20 May 2018

Apps You Can Use to Create a Household Inventory When Moving

There’s an App for That

In today’s digital society, it’s no surprise that there are moving apps. This generation thrives on convenience and immediate results at the touch of a button. So, whip out your smartphone and check out these awesome apps that’ll help you organize your inventory the next time you move.

The Most Helpful Apps for Tracking Inventory

1. Move Advisor

This all-inclusive app is one of the leading choices in the real estate industry. Specifically made to help you home and apartment moving, it was featured in the New York Post and recommended by National Association of Realtors. Move Advisor guides users through every step of your relocation.

The inventory portion of this app is one-of-a-kind. It features a virtual platform that allows you to drag and drop inventory pictures by room. Simply add furniture and different box sizes to each room, and your estimated item weight will be calculated for you. It’ll even estimate how many blankets you’ll need.

Move Advisor also includes the latest moving news and tips, mover ratings and recommendations, and a timeline to keep you on track. You can get free quotes to hire moving services in your area. The best part of this unique application: it’s free!

2. Sortly

An iOS app tailored just for inventory, Sortly takes it up a level with individual and business plan options. The free plan is great for basic users that need to keep track of everyday household items. You can add up to 100 items and customize them by name, tags, value, and notes. For those with larger inventories, the Pro plan comes with unlimited inventory and secure cloud storage.

Sortly takes the cake for business users. The Pro plan includes a multitude of features including the ability to track items with barcodes and customizable QR codes, multi-user and customer access, various tracking abilities, and a quick-scan checkout feature. You can even personalize your Sortly account with your company logo and custom colors.

3. Dream Vault

Created by American Family Insurance, Dream Vault is a unique approach to home inventory. This iOS and Android app allow users to organize their belongings by category, room, value, and even property (for those with vacation or commercial properties). You can include item descriptions, pictures, and purchase dates.

What’s special about using Dream Vault is its ability to create reports. This portion of the app saves inventories as PDF documents. Users can then email their reports to insurance agents for safekeeping and insurance claims.

Tips for Organizing Your Inventory Lists

Creating an inventory of your household items is an overwhelming task. Whether you prefer to use one of these convenient apps or you’re a DIY type of mover, there are some basic ideas to get you started. Refer to these tips next time you plan to relocate or if you just want to keep track of your stuff.

  • Start by making a list. This is an obvious, but necessary task. Grab a notebook or use an excel sheet to make a simple list of your possessions.
  • Gather receipts, warranties, and other important documentation. The most thorough way to organize these items is to go down your list and find them for each item. Group and clip them by item, so they’re ready to scan or file.
  • Take pictures of everything. A quick snap of each household item doesn’t always cut it, especially with expensive items like jewelry and electronics. It’s important to take pictures of the item, the model or serial number, and close-ups of the item’s condition.

Choose the Inventory Tool that Works for You

There are a lot of options for storing your inventory information. You can choose to create your spreadsheet, use a pre-made template, or get super organized with an app. There are even inventory services available if you’re looking to pay a professional to get the job done for you.

Determine what features (if any) are most important to you, the type of inventory you need to keep, and what your price point is. This information will lead you in your search for the right inventory tool, so you can organize your stuff exactly how you want it.

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6 Mar 2018

Use These Storage Tips to Keep Your Home Office Organized

The home office is one room in the house that can easily become cluttered. Whether it is because it is the “catch-all” room of the house where you and your family keep extra miscellaneous items or if it is just overrun with office supplies, we have some tips that will make it easier to keep your office neat and organized.

1. Start a Filing System

A filing system is a key to keeping documents organized in your home office. The first step in starting a filing system is deciding if you want to make a physical or digital filing system. If you decide on the digital filing system, you will need to scan and upload all of your documents to your computer. Once everything is uploaded, you can organize into different folders. Just remember to save your documents in two places in case your computer crashes!

