Packing Tips

Business Relocation Packing Tips

Business relocation tends to be a very strenuous activity. However, it is possible to simplify the process by having access to the right tips and tricks. Your business move should never have to be a backbreaking exercise. You can make sure that it goes smoothly by making sure that you have planned ahead as well as in investing in the services of a professional mover.

Moving Tips for Business Owners

Simplifying the packing and moving process. Prioritizing, organization and safety are additional ways of simplifying your upcoming business move. You can use the tips below to guarantee the success. To ensure that the next commercial move you make will kick off in earnest and come to its end. Without having to deal with nasty incidents.

Business relocation tip #1 – Start the Preparations Early

We recommend that you start the packing process as soon as possible. This is particularly important for large commercial businesses. Ones that have many moving parts. You will find that the process of relocating a business will, in many cases, involve moving more possessions. That is when compared to a home relocation. This, therefore, means that this particular move will require a considerable amount of time to complete. As such, do not underestimate the value of time. Start making moving preparations as early as possible. It is the only way to avoid making last-minute dashes.

2. Acquire the Right Packing Supplies

Relocating a commercial venture will involve moving many if not all your assets. Many of which are quite costly—from the old venue to a new one. Therefore, you will need to acquire the right packing materials. These will guarantee that your items will reach their destination intact. Always procure the materials in advance.

Common materials you will need for a commercial move include markers and pens for labeling purposes. You will also need cardboard moving boxes, clear zip-locked bags, moving blankets or bubble wrap, and packing tape.

Business relocation tip #3 – Try and Donate the Items You Do Not Need

Regardless of whether you are operating a small, medium-sized, or large enterprise, a relocation will normally present you with a good opportunity. That is to either upgrade or downgrade. During the packing process, you are likely to come across items that are not used often. Also items that do not serve a lot of purpose in your operations.

Old copiers, stray office supplies, office furniture, PCs and even printers. Many of these will be the ideal candidates for bestowment. Donating such items will reduce the amount of work that has to go into the packing process. All the while also presenting you with a rare and unique opportunity to earn some extra cash. That is in the form of a tax write-off. In case you are not interested in writing-off the items being donated, ensure that you confirm that the items will go to registered charity organizations.

4. Labeling

This is one task that you cannot afford to overlook. Once you start the packing process, you will need to make sure that all the packed items are properly organized. The recommended way to keep abreast of things is to make certain that each box is properly labeled. Labeling makes it easier for you to find the items that you require to get started once you arrive at the new business premises.

Consider using a label numbering system. we strongly recommend this to keep track of things. Especially when you are using a commercial moving company. This system will make sure that each box is labeled and a brief explanation of its insides noted at the top or on the side.

In addition to making sure that you will track all your possessions, it will also simplify life if anything goes wrong. It will help in the process of filing a claim in case the moving company misplaces some of your items during the move.

Business relocation tip #5 – Confirm that Cables and Computers Are Packed Correctly

Company computers tend to be some of the most critical and costly components of any commercial venture. To guarantee their safety during the relocation, be sure to follow these guidelines when packing:

Ensure each computer is properly protected through the use of the correct packing supplies. This means that each machine should be covered using a heavy blanket. Then secure the blanket by packing tape to keep it still. Make certain that computers are not on top of other items or vice versa.
Safeguard the business data. You can do this by dismantling the hard drives and packing them separately. This is in a bid to make sure that they will not sustain any damage. Alternatively, consider backing up the data in your drives into a cloud storage service or into a removable hard drive.
Use bubble wrap or a thick blanket to wrap the monitors. Wrap each monitor individually. Many business owners make the mistake of placing monitors in boxes. We do not recommend it. Monitor can easily move around leading to its breakage. When taping the blanket, make sure that the packing tape stays clear of your monitors. They can cause irreparable damage to the screens.

