Americans Are On The Move

Moving again?  Well you are not alone. Some folks move more than others for a host of reasons.  In fact,people in the United States are expected to move 11.4 times in their lifetime.  On average, Americans move about once every five years. This chart, from an article in fivethirtyeight shows moving activity over an average lifespan.  Recent studies indicate that as we rise out of the recession, domestic relocation is beginning to increase.

Why move?

Job related relocation – moving to meet the needs of a promotion or new, better job is among the top reasons. Eliminating or reducing the commute time to work has become a top reason, too.  But some people find that they must move to even find work or greater opportunity for employment.

Home upgrade or downsize – A growing family might take the form of an elderly or displaced relative or more children on the way. The reverse is true later in life when you need less space for family.  At times, nеіghbоrhооdѕ can сhаngе fоr thе wоrѕе есоnоmісаllу оr ѕосіаllу and people move to find a better fit.

First time homeowner – buying your first home is a chance to establish your own household separate from parents or guardians.  This change is among the top reasons to move and a very exciting time in your life, no matter your age.

Health – it’s common for people to move from a home that cannot accommodate a health related issue such as physical ailments that make stairs difficult to use.  Moving to a warmer or drier climate can ease respiratory and circulation related ailments. In later years, people may prefer the community and support of assisted living facilities.

Lifestyle – changes in your marital status, retirement or military related moves are included in this category. Some people hаvе the desire tо сhаngе lіfеѕtуlеѕ drаѕtісаllу аnd рut thеіr tіmе аnd еffоrt іntо rеаlіzіng а lіfе-lоng drеаm to trаvеl аnd ехрlоrе thе wоrld.  Rеlосаting frеquеntlу becomes a lifestyle in of itself, ѕеаrсhing for thе rіght рlасе аnd thе rіght реорlе, or the best place for a new hobby, more tranquility or more excitement.

Regardless of your reasons for moving, always hire the best moving company with the best track record. We are proud of our Super Service Award from Angie’s List for 13 years and counting! Call us today and let’s get moving!

Lighten Up: 9 Items To Consider Leaving Behind

Summer is high season for moving and we know our customers are always looking for ways to save money.  We put together a list of items that you should consider leaving behind lighten your load and your moving bill.  Check out our list of items to leave behind and let us know if we missed any.

The big stuff

1. Cars and recreational vehicles are some of the most expensive items to move. Consider selling that extra car, truck, camper, boat or ATV.
2. Appliance lifespan has shortened over the years. If your current appliances are more than seven years old it’s worth selling them or donating them to a local charity provided they are operational.  Less large items to move will cut your costs, too.
3. Furniture is the same as appliances with a reduced lifespan. Moving to a new home may be the perfect opportunity to donate or sell the pieces that are not heirloom or have simply been outgrown. Even a few less big items to move will save you money.

The odd stuff

1. Garage stuff probably includes a lot of items that you will never use or need. Be sure to dispose of items like insect killer, fertilizer, paint, cleaning chemicals, fuel and oil properly as moving companies will not handle hazardous chemicals.
2. Household items are great things to sell in a garage sale. Take inventory of what you actually use and what’s not been touched for months, or years. Specialty items like a popcorn popper, deep fryer, or bread maker are good examples. Check bathrooms for personal items like that vibrating foot bath, or cleaning supplies that are expired or have not been used in some time. Sell, give away or just toss it.
3. DVDs, books, and electronic items like unused laptops or desktop computers are heavy and take up a lot of space when packing.  Consider donating or selling what you truly don’t use.

The small stuff

1. Clothing can be a sneaky item to pack because it’s easy overdo it. Focus on the items you regularly wear as well as your favorites and donate or sell the rest.  The climate where you’re moving to can make your decision making easier, too.
2. Papers seem like a small thing but they can add up when you are packing. Important documents such as your passport, marriage license and birth certificates, social security card and financial documents need to remain with you during a move. Consider storing or scanning less important papers and photos into your computer.
3. Bedding and blankets are another item that take up a lot of room. The same lifetime rule applies to mattresses. If your mattress is more than seven years old consider buying a new one once you move. Using blankets, sheets and towels as packing materials for delicate items puts them to good use and cuts down on the bubble wrap you will need to buy.

