In the past 30 years I have moved eight times (I used to be taller), and I used to own a company that built and assembled sets for the TV industry –many of which took eight 40′ vans all by themselves — so I know a lot about packing, moving, unpacking…. and attitude.

First, everyone from Jim, their estimator, to each and every guy on the moving team was as professional and courteous — and funny — as could be.  Working with each and every one of them was a pleasure.

They packed everything as carefully as if it were their own.  Truly.  (While I’m sorry it took so much paper and bubblewrap to secure each item, please be assured that every box, piece of paper and sheet of bubble is being repurposed to others who are moving and to small businesses that bubblewrap what they sell/send).

I had been, uh, rather anal about pre-marking my boxes (I did about 2/3 of the packing myself) and the crew fully understood and respected my markings.  For example, one blue stripe of tape on the box meant the item was to be brought into the house, not the garage, because I knew I’d need it quickly.  Two blue stripes meant the items inside were VERY fragile.  And so on.  They handled it all to my complete satisfaction.

If, as they were bringing items into the new place, I realized there just wouldn’t be room for it where I’d marked it, and asked them instead to place it somewhere else, they were cheerful.  A lot of other movers would’ve grumbled at best, especially since some of those items were mighty heavy.

They observed a pecking order — the final authority came from the lead man, and they respected that, so nobody went off on his own and ran the risk of doing something wrong.  And their lead man knew that I was his final authority, and he respected that fact.

Last but certainly not least, they were on time, they were on budget, and — I haven’t finished unpacking yet, so I can’t say 100% but — it appears that every item arrived unscathed, without breaks or damage of any kind. 
(I did NOT have a good experience with the last mover I used in this area.)

I should also mention that, at least to my face, they never made fun of my one semester of high school Spanish.  I think that demonstrates self-control, tact, and a great opportunity to have a few good-natured laughs later on!  I have no doubt that, at some point, I asked someone to pour gravy over a tractor…

All My Sons ROCKS!

S. Kennedy

Greensboro, NC

According to the official EA Sports simulation of Super Bowl XLIII (By Madden NFL 09) the Steelers will reign supreme once again. According to the award-winning video game, the Pittsburgh Steelers will win an unprecedented sixth Super Bowl title in a tightly contested game against the Arizona Cardinals, by a final score of 28-24. Holding off a fourth quarter comeback by the Cardinals, the Steelers bring the Vince Lombardi trophy back to the Steel City for the second time in the past four years and for a sixth time in franchise history, setting an NFL record. EA SPORTS matched the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinals in a simulation of Super Bowl XLIII. Ben Roethlisberger threw for 3 touchdowns and was named the Super Bowl MVP; joining teammate Hines Ward who was the Super Bowl XL MVP. Steelers coach, Mike Tomlin, became the youngest coach in NFL history to win a Super Bowl, at the age of 36.

Of course, there are many different ways to go about making your prediction for who will win a certain game, but there is only one absolute truth…no one knows for sure who will win until the game is actually played. The reason everyone knows the definition of the word upset is because they happen with such great frequency. Given that upsets happen all the time, there are still things you can look at to help predict who will probably win the game. Here are some of these factors that might influence the Super Bowl and which team has the advantage in each.

1. Running game? In the regular season neither team was in the Top 20 in the NFL in rushing with Arizona finishing dead last, so a slight advantage to Pittsburgh there. In the postseason Pittsburgh’s rushing yards per game has increased by less than 3, whereas Arizona has an increase of almost 40 yards per game. Pittsburgh’s star running back, Willie Parker, was hurt for part of the regular season, so you would expect to see an increase in their rushing total with him back, but you don’t. Arizona’s running backs seem to have fresh legs, since they were used so infrequently during the regular season.

Advantage: Arizona.

2. Defense? Statistically, the Pittsburgh Steelers have a much better defense when compared to the Arizona Cardinals, but you can’t just compare the defenses to each other because they don’t play each other. You need to compare the defense vs. the offense it is facing as well. During the regular season Arizona’s offense averaged 365.8 yards per game and scored 427 points while Pittsburgh’s offense averaged 311.9 yards per game and scored 347 points. Quite the difference. Defensively, Arizona gave up 331.5 yards per game and 426 total points while Pittsburgh only gave up 237.2 yards per game and 223 total points. In the postseason, Arizona has improved its defense, while Pittsburgh has remained as stout as ever. Basically what it comes down to is this: One of the best offenses (Arizona) vs. the best defense (Pittsburgh) and a not so good offense vs. a fairly poor defense that is getting better.

