Moving to Florida

Every month, there are thousands of people who move to Florida. Similar to the other states in the country, moving to Florida isn’t for everyone. Americans from all over the country are moving to Florida, either for the nice weather, or to escape high taxes. Living in Florida is a completely different lifestyle than most places in the United States.

A simple tip, don’t rush. Moving to Florida isn’t a walk in the park. There are a lot of factors you should consider like the price of real estate, good schools, access to health care and available career opportunities.

Ask yourself these questions to decide whether you are ready to move to Florida.

• Is the city you’ve chosen the best place to retire?
• Do you see yourself living here for a few years?
• Do you see yourself raising your family here?

However, if you’re already dead set on moving to Florida, then lets jump ahead to the preparations that you need to do to start your new life in the Sunshine State.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of living in Florida.

It’s a given that there are pros and cons to moving to Florida. No matter which city or county you choose, there will always be some advantages and disadvantages. That’s why it’s important to weigh all of these before deciding whether to move to Florida and in which city or town will you live in.

Advantages

Below are some of the reasons why it’s great to move to Florida.

• This state has no income tax, which is very attractive, especially for retirees.
• The cost of housing in Florida is much lower compared to the rest of the country.
• Florida has several world famous beaches and outdoor attractions.
• It doesn’t snow in winter and it’s mostly warm year round.
• Local residents receive discounts to some popular local attractions.
• A growing number of retirement communities are found in Florida.

Now that we’ve tackled the advantages, let’s talk about the reasons why some people would decide to leave Florida.

Disadvantages

• Florida is visited by a couple of hurricanes every year.
• The ‘Florida heat’ is not loved by everyone.
• The state’s terrain is mostly flat so there are not many mountains or valleys.
• There are several tourists as well as part-time residents than in the other states.
• Unlike in most parts of the country, Florida residents pay higher insurance costs.
• Since this state is warmer, there are more bugs there. Plus, they are bigger, too.
• Lastly, there are quite a lot of snakes and alligators.

Florida is a huge state – both in land area and in population. In fact, it’s the country’s 3^rd-most populous and the 8^th most densely populated state. Overall, there are 10 large cities, there which includes Jacksonville, Miami, Orlando and Tampa.

Before thinking of moving to Florida, it’s important to do some prior research about the different cities where you want to live. Remember to weigh in the pros and cons of each city. Even though these cities are located in one state, they still have their own advantages and disadvantages. In addition, each city is unique and has their own culture. Keep in mind that the place you choose can either make or break your experience moving to florida.

Fortunately, Florida has a lot of amazing cities and metropolitan areas. Some of these are even found near world-famous coastal beaches. Below is a list of some of the best cities to live in Florida.

A good tip is to try spending at least a few days in the cities that you’ve chosen to get a firsthand experience of how it would be like to live there before moving to Florida.

The population statistics were taken from the United States Census Bureau (2016).

North Florida

Jacksonville

• Population: 880,619
• Average Cost of Living: 92% National average
• Average Price of Houses: $164,400

Jacksonville has over 500 neighborhoods. Aside from that, it has the biggest urban park system in the country which residents can enjoy. Plus, Jacksonville is also the largest commercial and financial center in northern Florida. The economy here is made up of tourism, healthcare, banking, and logistics industry.

Tallahassee

• Population: 190,894
• Average Cost of Living: 94.5% National average
• Average Price of Houses: $172,400

Though this city is situated far from the more popular coastal beaches, Tallahassee has a lot of amazing places to visit and great things to offer. What’s unique about this city is its college-town vibe that makes it popular with young professionals and university students.

Central Florida

Gainesville

• Population: 131,591
• Average Cost of Living: 93.9% National average
• Average Price of Houses: $173,700

Similar to Tallahassee, Gainesville also emits that college-town vibe that’s ideal for families with children who are entering college or the university. Some of the universities that you can find here are the University of Florida and the Santa Fe College. Thanks to this, quite a few shopping centers, restaurants and local attractions have developed there. In addition, local residents have access to quality healthcare from the Shands HealthCare and the North Florida Regional Medical Center. Furthermore, there are many public parks, lakes, state parks and walking trails there, too.

Orlando

• Population: 277,173
• Average Cost of Living: 96.3% National average
• Average Price of Houses: $228,600

Dubbed as the Theme Park Capital of the World, Orlando, is one of the major tourist destinations in Florida. In fact, around 55 million visitors come there every year. At present, there are 115 neighborhoods which give potential movers plenty of options to choose from. Plus, there are a couple of schools and universities there, too. When it comes to health care, this city also has many doctors so getting medical care and treatment is easy. As for the young professionals, there are also several great companies here where they can apply to.

The Villages

• Population: 51,442
• Average Cost of Living: 111.2% National average
• Average Price of Houses: $257,700

Located in Sumter County, The Villages consist of different Community Development Districts. Currently, this place is one of the most famous and fastest-growing, active adult communities in the state.

Southeast Florida

Miami Beach

• Population: 91,917
• Average Cost of Living: 141.6% National average
• Average Price of Houses: $384,200

Miami Beach is a well-known tourist destination in Florida. There, you’ll find a huge collection of art Deco architecture, amazing coastal beaches, restaurants and vibrant nightspots. Aside from these, there are also a couple of family-friendly communities and local entertainment in the area which make this city very appealing to different kinds of people and families.

Coral Gables

• Population: 50,815
• Average Cost of Living: 199.3% National average
• Average Price of Houses: $771,300

Coral Gables is one of the wealthiest cities in the country. It’s a popular shopping destination thanks to the many international retailers found there. Also, if you’re into fine dining, there are a couple of fancy and world-class restaurants there. In addition, local residents also like the fine climate and natural attractions there, giving them many options when it comes to fun and leisure.

Port St. Lucie

• Population: 185,132
• Average Cost of Living: 100.3% National average
• Average Price of Houses: $206,300

Along with Fort Pierce, this town makes up the southern end of the ‘Treasure Coast’, a name given to the old Spanish shipwrecks that were discovered off the coast. There are many smaller and more laid-back residential communities there which is great for retirees or big families.

