work on your plate.

 

• • Declutter – When your children are out of the house or while they are asleep, declutter their bedrooms. The goal is to eliminate anything they no longer use or want without them knowing. When hiring a reputable company with trained house movers, many offer recycling services. If you are moving to a smaller home, the same company can place boxes of items in storage until you decide what to do with them.

 

• • Comfort Bags – Whether you are driving or flying to your new home while the house movers transport your possessions prepare a “comfort bag” for each child. Include snacks, juice, a coloring book and crayons, books for reading, electronics, a favorite blanket or toy, and so on. In addition to making them feel comfortable while traveling to the new home, this will keep them busy.

 

• Documentation – Also, before the house movers come to take your belongings away, prepare a packet that contains essential documentation for your children. Include things like birth certificates, immunization records, school records, and so on. Take these items and your important documentation with you as opposed to packing it for transport.

 

Professional House Movers in Asheville, NC
Gasperson Moving & Storage is a professional company with years of experience. We have a highly trained crew of expert movers willing and able to handle any job. We offer different services, all competitively priced. For a smooth moving process, we invite you to contact us today.

Tips for Moving Fitness Equipment From Full Service Movers in Asheville, NC

At one time, only the rich and famous had personal workout rooms. Today, in-home gyms have become quite common. As more people strive to get into shape and maintain good health, they rely on all types of fitness equipment. However, moving this equipment is often challenging. Not only is the equipment heavy, but it can also be bulky. The best solution comes from reputable full service moving companies. However, if you decide to move everything yourself, the following tips will help.

Following Instructions:

When you buy fitness equipment, you should always keep the instructions and the original box. If you prefer to move the items as opposed to searching for reputable full service moving companies, take time to read the information provided by the manufacturer. That will tell you everything you need to know about handling the equipment in preparation for a move. If you do not have the instructions, you can either call the manufacturing company or look up the information online.

•  Disassembly – The next step involves disassembling as many parts as possible. To keep things organized, work on just one piece of fitness equipment at a time. Also, place nuts, bolts, and other small components inside a zipped plastic bag, labeled with a waterproof marker. Then, use heavy-duty tape to attach the bags to their respective pieces of equipment. As you settle into your new home, you will have everything organized, making reassembly a breeze.
•  Wrapping and Packaging – If possible, place fitness equipment back in its original box. That way, the item will fit snugly for optimal protection. However, if you already tossed the box out, you can use both bubble wrap and heavy moving blankets for wrapping. In this case, make sure you use either heavy-duty packaging tape, ropes, or bungee ties to keep the wrapping secure during transport.
•  Secure Moving Parts – For fitness equipment with moving pedals, bars, and other components, secure them with packing tape or rope. The goal is to prevent anything from moving while loading the equipment onto the truck, during transit, and then again when you are unloading. Not only will that prevent any damage to the fitness equipment, but it will also enhance safety for the person handling the item.

Top Full Service Moving Companies

Fitness equipment is one of the more difficult things to move. To save time, effort, and possibly prevent injury or damage, it is worth using the services of one of the best full service moving companies where you live. At Gasperson Moving & Storage, an agent of North American Van Lines, we have a highly trained crew and cutting-edge equipment and tools to ensure a seamless move of your fitness equipment.

Advice for Moving into Your First Apartment

 

Moving into your first apartment is both exciting and a little stressful. As this is a new experience, you have no idea what to expect other than what people told you. With years helping people settle into first homes, the top movers in Asheville have provided some helpful advice as you embark on this next chapter of your life.

Thanks to the information shared by reputable movers in Asheville, you will find the process of settling in easier. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, you will have a sense of pride as you enjoy the process.

 

Helpful Advice

 

• Lay of the Land – Spend time walking around the apartment complex to get a feel for its layout. Specifically, you should know the location of the office, laundry facility, fitness center, and swimming pool. Familiarizing yourself with the property increases your comfort level.

 

• Essential Phone Numbers – Be sure to have important numbers within easy access, including the office (both business- and after-business-hour numbers), maintenance, nearest hospital, and so on. Although there is no reason to anticipate needing them, it helps to have them handy just in case.

 

• Mail and Package Delivery – As explained by the best movers in Asheville, every complex has a unique set of rules when it comes to mail and package delivery. Find out where your mailbox is and pick up the key from the office. Also, inquire as to how the staff deals with deliveries. For instance, will the courier leave them at your doorstep? Do they get left at the office, and, if so, does someone put a note on your door? For items left outside your apartment unattended, consider renting a P.O. box for security reasons.

 

• Utility Connection – Roughly two to three weeks before the movers in Asheville show up to load and transport your possessions, contact the applicable utility companies to turn on your services. Typically, this includes electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash, internet and cable, and landline phone, if used. Keep in mind that some apartments include certain utilities as part of the rent, so find out beforehand.

 

• Personalized Entryway – Even if you have an apartment that sits adjacent to others, you can still give the entryway personality by placing one or more potted flowers outside, using a personalized doormat, adding a wreath on the exterior of the front door, and so on.

 

Seamless Transition

 

Whether you are moving into your first apartment or your 10th home, Gasperson Moving & Storage has the experience and expertise to ensure a seamless process.