Pay special attention to the cables when relocating. If you are not careful, the cables may entangle. Which will then lead to a frustrating and time-consuming process of trying to disentangle them on arrival at your new location. Unplug the cables from each computer during the packing process.
It is best to acquire some large zip-locked packing bags. Heavy duty bags that can be used to hold the cables during transport. Label each bag to denote the computer where each cable belongs.

Business relocation tip #6 – Be Careful with All Your Furniture

The most popular kind of furniture that you are likely to find in any commercial venture includes work, storage, and seating surfaces. The following are a few tips to make sure that each category is safe during the relocation:

Work Surfaces: This often comprises of items such as desks. Confirm that all their drawers (removable components) are out of the desk before loading into the relocation truck. If the drawers are non-removable, tape them shut. Be sure to pack all your glass surfaces separately.
Storage: Pack the shelving units and file cabinets keeping the issue of space in mind at all times. Where possible, try and remove the shelves. You can use the remaining space to hold light items in a bid to utilize all the available space.
Seating Surfaces: Office seating furniture can take on very odd shapes. It is, therefore, best to try and dismantle the chairs so as to prevent breakage and conserve the available space. If there are fragile components, make sure to secure them using bubble wrap or thick moving blankets.

Summary

It is always best to hire professional help when the business relocation is in the plans. The personnel from the moving company will assist with the shuttling as well as with the heavy lifting and business self storage solutions, thereby helping you save countless man-hours as well as conserve your energy for the duration of the move.

Give Box-n-Go a Try

Box-n-Go is your one stop shop for all your relocation needs. We can help you with moving as well as storage. Simply call us at 1-877-269-6461 and we will take care of the rest.

Portable Storage – Essential Tips

Portable storage is the new darling of the storage world, and with good reason. With a portable storage unit or container, the days of hiring an expensive truck or removal men are gone. Instead of hauling all of your stuff out to a storage unit, the storage unit comes to you!

When using a storage container instead of traditional storage, though, there are a few differences in the way you should pack. With the right adjustments, you can fit more into your portable storage container and still keep everything safe.

What to Expect

When you book your portable storage unit, you’ll nominate a day and time to receive the container. When that time comes, the storage company will deliver the container and lay it out on a piece of level ground. Make sure you have room and permission to put it there and be aware of any local regulations which may restrict the amount of time you can keep it on or near your property.

Preparing for Loading

You may think you can pack up your boxes much like any other move—in assorted shapes and sizes. You can do this, but you’ll be able to fit much more in your unit if you use the same size and shape boxes for all of your belongings. Get the exact inner dimensions of the unit before you start so you can figure out the best way to fit everything snugly.

As well as this, you’ll need enough reinforcement on the boxes themselves to withstand the weight of several layers. Tape up as many sides as you can, then do it again for good luck. The last thing you want is for the bottom layer of boxes to be crushed under the others.

Laying Out the Container

You need to prepare for the fact that the container will be transported from your location to storage, and then from storage to your new location. No matter how careful the driver is, the contents of the container can shift and topple during transit if they’re not packed properly.

To help prevent this, you’ll need to:

Pack your boxes tightly so there is little room to move.
Make floor-to-ceiling “walls” of boxes along the sides and end of the container to prevent items shifting.
Distribute the weight evenly throughout the unit, putting heavier items at the bottom.
Use loading straps to tie down objects if the container comes with internal strap anchor points.

Delicate, Fragile and Valuable Items

The number-one rule of irreplaceable items like documents and jewelry is to not pack them at all. Unlike secure, off-site storage units, you won’t be in control of your portable storage unit once it leaves your property. It’s best to keep these with you as you move.

Securing Fragile Items

Fragile items such as glass and delicate furniture can be packed into portable storage, but you’ll need to be careful. Use as much padding as you can and make sure they’re securely in a box or strapped to the floor of the unit. Some things you can use as padding include:

Clothes
Cushions
Bedding
Bubble wrap
Old Styrofoam packaging

Climate Control

Most portable containers don’t feature any kind of climate control, unlike traditional dedicated storage facilities. You’ll need to compensate for this, first by protecting all exposed furniture and fittings from the light and, second, by using moisture absorbers in the container to protect against damp and mold.