Having trouble deciding what to sell?  Call us for an estimate and we’ll help make your move a little easier.

Best Remodeling Projects To Boost Resale Value

If selling your home is in your future then summer is a popular time to do some updating. However, not all renovations are created equal when it comes to getting a good return on your investment.  The folks a Remodeling conduct extensive annual research by region to determine what is the best project for the money. And we’ve uncovered a few low cost DIY ideas to get your house ready to sell.

The top five projects for value

According to their most recent research, the top five projects for value at resale in the Minneapolis market include:

1. Wood window replacement, averaging 105.8% return on investment
2. Entry door replacement (steel), 104.6%
3. Stone veneer accent, 86.8%
4. Attic bedroom remodel, 75.9%
5. Minor kitchen remodel, 74.9%

The report also states that a full kitchen remodel has a return of 68% and a full bathroom remodel nets a 65% return on investment at resale.

When it comes to renovation it’s always best to hire a professional contractor for bigger, more complex projects. One of the best ways to reduce the costs of a project is to do as much prep or finish work yourself.  Doing your own demolition, insulation, sanding, painting or daily clean up will save money. Just be sure to partner with your contractor and agree upfront on what parts of the project you will take on.

Simple DIY fixes

If full scale remodeling is not in your budget consider a few of these simple updates.

Indoor ideas:

Remove old wallpaper

Refresh paint on the walls and front door

Fixture updates like cabinet pulls, light fixtures and faucets

Declutter and organize closets and storage areas

Outdoor ideas:

Lawn and garden – pull weeds, trim bushes, rake debris and remove any dying vegetation

Wash doors, windows and screens

Wash easily visible mold on siding

Scrape and repaint visible peeling or faded spots on wood siding and trim

All the cleaning, painting and sprucing up that you do will increase your home’s curb appeal and boost resale value.

Another great way to keep your costs down is shopping at a Habitat For Humanity’s ReStore.  They operate about 400 ReStores nationwide, which offer salvaged materials at half off home–center prices. Experts also advise not to relocate any major plumbing related items such as a sink or toilet. The plumbing costs can really add up.

What kind of remodeling project will you be tackling this summer?  Share your plans in the comments.

Father’s Day: A Little Bit Of History

Father’s Day is June 20th this year so we decided to take a look at how this day originated. It’s an interesting story of a holiday that almost didn’t come to be.  Men in more traditional times thought the idea was foolish. We found an interesting article on History.com about Father’s Day that’s fun to read and we’ve picked out a few of the highlights quoted below.

Off to a slow start

The governor of the U.S. state of Washington proclaimed the nation’s first “Father’s Day” on July 19, 1910.  However, it took a full 58 years after President Woodrow Wilson made Mother’s Day official, for the day to become a nationwide holiday. In 1972, Richard Nixon signed a proclamation finally making Father’s Day a federal holiday.

The campaign to celebrate the nation’s fathers did not meet with the same enthusiasm–perhaps because, as one florist explained, “fathers haven’t the same sentimental appeal that mothers have.” On July 5, 1908, a West Virginia church sponsored the nation’s first event explicitly in honor of fathers, a Sunday sermon in memory of the 362 men who had died in the previous December’s explosions at the Fairmont Coal Company mines in Monongah, but it was a one-time commemoration and not an annual holiday. The next year, a Spokane,Washington woman named Sonora Smart Dodd, one of six children raised by a widower, tried to establish an official equivalent to Mother’s Day for male parents. She went to local churches, the YMCA, shopkeepers and government officials to drum up support for her idea, and she was successful: Washington State celebrated the nation’s first statewide Father’s Day on July 19, 1910.

In 1916, President Wilson honored the day by using telegraph signals to unfurl a flag in Spokane when he pressed a button in Washington, D.C.In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge urged state governments to observe Father’s Day. However, many men continued to disdain the day. As one historian writes, they “scoffed at the holiday’s sentimental attempts to domesticate manliness with flowers and gift-giving, or they derided the proliferation of such holidays as a commercial gimmick to sell more products–often paid for by the father himself.

