All My Sons of Ft. Lauderdale

How Do You Save Money Moving?

2010-11-17T08:34:00.000-08:00

Glad you asked! Many consumers shy away from hiring movers. The number one reason is usually cost. Many individuals just assume it's not affordable without obtaining a moving quote. Others receive a quote and figure they can save money by handling their move themselves. A word to the wise...moving is affordable and the heartache and damage you'll alleviate by leaving it to a professional Ft. Lauderdale mover is worth it!

Now to the question at hand. You can save money hiring a Ft. Lauderdale mover when you receive the right amount of men and trucks to accommodate your move. A reputable mover will properly analyze your move and provide you with more than adequate support. If you receive a moving quote with a questionable amount of support, ask your mover to increase the crew. Secondly, you save money when your moving crew moves at a fast professional pace. Time is money. You don't need movers who drag their feet. Lastly, you can save money when moving by hiring your Ft. Lauderdale moving company by the hour. The hourly rate allows you to only pay for the time used.

Traditional Storage or Sanitized Vaults?

2010-10-20T08:26:00.000-07:00

Storage facilities are a great solution when transitioning from one home to another. Some Ft. Lauderdale movers place your items in a bin, while others tag and pad your belongings before carefully placing them in sanitized vaults. I recommend the latter. When you’re ready for your belongings simply call your mover and they will deliver and reassemble all your items in your new home.

Expect to receive the following:

• Low Storage Rates
• Modern warehouse facility
• Climate controlled and sanitized private vaults
• Reliable In-Home Inventory
• Short or Long Term Storage
• Secured, Alarmed, and Sprinkler Systems
• Warehouse Manager on Location
• Computerized Tracking of Storage Lots
• Palletized and Containerized Storage

Will my Ft. Lauderdale movers arrive on time?

2010-09-23T09:18:00.000-07:00

Moving on time is paramount for most consumers. Several moves are contingent upon closings on new homes, time reserved for elevator usage in apartment complexes and so on. I recommend you secure the earliest move possible. If your move is the first move of the day, it's a strong probability your movers will arrive according to schedule. Uncertainty enters the movers schedule after the first move. Any move scheduled after the first move will have to wait until the first move is completely done. Now several Ft. Lauderdale moving companies have several different trucks and crews, however, it all depends on the amount of moves scheduled for the day. Normally you will receive a two hour window of time. Your movers can arrive earlier, within the time frame or later.

End of the month move in Fort Lauderdale?

2010-08-30T08:41:00.000-07:00

The end of the month blues somehow finds its way into renters lives at least once or twice a year. This is the time when most moving companies in Fort Lauderdale phones are ringing non-stop, truck rental companies are out of rentals, moving boxes and other packing materials are a little more costly and renters are screaming for help. Don't let your end of the month move find you in a bind. Plan ahead when possible. The earlier you get things in order, the easier it will be when it comes time to transition from one place to the other. If you are conducting your own move, reserve your truck earlier. If you are relying on a reputable Fort Lauderdale moving company, book them early. I usually recommend booking a mover at least six months out, but no later than 30-60 days out. This way you are guaranteed to have what you need, and most times the prices are better. You don't have to have the end of the month blues. Plan now and enjoy a smooth move with savings.

Last minute Fourth of July move?

2010-07-02T09:14:00.000-07:00

Contact a Ft. Lauderdale moving company immediately. Although this is a three day weekend for most, some moving companies aren't open all three days. This means the days they are open are probably full. Nevertheless, there are always cancellations and inclusions for last minute moves.

Once you secure your moving company, begin the packing process. While many people are prone to use recycled boxes, the best care for your valuables is the moving supplies the professionals use. Ask your Ft. Lauderdale mover about the cost of their moving kit. Quickly arrange your items by the door allowing easy access for your movers. I always recommend transporting your own T.V.'s and important documents. Good moving to ya!

Ft. Lauderdale movers can handle your office relocation

2010-06-07T07:22:00.000-07:00

Let me offer a few pointers to assist with your upcoming office relocation. The main ingredient to any move in Ft. Lauderdale should be the hiring of a reputable mover. This is the make-it or break-it phase of your commercial move process. Literally! Hiring a mover that is equipped with great skill and experience at handling all types of moves is paramount. Consider researching industry experts via the web and socially. Referrals from other vendors and friends are always a good source to prepare your short list of contenders. Ft. Lauderale moving companies are suited to handle your office relocation with ease. To learn more about commercial relocation read the full article.

