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OFFICE MOVING TIPS TO MAKE YOUR BUSINESS RELOCATION A BREEZE
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Your growing business needs more space, but making a major transition can be hectic. Mistakes during an office move might cost you, and downtime kills your productivity. Smooth out the rough spots of your business relocation and get back to your regular working schedule with these tips

DESIGNATE A MOVE LEADER

A move coordinator assumes the burden of managing this project and frees you to focus on running your business. Appoint one member of your leadership team to oversee the move. This individual should have excellent project and team management skills.

Your move coordinator:

  • Develops your relocation schedule, calendar, and checklist
  • Plans and assigns move-related tasks to your staff
  • Communicates with the move team, the moving company, and real estate agents
  • Coordinates work between your staff and your contractors
  • Schedules deliveries of new equipment
  • Resolves issues as they arise
  • Hold weekly meetings to discuss progress and send out regular updates to the rest of your staff.

PLAN MAPS, STRATEGIES, AND SCHEDULES

Establish a moving schedule right away. This essential element organizes all related tasks and defines deadlines for completion. Depending on how complex your business needs are, you may require a year to organize and execute your move. So, start planning early.

Get the layout of the new office and create several rough sketches of how you want to place your furniture and equipment. You might even make cardboard cutouts and move them around the office plans until you have the perfect fit. Keep in mind the workflow and try to create a productive space.

Consider the sequence of the move. Strategize around your critical equipment, but during the actual move, start lifting and transferring your nonessentials first. This technique minimizes your downtime and clears the clutter away, so it’s easier to move critical items with fewer complications.

HIRE A PROFESSIONAL MOVING COMPANY

Commercial movers specialize in office relocations. They have the equipment, supplies, people, and experience to get your office move completed quickly. Movers often save their customers money by reducing the amount of rework.

There are several levels of service:

  • Basic Transportation – The movers load their truck with your boxes and furniture.
  • Partial Pack – Movers provide labor to box and wrap certain items for you.
  • Full Service – The moving team performs all packing and moving work for the whole of the office.

You will meet with the moving company’s representative several weeks before the event to strategize the transition. This walkthrough is your opportunity to finalize details and ask questions.

Some movers use color-coded labels to mark items. Other have more sophisticated barcodes and tags. They may also require your staff to pack their personal belongings and desks in provided containers. Make sure you understand special instructions and know how to explain those instructions to your team.

Contact a commercial moving company to request a quote as soon as possible. Secure a commitment for the work at least two months in advance of your transition, but you should begin soliciting quotes no less than six months before your move date. Verify licensing of any moving and only hire a reputable business. Also, ask about available insurance options. Most carry basic liability insurance, but this coverage only protects the movers for their business-related incidents.

For your expensive and critical items, purchase additional coverage to protect against move-related damages and losses. Full value coverage is the best option, but the more limited release value insurance has a lower premium. Ask if your move insurance protects against lost productivity due to damage of mission-critical equipment.

 

NOTIFICATIONS AND TRANSFERRING SERVICES

Changing your business address is far more complex than changing a residential address. More people are involved.

  • Make a list of contacts and verify that each received notice:
  • Inform your vendors, suppliers, and service providers
  • Update creditors, banks, and insurance providers.
  • Print new company stationery, business cards, and marketing materials
  • Change your address on all websites and social media accounts

Also, contact your clients to inform them of your new location. You can even use this opportunity to reaffirm relationships and market your business.

Leave mail forwarding information at your old office. Follow up with your contacts within 30 days of the move to avoid interruptions in deliveries of essential materials.

PRIORITIZE YOUR IT DEPARTMENT

Many office moves falter when managers fail to consider the complexities of relocating the IT department. Involve your IT team in the planning right from the beginning and carefully consider their input.

Transfer your phone and internet services before you attempt to move your computer hardware. Try to complete the work of transitioning and setting up the equipment during a weekend or evening. Make sure you have a clear idea of how long a service interruption might last before you pull the plug on any of your critical data and communications systems.

YOUR NEW START

Take the opportunity during your move to update processes and get rid of clutter. As you settle into your new environment, you’ll be glad you left wasteful habits behind.

And finally, enjoy your new office.

Supermovers would love to help you navigate the complexities of your upcoming business relocation. A licensed and insured Louisiana Certified Office Mover, we provide commercial moving services to all Parishes as well as nationwide. For a free moving quote, call now!

 

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WHAT TO DO FIRST WHEN MOVING INTO A NEW HOME
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Moving into the home of your dreams or a new apartment is an exciting moment. But it can become stressful if you don’t know what to do first. Here’s a list of 5 things to do when moving into your new home. If possible, complete these steps before unpacking your belongings.

1. REPLACE THE HOUSE DOOR LOCK

You never know who has a key to your home. A real estate agent, construction worker, former tenant, or some other stranger could have a duplicate key. And if the lock is mass-produced, then it’s almost certain someone has the same key. A mass-produced lock has several different keys in limited number. That means several people have an identical key for the same lock.

One option is to re-key your current or newly-purchased lock. A locksmith can perform this process, which makes the previous key unusable. Another option, which is also more expensive, is to install a keyless lock. A keyless entry system relies on an electronic keypad to open the door. Once you program the system with your unique combination, you can open the door by entering the numbers. If you live in an apartment or condo building, be sure to get permission from your super or the building management before swapping the locks.