Advantage: Pittsburgh.

3. Passing game? Arizona’s: Kurt Warner has thrown eight touchdowns and two interceptions during a dominant playoff run. He does struggle with turnovers when under duress, but the line protects him well. Warner’s quick release and intelligence are blitz-killers and he won’t be fazed by the moment. Pittsburgh’s: Ben Roethlisberger’s up-and-down statistical season mirrors his career. But he thrives when it counts. His career yards-per-attempt average is seventh in NFL history, he throws an awesome deep ball and sheds tacklers. He takes a lot of sacks, but he delivers.

Advantage: Pittsburgh (Barely)

4. Special Teams: Steelers: Jeff Reed is an excellent kicker, but punter Mitch Berger is one of the league’s worst. Pittsburgh’s coverage teams aren’t bad, but their returns struggled during the regular season. Santonio Holmes has given them a big boost in the playoffs. Cardinals: Neil R ackers is an up-and-down kicker, and he’s the highlight of Arizona’s special teams. Their coverage units didn’t excel all season. Like the rest of the Cardinals, they are playing better in the playoffs. J.J. Arrington and Steve Breaston are average on returns.

Advantage: Steelers

5. Intangibles: Pittsburgh: The Steelers’ confidence is sky high; few defenses have played better over a full season. That has translated into a great record in close games. Ben Roethlisberger plays his best in the biggest moments, and the team is almost fully healthy. A decent amount of the Steelers’ players were on the Super Bowl winning team a few years ago, so they know what it is like to be under this microscope. However, that could actually come back to bite them. That Super Bowl was played in Detroit, so they didn’t really have much of an option but to concentrate on the game. This Super Bowl is being played in Florida, so there is a lot more temptation to go to a few parties, hang out at the beach, and generally not prepare as much for this Super Bowl as they did for that Super Bowl. Arizona: The Cardinals have the underdog factor working: No one believed in them! They will hear for two weeks about Pittsburgh’s historic defense, but no one has played better playoff football than Arizona. That should help them play loose and confident. Not to mention, Kurt Warner has played in two previous Sup er Bowls, and Edgerrin James played with a lot of good Indianapolis teams, so he is used to pressure filled games, too. And of course Ken Whisenhunt was the offensive coordinator for the Steelers back in Super Bowl XL. I’m not going to do anymore research, but odds are there are some other players for the Cardinals that have played in a Super Bowl, too. Even if Warner is the only player for the Cardinals to play in a Super Bowl, he knows what it takes to win a Super Bowl, so he will get his team prepared. Also, the Arizona Cardinals are from Arizona, so the warm weather won’t mean as much to them.

Advantage: Pittsburgh.

Here’s my prediction on the game.

Quarter 1: Game starts out slow. A couple of three and outs by both teams, one good drive for both team, and some mistakes on both sides of the ball. Arizona will score on a run by Edgerrin James. When the first quarter is over, the score is Arizona 7 Pittsburgh 3.

Quarter 2: Things get heated up. Both teams are able to move the ball, but Pittsburgh does a little better than the Cardinals. Pittsburgh scores on two passes by Ben Roethlisberger, to Hines Ward. Time for Halftime. The score is Pittsburgh 17 Arizona 7.

Quarter 3: Pittsburgh seems to take control of the game. Willie Parker scores a touchdown, and Troy Polamalu makes an interception at the end of a big Arizona drive. It seems that Pittsburgh has taken control of the game. They play conservative as the third quarter ends. Pittsburgh leads 24-13

Quarter 4: The quarter gets going with about 13 or 12 minutes left as Arizona scores on a Larry Fitzgerald touchdown. The score is now 24-20. People will be questioning if Whisenhunt should have went for two to make the lead only 3. Pittsburgh runs clock a little and scores on another run by Parker to put the game away. Arizona goes for it on fourth down and doesn’t get it. The Pittsburgh Steelers win Super Bowl XLIII 31-20, and Willie Parker is named MVP.

Here are a couple of videos for your enjoyment: Steelers Vs. Cardinals Preview, Stopping Pittsburgh, Cardinals Defense, Building the Cardinals, Roethlisberger.