Don’t Rush

The most important advice we can give is to not rush the job. The great thing about portable storage is that, once the container is on your property, you usually have all the time in the world to pack it. So, relax, plan how you’re going to do it, and take a few days to avoid damaging your stuff—or yourself.

In the same way, you should plan your move before it’s too late. You don’t want to be running around trying to organize your student self-storage in the dying days of the semester. Start a couple of weeks ahead and call Box-n-Go Moving and Storage at (877) 269-6461. As the experts on cheap and easy campus storage around USC and UCLA, we can take the headache out of any move, no matter how big or small.

The Art of Furniture Packing

When it comes time to move out of your dorm for the summer, you’ve got some difficult decisions to make. Clothes and books are easy enough, but where exactly are you going to put all your bigger stuff?

Normally, you’d put it into storage near campus until you need it again, but larger items like furniture and electronics can be tricky and time-consuming to pack. Find out how to do it right with these handy tips!

Can You Sell It?

The little hoarder inside us might cry at the thought, but have you considered how much of this furniture you will need in the future? After all, the easiest way to pack something is to not have to pack it at all.

Consider which of your furniture pieces or larger appliances you could part with, and put them up on Facebook or Craigslist. It’ll give you a bit more summer money, too!

Taking It All Apart

For the furniture that you simply couldn’t give away, you’ll have to disassemble anything that you can so it takes up less space in storage. Give yourself a full day to do this, as the more time you spend doing this right, the easier it’ll be to put back together later.

Keep the Pieces Together

The last thing you want when it comes time to put your furniture back together is to discover you’ve got pieces missing. Make sure you collect all the screws, bolts, brackets, and nuts that you’ve just removed, and either put them all in a clearly labeled bag or attach them with tape to the furniture piece they connect.

Label the Parts

Do you have the original assembly instructions for that bed or chest of drawers? Of course not—nobody ever does! That’s why you’ll need to label each part of the furniture clearly— either with a small pencil mark or with a small piece of tape.

Make It Easy to Transport

One of the hardest parts of moving furniture is not so much the size of it, but the endless trips carrying awkward pieces from truck to room. Make it easier on yourself (and whoever’s helping you) by tying or strapping pieces into easy-to-carry bundles—but don’t make them too heavy!

Long-Term Preservation

Just getting your furniture into campus storage is only half the battle. Due to the moisture, transport, and dust, it’s easy for furniture to get damaged even after it’s left your safe hands. In order to save yourself a summer of worry, you’ll need to take active steps to preserve your furniture, including:

Covering wood and fabric furniture with at least one layer of plastic wrap to protect against dust
Wiping any fabric with an antibacterial cleaner and letting it dry before storage to prevent mold or mildew
Polishing any metals and applying protectant for rust and oxidization
Using bubble wrap for any sharp corners and electronics
Storing electronics off the floor to prevent water damage
Separating furniture with old towels or blankets to stop them hitting each other

Keep Your Furniture Safe with the Best Storage Around

Nobody wants to discover that their favorite piece of furniture has been ruined while they were away, which is why the best tip we have for packing your furniture is to put it in safe hands. Box-n-Go Storage and Moving is the expert at student self-storage in the UCLA and USC areas, and its team will make sure your much-loved pieces stay just how you left them.

Check out our summer storage for college students to find out how you can save time, money, and worry, or call us at 877-269-6461. Rates start at just $10 a month, so don’t leave it to the last minute!

Packing Tips for Storage

It’s amazing just how much stuff we accumulate in our lives. When it comes time to move, though, where should you put it all? Whether you’re between houses or between college semesters, the most logical place to stash too much stuff is in a storage unit.

Unfortunately, these storage units don’t organize themselves. To save yourself time, effort, and a big headache, here are some top packing tips for every kind of space.

Choosing the Right Boxes

Gone are the days when you’d have to scour your mom’s basement for a half-dozen leftover boxes. Nowadays, student self-storage companies offer a huge range of different sizes and types, making the hunt easier but the decisions harder.