Moving to the beach?

2010-05-12T08:11:00.000-07:00

What a great time to move to one of America's finest waterway areas. Primarily known as the Venice of America, Fort Lauderdale is a beautiful area. Who wouldn't enjoy a tropical climate year round? This area is ripe for business as well as recreation. People moving to this area should only hire skilled Ft. Lauderdale movers. Your qualified mover understands the ins and outs of moving within this area. As with any move there are a host of details that go into a move of this nature. A reputable Ft. Lauderdale mover will allow you to focus on your transition and allow the movers to do their job. Let me know how your move goes.

Do you need an international mover?

2010-04-14T09:22:00.000-07:00

Well, let me offer a little guidance to ensure you receive the best international moving company in Ft. Lauderdale.

Obtain five moving quotes from international movers. Consider their experience, industry affiliations, licensing and insurance coverage.
Pin down your destination address ASAP. This will help with determing the amount of items you will need to ship. Also find out the access points to your new home. Are there stairs, elevator etc.?
Allow your moving company to handle your packing. The journey is going to be a long one. It is necessary to have your items professionally packed so they're secure for the entire trip.
Have your important papers(i.e. birth certificates, social security cards, identification cards...)readily available.
Contact your new country's embassy to obtain information about successfully securing visas.
Check with the consulate to gain insight on customs.

All of this information is necessary to make certain your transition is smooth. However, if you hire a reputable international mover in Ft. Lauderdale, they will provide you with a moving coordinator who will assist you with the entire moving process. Keep me posted on your progress.

Prepare well and protect your stuff: Things you should know before you move.

2010-03-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

One of the major items to consider when moving is protection of your valuables. If you’re not going to allow your Fort Lauderdale moving company to pack your items you should at least purchase their supplies. Purchasing moving supplies that professionals use is an added bonus. These supplies are designed to render a safe journey for your valuables from origin to destination. There are also all sorts of resources that your Fort Lauderdale mover can provide for you as well. Labeling is also key. Marking boxes as fragile in several places helps the mover handle your belongings properly. All of these tips and more provide for a much smoother transition. To learn more about this topic, click here and read the full article.

Need Movers and Packers in Fort Lauderdale?

2010-02-18T09:17:00.000-08:00

Making a move soon and need to hire a moving company? Well, something to consider, try a Ft. Lauderdale mover that can safely pack your items as well as move them. Most top-notch Ft. Lauderdale movers offer full packing services. This concierge level of care allows you the client to relax and observe. Many times consumers shy away from this level of service fearing pricing. However, its worth getting an estimate and you will soon see that its a service worth taking advantage of.

The moving company will assign a moving coordinator to your move. He or she will take care of everything. Why worry or fret over packing and unpacking? Hire full-service trained movers and packers to accomplish a move that is second to no other Ft. Lauderdale moving company.

Old Fashioned-Care Moving

2010-01-27T07:34:00.000-08:00

One thing is certain whenever you move. You don't want your items damaged. Some people even move themselves fro this very readson. However, our Ft. Lauderdale moving company is in the business of providing quality care when moving our customers. Old fashioned-care is what our All My Sons Moving Company was founded upon over 20 years ago. Literally to us, you're family, and we treat you and your items as such. This care is seen in how we quilt-pad wrap your furniture, disassemble your items and reassemble them in your new home.

You can trust our qualified staff of Ft. Lauderdale movers to treat your belongings with maximum care and secure them from origin to final destination. Let our family move yours!

Full Time Movers vs. Day Laborers

2009-12-22T11:31:00.000-08:00

It’s fourth and 1, there’s only 30 seconds left in the game, and you’re down by 3 points. What do you do? Do you settle for the field goal and tie the game, or do you go all the way and win? The choice may seem simple for some, but others may grapple with the choice of settling for the tie. Life is somewhat the same. We are presented with a series of choices every day. Some choices bring us closer to winning and others place us in the path of losing. Moving is similar, and there is a wide array of choices when it comes to selecting a moving company.

Read the full artice: Full Time Movers vs. Day Laborers

Leave Your Packing To Us!

2009-07-02T05:43:00.000-07:00

When it comes to moving, organized packing is essential in making your tansition a smoooth one. There is much more to storing your valuables than just palcing them in a box and sealing it with tape. THe importance of proper packing can potentially be overlooked by someone who lacks experience or knowledge.That's why All My Sons is not only comitted to providing you with enough man power, but cherishing

Don't Stress! Choose the best.