A move to abolish both Mother’s and Father’s Day

During the 1920s and 1930s, a movement arose to scrap Mother’s Day and Father’s Day altogether in favor of a single holiday, Parents’ Day.  Paradoxically, however, the Depression derailed this effort to combine and de-commercialize the holidays. Struggling retailers and advertisers redoubled their efforts to make Father’s Day a “second Christmas” for men, promoting goods such as neckties, hats, socks, pipes and tobacco, golf clubs and other sporting goods, and greeting cards. When World War II began, advertisers began to argue that celebrating Father’s Day was a way to honor American troops and support the war effort. By the end of the war, Father’s Day may not have been a federal holiday, but it was a national institution.

According to economists, Americans spend more than $1 billion each year on Father’s Day gifts. We at Good Stuff Movers extend our sincere thanks all dads and men who support us in any way on this important day.

10 Moving Terms You Need To Know

Summer is here and moving season is in full swing. Moving involves a lot of details that you need to juggle and manage. If this is your first time using a professional moving company it’s helpful to understand the lingo of the industry. Whether you are moving locally or long distance it’s likely some standard terms will be part of your moving contract. Check out the explanations below and give us a call if you still need help understanding your agreement.

Moving industry terms

1. Short haul – refers to a move within a 450 mile range of the starting point
2. PBO – means packed by owner
3. Long carry –  refers to the need to carrying articles excessive distances between the mover’s vehicle and your residence. Additional fees are typically charged.
4. Liability – moving companies are required to assume liability for the value of the goods they are transporting in the event of damage or loss. For specific details on this topic, take a look at our article on insurance and liability.
5. Accessorial or Additional service charges – refers to extra services such as packing and unpacking, extra stop or other services that a moving company offers.
6. Appliance service – an extra charge to prepare major electrical appliances making them safe to move.
7. Bill of lading – serves as a receipt of shipment when the goods are delivered to a predetermined destination. Your signature acknowledges that your household goods can be loaded on the van and released to the mover.
8. Overflow – occurs when articles being shipped are left behind due to insufficient space on the primary truck. An additional truck is utilized for transportation and delivery.
9. Shuttle service – refers to the use of a secondary, smaller vehicle to complete the pickup or delivery.  Typically used in cases where the assigned truck is unable to make the pickup or delivery due to an inadequate parking area, extremely narrow roads or limited driving access, weak bridge on the route, etc.
10. Line haul charges – refer to charges for the transportation portion of your move.

All of these terms are important because they refer to standard charges or extra charges that you might see on your final invoice.  A professional, reputable mover will cover all the fees up front so you are aware of what you will be charged.  Hidden costs or surprise fees are the hallmarks of an unreputable mover. Make your life and your move easier – move with Good Stuff Movers!

Go Green For Your Next Move

On April 22, 1970 the first Earth Day celebration was held in the United States. This date is often cited as the start of the modern environmental movement. Today you will find eco-friendly products on store shelves everywhere. Many of our customers are looking for ways to incorporate green practices into their move. It’s possible with a little planning and creativity.  We searched the internet and found a few of our favorite ideas to ‘go green’ for your next move.

1. Start early – give yourself a few months to sort through your belongings.  Recycle, donate, or tag sale everything possible to reduce the amount of possessions you will move.  Bonus: you will pay less for the mover, they will need fewer trucks to move your stuff.
2. Reuse cardboard boxes – check your local recycling center for used boxes even if they are broken down. Save boxes and ask friends to save theirs for you.  Some movers offer used boxes for free or reduced prices.  Bonus: you save money by not purchasing new moving boxes.
3. Earth-friendly packing supplies – look for packing supplies that are made from recycled materials.  Use your own linens such as towels and blankets to pack fragile items like dishes.  Bonus: save money by reusing your linens and eliminate the need to pack them.
4. Buy furniture in your new area – if your sofa is looking worn it may be better to sell or donate it instead of hauling across town or across the country.  Look for consignment shops, thrift stores or online ads to purchase replacements when you get into your new place.  Bonus: reduce moving costs and get a tax deduction on your taxes from your donations.
5. Share moving supplies – ask friends who are moving or watch for neighbors moving in to your area and ask to take their boxes and bubble wrap when they are done unpacking.  Bonus: save money on packing supplies and meet new neighbors at the same time!
6. Eco-friendly cleaning – purchase eco-friendly cleaning products to clean after you move or in your new place. Look for homemade recipes for making cleaning solutions from common household items like vinegar and baking soda.  Bonus: eliminating toxic chemicals keeps your family and pets safe.