Size

The great thing about big boxes is the same as the bad thing: They can hold a lot of items. While this makes it easier to pack, it also makes the boxes heavier, harder to move around, and more liable to break. Opt for smaller boxes if you can, which also means that you can further separate your goods into categories.

Type

Cardboard boxes will always be the traditional and most obvious choice, but have you considered thinking … outside the box? Many storage companies and homewares stores sell large, stackable plastic tubs with lids, which have many advantages over cardboard:

Transparent and easier to see what’s inside
Many come with wheels for easier relocation
Removable lids mean you don’t have to bother with tape

Packing for the Future

What many people seem to forget is that there are two sides to campus storage: packing it up and getting it back out again. When you’re packing up your stuff, make your life easier and think about the long term. Think about how you’re going to locate your stuff when you need it again.

Labels

Labeling your boxes is a no-brainer, but you have to remember to be specific. “Toys” is quick to write, but not very useful when you’re looking for your video games. Don’t forget to label multiple sides of the box, so you can quickly check the contents even when it’s stacked in the corner.

Tape

When it comes time to unpack your stuff, you want it to be in the same condition as when you packed it. Having the right type of packing tape is key—you’ll need something that doesn’t peel off over time and which can seal off all those tiny holes from dust and moisture. Leave a roll in your storage unit, too, for when you need to get something out and reseal a box.

Filling the Space

Now that you’ve got everything neatly together, it’s time to put it all away in storage. This might seem like a simple matter of throwing all your boxes in there, but it’s a little more complicated than that. You have to think about:

Access – Are your least-required items at the back of the unit? Do you have space to move between boxes so you can access everything?
Weight Distribution – Are your heavier boxes at the bottom of the stack? Are your fragile items in a safe space where they won’t topple over?
Location – Are you looking for summer storage as a college student? Do you want somewhere close by, so it’s not a major hassle when you move back to campus? Do you need storage units near UCLA?

Choosing a Storage Solution

There’s nothing worse than suddenly realizing you don’t have enough space to store everything, or that you’re paying too much for space you don’t need. Before you start packing, it’s wise to consider exactly what size storage unit you’ll need.

Even better, contact the storage experts at Box-n-Go Storage and Moving, who can customize a storage package to match your needs. Call us at 877-269-6461 to find out more!

Advantages of Container Storage Los Angeles

A lot of people get confused when you mention containers storage Los Angeles as an option to them. “What are these containers” is usually the type of response that you will get. But it is just a matter of education. The Los Angeles storage containers companies help to fill a void because of the inefficient storage system in place. There are many of them. Of course the PODS^® – one of the pioneers of this storage option. In fact, when you talk about PODS^® is the first company that comes to mind when you are talking about containers storage in Los Angeles. So, if you have PODS^® in mind, you can visit their website using this link. If however, you are just using the word and are trying to explore the benefits of containers storage Los Angeles in general, please read on. There are many companies offering portable storage concepts similar to PODS^®. Whatever you want to call this service is up to you. We are here to make sure that your needs are taken care of. Box-n-Go is not sponsored or affiliated with PODS^®.

Problems with Typical Storage Options other than containers

If you live in LA, you probably know that it is a pain to use regular storage solutions. Unlike containers storage Los Angeles, you have to take your items to the storage facility, fill up that spot and then drive a truck back to the company you rented it from. It is a hassle and can take up the entire day. That is why so many are now turning to containers storage Los Angeles companies. These containers in Los Angeles are efficient and accommodating for all your requirements. So, if you are looking for a hassle free solution for your storage, getting storage containers rental Los Angeles is the right choice to make.

What is a Storage Containers Rental Los Angeles?

With a storage containers rental Los Angeles service, you have the chance to get a storage containers delivered to your home. Yes, it is exactly as it sounds. The company will send the containers to your Los Angeles address. Then you can fill up the containers when you get a chance. And when you are done with the loading, the company will come back and collect the containers. That is the beauty of a storage containers rental Los Angeles. These Los Angeles storage containers may be available form a host of different companies, including the original PODS^®.