2008-11-08T04:44:00.000-08:00

So, you just found out that you're moving. If you are anything like me you are more than likely stressing out. Between packing, transferring utilities, and securing a new place to live, you are probably pulling your hair out right about now. Well, I am here to let you know that I have found the solution to your moving needs. All My Sons Ft Lauderdale Movers is a local, family owned and operated company here in Fort Lauderdale and we actually care about our customers' needs. We do everything we can to take the stress and worry off of your shoulders. Moving is hectic enough and no one wants to worry about whether or not their friends are going to take good care of their belongings, or break everything. We are licensed and insured and have the talent and experience to move your belongings carefully. We are here for you from start to finish. We not only assist you with your basic and essential moving needs such as packing your boxes and carefully wrapping all of your most prized possessions with moving blankets, but we will also help you with the basic disassembly and reassembly of your furniture as well. What else can you ask for in a moving company? So go ahead; sit back….relax…and let our Ft Lauderdale movers take care of everything!

The Benefits of Quilt Pad Wrapping!!

2008-08-19T06:34:00.000-07:00

BEFORE!

AFTER!

When All My Sons Ft Lauderdale Movers performs a local move for a shipper, we use quilt pad wraps to protect the furniture from being knicked, scratched, or dinged. I want to take some time to introduce some other benefits of using quilt pad wraps. When it comes to packing, using quilt pads means you do not have to empty dresser drawers. We wrap all the furntiture, therefore keeping the dresser drawers shut. If it is raining, the quilt pads protect your furniture from getting wet. Quilt pads are not only meant to help protect your furniture. When people move they are usually moving into a newly painted house or apartment, they are also intended to protect your walls. They are most definitely going to save you money. You are not going to have to spend money on boxes for your clothes in the dresser, and for those Fort Lauderdale movers that do use quilt pad wraps, you will not have to worry about any costly repairs to your furniture or walls in your new home.

All My Sons Concierge!

2008-07-14T20:55:00.000-07:00

Im sure if you have moved before, you know how stressful it can be. You have to pack, get everything ready for your local movers to come in and get you moved. On top of all that you have to get all utilities transfered to your new home, put in a change of address, and set up a time for the cable and internet guy to come out and set that up. after sitting on hold for two hours between all your different utility companies to get that all taken care of you just don't want to move anymore.

Well Homes.org, our concierge, is a service that we provide free of charge for our customers, that takes all that stress away. You dont have to worry about calling anyone after setting your move up with us. My Homes.org Concierge Service will CALL YOU and take care of all your utility transfers, and if you are looking to set up Cable, Satellite, Internet, even phone service in your new home, they can have that arranged for you as well. If you want an alarm system in your new home, thats no problem.

All My Sons prides itself in making every move as stress free as possible and with Homes.org as our concierge, it takes that one step further.

Reviews From Great Local Moves!

2008-07-14T20:54:00.001-07:00

We pride ourselves in having over 4 generations of experience and taking care of our customers. After all, you are a part of our family. I want to take this time to share with you a couple of reviews from local shippers like you.

This first review comes from Jacob R. Dania Beach, FL: When asked if his movers were prepared when they arrived - he responded, "They were prepared and ready to work!." When asked what he thought of the movers - he responded, "They worked hard and tough, everything was perfect!"

This next review comes from Larry H. Fort Lauderdale, FL: When asked if his movers were prepared when they arrived - he responded, "Brandon and Pedro were both frienly and highly cooperative at all times" When asked what he thought of the movers - he responded, "All my furniture was handled with the utmost care and attention. With the service I recieved, all you customers will be well served." When asked if she would use All My Sons Ft Lauderdale Moving Company again - he responded, "Yes, I would'nt call anyone else!"

There are alot of things that I can say about how great All My Sons Fort Lauderdale Movers is first hand, but I would be doing you no justice. Of course these are just a couple of great reviews from great local moves and I assure you there are more where these came from.

Moving Brokers Are Bad!

2008-07-14T20:51:00.000-07:00

What are brokers? They are what some Fort Lauderdale movers use to give you that quote you are looking for. The really bad thing about brokers is the fact they then take that information and sell it to the highest bidder. Your contact information may go through 15 different hands before it gets to the right company. That means that the professional Fort Lauderdale movers you think are showing up are sometimes just a man in a pick-up truck pulling a trailer… Sometimes it's a horse trailer!