If you want to start a physical filing system, first determine the types of documents you want to organize. Think about things including receipts, bills, and maybe even your tax information. Next, gather some file folders or pick some up next time you are at the store. Label each folder according to the category you picked, and you are done! If you want to take this a step folder, you could get a stand like the one here to hold your files for optimal organization.

storage-tips

2. Add Shelves

Do you have any shelves or a shelving system in your home office currently? If not, Cheap Movers Dallas (www.cheapdallasmovers.net) says shelves are the perfect way to add more storage and organization to the room because they are on the wall and out of the way. Consider adding shelves above your desk to display photo frames and small items that may be taking up valuable desk space. You could also use this space to store your files and book collection. Find desk shelving for your office here.

3. Add an Organization Station

An organization station can best be described as some mobile storage unit that can serve to organize all of the “extra” stuff in your office that is not already tucked away in a file or on a shelf. Some inspiration for your organization station can be found here or here. Customize this space to your personal home office needs. You may use it to store art supplies, writing utensils, extra printer paper!

4. Invest in a Printer Stand/Cart

Is your printer currently taking up room on your desk? If it is, consider adding a small table or cart to your office that is specifically designated for your printer and printing supplies. This will give you more space to spread out your work on your desk and will keep your printer and supplies corralled to one designated area.

5. Add a Memo Board

Adding some memo board to your office can take your organization skills to the next level. Use this board for your specific needs, whether it be a family calendar, weekly reminders, or your daily schedule. Consider making your memo board out of a magnetic material or cork board so that you can stick reminders to it as necessary!

storage-home-office

We hope that you found inspiration for ideas that you would like to implement in your home to decrease the clutter and make your home office a place that you want to work in!

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9 Jan 2018

Best Places to Buy Cheap Moving Boxes and Packing Supplies

There are often many different emotions involved when it is time to move or place things in storage. Many people feel excited, stressed, and either happy or sad depending on the reason for the move. Often, because moving can be quite hectic, two of the most important items needed for moving, moving boxes and packing supplies, are overlooked until the last minute. To make your next move as smooth as possible make sure you have lots of moving boxes and packing supplies. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get cheap moving boxes and supplies. We understand that moving can get quite expensive, so we compiled a list of ways to help you save on packing supplies. If you’re still trying to figure out how to save on movers and need a recommendation for a cheap moving company, see this resource here.

Here is a list of places that offer moving supplies at reasonable prices.

1. Craigslist

Craigslist is a great source for inexpensive moving boxes and packing supplies. To begin your search visit the craigslist site for your area (for example if you live in Medford, Oregon you would go to https://medford.craigslist.org). When you get to the site look for the “search craigslist” box and type “boxes” into the box. You should see several links that pull up. Click on the link that shows ## “boxes” in for sale (where ## is a number). You should see several links to people offering moving boxes for sale in your area. You can repeat your search for terms like “tape,” “packing tape,” and “packaging tape” until you find what you need. One word of caution with Craigslist – if you are planning on purchasing something from an ad on the site you will most likely be dealing with people you don’t know. To keep everyone safe, you should consider meeting with the other party at a neutral and public location to complete your transaction.

boxes-and-packing

2. U-Haul

Another place to find fairly inexpensive moving boxes and packing supplies is at U-Haul. They sell boxes and supplies both on their website and in their stores. If you order your boxes online and pick them up at a U-Haul store, shipping is free.

3. Home Depot

Home Depot is a great place to find cheap moving boxes and packing supplies. They also sell moving kits which include both moving boxes and packing supplies.

4. Lowes

Lowes is another great place to find cheap moving boxes and packing supplies. We compared a moving box sized 18” x 18” X 24” for this article, and both Home Depot and Lowes had some of the lowest prices online.

5. eBay

If you shop carefully, you can find some good deals for moving boxes and packing supplies on eBay. To keep shipping costs low you should search for sellers near you.

6. BoxCycle.com

BoxCycle is an innovative marketplace for used boxes. You can search their site by zip code to find companies and individuals offering used boxes for sale in your area.