By using a storage containers you avoid all the hassle of a regular storage solution. No more renting a truck. No more needing to get everything done in one day. It is such a comforting process.

Other Perks of containers in Los Angeles

When you are using containers, you have other options too. You can contact the containers provider in Los Angeles, such as Box-n-Go, and ask them to deliver the containers to their storage facility. The containers stay at the facility till you want your items back. Then you can have the storage containers sent to your address and you can unload everything at your leisure.

These containers are great for moving too. You can pack up your items in the storage containers rental Los Angeles and then have it sent to any address in the country. Companies like Box-n-Go that provide mobile storage solutions can get this done for you. Instead of needing to hire expensive movers, it is an affordable and convenient way to pack up your items, load a container and have the container shipped anywhere in the country!

Box-n-Go – an option for storage containers Los Angeles

When preparing your possessions for placing into your storage, customers have an option of using the services of Box-n-Go Storage. The containers they supply allow customers to have the time saving beauty of packing their mobile storage unit at their own address in their own time. For hassle free fast relocation, containers are what you need. Following the tips below will make your packing easier with the containers in Los Angeles:

Small boxes are best. Large boxes can become too heavy. It is easier to use several smaller boxes rather than big heavy ones. Try to keep all boxes under 50 pounds to make sure they’re manageable for loading your storage containers rental Los Angeles.
Keep all pairs and components together. Bag the items like furniture screws, mirror bolts, and other hardware and tape to the piece with which they belong. Coil the leads and cables for any electrical items and tape to its device.
Take inventory. Label boxes clearly by using permanent marker to write the contents on the top and side of each box so they’re easy to identify. Label the boxes with the room which it is destined for and always use “Fragile” when appropriate.
Fabric is your friend. To cut back on the amount of bubble wrap you have to buy, use textiles like socks, towels, and bed sheets to fill excess space in boxes.

Following these guidelines will help ensure you make the most of your containers storage Los Angeles. Households will have trouble free storage and save time using this approach.

How to find cheap moving companies and what to look out for

The thought of moving in and settling in your new house feels great. All those years of hard work and persistence have resulted in this moment. However, before you move into your new house, there is one detail that might frustrate you to some degree if you don’t take it seriously; moving. Most folks look out for cheap moving companies that will get their stuff from their old house to the new one in the lowest price possible. If you are looking for a cheap moving company, you are the right place.

An old phrase fits here quite perfectly, “The only free cheese is in the mouse trap”. Finding a good, reliable and cheap moving company will prove to be an even more daunting task then you’ll initially realize.

It is important that you realize early on that sacrificing quality of service just to save a few dollars is a terrible policy. And while it is important that you draw a distinction between cheap and affordable, it goes without saying that there are certain steps that’ll guarantee that you availing the services of a cheap moving company.

You will find hundreds of cheap moving companies that’ll claim being the most affordable option. It is up to you to follow a few simple rules that’ll ensure you indeed end up with a cheap moving company that doesn’t sacrifice anything in quality.

Start looking quick for cheap moving:

You don’t want to keep this on the back burner. As soon as you’ve made the decision to move into a new house, start your search for a reliable and cheap moving company. You should realize this that finding a cheap moving company is hard as it is. And if you do find one, you’ll find that they’re in great demand. Securing their services can be just as challenging as finding them. So, it is better to start your search as soon as possible and get your booking done as early as possible too.
The more urgent your need to move, the more the moving fee will be. You should keep that in mind when coming up with your schedule. More than that, if you start your search for cheap moving companies, you’ll gather more options that you’ll be able to choose from later on.

Ask around for cheap moving companies:

One of the most common problems that people face when they begin their search for cheap moving companies is the sheer numbers. This is an extremely competitive field, so cheap moving companies are always competing against one another to come up with the best plans that will attract the most customers. This is where your friends, family and colleagues can help you out in search for a cheap moving company.