Southwest Florida

Naples

• Population: 21,845
• Average Cost of Living: 124.7% National average
• Average Price of Houses: $319,300

For those who have some money to burn, this city might be the perfect place for you. Naples has the second biggest percentage of millionaires per capita in the country. Aside from the lavish lifestyle communities, Naples also has plenty of hospitals and an excellent school system. A nice plus for big families. Furthermore, the Everglades and the Ten Thousands Islands which are two famous tourist attractions are located just several miles from here.

Western Florida

Tampa

• Population: 377,165
• Average Cost of Living: 94.1% National average
• Average Price of Houses: $211,000

Located near the Gulf of Mexico, Tampa is another fantastic place to move into. There are good schools, great hospitals and great companies there. Most of the people who are moving, there are young professionals thanks to the abundance of job opportunities there. When it comes to recreational opportunities, there are restaurants, shopping centers, urban parks and nightlife too.

St. Petersburg

• Population: 260,999
• Average Cost of Living: 95.1% National average
• Average Price of Houses: $210,400

Another popular city for tourists, St. Petersburg has a low cost of living and high quality health care which makes this place super attractive to active adult homebuyers. In addition, there are several local tourist destinations and nightlife areas downtown.

As you can see, every city is different. The cost of living as well as the price of real estate also varies per area. That’s why it’s really important to research where you would like to move into before actually relocating.

Should you buy a home or rent instead?

The big question for every potential family moving to Florida is whether to purchase a house or rent. The next thing to consider is what kind of house you would like to have. Do you want a townhouse? Or perhaps a single family home? Maybe you’d want to downsize to a smaller condominium unit.

Tips for House Hunting in Florida.

• Remember that the housing market in Florida fluctuates based on the number of people who are moving to Florida at a certain time of year. If you don’t want to pay too much for a property, it’s better to wait to move during the off-season.
• If you’re thinking of purchasing a house, make sure that you’re willing to invest in a property that you’ll be living in for a few years.
• Otherwise, if you opt to rent, make sure you are aware of your rights as a tenant when moving to Florida. If you know the law, then you’ll be protected.

Moving on, once you’ve decided whether you’ll be buying property or rent a house, another important factor to consider are the things that you can do in the place where you’ll be moving into. One of the reasons why some people who have previously moved to Florida chose to go back home years after is their inability to adapt to lifestyle change.

Mostly known for its long miles of coastal beaches, Florida has a great number of natural attractions and hidden gems that local residents enjoy all throughout the year. Potential familes moving to Florida should see whether the available activities and leisure opportunities in their chosen area would satisfy their lifestyle.

Things to do in Florida.

• Dine and shop. – In every city, there are tons of amazing restaurants, fast food chains, coffee shops, bakeries and bars. Aside from these, you’ll find various shops, boutiques and retail centers in every corner of the city, especially downtown. For example, there’s the Columbia Restaurant, which is a Spanish Cuban restaurant in Tampa. While in Naples, there’s the Iranian bistro called the Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro.
• Explore the great outdoors. – Sun, sand and sea. Florida has long miles of picture-perfect beaches that attract thousands of tourists from all over the country each year. In addition, there are state parks, public parks and botanical gardens found in almost in every big city. To mention a few, there’s the Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg and the Everglades National Park.
• Discover culture and arts. – Residents and tourists can visit several museums and art galleries there like the Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island and the Ringling Museum Complex in Sarasota.
• Enjoy the various theme parks and zoos. – Overall, there are 21 theme parks found in Florida, so just imagine how great it is to live there if you have kids. Most of these can be found in Orlando like Universal Studios, Orlando Resort and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
• Experience local entertainment and leisure. – Florida is also home to sports stadiums, golf courses, performing arts centers, movie theaters and other entertainment centers so it’s definitely not bad to live here.

Do any of this fun Florida activities appeal to you? If yes, then maybe moving to Florida is a good idea. Next, let’s talk about the Florida weather.

Learn to adjust to the warm Florida weather and frequent hurricane visits.

For those who came from states that have colder climate, experiencing the warm Florida climate can be a little challenging. People who’re thinking of moving to Florida should spend at least a year getting used to the intense warm weather and extreme weather conditions before finally deciding on relocating there.

How to deal with the weather in Florida:

• Always wear sunscreen whenever you go out. Especially if you’re sensitive to the sun. Women should wear hats with large brims to protect their skin against the sun’s harmful UV rays.
• It’s important to choose a property that has a working Air Conditioning. One common practice here is keeping an extra unit on hand just in case yours breaks down. Otherwise, save up for sudden repairs so you won’t have to endure the heat for too long. Plus, residents should do their outdoor activities in the morning or evening and stay indoors during the afternoon.
• Know whether you’ll be living in a mandatory evacuation zone for hurricanes. This is important, especially for those who are new to the area to be prepared for a hurricane. In addition, have a hurricane kit ready in the house along with storm shutters. You can also buy a safe where you can store important files and documents during a storm.
• Make sure that the property or the house where you’ll be living in, has the proper insurance, which covers against flood and wind damage.

Once you’ve gotten used to the Florida weather, it’s time to look for a job there.

Look for a career opportunity.

For people who will be moving to Florida, it’s important to know if there is any suitable work that can support their lifestyle. It’s not advisable moving to Florida without a job, especially if you have children to support.

In general, Florida has a booming economy that’s supported by several industries and large companies. Some of them are:

• Tourism
• Agriculture
• Construction
• Banking
• Healthcare research and life sciences
• Aerospace and defense
• Commercial space travel

Tips for job hunting in the Sunshine state:

Though it isn’t easy to find a job in Florida, it’s surely not impossible. Here are some tips:

• Applicants shouldn’t place their out-of-state address on their resume. If recruiters see this, there’s a possibility that their resume would be pushed to the bottom of the pile, even if they may be the qualified for the job.
• Don’t hesitate to request for a Skype call for your first interview. Be honest about your plans of moving to Florida and don’t forget to provide them with a timeline of your relocation date. This will let the employers know whether the applicant is serious about moving or not.
• Prepare a budget for your travel expenses, especially for the last interview where the employers would expect to see the applicant in person or for job offers.
• It’s also a good move to work with a recruitment company who’ll help you to find the best jobs that’ll fit your skills and experience.