2. CLEAN CABINETS AND DRAWERS

Clean cabinets and drawers before moving in your dishes, eating utensils, and bathroom supplies. Use a disinfectant cleaner to wipe surfaces inside and out. If there is torn or dirty contact paper, then replace it or remove it. Take a look at Our Cleaning Checklist.

3. CHECK FOR UNWANTED CRITTERS

Keep roaches, mice, and rats out of your home. Check the closets for signs of rat droppings and rat holes. Seal any holes that you find. There are also do-it-yourself pest control methods, such as traps, that keep rats and mice from overrunning your home. You can also use roach baits and insect foggers to combat roaches and other insects. Another option is to contact a pest control company. After the first treatment, you can schedule monthly or quarterly follow-ups.

4. FIND THE CIRCUIT BREAKER AND MAIN WATER SHUT-OFF VALVE

Installing home appliances and new outlets often require shutting off the home’s power or water supply. Familiarize yourself with these controls before attempting to do any installations. And it’s a good idea to learn which breaker box circuits control which areas of the home. Make sure to label the circuits if they aren’t already correctly labeled.

An older home might have a fuse box instead of a circuit breaker. If that’s the case, then check the panel for fuses that need replacing.

5. SCHEDULE YOUR UTILITIES

If you haven’t done so already, make sure you transfer or turn on your utility services. Your building might include some basics already, so be sure to read the fine print to see which utilities you’re in charge of setting up. Standard utilities include water, electricity, gas, and cable/internet service. Check out our how-to guide for setting up Louisiana Utilities for additional guidance.

GET MOVING

These tips will get you off to a good start in your new home. You’ll still have much to do, but these five steps are an excellent place to begin.

To assist with the transition to your new home or apartment, enlist the help of one the most affordable moving companies in Louisiana. Supermovers offers packing and moving services to make your transition seamless. Request a free quote when you call now.

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HOW TO PROTECT HARDWOOD FLOORS FROM FURNITURE SCRATCHES WHEN MOVING
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Moving can be stressful, but protecting your hardwood floors shouldn’t be. Whether you are moving out of a house or an apartment building, you want to leave it in the best condition possible. One significant consideration when moving is getting your items safely out without leaving lots of scratches as an unwelcome gift for the new owners or tenants. Below are some tips to be sure you leave your old place in excellent condition.

1. LIFT AND MOVE RATHER THAN PUSH

Although it can be tempting to just push everything out the front door or into the hallway, you should resist the urge. As much as possible, lift boxes and smaller pieces of furniture rather than shoving them down the hall. Even lightweight pieces can cause significant scratches.

2. PUT DOWN PROTECTIVE COVERING FOR THE FLOORS

For high-traffic areas (like a hallway, stairwell, easiest exit), you may want to invest in a protective covering for your floor. There are several types of floor coverings on the market, such as hard surface protection tape (with light, minimal adhesive), a plastic film that offers protection for your floors on moving day. Your local home supply store may also have some fantastic products like RamBoard, advertised as the “#1 choice of contractors for floor protection” with technology that also adds temporary protection against mud, water, and paint.

3. FOR ITEMS WITH LEGS, USE INDIVIDUAL FURNITURE SLIDERS OR SOCKS

In the same way that your feet slide across the floor in socks, furniture socks slip onto table legs, bed frames, and more for smooth sliding. Reusable furniture sliders work well on wood floors or carpet to help with those bulky items and can also help when moving furniture into your next home. You can even slip them under a heavy buffet or secretary one at a time and make moving the item through the house a one-person job!

4. FOR LARGER ITEMS, USE LARGE MOVING PADS, BLANKETS OR RUGS TO CUSHION AND SLIDE

Anything can help here! Most Louisiana Moving Companies or truck rental companies have moving blankets available for rent. You will probably need a couple! In a pinch, use a rug or old blankets to slide that dresser down the hallway. It helps to have a couple of athletic individuals who can move heavy appliances with the help of a dolly.

5. USE THE FURNITURE’S WHEELS IF APPLICABLE

If a piece of furniture has built-in non-marking wheels or ball wheels, these shouldn’t leave any marks. If the wheels are not this type, dirt and sand can get ground into the floors, leaving behind scuff marks. Depending on the type of wheel and the weight of the item, you may still want to consider furniture socks, sliders, or pads.

6. DOUBLE-CHECK PROTECTIVE PADS ON EVERYTHING ONCE YOU MOVE

If you’re concerned with protecting your floors at your new place, you may want to double-check all the adhesive felt pads you have on your chair legs, table legs, etc. when you get there. Those little guys can get lost in transition, and you don’t want your new place to get scratches either.

These are super ideas for protecting your wood floors during your move. Of course, if you hire our moving professionals, we’ll bring all the proper equipment (dollies, moving blankets, straps, and more) to relocate your heavy furniture without leaving scratches behind. With the Supermovers crew, you won’t have to lift a finger!