Almost everyone moves once in their lifetime and there’s good chance that you’ll have someone in your circle that has had a prior experience with a cheap moving company. They can not only provide you with the reference but can also vouch for the service provided by that cheap moving company.
It’ll also be really helpful for you to eliminate any names on the list if they have a prior record of providing unsatisfactory services.

The reviews of cheap moving company:

This is where technology can be your best adviser to find cheap moving companies. The prior customer reviews about a cheap moving company can help you expect what kind of service they provide and are there any hidden charges involved. These customers reviews are from other customers like yourself and their opinion can definitely help you understand the options you have at your disposal.

More than anything else, these reviews will aid you in understanding the various aspects of the services of the cheap moving companies. Things like performance ratings, what they’re able to do absolutely right, what could be improved. These reviews are also a great way to avoid a scam where a ridiculous cheap moving offer might tempt you and then end up cheating you altogether.

It is crucial that you pay a great amount of attention to details as they can tell you exactly which cheap moving company to hire and who to avoid. This will aid you in making a sound decision.

Get estimates:

Once you’re done with your own research, it’s time to let the cheap moving companies give you their own opinions. You can begin by calling them up and letting them know about all the items that you’ll need to get moved, where do you need them moved, what would be the ideal time to get them moved, what kind of a transporter do you prefer and how many items are there approximately etc.

By providing them with all this information, you can get a clear estimate of what it might cost you.

Repeat this procedure with several other cheap moving companies that have come recommended. You can now begin comparing their prices and evaluating which company best suits you and more importantly how much value they offer for the costs that they’ve quoted. It is also important to pay extra attention to the extra services and perks that different companies offer. These little things can end up being extremely helpful when you finally move in or out.

The company itself:

Have you decided upon which cheap moving company you’re going to choose,? Then it is important that you check them out thoroughly. This homework is essential as it’ll save from any hurdles in the future. You can also avoid any legal troubles by hiring companies that hold the proper licenses and certifications.

There are several resources that can aid you in confirming the legal status of the cheap moving companies. The sources are the US Department of Transportation, the American Storage and Moving Association. You can check and the Movers’ own website. These websites often have information regarding their legal positions. You will also see the necessary permits to carry out the services that they offer.

The end negotiations:

This is something that every customer can try and will most likely succeed. You might be opting for cheap moving company’s service you enlist. But there’s always the chance to bring the price further down. You can do it by being practical and negotiating. Tell them about a better offer from a rival company. It might also entice them to offer you an even lower deal.

Once you found a cheap moving company to work with, you will need to pack and prepare. here are some tips for you to make the process easier. With our expert tips the time will just fly by. No more headaches or long exhausting days ending with a collapse on the sofa and an order of greasy pizza. Here’s how to begin; Collect your packing tools the day before. Get everything you need set up, but don’t start in on the packing yet. You may find these tools helpful:

Packing peanuts
Packing tape
Boxes of all sizes
1-2 Dark, water-resistant markers.
Note pad
Bubble wrap
Razor knife and/or scissors

Choose one table to be your “work” table. This way your tools will not get lost in the heaps of piles as you work.

The morning of your packing day:

The basis of our residential moving tips begins with preparation. Make sure you have well fortified your system with a high nutrition, high protein meal. You know what foods work best for you. Ask yourself, what foods give me the most energy, for the longest amount of time? For some people that’s eggs and bacon. For others it’s broiled sweet potatoes with organic chicken, or a hearty bowl of oatmeal with nuts and berries.

Get a little exercise in first. Are you feeling rushed? Then doing some stretches and getting your heart pumping before setting hand on your piles will help you. This promises you a calm mind as you work.

Are you already feeling stressed, even after your exercise and healthy breakfast? Then consider cutting back on coffee during your packing. Keep well hydrated. One thing that will relieve your stress – remembering that a residential moving truck rental will be unnecessary with our system. Take care as you prepare to pack, and we wish you a healthful residential move! For more details, connect with Box-n-Go today!