Schools in Florida

It is a given that there is a huge discrepancy when it comes to the quality of public education. Whether it’s private or public schools, there really is an advantage in sending your kids to schools which are highly funded by the local government. For families with small kids, they’ll have to consider whether to send them to a private or public school. Their zip code will be an important factor unless their district uses a lottery or tests to place students in school. Parents should take their time to research the right school and neighborhood for their family before moving to Florida.

Another thing that parents may ask their prospective schools is whether they have bilingual education programs. Learning Spanish at a young age may also be an advantage for their children in the future.

Here are 5 Best School Districts in Florida:

• Johns County School District in St. Augustine
• Sarasota County Schools in Sarasota
• Seminole County Public Schools in Sanford
• Collier County Public Schools in Naples
• Okaloosa County School District in Fort Walton Beach

There are several more great school districts here so don’t stop researching.

Meanwhile, here are 5 Best Universities in Florida:

• University of Florida in Gainesville
• University of Miami in Coral Gables
• Florida State University in Tallahassee
• University of South Florida in Tampa
• University of Central Florida in Orlando

Get to know your retirees and active adult neighbors.

Retirees or snowbirds are a majority of people who are moving to Florida. This is due to the growing number of active adult communities sprouting in every city and town. Making friends with these retirees will give you an idea of what it’s like to live in the Sunshine state. Also, it may be a good idea to live in lifestyle communities since these provide various on-site amenities and social events that cater to their residents.

Here are some tips for active adults who’re thinking of moving to Florida:

• Install a WiFi connected thermostat to check the temperature of each of your properties when you’re not home. This is highly advisable if one of their properties is located in a place with below freezing temperature during winter.
• Installing hurricane shutters on your houses is a great way to protect your home from a bad storm, especially when you’re away.
• It’s also good to set up residency in Florida, especially for those living in states with higher income tax rates like New York. Spending more than 183 days in Florida would enable them to avoid paying their income tax in their original state. Don’t forget to check with your state for more information regarding income taxes. Meanwhile, in Florida, temporary residents will need to file a Declaration of Domicile. This declares that their primary residence is Florida.
• For seasonal movers, it’s important to have all their documents and paperwork ready. Always keep a copy of your medical records. Also, get in touch with your bank and credit card companies and inform them that you’re going away for a while. This will prevent you from getting fraudulent charge warnings when you get to Florida in winter.

Decide to be an official resident of Florida.

Once you’ve considered all the factors and have finally decided to move here, it’s also a good idea to make it official. Especially if you plan on spending most of your years in Florida. Becoming an official resident will give you several perks and benefits.

Steps to becoming an official resident:

• First, you can sign up for a Florida driver’s license or Identification Card. Luckily, those who already have their driver’s license from another state would no longer need to complete the driving test in Florida. When visiting the DMV, you need to have their current driver’s license and one other I.D. like a passport or birth certificate. You will also need to have their Social Security Card along two items that will confirm their Florida address, like utility bills or an apartment lease.
• Don’t forget to update your car registration to reflect your new address in Florida. Also update your insurance and title by calling your car insurance company after moving to Florida.
• Lastly, remember to file your taxes in two different states. After moving to Florida, you might need to file taxes in two different states if you have earned income in both places throughout the year. Consult a tax advisor to help you through this entire process since each state has different regulations when it comes to income taxes.

Write a moving checklist of the things that you need to do before moving to Florida.

Moving across one state to another is a big feat. There are lots of things one needs to prepare so it’s best to keep things on track by writing a checklist of what they need to do. Afterwards, break down your list into weekly activities.

It’s also ideal to mark the important dates on your calendar so you won’t forget. For example, take note of the date when the utilities get shut off or even the time when you might need to rent a nearby temporary storage unit.

If you’ve decided on moving to Florida, its time to find good interstate movers. You will also want to start budgeting and finding out how much movers cost for your move to Florida.

Contact us for a Free Moving Quote for your upcoming move.

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source https://www.moveonmoving.com/moving-to-florida/

Moving to St. George Utah

Making a move to a new city can be very anxiety ridden and complicated. There are so many unknowns when it comes to long-term moves. How can you be sure that your new home will be affordable, safe, and fun enough for you to uproot yourself and a family to settle down there?

One way to find out is to visit the city itself for an extended period, which few people have the time in their schedule to do properly. When this is the case, the next best step to take is to do some heavy researching.

If you’re considering moving to St. George, you may be happy to know that it is a city that probably does not get as much shine as it truly deserves. There are many neighborhoods to choose from, and almost endless activities to participate in in the surrounding area. So, if you’re short on funds to go tour the city for a few days, here is a guide to help you determine if St. George is right for you.

Neighborhoods

The neighborhood you choose to move into can make or break the way a new city feels for yourself and your family. Depending on your budget, you may find yourself at any corner of the St. George surrounding area, as there many safe and lively towns to choose from, dotted all over.

For a larger budget, Stonecliffe and Entrada boast spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, while including high priced amenities such as gated communities and upscale community centers. Both the towns have very high-quality school that boost the market value of your new property if you happen to need or want to sell your home in the future.

For a more mid-level budget, Tonaquint Terrace and Snow Canyon are full of recently developed properties and upscale landscapes. Both of these show promise in their schooling systems as well, and it seems have been on an uptick in full sale of homes in the area. Regardless of where you end up, you’re sure to see the gorgeous sunny skies and picturesque mountains near town.

Culture

Because it is indeed a canyon town, St. George is a destination for anyone looking to have an active and incredibly fun thing to do seemingly every day, in every season. Thrill seekers and avid outdoorsy types have made sure to establish their business dreams firmly years before you’ll arrive! Everything from climbing, canoeing, hiking, zip-lining, and skydiving are at your disposal.