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5 THINGS YOU CAN DO TO MAKE MOVING LESS STRESSFUL
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We all know that moving can be stressful. There are a lot of things to do and it always feels like you might be forgetting something. Also, changing your home implies a lot of emotional strain as well. So here we will tell you 5 things you can do to make moving less stressful. We will also explore why moving is so stressful in the first place.‍

THE EMOTIONAL STRESS OF MOVING

Moving is stressful for many people. The stress of a move is so notorious that you can find investigations and articles such as divorce? That’s not as stressful as moving home.

But why is moving so stressful? The emotional stress of moving is notorious because changing home is a complex experience. It involves a lot of little details (changing the address for every subscription or payment you have, for example). And it also involves a lot of emotional effort. A move means letting go of the home you once knew and embarking on an adventure: new neighbors, new places, and new routines.

Basically, you have a lot of little “to-dos” on your mind while also coping with the emotional stress of changing that place you call home and having to learn a lot of new things for your day-to-day activities.

HOW TO MAKE MOVING LESS STRESSFUL

You can find a lot of articles on the internet that try to teach you “how to make your move stress-free”. However, we don’t agree with that. Moving implies a bit of stress because it is an important decision. There are also many things you have to do and make sure you complete correctly. Not to mention that, like almost everything, it implies change and some uncertainties.

That is why we are believers of making moving less stressful. An important part of achieving that is knowing that, rationally, moving is a stressful event. Many things demand your attention and it can overwhelm you at times!

However, rest assured that it is completely possible to make the experience less stressful.

5 PRACTICAL, HANDY TIPS TO MAKE MOVING LESS STRESSFUL

1. Accept that stress is a normal part of the moving process

The first step to overcoming moving stress is acceptance. If you acknowledge that you are probably going to incur some stress over the course of your move, you’re less likely to let it set you back when it happens. You will be prepared for it.

Think about it like this: stress is a natural human response to a demanding circumstance. However, you have a say in how you react to that stress. You can take it as something negative and have a bad time. Or you can work your way through it and accomplish great things.

Our best advice is to take the stress for what it is and acknowledge the feeling. That way, you can actually work with it instead of being controlled by it. The most important thing is to recognize the stress without letting it deter you from the tasks at hand.

2. Stay organized!

Something that will help you a lot before, during, and after your move is to be organized every step of the way! For this, a list will be a very good ally.

There are a lot of things you have to do before, during, and after a move. Keeping all of this only in your head could lead to extra stress and to forgetting some details. So to reduce stress and minimize forgetfulness, writing everything down will definitely make a big difference!

There are many resources on the internet that can help you. You can check out packing checklists or moving checklists to get some inspiration.

3. Honor the journey, all of it

Moving is also a heavily emotional process. Apart from all the things you have to do, moving means a lot of change will come to your life. You leave things behind and you meet new people. This can generate both stress and excitement. So, honor that process and live the journey fully.

Things that can help ease your stress are to research about your new town, neighborhood or city. Don’t focus only on what you are leaving behind and how that makes you sad. You can also look forward to all the new, cool things awaiting you!

4. Try to keep a positive mindset

Keeping a positive mindset makes a big difference in every aspect of your life, not just moving! Science has shown that positive thinking helps with stress management and can even improve your health.

So while you face the stress generated by your upcoming move, remember to see it in a positive light. Embrace it, accept it, be patient with yourself. And try to see the bright side of things. This will definitely make a difference for the better.

It is also very important to look for support in friends and family instead of dealing with everything by yourself. Speaking with others will help you keep your feet grounded and not get carried away by the stress.

5. Reduce clutter as much as possible

Clutter is stressful. So to reduce the visual stress created by clutter, try to minimize the junk that’s occupying extra space in your home. You will feel more relieved almost immediately. You can clear the clutter using the Marie Kondo method or simply by organizing things into three piles: sell, donate, and throw away.

This will also help you a lot with moving, because you will have less things to worry about. You can even look at moving as an opportunity to declutter. Remember how we talked about trying to keep a positive mindset? Well, how you approach organizing and decluttering can make a big difference.

Oh, and another pro tip? Unpack in your new location as soon as you can. This will help you avoid things piling up.

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How to Maintain Your Quality of Living After Downsizing
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The home ownership rate in the United States has declined for years to its current rate of 65%. This drop is due in part to changes in the perceptions and realities of property rental. In the last 20 years, renting has become more attractive and more practical than owning a home for many people. Are you one of them?

Whether you plan to move into a smaller home or an apartment for a fresh start, because of a career change or to save money, downsizing requires some hard decisions. A downsize means getting rid of some of your possessions or swapping them out for smaller models. Change brings opportunity, and downsizing during life changes doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your quality of living. We’ll help you transition to your new, but smaller, life gracefully without sacrificing anything in the process.

Decluttering Tips: Begin Early

You may need a lot of time to cut down on clutter, so start as soon as possible – even if it’s just a few things per day.  Making tough choices under stress is never healthy and the more you can accomplish before the crunch, the happier your process will be. So, give yourself enough time to decide which possessions you want to keep as well as say goodbye to the things you decide not to take with you.

As soon as you secure your new living space, take measurements of each room and closet to establish how much space you’ll have. Make preliminary plans for what you intend to move and what you intend to leave behind. Your measurements will help you visualize what will fit in your new home.

Start room by room or closet by closet and form your “keep” and “discard” piles. By having a designated staging area, you can revisit your downsizing tasks regularly vs starting new each time. You’ll thank yourself for starting early and  keeping at it little by little.