That is not the way to move your furniture! Those trailers do not have the suspension that a moving truck has. These people usually don't have the experience to complete a move. Your property is damaged, stolen, and sometimes made to look like it is not broken (this can be very dangerous when you have children)!!!

I've seen old rental moving trucks that have the original decals removed, then Fort Lauderdale movers spray paint Moving Co. and a phone number on the side of the truck with a can of spray paint. These local moving companies are not licensed and insured.

The problems with these Fort Lauderdale movers and with the Fort Lauderdale movers that brokers send out are simple… If they get hurt in your house or even on your property they can sue you! These Fort Lauderdale movers also use untrained day laborers that are in no hurry to get the job done… Why would they? They have no guaranteed job the next day! So on top of a extremely long move. You may also have items missing!

Here at All My Sons Ft Lauderdale Moving and Storage. You talk to us, and it is All My Sons Fort Lauderdale Moving and Storage that moves you! Just a great company doing a great move for you! We are a Fort Lauderdale mover that takes pride in all of the moves we do no matter how large or small, you could be moving right next door or across the country.

All My Sons Affiliate

2008-06-16T18:55:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to take a little time to show you an organization that we are a part of that is not just important to us as a business, but also to you as the shipper.

The AMSA Certified Mover Program® is a voluntary program for local 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.

Each one of these organizations are set in place to protect you as the shipper.

Your Rights and Responsibilties as a Shipper

2008-06-11T19:45:00.001-07:00

As the Shipper, there are certain Rights and Responsibilities you may be unaware of. I want to take a moment of my time to inform you about them. Your local mover gives you this booklet to provide information about your rights and responsibilities as an individual shipper of your household goods. Your primary responsibility is to select a reputable local mover, ensure that you understand the terms and conditions of the contract, and understand and pursue the remedies that are available to you in case problems arise. You should talk to your local mover if you have further questions.

In the pamphlet you will find information on:
-Service Options Provided
-Estimating Charges
-Pick up, Transportation, and Delivery of your shipment
-Collection of Charges
-Resolving Issues with your move

All of which and more you can find information on, in "Your Rights and Responsibilities" when moving booklet.

Packing Yourself? - Packing 101

2008-05-26T15:35:00.000-07:00

PACKING 101:

So you decided to pack your belongings yourself? Consider the time and effort necessary to properly protect your belongings. In most cases you can save money by doing your own packing, however I strongly recommended that you let a Fort Lauderdale mover pack any fragile or valuable items. When you use a Fort Lauderdale mover, you have the option of doing some or all of the packing yourself, or you can leave it to the experts. Discuss the options available to you with your Fort Lauderdale movers.

For the next couple of days, I will be giving you some tips and lessons on how to properly and safely pack your goods. Good packing is an essential key to having a great Local move. It is especially important that you be familiar with the techniques and boxes that will best protect your possessions. Here are a few things to remember if you have chosen to pack your own goods:

You want to have everything packed and ready for loading when the local movers arrive. Your Fort Lauderdale mover has the right to inspect packed-by-owner(PBO) items to ensure they are sufficiently packed to protect your goods. If your Fort Lauderdale mover thinks a container is not packed properly or safely, the local mover may ask you to repack it. The local mover may also offer to repack the container for you. Keep in mind though, your Fort Lauderdale mover will charge you for this service. Upon delivery of your goods, report any damage to PBO containers immediately. If you fail to do so, almost all Fort Lauderdale movers will deny any claim on goods packed by yourself

When looking for materials and boxes, use only strong, corrugated cartons with tops or flaps that fold shut. Purchasing new, high quality packing materials specifically designed for moving can really make the difference in making sure that your household goods arrive at their destination safely. Moving boxes come in a variety of shapes and sizes that are specifically suited to fit a variety of household goods. Check with your Fort Lauderdale mover for prices on their materials. You can sometimes get used moving boxes from your Fort Lauderdale mover at half the price, though for your dishes, I do not reccomend used boxes.

What Type Of Packing Supplies Are You Going to Need?

Dish Packs (also referred to as a dish barrel or a dish box)
A special box used to pack dishes or any other type of fragile goods. The box is usually double corrugated for more protection and can some times come with inserts for glasses or plates.

Small Boxes (1.5 box)
This box is used primarily for books, allowing them to be filled completely and still easy to handle. You can also use this box for miscellaneous small items.

Medium Boxes (3.0 box)
Medium boxes are primarily considered to be used as the catch all box. It is strong enough to handle most things and can typically be filled to the brim and still handled pretty easy.