Tell us what you think…. What’s your prediction?

Hello everyone! So here is the scoop. On April 28th 2008 we had a crew arrive at a home in Daniels Island, South Carolina. The crew consisted of Kenneth McCrory, Timothy McClean & Francis Franklin. They were to pack & load Monday the 28th and deliver in Gainesville, GA on the 29th. On this same day there was a storm moving through the south expected to move through that night. Our men were packing and loading a customers goods when the storm moved through the Charleston area. While upstairs Mr. McCrory was packing the attic when the house was struck by lighting sending a bolt of electricity down the elevator shaft inches from where Mr. McCrory was standing. This bolt of electricity also caught the roof and attic on fire. Mr. McCrory ran out of the house and grabbed a fire extinguisher while the shipper contacted the fire department. Mr. McCrory spent ten minutes trying to put the fire out until the fire department arrived to take over the job. Unfortunately the fire department soaked the entire upstairs but made it clear that had Mr. McCrory not done what he had did more of the house if not the entire house would have been engulfed. This just goes to show how much we care about our customers when we are providing a service to them. Our men did return to the house the next day and finished loading the job successfully delivering the goods to GA on Wednesday instead. I only hope that the shipper will have as much luck with his insurance company. Our prayers and blessing go out to the shipper and his family and we are very thankful that no one got hurt. We would also like to commend Mr. McCrory for his heroic efforts.

Once again I want to Thank all of you for choosing All My Sons Moving & Storage.

Raleigh, North Carolina

April 18th: Spamalot
Winner of the 2005 Tony Award for Best Musical, Monty Python’s Spamalot is the outrageous new musical comedy lovingly ripped off from the film classic “Monty Python and The Holy Grail.” Directed by Tony Award-winner Mike Nichols, with a book by Eric Idle a

April 19th: Bass Tournament
Have a reel good time with the City of Raleigh Parks and Recreation annual Bass Tournament. No more than 20 teams will be allowed to register. Awards include 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place and largest bass. The fee is just $60. For information please contact

April 19th: Planet Earth Celebration
RAIN OR SHINE Burt’s Bees presents the 1st Annual Planet Earth Celebration, a fun-filled, interactive experience that will bring together our community to celebrate our planet.

April 19th: Angels in America Part Two

April 20th: Junior Olympic Competition
The US Junior Olympic Skills competition is a free program for youth ages 8-13 years old. Participants will compete in 3 different events-50 meter dash, standing long jump and the ultimate shot put. This is a free event.

April 21st: Mr. Al Live in Concert

April 26th: N.C. Regional Lacers Lace Day
A celebrating of lace and other needle arts will be held on the N.C. State campus at the Gregg Museum of Art and Design, Talley Center. Contact Kristin Conrad for more information: ks_conrad@hotmail.com

April 26th: World Beer Festival
First Session (12 noon-4 pm); Second Session (6 pm-10 pm) Join All About Beer Magazine on April 26th at Moore Square.

April 29th: Riverdance

Durham, North Carolina

April 19th: Earth Day 2008
Durham Parks and Recreation and Keep Durham Beautiful, Inc., will host the largest Earth Day Festival in the Triangle from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Durham Central Park, 502 Foster St. The Festival will feature music, food, and an opportunity to learn about current environmental issues. For information, call 560-4355 or visit www.durhamearthday.org.

April 25th: Durham County Special Olympic Games
The annual Durham County Special Olympic Games will be held at the Durham Academy Upper School on April 25 at 10 a.m. Schools from all over Durham County will be represented at this event. There will be a torch ceremony with the Durham Police Department taking part. Athletes will be competing in a wide variety of sporting events. A rain date of April 28 has been set.

Cary, North Carolina

April 26th: Spring Daze Arts & Crafts Festival 2008 – FREE
Enjoy the arts in the park with the 15th annual Spring Daze Arts & Crafts Festival! Featuring over 150 local artists, entertainment on four stages throughout the festival, Children’s Village, concessionaires with your favorite festival foods, and the beautiful, serene setting of Bond Park, this festival promises to be the best yet! The Town of Cary Earth Day Celebration will be held in conjunction with Spring Daze 2008. Free and open to the public. Call (919) 469-4061 for more information.Location: Fred G. Bond Metro Park

April 27th: Triangle Sacred Harp Singers – FREE
Join the Triangle Sacred Harp Singers and experience Shape Note music from the Original Sacred Harp! on the fourth Sunday of the month from 2-4 p.m. For information, call (919) 233-4630 or (919) 460-4963.Location: Page-Walker Arts & History Center

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

April 26th: Earth Action Day
A free event for the whole family, Earth Day on the Plaza will provide a fun-filled afternoon of learning more about our planet and the human relationship with the environment through demonstrations, performances, and activities by and for all ages.