Hire a Moving Company Now

Getting an early start also means making all the necessary arrangements sooner rather than later. Unfortunately, movers are in high demand these days. Schedule your mover now so you don’t have to worry later.

Not only will securing a trustworthy moving company bring peace of mind on moving day, but you can use your movers as a downsizing resource. At Supermovers, we understand what downsizing means. We know your life change is important and we want to make the transition go smoothly.

Supermovers is more than just a superb team of people to carry your stuff.  We can also help you clear the clutter. Supermovers offers packing support, boxes and packing materials and storage when you need it.

How To Downsize Your Belongings

Once you know the size of the space you’re moving into, take an inventory of your belongings and start to divide and conquer. Consider the following factors:

  • Purpose and quantity: How much do you use a given item? If you have several pairs of similar shoes or a range of similar tools, try to reduce the amount down to one or two. If your new location has one bathroom instead of two, will you need two sets of towels?
  • Sentiment: Even if an item isn’t inherently useful, that doesn’t mean it’s easy to discard. Keepsakes can be difficult to let go of, no matter their utility. One solution is to start passing heirlooms on to other family members. Preserve your connection to special items by keeping them in your family. Photos and documents can be digitized to save space.
  • Size: Your current home’s dimensions are likely significantly larger than those in your new one. Decide which pieces of furniture suit the space and which would look awkward and oversized. Often less is more – a few well placed pieces of furniture can make a small space feel larger and more inviting. Cramming in too much will only make the space feel cramped.

You may find it helpful to make lists of your items as you sort through them. Then, compare the lists. If you have three winter coats or two dog leashes, you might only need one of each.

Make the Hard Decisions And Resist Impulse

Many individuals choose to downsize from a larger home to a smaller one after a major life event, such as a graduation, career change, divorce or retirement. To make it a true fresh start, you’ll need to embrace difficult decisions about your new life.

Those difficult decisions include what you bring into your new home. As you approach your move, resist the temptation to purchase a lot of new items. Hold off until you settle into your new living arrangements. Once you know how your current belongings fit into your space, you can make informed decisions about what to add.

Don’t Downsize on Your Own

You’re not going to know exactly how to downsize your life. If you have a friend in a similar living situation, see if you can visit their home and ask some questions about it. Notice how others use smaller spaces and take notes. Many TV programs like Legacy List specialize in giving downsizers like yourself examples of how to maximize your move.

Reach out to friends and family to help. If you don’t have many helping hands nearby, try a moving company. Hiring someone to pack for you can be a time and life saver! As you pack up and move in, discuss your options with your mover. Consider storing some of your possessions at first and move in with just the essentials. You can bring items out of storage as you need them and decide what you really can’t live without.

What Do I Do With My Stuff When I Downsize?

There are a lot of people who could use many of the items you don’t need anymore. Once you ask family members and friends, consider donating the rest. But what are the best places to donate stuff? You can donate books to schools, churches and other organizations that need them. For clothing you can search “clothes donation box near me,” but many organizations will save you the hassle and pick up if you have a large donation.

Other organizations to consider donating your things to include:

Donating also provides a nice tax write off, which can come in handy when you’re downsizing. Other ways to get rid of items is to post them on local boards like Nextdoor.com or Craigslist.

Start Downsizing Today

Downsizing can be work but it’s also a chance at an easier, less encumbered life. If you go from owning to renting you’ll have less maintenance and less responsibility. It’s easier to come and go on your own schedule and new homes always bring new social opportunities.If you need help getting started on your big transition, reach out to Supermovers. We’d love to help you make the most of this change without losing any of the quality and comfort you’ve come to depend on.

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How to Redecorate Your Child’s Bedroom Once They’ve Moved Out
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When your adult children move out to brave the world on their own, it can leave an empty space in your heart and your home. In order to combat some of the feelings of empty nest syndrome and to make the most of your empty space, try turning your spare room into something that brings you joy. Whether that’s a guest bedroom for when loved ones come to visit or a craft room to hold the supplies for all your favorite hobbies, now is the time to turn your space into something that’s truly yours.

However, as exciting as it is to start fresh and try something new with the decor in your house, it can be difficult to know what to do or how to get started. Looking for tips on what to do with an extra bedroom when a child moves out? You’re in the right place.

SPARE ROOM IDEAS:
WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR ADULT CHILD’S BEDROOM ONCE THEY’VE MOVED OUT

1. CREATE A “GROWN UP” VERSION OF YOUR CHILD’S BEDROOM

If you don’t need more space for yourself or guests, consider redecorating your child’s bedroom so it’s a place they’ll feel comfortable and content when they visit. Perhaps, you replace the space-themed bed sheets with a dark blue comforter, or maybe you get rid of the Barbie wallpaper and paint the room a relaxing maroon. Make your adult child’s bedroom a more mature version of what they had growing up. A few other things you can do to give their childhood bedroom a “glow-up” include:

  • Boxing up their old toys
  • Replacing the carpet with hardwood flooring
  • Replacing old trophies or band posters with new decor

This option is a great way to combat the feelings of empty nest syndrome. You’ll have a space set aside for your child to come visit and it will still feel like a part of them has a space in your home. Plus, if you redecorate your child’s bedroom, it can act as a guest room for anyone else who comes to visit!