7. UsedCardboardBoxes.com

UsedCardboardBoxes.com is another website where you can save money by purchasing used moving boxes. They also sell packing supplies like bubble wrap and tape.

cheap-packing-supplies

8. Your Moving Company

Great Guys Moving suggests asking your mover if they have any new or used boxes they’re willing to give you. Often, moving companies are happy to include these and other packing supplies to sweeten the deal when you hire their moving services. Initially, the movers will likely try and up-sell these materials to you, but it can instead be used as a negotiating point.

While moving supplies add up, looking for boxes and other materials in these places helps you cut down on the cost of your relocation.

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24 Aug 2017

Storage Units Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale | Self Storage and Moving Services

Storage units provide space to keep household belongings, furniture, surplus goods, excess inventory, clothing, and many other items that you haven’t the space for inside the house. People use storage facilities when they’re relocating, opening a new business, have children moving in/out of the home, and for a variety of additional reasons, all of which is appropriate considering how easy and affordable it is to rent storage space.

storage-facilities

Choosing the Best Phoenix Storage Facility

Selecting a storage unit company in Phoenix is simple when you know what you want and need in that rental. Companies offer storage units in several sizes, with regular and climate-controlled units available. Complete a storage unit assessment before leasing (or speak to a storage unit rental agent) to learn the right size unit for your needs. Additional qualities to seek in your storage unit include:

  • Free Estimates: Reasonable rates are necessary when renting a storage facility. Request an estimate before reserving your storage unit. Use the assessment to compare rates with three to four other storage companies in Phoenix to find the best deal. Remember, the price is only one of the many important considerations to make when choosing a storage unit.
  • Security: Knowing your belongings are safe is important. Pick a storage facility that provides security, ensuring your peace of mind as well as the safekeeping of your belongings.
  • Clean: A clean facility is yet another quality that puts your mind at ease when storing your belongings. The last thing you want to see is insects and critters roaming around, or a facility with a mess strewn around.
  • Reputation: A good reputation is an important quality you should always look for when choosing a storage unit company. Online reviews, word of mouth, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are just a few of the best resources that can help you delve into the reputation of a company you’re interested in using.

Top Storage Units in Phoenix

Choose one of the following self-storage businesses in Phoenix and pick a company that is well-regarded by the community. Here are some of our recommendations:

Public Storage

$1 starts your first month of storage at any of the nine metro Phoenix Public Storage facilities. Public Storage has proudly served customers’ needs since 1972, giving you peace of mind and assurance in your belongings while they’re stored at this facility. 1-800-688-8067

Allstate Self-Storage

3443 E Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018

Allstate Self-Storage, located at 3443 E. Indian School Road, offers storage units in small, medium, and large sizes. Clean facilities are protected by 24-hour surveillance and security gate. Drive-up, climate-controlled, and RV storage units are also available for rental. 602-466-7013

Arizona Storage Inns

1120 E. Phelps Road Phoenix, AZ 85022

Arizona Storage Inns has several locations scattered throughout Phoenix. The facility offers reasonably priced units, with climate-controlled units available. The locally owned and operated company prides itself on affordable, professionally operated storage. 602-954-8900

Best Phoenix Movers

Once you’ve found an affordable storage unit, you might need some help getting all your belongings moved in! Many local Phoenix movers offer hourly moving services to help customers move their possessions from a home or office into a storage space. Here are some of the most reliable movers in the vicinity:

Cheap Movers Phoenix

2730 W. Agua Fria Fwy Ste 100, Phoenix, AZ 85027

If getting a reasonable rate is your priority, then it might be time to call the movers at Cheap Movers Phoenix. This moving service helps you find Phoenix-Mesa and interstate moving companies at budget rates so you can avoid paying too much for your move. Provide info about your move, and they’ll get back to you with quotes from 3-4 of the top moving companies in Phoenix!

Arizona Discount Movers

930 S. 67th Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85043

In business since 1978, this Phoenix mover performs apartment, home, and office moves, in addition to providing specialty moves (think pianos and billiard tables) and off-site storage. In addition to serving Phoenix proper, Arizona Discount Movers also serves the areas of Scottsdale, Valley West, Chandler, Tempe, Mesa, and Gilbert. Rates for two movers and a truck start at just $85 an hour, plus applicable trip charges.