Wake Forest, North Carolina

April 18th – 27th: Herb Fest
Introduced in April 1999, the first HerbFest was a one-day herb sale held in the municipal parking lot along South White Street in downtown Wake Forest. In later years, the festival grew to three days, while the location remained the same. This year, new and exciting changes are on the way. Not only is HerbFest expanding to 10 days, but the event is moving. The ninth annual HerbFest will be April 18-27 at Festival Park, 527 S. White Street, a two-acre outdoor tract in historic downtown Wake Forest that includes a 20,000-square-foot warehouse. Herbs available for sale at this year’s HerbFest have been raised using Ball Horticulture Company’s “Circle of Life” sustainable horticulture program which promotes eco-friendly gardening. As an example, most of the herb plants will be sold in pots made from bio-degradable rice hulls. After planting, the empty pots can be tossed into the compost pile to decompose along with other lawn and garden waste effectively eliminating those unsightly plastic pots that clutter up the garden shed and reducing the amount of waste thrown in local landfills. And all of the plants are grown locally, so they are sure to perform well for Wake Forest-area gardeners. HerbFest will also feature herbs and other perennials that thrive in low-water environments and showcase various water-saving techniques and products, such as rain barrels. This year’s festival also promises to deliver all of the signature attractions that make HerbFest such a popular area event, including the duck parade and duck pen. Several new offerings are also in store this year with a special emphasis on local entertainment. For more information, visit www.herbfest.net.

April 19th: “Band on the Run” – Wake Forest-Rolesville High School’s Inaugural 5K Road Race
“Band on the Run” is an event for the whole family to help raise funds for the WFRHS Band Programs. Early registration cost for this event is $15 per runner. If you wait until after April 12, registration increases to $20 per runner. All registrants will receive a T-shirt. Find out more by visiting www.wfrband.com. Look for the 5K Road Race link. If you have any questions, please contact wfrband_fundraising@yahoo.com.

April 20th: Six Sundays in Spring featuring Zydecopious
This is the 16th season for the series sponsored by the Wake Forest Cultural Arts Association. The free concerts, which continue each Sunday through May 25, begin at 5 p.m. and last until 7 p.m. Area residents are encouraged to pack picnic baskets, blankets, chairs, dogs and children into their cars and come out to enjoy the music. Parking is available on the street. Local artists are invited to display their work, civic clubs sell hot dogs, snacks and drinks and various community groups display information and sale booths. Visiting with friends and neighbors, flying a kite, kicking a soccer ball and whirling a frisbee are strongly encouraged. For more information about the band Zydecopious, visit www.zydecopious.com. For more information about the Six Sundays in Spring concert series, visit http://wakeforestculturalarts.org/sixsundays/.

April 23rd: Public Blood Drive
The Town of Wake Forest is hosting a public blood drive on Wednesday, April 23 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. To make an appointment, call Tricia Lanning at (919) 554-6181. Please be sure to bring a picture ID. All donors will receive two free tickets to Raleighwood Theater.

April 26th: Pregnancy Support Services of Wake Forest’s Annual Walk for Life
Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the Walk begins at 9 a.m. Come join us for a 2.5 non-competitive walk through downtown Wake Forest as we celebrate life and healing! This will be a fun event lasting until noon with family-friendly activities. Come join us for the Walk even if you have not pre-registered. For more information, call (919) 554-8093.

April 26th: Steps for Schools 5K Road Race
The race will raise funds for a vocational school in Kaihura, Uganda and will be used to spread awareness of the relief efforts needed in Uganda. For more information, contact Austin Shaw at atshaw@nc.rr.com or visit http://www.embraceuganda.org/home.html to download a race brochure.