Large Boxes (4.5 box)
Consider this size box to be used for linens, sweaters, small appliances, etc.

Wardrobe Box
Boxes used primarily for hanging clothes. Also, It is not uncommon for local movers and shippers alike to fill the bottom of the box with shoes or other foldable garments.

Mirror/Picture Carton
Protects pictures, mirrors and artwork. Though you can use separate pieces to protect the glass on cabinets and entertainment centers.

News Print
Just another word for paper. It is the same thing as newspaper except there is no print on it. News Print is wrapped around fragile items before being packed in boxes to protect from damage.

Getting Started

Pack one room at a time. This will help in preventing you from becoming confused or overwhelmed.

Start with packing things that you do not use or can live with out. Do not pack items that you will need until the day of your move. Before packing cartons, you'll need to wrap most items to protect them from scratching or breaking. You can use old newspapers, but you want to be careful— the ink may rub off and stain certain items, especially china and glasses. I recommend that you use unprinted news print. This is the same type of news print that most local movers will use. You should be able to purchase this paper directly from your Fort Lauderdale movers!

Start by placing a small stack of paper on a flat, uncluttered table or counter top. Round glasses and jars can be rolled up in two or three sheets of paper; always begin from a corner of the sheet and fold the sides in as you roll. Large or odd-shaped items require a similar technique. Place them in the center of the sheet and bring the corners together. It may be necessary to flip the item over and wrap it again from the other side. If in doubt, use more paper! When the corners are brought together, secure them with tape.

Before packing each box, line the bottom with a few inches of wadded paper for padding. Then place large, heavy items on the bottom and lighter, more fragile items on the top. Plates, books and things of a similar shape, should be loaded vertically to utilize their own maximum structural strength.

DO NOT overload your boxes; keep them to a manageable weight no more than 50lbs. Fill in any voids with wadded paper and also top off your boxes with a few inches of wadded paper. Then tape cartons securely to avoid shifting during transportation.

I highly recommend that you do not use masking tape or duck tape on your boxes. Masking tape is never strong enough for full boxes and will break. Duck tape does not stick very well and when it does stick it is very hard to get open. The most effective packing tape is poly-vinyl chloride or PVC. You can purchase this tape from your Fort Lauderdale mover.

Empty all your drawers of breakables, spillables, non-transportable items and anything that would puncture or damage other items.

Pack similar items together. For example, do not pack your china in the same box with pots and pans. Keep all parts or pairs of things together. For example, curtain rod hangers, mirror bolts and other small hardware items should be placed in plastic bags and taped or tied securely to the article to which they belong.

Roll up all electrical cords and secure them so they do not dangle.

Pack small, fragile, individually wrapped items separately or a few together in small boxes, padding them with paper. Place small boxes in a single large box, filling in spaces with paper.

As you finish with each box, put the name or the room it belongs to and the contents on the side of the box (for easy viewing while stacked). Make sure you indicate "FRAGILE" on on any breakables and "THIS END UP" where appropriate. I recommend that you place a sign on the door of each room at destination corresponding to the box labels, so the local movers can place the boxes into the proper rooms quickly.

Never pack flammable items or non-allowable items. (For example: chemicals, propane tanks, pesticides, etc...)

Make sure to pack high value items carefully. (For example jewelry, stamp collections, coin collections, etc.) I also recommend that you transport these items yourself, however, if that is not possible make sure you register these items with your Fort Lauderdale mover so they can pay special attention to these items.

PACKING 102:

I thought I'd give some more packing details that will only help you pack your belongings carefully. Whether you plan on moving these items yourself - or having a Fort Lauderdale mover - like All My Sons of Fort Lauderdale move your family - these tips will help you!

Now that you know you are relocating you can begin packing your kitchen first. Start with your rarely used serving dishes, seasonal items and minor appliances. Make sure you check all your cabinets and the dishwasher to make sure you have gotten everything.

Next, pack your large serving bowls and any specialty pots or pans. I recommend that you buy some disposable plates, cups, and utensils for those last couple of days in your home. The last thing you are going to pack in your kitchen is your food and any cleaning items. Below is some tips on how to pack certain things from your kitchen:

Dishes and China

Select a medium-sized carton (or a dish pack provided by your local mover) and line the bottom of the carton with 2 -3 inches of packing paper for cushioning.

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.

Stack a second plate on the first and grasp another corner of several sheets and pull them over the second plate.

Stack a third plate. Grasp the remaining two corners and fold using two sheets, one corner at a time over the plate.