Hiking is always a favorite option for locals since it is relatively cheap compared to other activities. There are plenty of scenic and challenging trails to discover for all experience levels. Hike the Emerald Pools trail to find yourself atop a gorgeous waterfall view in Zion National Park. Taylor Creek trail will take you along the foothills of the canyons and pop you in a beautiful valley.

St. George is an extremely active town. However, those who are the most active during the day can often be the best relaxers when the day finally winds down. After all, you cannot be up and at ‘em every single hour of every day! The town is well known for its destination spas, particularly at the Red Mountain Resort and Amira Resort & Spa. Check in for a day of total rejuvenation after a long day of putting your body to the test!

The historic downtown district also provides the perfect setting for you to shop the day or night away. Shops line the streets downtown, and you can relax while you stroll through the city and window shop, or peruse through the stores at a slower pace. No matter what you’re looking for, the downtown district can satisfy you needs for jewelry, clothes, athletic gear and more!

Transportation

Let’s face it, there are not very many cities in the United States, outside of the big one like New York City and Los Angeles, that offer quality and affordable public transportation for its citizens to enjoy. Luckily, St. George offers two different options to zip around the area without owning or renting a car: a shuttle and bus transit system.

The shuttle is actually very convenient for when you fly into Las Vegas to make your trip over to St. George. For about twenty-five dollars you can travel from the airport, straight to the city. There are also other shuttle services, such as St. George Express, that can arrange to take you even further to Zion National park.

The bus transit system is the best option to travel around the city itself once you arrive there. Called Suntran, the buses run three scheduled routes, and have buses that cover the entire area. Not only is it a great way to get around, it’s a fantastic way to meet some of the locals whom you will soon call you neighbors. For schedule and route information, you can call Suntran directly, or just stop into the St. George Chamber of Commerce when you arrive.

Of course, there’s no better way to set around town than within the comfort of your own car. The average commute time in in St. George is 15 minutes, and most household have 1 to 2 cars. And Interstate 15 runs straight through town, acting as a major business road and an excellent path to get where you’re going.

Landmarks

A guide to St. George cannot be written without acknowledging the Zion National Park and Snow Canyon State Park. These are indeed the reason St. George boasts some of the most gorgeous residential views in the country. each park is roughly forty-five minutes from Zion, making a day in the wild a perfect way to spend the weekend.

If you do pop into St. George to scope out the town, do not forget to spend some time with the family driving up to one of these parks. Gazing upon its truly stunning natural beauty can convince anyone to set up home near the mountains. And Snow Canyon adds to the fun with easy trails for children and adults, as well as an expanse of large sand dunes for everyone to play on.

Moving anywhere can be tough. But it seems that St. George makes the transition simple and easy just by being a well-groomed and well-mannered city with an endless array of entertainment and activities for you to enjoy. It surely helps one’s confidence to know that they are moving to, essentially, a resort town nestled deep in the canyons of Utah.

St George is truly a hidden gem. Its lack of popularity makes it the perfect place to get away from the big city and find your center in a smaller town. You can become a special part of the community and begin a journey that most will not ever get experience. The city is perfect for any style of living, familial, single, or temporary, and offers upscale neighborhoods and high-end apartments. When you’re ready to make a change for the better, be sure to pack your adventure, and be sure that you arrive with the same attitude and spirit that will great you when you do.

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source https://www.moveonmoving.com/moving-to-st-george-utah/

Shipping A Car Cross Country

Moving: some love it, some hate it. And fortunately (or luckily, for some) we all end up doing it at some point in our lives. Whether you’re moving for a new home, a new job, or just a new adventure, moving successfully is a skill that some must master early in their lives.

One aspect many don’t consider when making a big move across country is what to do with their car. The task sounds simple enough – get your car or vehicle from point A to point B. However, there are a lot of factors to consider when shipping a car that can impact the ultimate cost and amount of time, hassle, and energy needed to make the move. Below are some important tips to keep in mind while you decide if – and how – you’ll ship your car when you move across country.

Know the distance for shipping a car

The first and foremost things to consider is the distance of the move. This variable will have the most dramatic effect on the cost to move your car. It will also affect the methods of transporting the vehicle based on the car’s ability.

In some cases, it might be easier to just drive the car yourself. In others, paying an upfront cost for a transportation service may make more sense. Every situation is different.

For instance, if you are relocating from coast to coast, driving to your new home for days at a time may not be worth it.  If you are just moving across the state, or even a state or two away, driving yourself could save you a decent amount of cash.

Of course, if the car is older, driving larger distances or on difficult roads may make driving the car yourself out of the question. In these situations, paying for the car to be shipped may be your best bet.

Check in with the DMV about car shipping

Typically, when you move to a new state, the local DMV will require you to fill out paperwork right away. Every state has different rules and stipulations, and its important to know all of the laws to drive legally.

For example, some states may require you to register your car right away. They may also require you to sign up for a state license immediately. Go online or call to find out everything you may need to do to accomplish these tasks, including taking new tests or bringing identification and certificates. This way you can eliminate any chances of getting easily avoidable tickets.

Look into insurance policies for auto transport

Insurance is another factor to consider when moving. Some agencies do not offer coverage in every state, so it’s important to know your current agency’s regulations. Make an appointment and talk to your agent to find out if you will need to find a new policy once you move.

Another reason to contact your agency is to prepare for any mishaps that may occur during the move. Notifying your agency will prepare you for any potential hiccups, accidents, damages, or even possible thefts. Your insurance agent will be able to fill you in on possible risks and ways to ensure coverage for them.

Find a car shipping company

Shipping a car via truck is one of the more common ways people go about relocating their vehicles. The cost of shipping a car using a truck service depends on a number of factors, such as:

• the type of car
• the car’s condition
• the distance to be traveled
• the time of the year
• the start and finish locations.

Shipping a car on the back of a semi-truck can be daunting, but it often the best idea. When selecting a car shipping company to give you a hand, be sure to call ahead to get a quote and a rundown on the company’s shipping policy. Knowing how the system works will alleviate a large amount of stress on moving day.