April 29th: Wake Forest Boys & Girls Club’s 8th Annual Steak & Steak Dinner
The Wake Forest Boys & Girls Club’s 8th Annual Steak & Steak Dinner will be held Tuesday, April 29th 6 p.m. in the Club’s gymnasium 325 S. Wingate St. Tickets $25 per couple or $15 individual. Call to reserve tickets 556-7266 or purchase at the door. Proceeds from this event support programs and services provided by the local Club. Club members will be featured along with a silent auction.

Greensboro, North Carolina

April 19th: Gate City Open Wrestling Tournament

April 20th: 9th Annual Triad Area Spring Pottery Festival

April 25th: Greensboro Children’s Theatre presents Tar Heel Tales

April 27th: Down Through the Years – A Musical Celebration of Warnersville

April 28th: Concert by the Spiritual Renaissance Singers of Greensboro

Once again, Thank you for choosing All My Sons Moving & Storage.

The AMSA Certified Mover and Van Line Program is a voluntary program for movers who elect to participate by committing to provide a professional level of service, together with efficient complaint handling and dispute resolution services for their customers. It is ope to all AMSA members. AMSA Certified Movers and Van Lines are held to a high standard of performance as agreed to in the AMSA Code of Conduct.

Program Benefits

The AMSA certification program protects the public by providing an identifiable measure of competency, while aiding the moving industry by encouraging and recognizing high professional achievement. It also puts a strong emphasis on the value of a professional move and sends a positive message to potential customers, Federal and State political leaders and consumer groups.

Through self-regulation, the AMSA Certified Mover and Van Line Program serves to:

• Improve the professionalism of industry employees.
• Furnish a means of distinguishing consumer-oriented companies.
• Assist companies in enforcing get-tough quality control policies.
• Be an impetus to improve internal industry training programs.
• Aid in recruiting better employees and contractors.
• Ensure just and reasonable practices and rates.
• Reduce claims and legal expenses.
• Help to avoid unnecessary government regulatory burdens.
• Provide a valuable marketing tool for participants.
• Encourage growth in AMSA membership.

The Certified Mover and Van Line Program helps to protect the public by providing an identifiable measure of quality while, at the same time, enhancing the moving industry by encouraging and recognizing high professional achievement. Under the voluntary program, movers are required to observe a professional code of conduct and to provide service to their private transferee (C.O.D.) and, as an option, their corporate customers, in a manner that promotes confidence in the interstate household goods moving and storage industry. A certificate and a special seal that may be used in their advertisements identifies certified movers and certified van lines. Participants in the program are also listed on the industry’s consumer web site: http://www.moving.org/.

Listed below are several questions you should answer prior to committing to a moving company. If you answer “NO” to any of these questions, your mover is not in compliance with Federal Regulations.

1) Are they licensed and insured?
2) Do they have their tariff filed and available to be viewed in their main office upon your request?
3) Do they have an Arbitration Program available?
4) Did they provide you with a copy of OCE-100 Your Rights and Responsibilities booklet?
5) Did they provide you with a copy of their household goods dispute settlement program?
6) Did they provide you with a copy of their complaint and inquiry handling procedure?
7) Did they provide you with a high value and valuation information sheet?
Did they provide you with a Ready to Move brochure?

By choosing an AMSA Certified mover you are guaranteeing yourself a successful move and should something go wrong the mover is most likely going to take extra care of you ao that they can keep their certification. I am proud to say that All My Sons Moving and Storage is the ONLY member of the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) Certified Mover and Van Line Program and has the ONLY Certified Moving Consultant (CMC) through the AMSA on staff in the entire Triangle and Triad area!!! Besides the information I provide on this blog you can also get additional information in regards to moving by visiting the Department of Transportation, the American Moving and Storage Association, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the North Carolina Utilities Commission.

“AMSA TV is just the latest example of our expanded outreach efforts to both better serve our membership and provide an important resource to millions of Americans when they choose a firm to professionally pack, transport and safeguard their possessions,” says AMSA President and CEO Linda Bauer Darr. “And it’s a great opportunity for us to highlight professional movers and help get their message to the public.”

The new service features three “channels,” each targeted toward its own audience: the Member Channel includes AMSA members speaking out on industry issues; sharing tips, information and ideas with their colleagues; and discussing their companies and whatever else may be weighing on their minds. The Consumer Channel is the place to go for anyone planning a move, whether home or office, for expert advice and guidance on everything from how to choose a professional, qualified mover to what to do when moving day finally arrives. On the channel, AMSA members will be able to spotlight their own charitable work and other community involvement initiatives.