Turn the wrapped stack of plates upside down onto your paper. 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. Packing tape can be bought from your local mover.

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 maximum structural strength. Surround each bundle with crushed paper, being careful to leave no voids or unfilled spaces.

Add 2 - 3 inches of crushed paper on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level base for the next layer.

Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls should make up a second layer.

Larger china and glass plates, platters and other flat pieces are excellent as the lowest layer in a dish pack.

Once you have finished filling the box add 2 - 3 inches of crushed paper on top and seal the top with tape.

I always recommend that you pack your delicate china and glassware in dish packs which you can purchase from your local mover. These boxes are specifically designed for your dishes and are double corrugated for more protection. Make sure you label these boxes "Fragile - or This Side Up".

Glasses / Cups / Stemware

Before wrapping any of the glasses, cups or stemware, fill the inside of the glass or cup with crushed paper.

Lay the glass, cup or stemware on the corner of your packing paper and roll it one or two full rotations (depending on size).

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.

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.

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

Depending on their weight, these might be used for either the bottom or middle layers.

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.

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.

Wrap sauce containers, gravy boats and similar pieces in newsprint and then a double outer wrapping.

Place all these items upright in the moving carton and then layer with 2 - 3 inches of wadded newsprint to protect the items and also to make a level base for the next layer

Flatware / Silverware

Loose flatware should be wrapped individually or in sets, in paper, clear plastic bags, or in small boxes that are then secured with tape.

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.

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.

If you are traveling long distance or if your goods are going into storage for a long period of time I recommend that you wrap each piece in cloth or low-sulfur-content paper(ask your local mover) to prevent tarnishing over time.

Small Appliances

Use the original manufacturer's carton if available; if it is not available, follow instructions below.

Remove any loose items from inside any appliances like microwave ovens, such as cookware, glass shelves or carousels.

Wrap loose articles and place in a separate container.

Each appliance needs to be wrapped individually.

Tape any doors or movable objects shut.

Place tape in an "X"-pattern to protect any glass on the doors.

If their cords disconnect, wrap them in plastic and secure them to the appliance they belong to. Place the items in a sturdy medium sized box cushioned with crushed paper with the heavier items in the bottom. 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 your local movers arrive.

Food Items

Do not take anything perishable. In other words either use or donate all your perishables before your local move. 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. Cover holes of shaker-type containers and seal with tape.

Open boxes of dried or powdered foods such as rice, macaroni and cereals should be sealed with tape. Dispose of any open packages and or opened glass jars to prevent breakage or spillage during your local move. 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. In the winter months, do not take anything subject to freezing. 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.

PACKING 103:

Artificial Flowers

1) An arrangement of artificial flowers should be packed in its own carton.

2) Wrap the arrangement/flowers carefully in plastic wrap, tissue paper or paper towels.

3) Make sure you fasten the base of the floral arrangement to the bottom of the carton.

4) Do not forget to label the carton "FRAGILE" & "THIS SIDE UP."

Lamp Shades & Bases

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.

8) 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 local movers 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 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) Inspect 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) Ensure 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.

8) 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) Get a specific inventory of these items from your local mover and 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.

Packing 101
Packing 102
Packing 103

All My Sons of Fort Lauderdale-Local Mover Heroics!

2008-05-11T20:19:00.001-07:00

Do you ever go to work, and at the end of your long day feel like you are a hero to your customers? I love working for All My Sons of Fort Lauderdale and I went to work today, which seemed to be like any other day. I recieved a call from a Fort Lauderdale Customer who seemed extemely flustered and desperate. Well come to find out, the Fort Lauderdale movers they had put their trust in, called and cancelled their local move. So what the Fort Lauderdale customer thought was a reputable Fort Lauderdale moving company ended up getting a larger local move, and cancelled theirs. Today was the last day they were allowed to be in their current home. My Fort Lauderdale customer had to be out. After calming them down, I was able to get a few more details about their local move. I was then able to ensure my Fort Lauderdale customer that they could relax and that I would take this burden off their shoulders. I got her all set up and ready to go.

Later that day I receive a call from the same Fort Lauderdale customer again. They were overwhelmed with gratitude, saying that out of all the Fort Lauderdale movers they have done business with, All My Sons of Fort Lauderdale made their local move the best local move they had ever experienced and how I was their hero. That is why I love working for All My Sons of Fort Lauderdale, because to my Fort Lauderdale Customers, I am a hero. So, do you ever go to work and at the end of the day feel like you are a hero to your customers?