2. SET UP AN AT-HOME FITNESS CENTER

Whether fitness is your passion or you’re trying to incorporate it into your daily routine, having a fitness center at your home is a convenient way to get your workout in. Plus, with a gym at home, you can save money on your monthly gym membership.

Here are a few tips to putting together a home gym:

  • Take inventory of your equipment. What do you already have? What do you need?
  • Figure out a plan for your space. Plan out where each piece of equipment will go.
  • Update, replace or change the flooring and walls. You’ll be active in this space. From running on the treadmill to hitting the punching bag to dropping weights on the ground, your walls and flooring should be durable enough to handle the action.
  • Add a mirror. Adding a mirror is great for a few reasons: you can watch your form when you work out and it opens up the room, making it feel larger.
  • Update the lighting. The placement of light is important in your new home gym. You don’t want to have a light glaring down on you while you ride the stationary bike. You also don’t want to be looking up at a light while you’re down on a mat doing yoga. To avoid these situations, consider installing a dimmer system in your home gym.

3. TURN YOUR SPARE ROOM INTO AN OFFICE

This is an especially good option if you regularly work from home. Having a space in your house that is dedicated to work helps separate work-life from home-life.

Tips on decorating your home office:

  • Focus on comfort and function. Of course, the way your office looks is important. However, if your office isn’t comfortable or doesn’t function that way you want it to, you probably won’t spend much time in it anyway. Start by picking out furniture that’s comfortable and storage options that are easy to access.
  • Decorate it in a way that reflects your personality. This will keep you motivated and productive throughout your day.
  • Reduce cord clutter. Here are a few ways you can do this:
    • Drill a small hole in the wall and feed the cables through the wall
    • Clip or attach the cords behind your desk
    • Use cord covers
    • Tie your cords together in one place
    • Collect your cords in a basket
    • Redirect cords out of site by using command hooks
  • Paint the walls a color you love. If you’re unsure of what color you’d like your office to be, check out this list of the best colors for an at-home office!
  • Accessorize with a rug. A rug that you love will help keep you grounded throughout your workday.

4. GET PEACE OF MIND WITH A ROOM FOR MEDITATION

If you feel that you need a space to escape the day, even if it’s just for a moment or two, a meditation or yoga room is a perfect option for your spare space.

How to create your own meditation room:

Keep it simple. Don’t use too many distracting decorations or flashy artwork. Keep the space minimalistic.

Think about what relaxes you. Do you feel more at peace in a dark room? Or in a space filled with light? What colors make you feel the most relaxed? Do you prefer meditating on the floor, couch or a cushion?

Incorporate plants. Meditation requires deep breathing. Plants that absorb toxins in the air are perfect for any meditation space.

5. FOCUS ON WHAT YOU LOVE WITH A ROOM FOR YOUR HOBBIES

With your kids out of the house, it’s the perfect time to dive into existing hobbies or to try something new entirely. Turn your child’s old bedroom into a space for you to paint, play music, work on puzzles or knit. Make the room a place where you can let your creativity flow freely!

Can’t pick just one hobby? No worries! Make it a multi-use room. That way, when you feel like painting one day and writing the next, you’ll have the resources and space to make it happen.

Too much extra space? Try downsizing!

If none of these spare room ideas seem like the right fit for you and you feel like you simply have too much space in your house, it may be time to move. Supermovers has plenty of experience helping people move and downsize. If you’re ready to try something new with a relocation, get in touch with Supermovers today!

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The Dos and Don’ts of Asking Your Friends to Help You Move
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We’ve all been there at some point: you’re surrounded by a pile of boxes while preparing for a big move thinking how nice it would be to have some assistance. Whether it’s a long-distance move or just a few houses down the street, you’re probably contemplating asking friends for moving help.

Moving is a daunting task, and few people enjoy the process. If you’re thinking about rallying some of your friends to help alleviate the stress and save money, here are some tips to make the request successful.

Do Acknowledge That It’s a Big Ask

No one likes moving. It’s a fact we’ve come to accept, yet we all end up doing it at some point (or many). However, before you beg your friends and family for a helping hand, make it known that their help in your moving venture is appreciated! Your true friends will likely say yes and show up to assist, but it goes a long way to make sure they’re aware how much it means to you.

Do Plan Ahead

What’s worse than being asked to help a friend move a heavy couch up four flights of stairs? Being asked to do it the morning of moving day. If you’re going to need a hand (or two) for your big move, make sure to give your friends a generous heads-up. Even if you’re just looking to borrow a vehicle to help transport larger items, a timely notice still applies. This will help the whole moving process go smoothly and give you time to get things organized before the day comes.

Don’t Be a Bad Host

The last thing on your mind before a move is a trip to the grocery store; that said, do be sure to have snacks and beverages for your moving helpers. If you’re going to be lifting boxes, cleaning and organizing all day, it’s important to keep your friends and family properly fed and hydrated. Remember to have some water, refreshments and healthy snacks on hand to keep you and your moving crew energized!