AMSA TV’s News & Events Channel provides coverage of the association’s events, conferences and awards ceremonies. It also includes clips about the industry that were featured on local and national TV news programs. “Our members are especially excited about this new venture,” Darr says, “so even our international members will be able to hear and see other movers describe their challenges and successes. We’re really encouraging them to submit their own videos and get in on the conversation. I think of it as the You Tube for our industry.”

The initial clips on the Member Channel are themed around the value of AMSA membership.

This Blog is credited to The American Moving and Storage Association and the article AMSA TV is On the Air by John Bisney, Director of Public Relations. I also want to Thank the many customers and future customers we have visit this blog and hope that you find all the information provided helpful. Once again, Thank You for choosing All My Sons Moving & Storage your #1 Rated Raleigh Mover.

We love hearing back from customers on how our men perform, but we also would like to hear which teams our customers support. So please leave a message with a shout out to your favorite team and we will post here on our blog. I have included a link to the NCAA Tournament Bracket should you need to print one out for yourselves.

Once again, Thank you for choosing All My Sons Moving & Storage.

* “The crew was professional, organized, efficient and very friendly. Everything went exceedingly smoothly.” Sean – Greensboro, NC

* “James and his crew were very friendly and extremely efficient. Their packing skills were excellent. I would highly recommend All My Sons!” MJ – Austin, TX

* “Kenny’s crew was amazing. I have never seen movers move that fast! Great job!” Pam – Soddy Daisy, TN

* “Very fast and polite. Ronald & Vicencio were a very good crew!! Keep up the good work.” Jason – Wake Forest, NC

* “The professionalism was outstanding! James was extremely helpful and courteous at all times! Thank you for making the move so easy!” Terilee – Burlington, NC

* “This moving crew was the best I have ever had. I will recommend your people in a heart-beat!” Janet – Ocean Isle Beach, NC

We appreciate everyone that has participated in filling out our surveys. Customers comments are a useful tool for us to strive for perfection. Thank You to everyone that has chosen to use All My Sons Moving & Storage “Your Neighborhood Movers”.

1) Remove bulbs, harps and shades and set aside.

2) Make sure you handle lampshades by their wire frames only.

3) Carefully wrap each shade in three or four sheets of newsprint or tissue paper.

4) Shades can be nested inside each other, as long as they are separated by paper.

5) Use a sturdy box at least two inches larger all around than the largest shade.

6) Line your box with clean paper, using crushed paper under the lamp shade to create a protective layer, but not around the shade.

7) Wrap harp and finial (decorative knob) with packing paper and tape to the inside wall of the carton that contains the shade.

Label cartons “LAMP SHADES” & “FRAGILE.”

9) Wrap the base, harp and bulb separately in newsprint.

10) Place them together in a carton, filling spaces with crushed paper.

11) More than one well-cushioned lamp may be packed in a carton.

12) Label cartons “LAMP BASES” & “FRAGILE.”

Computers, Stereos and other electronics

If possible, pack electronics in their original cartons. As long as proper packing materials are used electronics can be safely packed in sturdy boxes. Refer to the manufactures’ guide or user’s guide for special moving instructions. If you no longer have a user’s guide, visit the manufacturer’s website for an online version or to request a copy.

1) Before disconnecting any wires or plugs, mark the wire or cable and the port you’re removing it from with the colored labels. Color code the ports and cables so you can reconnect them later. If you run out of different colors, you can also write a number on the label that will match the port and the cable.

2) For extra protection, write down detailed step-by-step instructions on how you’re dismantling the equipment so you can refer to it later when assembling it. Keep this instruction guide in the box with the equipment.

3)Place the cables and wires into a sealable bag (i.e. ziplock baggies) and tape it to the piece of equipment.

4) Remove all parts that can be disconnected and wrap each piece with 3 – 4 sheets of paper.

5) Pad the bottom of the box with a generous amount of newsprint.

6) Place the largest piece of equipment on the bottom and fill holes with additional paper.

7) Place smaller protected items on top.

3) Fill all remaining spaces with paper, making sure nothing rattles or that nothing will shift during the move.

4) Firmly seal the carton.

5) Label each box with the contents and which room it belongs in and also label each box as “FRAGILE” & “THIS END UP.”