One of the best parts of going green is that it makes your move easier.  Preparing well in advance is a great way to reduce the stress of packing and preparing for your move.  Of course another great way to make your move as stress-free as possible is to give us a call.

 

 

Moving Estimates: What You Need To Know

Most of our customers are concerned about keeping their expenses down during a move.  It’s important to them to move in a hassle-free and low cost manner. Whether a move is your first or one of many, you will want to get the best deal and service for your dollar. If a move is in your near future, take a look at these important money saving tips about moving estimates.

Details improve accuracy

Being prepared with the details of your possessions will go a long way to improve the accuracy of a moving estimate.  Take time to inventory your possessions paying particular attention to large or heavy items, fragile items, valuables, and furniture which need special handling.  Always work with a professional mover who has experience providing estimates.  An on-site estimate should be at no cost to you.  Be sure to show the moving estimator every location throughout your home that the movers will have to access.  Include a tour of the attic, basement, garage or outbuildings that may be difficult to access due to stairs or location.

Know your moving estimate options

Three options for moving estimates include a binding estimate, a non-binding estimate, and a not-to-exceed non-binding estimate.

A binding moving estimate is a fixed price making it easier for you to budget.  However, the cost will typically be at the higher end of their estimate to cover any unexpected expense for the mover.

A non-binding moving estimate is flexible because your actual price could come in higher or lower than the estimate.  Be on the look out for less reputable movers who give you a low estimate to get the work then raise your final price significantly.

A not-to-exceed non-binding moving estimate is referred to as a ‘guaranteed’ price.  If the move comes in over what was estimated you do not pay extra.  If the move comes in less than what was estimated you will pay the actual cost.

Distance plays a part

Another piece of the moving estimate puzzle is the distance factor. Local move charges typically include an hourly rate and fees based on the size of the crew and number of vehicles needed. Distance will also be a factor in how you will be charged.  Long distance move charges are based more on the total weight of your possessions in addition to the time and equipment needed.

Angie’s List is a great place to start when looking for a reputable mover. Good Stuff Movers has been honored to receive the Angie’s List Super Service Award for 12 years in a row.  Now that’s a reputation you can trust!

Moving And Insurance: What You Need To Know

Liability. Insurance. Covered or not covered. And by whom?  When it comes to moving your possessions there are a few things you need to understand about how all this liability and insurance stuff works. We’ve taken a stab at breaking down the topics to simplify what can be rather complex.  Take a few minutes to read our attempt at tackling this issue and let us know how we did in the comments below.

Liability

Moving companies are required to assume liability for the value of the goods they are transporting in the event of loss or damage. Typically two different levels of liability protection are offered by movers: Full-Value Protection and Released Value Protection.  These two levels of liability are not insurance agreements, but instead are contractual tariff levels of liability authorized under Released Rates Orders of the Surface Transportation Board of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Full-Value Protection is the most comprehensive and is based on the value of your shipment.  Movers do reserve the option to limit their coverage when it comes to high value items such as jewelry, furs, antiques or artwork.  Be sure to ask for a detailed explanation of coverage and take the time to understand it as coverage can vary by moving company.

Released Value Protection is the most economical option at no-cost but it provides a minimal level of protection. Under this option, the mover assumes liability for no more than 60 cents per pound of value per article. Claims are settled based on the weight of the article multiplied by 60 cents per pound.  It may be the default option on a moving agreement so be sure to read it thoroughly and know what you are signing.

Insurance

As far as the moving process itself goes, your current renters or homeowners insurance does cover personal property but it’s not likely to cover damage or loss during a move. Be sure to check with your insurance agent about the details within your coverage.  If you decide you want additional coverage beyond the full-value protection some movers offer extended or additional coverage. Movers are not required to offer specialty coverage so be sure to ask when you are making your inquiries.