Don’t Forget a Game Plan

It’s moving day! After asking friends for moving help, get your ducks in a row and make sure you have a plan of attack before they arrive with their sleeves rolled up. Do you need a hand organizing boxes of delicate china, cleaning out your crawl space or loading heavy furniture in the back of a truck?

Come up with a plan so that when your help arrives, everyone knows what to do and where to be. Additionally, try to keep the natural tendency to over-delegate at bay. Your crew will appreciate some direction, but no one wants to be bossed around during a stressful day.

Do Take No for an Answer

Sometimes, no matter how kindly you ask (or beg) there might not be any takers for moving help. Schedules are busy, and life gets in the way; however, you don’t have to do it all alone. If you find yourself needing to hire professionals, Supermovers has you covered. Our professional movers will help you make your new transition smooth and stress free. Contact us today!

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What To Know Before Moving to Louisiana
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A true melting pot, Louisiana has been beautifully influenced by French, Spanish, African, and Native American cultures. The cost of living in most of the state is very affordable, and the cuisine is impeccable. If you’re moving to this lovely place, you probably have all sorts of questions. The good news is that we’ve got all sorts of answers for you below! If what to know before moving to Louisiana is your goal, read on!

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

What to Know Before Moving to Louisiana

1. They Call Louisiana a Sports Paradise

When you arrive in Louisiana, take a look at some car license plates. You’ll notice the nickname “Sportsman’s Paradise” is imprinted there. We would argue Louisiana’s a paradise for all people who love sports, including fishing, hunting, hiking, and much more. You’ll also find plenty of pro sports teams here that are excellent. That includes the 2010 Super Bowl-winning New Orleans Saints, as fabled an NFL team as they come.

One thing to remember is that New Orleans, while not directly on the Gulf of Mexico, is still pretty close. That means all sorts of opportunities for deep-sea fishing and boating as well as surfing, kayaking, and paddle-boarding. There are also charter fishing excursions to be found for a day on the water you’ll not soon forget. In short, sportspeople of all types will love the sporting life in Louisiana!

2. Your Hard-Earned Income Will Stretch Farther in Louisiana

One of the most desirable features of Louisiana is the cost of living, which is one of the lowest in the country. (We’re #17.) One of the reasons that you’ll spend less of your paycheck here is thanks to the reasonable housing prices. For example, the median home value in the Bayou State is $167,000, an affordable price for many American families. That’s a $40,000 savings compared to the US average, $210,000, a nice break on many monthly mortgage payments. It’s nice to know the cost savings before moving to Louisiana!

3. Hurricanes Are A Real Threat in Louisiana

One of the biggest concerns of many Louisiana residents is hurricanes and flooding. Both happen here rather frequently, primarily due to Louisiana being smack in the middle of Hurricane Alley. Although severe weather is a problem for much of Louisiana, they suffer most in the south. Indeed, parts of New Orleans are still cleaning up after Hurricane Katrina, which happened in 2005! If the question is “what to know before moving to Louisiana,” the answer is “the evacuation route.”

TIP: One precaution many folks take in New Orleans is having a storage unit filled with equipment to protect their homes. They store large amounts of plywood, screws, braces, and more to board up everything when a storm approaches.

4. Louisiana has a Love Affair with Great Food

We’ve talked about the fact that our state is a melting pot featuring a wonderful assortment of ethnicities and cultures. All of them have come together to make Louisiana one of the cuisine centers in the United States. From Creole to Cajun, beignets, boudin, andouille, and gobsmacking gumbo, the food scene here rocks! Something to know before moving to Louisiana – never turn down a meal in Louisiana; it might be the best you’ve ever tasted.

What To Know Before Moving to Louisiana

5. The Schools in Louisiana Need Some Help

There’s no denying the fact that Louisiana’s school systems are in need of help. Indeed, Louisiana is one of the top five states where public education is ranked worst, unfortunately. High school graduation rates are less than 80% here, which could use some improvement. If you have children in school, do everything you can to support them and their teachers. (They could use the help.)

6. Louisiana Offers Shorts Weather All Year Long

Bring some shorts if you’re moving from a northern state like New York, New Jersey, Vermont, Michigan, Connecticut, or Pennsylvania! In fact, bring only shorts if you can help it because that’s all you’ll ever need living down here. In winter, for example, the temperature during the day rarely falls below 70 degrees. Many days see temps in the low 80s, a winter paradise for those who love sandals and tank tops. But, of course, there’s always Louisiana’s summer weather which we’ll see in just a moment can be a bit sketchy.

7. Summer In Louisiana is Typically Hot and Humid

If you’ve never known hot, humid summers, moving to Louisiana might be quite a shock. It can be unbearably hot and steamy down here, especially from June through September. So much so that many folks simply stay inside the whole time and venture out only at night. Of course, with heat and humidity this high, nighttime isn’t all that refreshing, either. If you’re sweating like mad at midnight just from sitting on your front porch, you’re in Louisiana. Our advice; make sure you’ve got a fan and some cold iced tea handy at all times.

Check Out One of These Louisiana Cities

Louisana Has a Lot to OfferWhile our state does have its faults, there’s no denying that Louisiana has a lot to offer. We’re Southern Self Storage, and we love the Louisiana lifestyle. We’re the self storage experts in Louisiana, with clean, safe, and affordable storage units all over the Creole State.