Note: When you unpack your electronics, let them reach room temperature before plugging them in. Also, Cd’s and software can not tolerate high temperatures. If you have sensitive media, you may want to carry it with you as opposed to moving it on the truck.

Live Plants

If you are fond of your plants it is wise to put some time and effort into making the moving process as quick and painless for them as possible. Almost all moving companies will NOT cover plants. They are just too easy to damage. So, you need to take extra care yourself. You also need to bear in mind that certain movers will not carry plants or may have restrictions on those they carry according to your destination. You can move a plant successfully from one house to the next only to see it wither and die a couple of weeks later. To avoid this you need to do some preparations well ahead of your move to get them in peak condition.

1) Get some sturdy boxes & line these boxes with plastic so that they are ready for your moving day.

2) Assess all the plants you want to transport a couple of weeks before you move and prune them, feed them and administer any pest control treatments to get them into peak condition.

3) Think about the pots they’re in. I recommend that you re-pot the plants into plastic pots.

4) Check that all your pots are whole and not cracked or broken. A cracked pot stands more chance of breaking in transit and thus damaging the contents.

5) Make sure that the pots are not too big for the actual plant. This can cause them to move about and damage themselves.

6) On your moving day (or the day before if you’re pushed for time) make sure that none of the plants are water-logged and drain away any excess water.

7) Pack them snugly (but not too tightly) into the boxes you have set aside and put some packing paper around the pot hold them firmly.

Make sure you tell your movers that these boxes contain plants.

9) Plants in large pots should be wrapped in plastic or placed in bags, you can also wrap the actual plant in plastic to avoid damage and to keep the plant together. If you do this be careful to make sure that the plastic is not tied together too tightly, plants still need to breathe!

10) If you’re moving garden plants the best time to dig them up is on your moving day. This minimizes disruption.

11) You should dig up the plant so that you have a ‘root ball’ at the base. Wrap this in plastic and make sure that the earth in it is not too dry.

12) At delivery take your plants out of their boxes and any wrappings as soon as you can.

13) Garden plants need to be put in the garden as soon as possible. Keep in mind you can always move them later.

14) Keep an eye on both house and garden plants for a few weeks after the move and make sure they are well watered and fed as necessary. Your garden plants may be transplanted into soil that is different to that they are used to and they may need extra help and attention.

Firearms

1) You are responsible for transporting handguns and ammunition.

2) Other firearms such as rifles or shotguns must be unloaded.

3) Make sure you get a specific inventory of these items from your driver, also make sure your driver includes the serial numbers on the inventory.

I hope that the tips that I have provided you will help make your move easier. Besides the information I provide on this blog you can also get additional information in regards to moving by visiting the Department of Transportation, the American Moving and Storage Association, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the North Carolina Utilities Commission.

1. Select a medium-sized carton (or a dish pack provided by your mover) and line the bottom of the carton with 2 -3 inches of crushed packing paper for cushioning.
2. Have your packing paper stacked neatly either on a table or on the counter top, center one plate on the paper. Grasp a corner of several sheets and pull the paper over the plate until the plate is completely covered.
3. Stack a second plate on the first and grasp another corner of several sheets and pull them over the second plate.
4. Stack a third plate. Grasp the remaining two corners and fold using two sheets, one corner at a time over the plate.
5. Turn the wrapped stack of plates upside down onto your paper.
6. Re-wrap the entire bundle with a couple more sheets. Starting with one corner of packing paper and pulling the sheets over the bundle, cover the bundle with the next corner, then the third corner; and finally the fourth. Seal the bundle with packing tape.
7. Place the bundle of plates in the box (or dish pack) so that the plates are standing on edge. This will allow you to utilize their own maximum structural strength. Surround each bundle with crushed paper, being careful to leave no voids or unfilled spaces.
8. Add 2 – 3 inches of crushed paper on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level base for the next layer.
9. Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls should make up a second layer.
10. Larger china and glass plates, platters and other flat pieces are excellent as the lowest layer in a dish pack.
11. Once you have finished filling the box add 2 – 3 inches of crushed paper on top and seal the top with tape.
12. I always recommend that you pack your delicate china and glassware in dish packs which you can purchase from your mover. These boxes are specifically designed for your dishes and are double corrugated for more protection. Make sure you label these boxes “Fragile – This Side Up”.