One factor many are not aware of while shipping cars with a auto transport company is weight restrictions. Due to insurance policies, many companies are very strict about the weight of each vehicle they are transporting. That means that packing the car with personal items that need to be moved is not an option. However, many companies offer up to 50 extra pounds per vehicle, so your space is not completely lost.

These weight restrictions will also affect the price of the transportation. Bigger cars like a Forrester will cost a little more, while compact cars like a Lancer will have a smaller fee. Regardless of the vehicle’s size, the car shipping company will use a number of straps and pulleys to ensure that your car is safe and sound.

Move the car yourself

In theory, driving yourself may seem like the cheapest option. However, there are factors that will affect the true price of driving you car across country yourself, such as:

• Driving time
• the type of car
• the car’s condition
• the distance to be traveled
• the time of the year

Technically, driving 3,000 miles can be done in just 48 hours nonstop. This can be done with the help of a copilot, but is highly discouraged. Having a partner is great for rotating shifts, but realistically the drive should have plenty of rest stops.

If you choose to drive and have scheduled rest stops along the way, outside costs will begin to add to your total. Motels and meals can get pricey on the road, and could end up costing you hundred more.

Of course, the biggest factor to keep in mind is the condition of the car. If your car is old or not mechanically sound, hitting the road may not be the best idea. Be sure to take your car into the mechanics for a full checkup before you leave, and be well stocked with emergency supplies.

On the other hand, if your car is not good enough to make the trip, you may want to consider if it can survive its new home. It may be cheaper in the long run to sell the car and invest in a new one once you have completely moved.

If you decide to keep your car despite its inability to drive to a far destination, renting a tow dolly for the back of a moving truck is another option. Towing your car will lift the front tires and pull the rest of the car along the highway. However, this still runs the risk of your car being damaged by wear and tear or road conditions.

Moving across country is never easy, and a car certainly complicates matters. Whether you’re driving yourself or hiring professionals to help, remember to your research.

The post Shipping A Car Cross Country appeared first on moveON moving.

source https://www.moveonmoving.com/shipping-car-cross-country/

How to Ship a Motorcycle

According to the most recent survey done by the Department of Transportation in 2011, there were more than 8 million motorcycles registered in the United States. This includes both private owners and commercial organizations. That means there is at least 1 motorcycle owner out of 36 Americans in the country.

Now some people might think it’s more practical to ride their motorcycles than to have it shipped, especially when they’re relocating. However, the truth is, considering the cost of gas, food and other travel expenses, it’s definitely much more economical to hire a professional specialized shipping company or a full-service moving company to do this stressful work.

There are several reasons why someone would do this, but the most common is relocation. Since they need to take care of a lot of things during the move, opting to hire a motorcycle transport company is the best option for them. Imagine the preparation that you need to do when you’re planning to move. You won’t have that much time to go out and ride your bike to your new location. Plus, you have work and your family to think about.

Other reasons would include delivering the motorbikes to buyers or sellers, bringing them on a vacation and attending motorcycle events and rallies. Furthermore, those who own luxury or vintage motorbikes would do this to avoid adding miles on the odometer.

Whatever the reason is, there are many things one must consider first before deciding to ship their precious motorcycles to their new place.

How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Motorcycle?

Using a motorcycle shipping calculator online is the easiest way to know how much it costs to ship a motorcycle within the U.S continent. However, to give you an idea, the average cost to ship a motorcycle over 1,000 mile range from $350 to $700. For short distance travel, the cost ranges from $180 to $300. Meanwhile, the average per mile is around $0.50 for trips of about 1,000 miles.

These are some factors that may affect the total cost of your motorcycle shipment:

• Motorcycle size and weight – Regular rates can cost around $0.50 per pound, though there are others that can charge less than this. The size and weight of your bike can definitely affect the cost of shipping, because there are transport companies that calculate the cost of insurance by weight. Simply put, lightweight, easy to manage motorcycles costs less than the bulky, Harley Davidsons type. This means, you can expect to be charged an additional fee for shipping big motorcycles.
• Why is this? Keep in mind that shipping large bikes would also require using oversized crates, tie downs and other special packing materials to ensure its safety and condition.
• Transport distance – Some full-service shipping companies provide their clients with affordable deals as long as their pickup point is within a certain range. This means the closer the distance, the cheaper it is and vice versa. The proximity of the pickup and drop-off location to major highways is also another big consideration. In shipping to remote or hard to reach areas, additional charges may be applied. Remember, charges may vary depending solely on the transport company, so don’t forget to ask them about this information beforehand.
• Location of Pick-Up and Drop-Off – In general, it’s cheaper to ship a motorbike within an urban area than in rural or remote areas, especially for door-to-door service.
• Open VS Enclosed Transport – Basically, there two ways to ship your motorbike. Either through open and enclosed carriers. An open carrier means your motorbike may share the shipping truck with a few other vehicles and they will be openly exposed to the elements for the entire journey. On the other hand, enclosed carrier means the item will stay inside the truck or in its own container, safe from any outside elements. Of course, enclosed or closed transport costs a lot more than open transport. Think about this carefully before choosing which method to use.
• Generally speaking, open motorcycle transport works for 8 out of 10 customers. However, there are some cases when enclosed motorcycle shipping is highly recommended. For example, if you want to ship a luxurious Harley Davidson Cosmic Starship or a vintage 1939 BMW RS255 Kompressor, getting them shipped via enclosed carrier is definitely a must if you want to protect their condition.
• Season or Time of the Year – Seasonal demand can also affect the cost of motorcycle shipment, though not as much. For example, a customer would request to ship their motorbike using enclosed shipping during winter time. We know that the weather in this season is not that favorable, so it is common sense to get enclosed transport. However, this would cost a lot, more specifically, around $150 more than a non-enclosed transport shipped during spring.
  Most of the time, the quote these transport service providers give their customers already covers all of the important details of the entire shipping process. This includes loading, unloading, insurance costs and transit plus taxes, if necessary.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship Luxury and Vintage Motorcycles?