If you have questions about renting a storage unit, you can chat with a manager online anytime. You can also reserve or rent a storage unit online in less than 10 minutes. If you like doing things in person, feel free to visit your closest local Southern Self Storage facility. The on-site manager can show you around and let you know how the process works. Until then, best of luck finding a new home in Louisiana. We hope that, like us, you enjoy all the beauty our lovely state offers.

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Moving to Louisiana Tips & Tricks!!
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When you think of Louisiana, your mind might first go to food and Mardi Gras. While Louisiana is certainly well known for these things, the state is also full of amazing nature and landscape.

The abundance of brown pelicans along the coast gives the state the popular nickname of “The Pelican State,” with one appearing on the state flag as well. Another nickname is the “Bayou State” because of the small streams that spread across the state.

Whether for food or nature, Supermovers has all you need to get you started on your move to Louisiana. Learn more about what you need to know when moving to the Bayou.

Bayous in the Bayou State

 

The bayous and marshes that give Louisiana one of its nicknames also played a big role in the state’s history. Bayous were once an essential channel for transportation in the Cajun culture and served as communities and homes.

Now, many of these historical areas are part of the National Park Service so residents and visitors can explore them and learn and understand the history while protecting the land.

At the Barataria Preserve inside of Jean Lafitte Park, you can explore over 26,000 acres of wetlands and find turtles, alligators, and more out on the water. Houma, Louisiana is known as Bayou Country, and you can discover more Bayou wildlife and immerse yourself in Cajun culture.

 

Mardi Gras in Louisiana

If you’re in Louisiana around Mardi Gras, you’ll often hear, “Laissez les bon temps rouler!” or “Let the good times roll!” Mardi Gras officially became a state holiday in 1875 and continues today.

Mardi Gras is more than just a one-day parade celebrating Fat Tuesday. In the weeks leading up to the big day, there are balls where the King and Queen of Mardi Gras are revealed. These individuals will later be featured in the parades.

Two weekends before Mardi Gras, Family Gras is just as exciting! The official location is just outside of New Orleans, and allows families and kids to experience the parades, culture, and authentic cuisine of a real Mardi Gras parade.

The intricate floats and performances in the Mardi Gras parade celebrate the history and traditions of Louisiana and its people. The free event brings a sense of pride and community to not just New Orleans, but throughout all of Louisiana.

 

The Big Easy – Moving to New Orleans

Besides being known as the host for the Mardi Gras celebration in the United States, the Big Easy is home to much more.

The theory behind New Orleans’ nickname includes a gossip columnist who compared NOLA to NYC, saying New York had a rushed atmosphere, while New Orleans had an easy, laid-back feel. Others say the name comes from the history of blues and jazz music, and the accessibility artists had to make it big in New Orleans.

While strolling around town, visit the French Quarter, home to the St. Louis Cathedral, world-famous beignets from Café du Monde, and shops throughout the French Market.

New Orleans City Park is another kid and family friendly spot with a 1,300-acre green space,  of botanical gardens, 25 sculptures, fishing, paddle boats, and cafes throughout the park.

Just outside of the city, Bayou Segnette State Park offers salt and freshwater fishing and swimming in the swamps and marshes. When you’re in the Big Easy, you can’t forget about the food! Some classic New Orleans food includes gumbo, po’boys, jambalaya, red beans and rice, oysters, beignets and Cajun cuisine.

 

Cost of Living in the Pelican State

Louisiana’s cost of living* ranks below the national average, making it the 16th most affordable state to live in. On a national average of 100, the overall cost of living in the Bayou State falls at 93.4.

Grocery, housing, utilities, transportation, and health costs all also fall below the national average here.

Different areas of the state are more expensive than others, with St. Tammany Parish ranking as the most expensive place to live in Louisiana. Cities within the parish include Covington, Mandeville, Folsom, and Madisonville.

Louisiana’s low cost of living offers opportunities to explore the state and make the most of your time in your new home, at a low cost!

 

Louisiana Weather

Louisiana weather is known to be hot and humid, due to the marshes and rivers throughout the state. The state’s location on the Gulf of Mexico also impacts the weather, bringing cool breezes in the winter but devastating tropical storms in the spring and summer.

Late spring and early summer are the most humid seasons in the state and can be uncomfortable. Heavy rainfall also leads to flooding in certain parts of the state, and late summer is usually when hurricanes are seen the most.

Fall has less rainfall and more comfortable temperatures. While winter can get cold, it is not often bitter or very harsh. Check out Supermovers tips and tricks for how to pack like a pro, no matter the weather.

Moving to Louisiana Soon? Let Supermovers Get You There

Supermovers can help you move no matter where you’re going or coming from. We can help with moves across the country, and everything else you need to complete your move to Louisiana. Ready to make your move? View our full line of moving services and complete an online quote to get started.

 

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2022 Real Estate Outlook for Louisiana!!
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Mardi Gras and Carnivals may draw tourists to Louisiana, but what are the reasons to stay? The ultimate guide to moving to Louisiana covers its quality of life, from beignets to golf, its growing economy, and the inexpensive housing market. Learn why Louisiana should be your next home.