Two Men and a Truck

2905 W. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85017

This nationwide moving company has locations across the U.S., making them the obvious choice for local and interstate relocations. Their Phoenix-West Valley location has an average rating of 4.8 stars with hundreds of reviews. Whether you need a full-service move with packing included, or just need a couple of guys for a couple of hours, these guys are an excellent choice for your Phoenix move.

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24 May 2017

7 Must-Have Packing Supplies When Moving into Your Storage Unit

From reducing clutter within the home to finding the space needed to operate a small business, off-site storage units often have a great deal to offer. Whether you are interested in long-term storage solutions or the means to plan an easier and more successful move, the following supplies and resources can often make a crucial difference when it comes time to move into your storage unit.

1. Packing List and Itinerary

Attention to detail is of paramount importance during any move. Having a master packing list or maintaining an effective itinerary can help to ensure that nothing goes overlooked during your next move. A written inventory list can also ensure that retrieving any items from storage may be done more quickly and easily. Try using an inventory list app to keep things conveniently close to your fingertips.

2. Spare of Blankets and Other Padding

Protecting furnishings, boxes and other items from harm during a move can be a more difficult undertaking for those who lack the right resources. Having plenty of blankets and other padding materials on hand will help to minimize the risk to items during your next move.

3. Lift-Assist Equipment

Dollies, carts and other lift-assist equipment can make it much easier to handle bulky items, heavy boxes and other possessions that may be too difficult to lift or move by hand. Improper lifting techniques can result in damaged belongings or even personal injury. Ensuring that you have full access to any lift-assist equipment needed is never a concern that should be left to chance.

4. A Secure Padlock

When it comes to long-term storage security can often be a very important concern. If you are seeking to store high-dollar items or other valuables, enhanced security can often provide much-needed peace of mind. Having a sturdy padlock will help to ensure that all items are able to be kept safe and secure.

5. Effective Transportation or Hiring a Moving Company

A bigger truck can help to minimize the number of trips, overall time and total cost of your upcoming move. Borrowing a vehicle from a friend or arranging to rent a van or truck ahead of time ensures that effective transportation is less likely to become an issue. If your move is a simple one from a house to a storage unit in the same city, it may be cost effective to hire a cheap local moving company. These movers Houston say that the typical moving rate is around $100 an hour with a two-hour minimum. Depending on the number of belongings you are placing in storage, most moving companies can accomplish the task in just 2-3 hours. The effort saved could be well worth the expense.

6. Additional Help and Assistance

Attempting to move too much without assistance is a common mistake. An extra pair of hands can often go a long way towards ensuring the entire moving process can be completed more quickly, efficiently and without issue.

7. The Right Storage Environment

From climate-controlled units to storage options that provide enhanced physical security, finding the right option, service or unit is an issue that should never be left to chance. Dealing with the wrong service provider may complicate the move or place greater stress on your bottom line.

Planning the Perfect Move

While storage units may have much to offer, failing to properly plan a move-in can be a very costly misstep. When it comes to making the most out of your storage unit, a little preparation and access to the right resources can go a long way towards ensuring your next move is a successful one. Be sure to check out our post on organizing your storage unit for five helpful tips!

 

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28 Apr 2017

4 Storage Hacks to Make the Most of Living Small

With millions of Americans spending almost half of their income on rent alone, more people are becoming interested in simple living. As housing prices continue to rise, the option of choosing a small, debt-free home is a reasonable alternative to living in a large and spacious house. Whether you already live in a tiny apartment…

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23 Apr 2017

5 Most Common Reasons for Renting Storage Space

Renting a storage unit can provide you with flexible cost-effective solutions for a variety of situations and concerns. From starting a new business to ensuring your upcoming move can be completed without issue, access to the right storage solution can often make a considerable difference. The following five reasons highlight a handful of potential benefits…

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