There are no special rates for transporting luxury and vintage motorcycles. However, several owners would opt to pay for enclosed shipping because it provides their motorbikes with maximum safety and protection. Like previously mentioned, others would choose to ship their motorbikes to avoid putting miles on its odometer. For those who’d like to send out their vintage or luxury bikes within the U.S via enclosed transport, the average cost that they’ll pay is around $800.

Extra Costs and Expenses

• Motorcycle shipping Insurance coverage – like what was mentioned above, other shipping companies will compute this via size and weight.
• Surcharges for Fuel Cost – the closer the location, the cheaper the fuel costs and vice versa.
• Failed delivery attempt – in case of a failed delivery, additional charges may be applied which is around $200 or more.
• Door-to-Door service VS Pick-up and Drop-off at a Convenient Location – Door-to-Door service is recommended if you live in a wide, spacious neighborhood that’s free from any obstruction (cable lines, etc.). Else, it’s much better to meet with the shipping company at a more accessible location so you can avoid getting charged an extra fee for the pickup.
• Additional space for sidecars, trailers and other attachments (accessories).
• Enclosed transport
• Express motorcycle transport

How to Ship Your Motorcycle

The best way to ship your motorbike is to choose a transport company that specializes in shipping motorcycles or motorbikes. Keep in mind that it’s important to do your research first and look into at least 3 to 5 companies. Ask for sample quotations and compare them with one another. Also, don’t forget to ask for any additional costs or surcharges or even discounts and promotional deals. Don’t be afraid to take your time. Another way is to ask someone you know for recommendations and referrals.

Once you’ve done your homework, you can now schedule the pick-up and drop-off date plus other details with your chosen transport service provider to get the final quote. If you agree with the price, terms and conditions, then book the shipment and prepare the payment. It’s crucial to stay in touch with your shipping company and make sure everything is settled before the shipment to avoid any inconvenience.

How Long Does it Take to Ship a Motorcycle?

Usually, the average delivery time is about two weeks to a month depending on the drop-off location. For most transport companies, the available pick-up date is 2-7 business days after the customer places an order. Then, the actual shipment takes around 1 to 6 calendar days after the motorbike is picked up. However, for express motorcycle transport, the first pick-up date is usually available within 24-72 hours.

Take this into consideration when planning for your move.

Additional Shipping Tips

Now that you’ve got an idea about how much it costs to ship a motorcycle within the U.S, here are a few more tips for you.

• Make a decision whether to use open carrier or enclosed shipping. Consider the season, the condition of your motorbike and the drop-off location. For longer distances (500 miles or more), it’s recommended to go with enclosed shipping for better protection.
• Understand what door-to-door transport means.
• Prepare your motorbike for shipping by giving it a good and thorough cleanup. Also, take note of any existing scratches, dents, marks or damages. It’s better to take a picture of your motorbike so you’ll have proof in case something happens during shipment. This will make your insurance claims easier.
• Remove any personal items or belongings and deactivate any alarms so it would not cause any problems during shipment.
• Check the tires to see if they’re adequately inflated.
• Put the motorcycle in neutral. Do this to prevent any accidents.
• If you’ll be using crates for shipping, don’t forget to drain the gas tank first and take out the battery. Remember, crates are made of wood and therefore highly flammable. Even a slight gas leak would cause a huge accident.
• At the drop-off site, prepare everything you need like payment, etc. Once the motorbike arrives to its destination, don’t forget to carefully check it for any damage. Compare the pictures you took prior to the shipping. In case of a dispute or claim, coordinate with your transport service provider, and follow their instructions on how to file for a complaint. Insurance claims normally take around a couple of weeks to be reviewed and settled.

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source https://www.moveonmoving.com/how-to-ship-a-motorcycle/

Absolute Best Moving Tip: Move in the Winter

SCHEDULE YOUR BIG MOVE DURING WINTER AND ENJOY LOWER RELOCATION RATES

If you want to save up on moving expenses, it’s best to schedule your move during off-season like late fall or winter.

Here are some reasons why:

1. Moving companies provide specials and coupons for moves that are scheduled during the winter season. This is because fewer people choose to move in the winter since it’s getting colder and the holidays are also coming up. So getting those coupons will save you hundreds of dollars from your budget.
2. Most families want to move during the summer. Why? Because that’s the time when school’s out so it’s also a very busy time for movers. Because of this, movers offer lesser special promos and coupons in the summer. Also, if you plan to move in the summer, you need to book the date in advance to avoid the hassle since this is a peak season.
3. A lot of properties (like houses, apartments, etc.) are bought and sold in the summer. A lot of home buyers would love to look at houses for sale in the spring and summer months since they look nicer, unlike in winter. However, since it’s mostly sunny here in Vegas, so that’ll be no problem. Plus, early fall can also be another great time for moving.

However, though winter might not be a problem in Las Vegas, consider the weather in the place where you plan to relocate to. Thick snow in your new location could affect the overall moving process.

Here are affordable, local moving services offered by moveON moving

moveON moving have many moving trucks and staff who’re ready to get to work all year round including late fall and winter. We offer our clients with amazing deals that aren’t usually available during peak months. For this year, we have a couple of winter promos that includes the following:

 

• Discounted boxes
• Free TV packing
• Discounts for Senior Citizens and Military Personnel
• $100 off long distance moves

Remember, if you’re planning to move this winter or late fall, we, at moveON moving will help you get things done with less expense. We’ll take you and your items where you need to go and as quickly and efficient as we can. So call us now for further inquiries or get a FREE QUOTATION on our website.

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source https://www.moveonmoving.com/best-moving-tip/

How to Have a Moving Sale

Having a moving sale is a great way to de-clutter and get rid of things that you don’t really need. It also lightens the weight of your move so you can save money on moving day.

You have more things than you need, and all of your extra stuff is taking up space in your basement, attic and garage. If you’re planning a move, it’s the perfect time to get rid of some of those extra items.

Holding a moving sale can help you earn extra money to fund the move. It can also make the move easier by reducing the number of things that you have to pack and transport. Holding a moving sale does require a bit of planning and preparation, though, if you want the event to be successful. These tips can help.