Cajun food and jazz music, Mardi Gras and Carnivals, a good climate — there are many good reasons to dream about moving to Louisiana. With a rising economy, accelerating job growth, and up-and-coming housing market, it’s no wonder so many people are opting to make the “Pelican State” their new home.

So before you pull the trigger and put your house on the market, we’ve compiled a few key things you should know about Louisiana’s unique draws, financial outlook, and housing market, in order to help you make the best possible decision, given your unique goals and requirements.

Top 5 Reasons to Move to Louisiana

Here are the top five reasons to put Louisiana on your short list of potential places to move.

1. Louisiana’s Economy and Job Market Are on the Rise

Louisiana’s economy, once on a downward slide, has been making a recovery. With projected job market growth and large capital projects planned, get in now before the boom.

2. Its Housing Market Is On the Up and Up, Too

Homes are reasonably priced in Louisiana, but prices have been on an upswing. First-time homebuyers will finds lots to like, plus will see their homes appreciate in value.

3. Access a Unique, Rich, and Vibrant culture

Food, music, sports, and more — you’ll find it all in Louisiana. With its rich history and culturally diverse population, there’s truly no other state like it!

4. Enjoy the Mild, Short Winters!

Sick of the cold? Want to throw out your snow shovel? While, yes, you’ll have to deal with hot summers, Louisiana’s short, mild winters are a major plus.

5. Louisiana Is an Outdoor Lover’s Paradise

You won’t have to look for excuses to go outside in Louisiana. Golf, fishing, kayaking, the locals take advantage of the state’s great weather.

Quality of Life

Land of bayous and birthplace of jazz, Louisiana has a rich cultural history. Bought from the French for three cents an acre in 1803, the state retains the influence of its history.

New Orleans, in particular, is renowned for the architecture in the French Quarter, and an estimated 200,000 of the state’s residents still speak French.

Outdoor enthusiasts have a wide selection of adventures to fill their days. Go kayaking or canoeing in the marshes, swamps, or rivers. Anglers have both saltwater and freshwater fishing spots. Hike in one of the state parks or go swimming in the ocean. Louisiana’s subtropical climate, with mild winters, encourages outdoor activity year-round.

And let’s not forget the food! Beignets, jambalaya, barbeque and more, the state’s cuisine reflects its history and heritage. Cultural centers in Lake Charles and other areas work to preserve the beautiful architecture of the 1800s and earlier.

Louisiana does have a high poverty rate, though it is primarily concentrated in rural areas. Despite the nearly two dozen colleges and universities only 23% of the state’s residents have a college degree.

Before deciding to move to Louisiana, be sure to look at employment rates and average income data in your specific industry.

Quality of life considerations for you and your family depends on your hobbies, interests, and priorities. It’s always a good idea to talk to a local realtor to get a feel for the specific area in the state that you’re thinking about moving to.

Economic Outlook

Louisiana emerged from a two-year-plus recession in 2017 — and the economy is still recovering.

Unemployment has hovered around 5% since March of 2018. In 2019, the state is expected to add 59,500 jobs, bringing the total jobs in Louisiana to more than two million.

Louisiana is a smaller state, and its job market is a reflection of its size. In comparison, New York State has 8.2 million jobs in the private sector alone.

In addition to taking into consideration the overall size of the state when looking at unemployment numbers, look at an individual cities unemployment rate when making moving decisions.

In December of 2018, New Orleans and Baton Rouge’s unemployment rates were 4.5% and 4.2%, respectively; however, Shreveport was higher than the state’s average rate, at 5.3%. Where you move within the state can have a big impact on job prospects.

According to the Louisiana Economic Outlook, industrial expansions are planned along several major waterways. The $170 billion in planned expansions should drive economic and job growth in those areas.

Much of Louisiana’s industry is concentrated in around industries related to their natural resources, such as agriculture, commercial fishing, oil, and chemicals.

Housing Market Forecast for 2022

Before deciding to relocate to a different state you’ll want to know how easy it will be to buy a new home. The housing market in Louisiana is red hot.

Median home values rose 3.2% in 2021 and are expected to rise by an additional 4.9% in 2021. While the median home price is $210,000, this varies a lot depending on the city.

While New Orleans’ home values dipped slightly last year, the market is back on the upswing. The median home sale price in the city is $263,900, but that number begins to drop as you move out towards the suburbs.

If you dream of owning a classic, New Orleans’ Greek-Revival home, full of history and character, however, expect it to come with a price tag closer to $1 million.

Other major cities in Louisiana include Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Alexandria, and Shreveport. While their markets vary from cool to warm, Zillow expects home prices to rise across the board in 2022.

The median home prices in all of these cities are under $200,000, making them very affordable destinations for first-time homebuyers.

The state’s economy has dealt with periods of recession, which have kept home prices from inflating as badly as they have in other areas of the country. Given that the economy is recovering, and home prices rising, now would be an excellent time to buy and be almost guaranteed your home’s value would rise

Next Steps

If you think that Louisiana could be your next home, plan a trip to visit! Start making lists of cities that interest you, and companies where you could find work.

While you’re interviewing, consider connecting with an experienced, local real estate agent for more insight and guidance on buying a home there.

Agents can provide a wealth of information when it comes to quality of life and local amenities, prospective price points based on your desired neighborhood, the long-term market outlook, and how to time your purchase to get the best possible price.

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