Glasses / Cups / Stemware

1. Before wrapping any of the glasses, cups or stemware, fill the inside of the glass or cup with crushed paper.
2. Lay the glass, cup or stemware on the corner of your packing paper and roll it one or two full rotations (depending on size).
3. Pull the two side corners of the paper up and over the glass one at a time and tuck the corners inside the top of the glass, cup, or stemware and continue rolling to the far corner.
4. Place cups in a vertical position, lips down (Not on their sides), near the top of the box. Do not stack heavy items on top of the cups.
5. Remember, as you pack each layer of a box, use crushed packing paper to assure a snug fit wherever there is a gap. All boxes that contain fragile items should be marked “Fragile.”

Bowls and Odd-shaped Items

1. Depending on their weight, these might be used for either the bottom or middle layers.
2. Wrap the same way as flat plates. Stand shallow bowls (soup plates, etc.) on edge in the moving carton and deeper ones (such as mixing bowls) can be placed two or three together, upside down and on their rims.
3. Wrap sugar-bowl lids in newsprint, turning them upside down on top of bowls. Then wrap both together in newsprint, followed by a double outer layer.
4. Wrap sauce containers, gravy boats and similar pieces in newsprint and then a double outer wrapping.
5. Place all these items upright in the moving carton, then top off the layer with 2 – 3 inches of crushed newsprint to protect the items and make a level base for the next layer

Flatware / Silverware

1. Loose flatware should be wrapped individually or in sets, in paper, clear plastic bags, or in small boxes that are then secured with tape.
2. Remember, air causes silver to tarnish so make sure all silver pieces are enclosed completely in clean newsprint and then placed in plastic bags or plastic wrap.
3. If you have silverware that is in a chest, consider wrapping each piece individually and repositioning them in the chest, or fill all voids in the chest with newsprint to prevent shifting while moving. The chest can then be wrapped in a blanket when the movers come to prevent any damages to the chest.
4. If you are traveling long distance or if your goods are going to be in storage for a long period of time I recommend that you wrap each piece in cloth or low-sulfur-content paper to prevent tarnishing over time.

Small Appliances

1. Use the original manufacturer’s carton if available; if it is not available, follow instructions below.
2. Remove any loose items from inside any appliances like microwave ovens, such as cookware, glass shelves and carousels.
3. Wrap loose articles and place in a separate container.
4. Each appliance needs to be wrapped individually.
5. Tape any doors or movable objects shut.
6. Place tape in an “X”-pattern to protect any glass on the doors.
7. If their cords disconnect, wrap them in plastic and secure them to the appliance they belong to. Make sure cords are wrapped so as not to scratch or damage items while moving.
8. Place the items in a sturdy medium sized box cushioned with crushed paper with the heavier items in the bottom.
9. Have an authorized serviceman prepare all large appliances (refrigerator, stove, freezer, washer, dryer, etc.) for moving. * Be sure to prepare major appliances (defrosting them, cleaning them and drying them as needed) before the movers arrive.

Food Items

1. Do not take anything perishable. In other words either use or donate all your perishables before moving.
2. Small containers of herbs and spices, condiments, bouillon cubes, gelatin, flavorings, etc. should be placed together in a small box before packing in a larger carton.
3. Cover holes of shaker-type containers and seal with tape.
4. Open boxes of dried or powdered foods such as rice, macaroni and cereals should be sealed with tape.
5. Dispose of any open packages and or opened glass jars to prevent breakage or spillage during your move.
6. Do not risk moving food products during the summer. The inside of a moving van (especially in Florida, Nevada & Arizona) can reach 155 degrees causing food to either spoil or explode.
7. In the winter months, do not take anything subject to freezing.
8. Canned goods and other non-frozen foods should be packed upright in small boxes (1.5 cu. ft. book boxes) with no more than 24 to 30 cans per carton.

Flammables and Combustibles

1. Flammable liquids and aerosol cans must not be packed. Changes in temperature and pressure can cause them to leak or even explode.
2. For your own protection, know that if you pack these items and they cause damage to your shipment or others, you will be held liable, not your carrier.

Besides the information I provide on this blog you can also get additional information in regards to moving by visiting the Department of Transportation, the American Moving and Storage Association, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the North Carolina Utilities Commission. Check back tomorrow for more tips on How To Pack