Increase Your Earnings by Selling Small Items Online

If your goal is to earn the most possible money for your items, a moving sale may not be the best possible venue in which to sell some things. If you sell items on websites such as eBay, you can offer those items to a wider audience — many of whom are collectors.

A collector may pay top dollar online, for example, for a vintage video game that would only fetch a few dollars at a yard sale. If you begin your moving sale preparations well in advance, you can get the best possible prices for your more valuable items by selling them online.

Save the rest for your moving sale. Use eBay as a research source for helping you determine appropriate prices for your items. If an item sells for a high enough price to justify the effort of listing and shipping it, sell it online. If it doesn’t, sell it at your moving sale.

Choose a Moving Sale Location With Plenty of Traffic

Do you live in the country? Your own yard or garage may not be the best venue for a moving sale. If you have a family member who lives in a higher-traffic area, ask if you can hold the sale at that person’s house instead.

Reduce Stress by Organizing and Pricing Well in Advance

Begin going through the rooms in your home and looking for items to sell well in advance of the sale. Once you’ve finished looking through a room and placing your unwanted items in a “Sell” box, research the values of those items online and determine your asking prices.

Remember that websites like eBay receive millions of visitors per day. Buyers compete against one another and drive prices up quickly. People go to a moving sale expecting great deals. If you really want to clear out your unwanted items, price them to move.

Use Groups, Bundles and Grab Bags to Sell Bulk Items

As you prepare items for your moving sale, group similar items together. Categorizing your items will make it easier for you to create appealing displays.

Do you have many small items such as books and CDs? Set individual and bulk prices.

For example, you might offer CDs at $1.00 each or $5.00 for six. Sell very small items such as stickers, baseball cards and action figures in inexpensive grab bags for children.

Do you have a matching set of four patio chairs that you’d like to sell for $50 each? Offer a price of $150 to anyone willing to buy the full set.

Prepare Yourself for Haggling

Pricing items for a moving sale is a difficult task. A large portion of your customers will want to haggle for better prices, so it may be wise to set prices that are higher than what you’re actually willing to accept. If your prices are too high, though, some people won’t bother haggling at all.

Is negotiation not your strong suit? If the thought of haggling with customers causes anxiety, display a sign telling your customers that all prices are firm and that you’ll be discounting unsold items at the start of each day.

If people want your items badly enough, they’ll pay your sticker prices. Some will come back the next day with the hope of snagging even better deals.

Increase Your Earnings by Selling Refreshments

Are you holding your moving sale during the summer? Buy some cans of soda and bottles of water, keep them on ice and sell them during your moving sale.

If you’re holding the sale during the cooler months, sell coffee and hot cocoa instead.

Selling refreshments during a moving sale is a great way to encourage customers to linger, chat and browse.

It’s also a good way to keep your children busy. You can even give the profits to your kids as a way of thanking them for helping out during the sale.

Confirm That Your Moving Sale Plans Are Legal

Some cities have laws governing yard and garage sales. Check your local laws well in advance of the planned sale date.

In some areas, a garage sale may violate local fire safety codes. Your community may have laws about sign placement. You may even need to apply for a permit before you can hold the sale.

Set a Date — and Advertise Like Crazy

Set a Date for Your Moving Sale

Opinions differ about the best possible day on which to hold a moving sale, but most people agree that you should run the sale for a few days if you can.

Start the sale on a Thursday or Friday morning, and end it Sunday evening. You’ll catch the people on their way to work in the morning, and you’ll also catch the weekend bargain hunters.

It’s best to hold the sale during a period in which the weather is agreeable. People are less likely to go to yard sales when there’s a foot of snow on the ground.

Advertise Your Moving Sale Online and Offline

Advertise the sale both online and offline. Online, Craigslist is the best website on which to advertise to locals — but you can also find websites devoted exclusively to yard and garage sales.

Offline, your local newspaper is a good advertising venue. Newspapers are strapped for revenue and typically have very affordable advertising rates — but don’t advertise too early. If you do, many of the people who see the advertisement will forget about it.

The post How to Have a Moving Sale appeared first on moveON moving.

source https://www.moveonmoving.com/how-to-have-a-moving-sale/

How to Move Antiques

Compared to your other household furniture, moving antiques and other collectible items locally or cross-country, can be backbreaking and challenging. The best way to handle this situation is, of course, to hire professional movers who specialize in moving specialty items like antiques, pianos, pool tables, wine collections, paintings, chandeliers and so on.

By hiring expert movers, you can lessen the risk of damage to your belongings. Plus, in case something unfortunate does happen, your moving company will provide you with adequate compensation according to the kind of protection plan you’ve purchased from them.

Moving antiques from one location to another should be done with careful planning and preparation. Unlike normal household items which can be easily replaced, most of these antiques and collectibles are highly valuable and are often times irreplaceable. For this reason, it’s very important that you should make every effort to ensure these items are safely relocated to their new home.

Antiques and collectibles refer to any kind of fragile porcelains, family heirlooms, paintings, valuable china and memorabilia.

If you’re thinking of packing these special items on your own, then you need to do a lot of preparation to do so. Remember that this task can’t be done by yourself, it’s a good idea to call some of your friends to help you out.

You need to prepare materials and tools which you can buy from your local hardware store.

These supplies include double and triple-walled (thick-walled) cardboard boxes, stretch wrap, cushioning wrap, packing tape, fine tissue and craft paper.

Also, we strongly advise to keep these following items with you at all times during the move:

• Fine jewelry – necklaces, rings, bracelets, watches, etc.
• Coin collections, cash and negotiable paper like stock certificates, bonds, notes, and so on.
• Important files and documents like land deeds, titles, bank books, tax forms and other similar items.
• Prescriptions, medical records and dental records.
• Keys to your safety vault, your own house and furniture (cupboards or cabinets).
• Pictures, photo albums, picture frames and other sentimental items.

By storing these in your own vehicle, you can ensure the item’s safety and security.