Our best advice is to 1) take the time to understand coverage and ask lots of questions. 2) Hire a reputable mover with an excellent service and performance history like Good Stuff Movers…of course!

Parks Of Minnesota: Gearing Up For Summer

If you follow us on our Facebook page you will notice that we’ve been focusing on news items around gardening, sangria recipes, and outdoor activities.  We are very ready for summer.  Bet you are too. So we decided to take a look at the state parks in Minnesota to discover what they offer for summer programs and fun.  Turns out there is something for everyone.  And if we are moving you to the region in the next month or so you will want to bookmark this article.

Destination: peace and quiet

Some parks in our state park system are perfect for a quiet escape in part because they are less frequented by visitors.  Beautiful and serene you will want to choose from Garden Island State Recreation Area, Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area which includes the Minnesota Valley State Trail or Kilen Woods State Park with its Dinosaur Ridge Overlook. These three are part of a group of ten parks that offer a retreat to peace and quiet.

Destination: adventure

Our state parks offer plenty of opportunities to experience new adventures. For rock climbing and challenging hikes look to Temperance River State Park, Banning State Park, or top roping at Interstate State Park. For scuba diving enthusiasts don’t miss Split Rock Lighthouse, Cuyuna Country State Park or dive on a sunken wreck at Silver Bay Marina. And folks who enjoy rafting and kayaking will want to visit the rapids at Snake River, Kettle River, or on the St. Louis River water trail.

Don’t worry if you are new to climbing or kayaking.  The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will offer an introductory climbing class and paddling workshop this summer so sign up now.

Destination: water

Minnesota is known as the Land of Ten Thousand Lakes. Whether you are looking to swim or simply enjoy a breathtaking waterfall the parks have a lot to offer. Clear waters and sandy bottom swimming can be found at Camden State Park, Flandrau State Park, and Lake Carlos State Park.  If waterfalls are your interest be sure to visit Cascade River State Park, Minnesota’s highest falls at Minneopa State Park, or the four falls at Tettegouche State Park.

The Minnesota DNR events calendar is full of interesting programs for adults as well as the kids beginning with the first event in April.  Fun events, educational programs and beautiful state parks are here for you to enjoy. You can find all of this information plus much more at Minnesota DNR.  Plan now and let’s get summer started!

Moving In Together: Tips For Sharing Your Space

Deciding to share living space with another person can work out well with a little planning and clear communication.  Whether it’s a dorm roommate, your first apartment with friends, a significant other or future spouse, these tips will get you thinking about how best to make this transition a long term success. These are simple tips but don’t overlook their importance.

Who brings what. Take inventory of what you both have and decide what will be used and what will be stored. Small appliances, furniture, carpeting and even decor such as curtains and artwork should be part of your discussion. Do you mind if someone uses your coffee maker, vacuum cleaner or favorite dish?  Decide and agree ahead of time.

Personal space.  Make sure you agree on personal space that is yours alone and be honest about it.  For example, let your new roommate know if you prefer they not offer your bed or bedroom to an overnight guest in your absence.

Blended Individuality.  Don’t be afraid to blend your individual decorating styles together.  Bringing two differing styles together can be fun and interesting as you each display collections, artwork and decor that defines your personalities. Makes for great conversation, too.

Compromise.  Be ready to work through decisions and issues as they arise.  Because they will come up. Your mutual ability to compromise will be one of the most important factors to long term cohabitating success.  And remember it must be mutual. One-sided compromise will not work for long.

Don’t make assumptions.  Be mindful not to make decisions on behalf of your roommate. Try to make significant decisions about your living space together whenever possible.  And don’t assume that she ‘won’t mind’ if you use her things or make a decision for her. Nothing can destroy a good roomie relationship like the unwelcome surprise of being left out of the loop.

Chores. Watching a few episodes of The Odd Couple, either the new or classic version, will give you a good laugh and a good sense of how much trouble chores can cause. No one wants to be stuck with cleaning up after a messy roommate. Discuss your housekeeping preferences and talk about how the chores will be shared.  Chores are another serious roommate relationship buster if left unchecked.

So what do you wish you knew before moving in with a roommate, friend or significant other?  What else has worked well for you?  Share your story in the comments.