If you’re planning to move any antique furniture, you should follow all these steps:

1. 1. Make an inventory of your antique and other collectible items.

   You can refer to this list later once everything has been shipped to your new location. Check whether all the items have been delivered successfully and that there are no damages to any of them. Also, don’t forget to make a separate inventory of all your non-antique furniture that will require special packing and handling. Consider the following attributes fragility, sentimental value, aesthetic appeal and so on. Include in your list if they have any previous damage like scratches or dents.

   2. Take clear photos of your antiques and collectible items.

   Take pictures from all sides and angles. These will serve as your proof in case something unexpected happens. Concentrate on pre-existing damage, weakened parts or extra fragile parts. You can also use your cell phone to take a video of them. Photos and videos can be used as evidence for insurance claims.

   3. Consider whether to move your antique furniture or sell it for cash.

   Decide whether ALL of the items you have are actually worth the expense, time and energy in relocating them to your new house. Of course, don’t just decide on a whim, then regret it later. Take your time to evaluate and then decide. The money that you’ll get from selling them can be added to your moving budget.

   4. Get your antique or collectibles appraised.

   Having your antique furniture appraised will give you an idea on how much insurance coverage you need to purchase from your moving company or insurance agent. It’s vital to know just how much your item is worth before the actual move day.

   If you don’t know who to talk to, you can ask your insurance company or any trustworthy authorized antique dealers for any recommendations for licensed antique furniture appraisers in your area. You can also contact the American Society of Appraisers (ASA) for help or find an expert appraiser using their website.

   5. Get proper insurance coverage.

   After getting your antique furniture and collectibles appraised, the next thing to do is to purchase the right insurance coverage that’ll protect your valuable belongings in case something unexpected happens. Contact your moving company or insurance agent to talk about the best insurance options for your antique items during transport.

   6. Take a closer look at each of your antique furniture and determine the possible risks that may occur during the move.

   Examine all the parts of each of your furniture. From its main hardware, top section, legs, its current condition to any pre-existing damages like cracks, loose joints, dents, etc.

   For this part you need to check the following:

   • Furniture size – will the item fit through the doors and doorframes of your old or new house? It’s best to measure the dimensions of your furniture and compare it to your doorways to ensure that the antique furniture can safely maneuver across the hall, around tight areas and even downstairs.
   • Make a floor plan of your new home – Knowing the exact sizes and shapes of your antiques will enable you to arrange them in a safe, convenient and efficient way in your new home. This saves you time and effort in arranging and rearranging your furniture. Plus, it can also give you an idea whether the furniture can actually fit inside your new home or not.
   • Temperature and humidity – Remember that the temperature and humidity in your new house should be at least similar to what you have in your previous home. Use a hygrometer or an indoor humidity monitor to measure your home’s humidity level. If in case you’re planning to move to a place where it’s much cooler or warmer, ask your licensed antique dealer about the best way to preserve your antiques. No matter the type of wood they are built with, extreme temperature and moisture can greatly affect or damage your most prized possessions.
   • Check the antique furniture for any problematic spots or parts. Secure loose parts and removable pieces. Secure doors with rubber straps or strings. Take apart any delicate handles and tape them inside the drawers.
   7. Prepare the antique items for packing.

   Consider if you need to specially clean your antiques first before packing. You can check out your local hardware shop, furniture store or antique dealer for some recommended cleaning products which you can use to clean them. Don’t use any type of oil or wax product on wooden furniture immediately before you move, especially if you’ll place them in the storage temporarily. Ask a licensed antique dealer for tips on how to take care of these antiques.

   8. Pack, wrap and store.

   If you’re hiring movers, it’s vital that you yourself or any representative is present during the packing and moving so they can properly identify the things that need special care and handling. Wrap those heavy, bulky furniture in thick pads to protect them from any damage during transport.

   In case you want to pack them on your own, then it’s important to:

   • Dismantle the furniture as carefully as you can. Remove any detachable parts like drawers, doors, shelves, legs, glass panels, etc. and store them separately. Remove any glass panels, and mirrors and cover them with padding paper or stretch wrap. Place the hardware and other small pieces in labeled plastic bags. Then store these bags in a box with a label referring to which furniture it belongs to.
   • Protect the furniture by providing at least 3 layers of padding. The first layer should be the surface protection that’ll guard the item’s surface from any moisture, dust, dirt, scratches, etc. For this you can use a soft packing paper or a thin plastic wrap. The second layer is for shock protection that’ll absorb any unwanted shocks and vibrations during transport. Use foam sheets or soft moving blankets, then secure the item using packing tape or a sturdy rope. The third layer is the outer protection, preferably to keep the item waterproof. For this, you can use a custom crate during shipment.

   REMEMBER: Don’t use packing tape directly onto your antique furniture, else it’ll leave sticky marks on the finish and ruin it.

   9. 9. Unloading and shipment. Once all the items have been shipped to your new home, refer to your inventory list and check whether everything has been delivered in one piece. Check each of the item for any damages, dents or scratches.

   How to Pack Antique Collectible items

   1. Prepare coins, stamps and fine jewelry for transport. Keep them with you or in your own vehicle at all times.
   2. Store your collectible items in their original boxes. If they don’t have one, purchase a sturdy one and place bubble wrap or packing peanuts inside to fill in the gaps.
   3. Store chinaware, crystal and other delicate pieces separately. Wrap each one using fine tissues or newspapers, and put them in compartmentalized containers. Stand plates on the edge. Then put the stemware in different corrugated cylinders.
   4. Wrap dolls, figurines and sculptures in soft tissue, packing paper or even old newspaper. Store them in a sturdy, thick-walled cardboard box with bubble wrap or packing peanuts.
   5. Label these boxes as “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP” with arrows pointing upwards.
   6. Do your research prior to the move or ask a professional mover about the correct way to pack your wine or other perishable collections as well as those uncommon, difficult-to-move ones.

   And that’s how you move valuable antiques and collectibles safely, efficiently and properly.

The post How to Move Antiques appeared first on moveON moving.

source https://www.moveonmoving.com/how-to-move-antiques/