Thursday 7 February 2013

Moving Across Canada? ... Let Us Help!

You're looking for adventure, there is new great job opportunities, there is an outstanding post-secondary institution you would like to attend... all of these are reasons why you may decide to leave your home province and move across the country. Relocating to a new province can be a bit overwhelming and you may be unsure where to even start. The following includes the process of getting a quote and preparing for your big move.
Getting A Quote

Most moving companies provide quotes based on an approximate weight of your shipment, typically in pounds. You may be wondering how to figure this out... surprisingly the process is pretty simple.

  • Looking for a quick quote? - There are many websites, for example the Canadian Association of Movers, that can help you get multiple quotes for FREE! You simply provide them with some basic information, including your name, email, origin & destination, and the size of your house or apartment. They will then send out your estimate request to multiple reliable long distance moving companies providing them with your contact information and the average weight of your one, two, or three bedroom home. 
  • Looking for an accurate quote? - The first option is to visit your local moving company's website, they will likely have an estimate request form for long distance moves. Essentially, it is a checklist of all your furniture and household goods that you will be shipping to your new province. This will provide your moving consultant with an approximate weight for them to base your quote on. The more accurate you can fill this out, the more accurate your quote will be. The second option, which is the most accurate, would be to book a FREE in-home estimate with a professional moving company. The moving consultant would come to your home and make a list of everything you would like shipped and will be able to calculate an approximate weight and quote for you. 
Keep in mind... Unless specified, the quote you receive is only an estimate. The price will most likely change based on the final weight of your shipment once the truck is loaded and scaled. 

Preparing 

Once you decide on a company to book with they are most likely going to ask you for a deposit starting around $250.00. This is usually paid by credit card. 

The booking agent will provide you with a pick up date, registration number, and a time spread of when your items will arrive to your new home. Sometimes it can take anywhere from 1 to 23 days, depending on the size of your shipment and where you are moving to. 

All of your loose items MUST be in sealed, labelled boxes. If you plan on downsizing, now is the time to do it. Since you will be billed based on weight, there is no use in paying to have things you no longer need shipped across the country. Remember, if you add anything to your shipment that was not stated during the quoting process, your final price will likely increase. 

Moving Day

Depending on your loading situation, the movers will come in either a large transport truck, or if there is no space for a transport, a straight truck (they will later meet with the transport and shift your items over). The movers will tag and list all of your items on an inventory sheet so they can keep track of your shipment. 

Once loaded you will be able to track your shipment with the registration number by calling the dispatch office. This will help you coordinate your own travel times or help make arrangements for someone to meet the driver at your new destination.

For more information please call Moving Again Inc. at 519-439-5987 or 866-358-6499

By: Michelle Langdon & Andrew Brown

Friday 18 January 2013

Moving With Pets

So you have decided to move but are unsure how your pet will deal with relocating... Enjoy these tips on how to make your move less stressful for both you and your furry little friends!




Professional household movers do not accept the transportation of live animals, so expect to make these arrangements yourself. Some of the reasons why animals are not allowed on the truck include:

  • Keeping pets safe - A good mover will pack the truck securely so furniture does not shift around, however accidents can still happen, and household items can still move while in transit. It would be tragic for a pet to be harmed by furniture that has become unsecured. 
  • Reducing anxiety & stress - Moving trucks are dark and unfamiliar to pets, which can frighten them and cause more anxiety than the move may be causing already. There is no need to stress out your pet more than necessary. 
  • Nature calls - Animals can't always control their bladders as well as us humans, especially when they are frightened. No one wants their furniture wrecked and smelling of animal excrement (Yuck!).

As stated earlier, moving is a stressful time, not only humans but also for our pets. The following includes some tips on how to reduce stress on your pets prior, during, and after the move for both local and long distance relocations. 

While preparing...
  • Keep routines as consistent as possible, even when your house looks like a tornado went through it while sorting and packing your household goods.
  • If you have access to your new house or apartment prior to the move, take your pet over so they can begin to familiarize themselves with their new home. Take dogs for walks around the new neighbourhood so they can understand the new location of their home.
  • Be sure you have easy access to any pet toys, blankets, medication, leashes, collars, and of course plenty of food and water. You will need all of this during the move. 
  • Remember to update any collar tags with current addresses, phone numbers, and any other contact information incase your animal wanders off during the move. 
During transit...
  • It is best if you can leave your pet with a friend or family member during the day of the move, or if you know of any great kennels, consider leaving them there for the day. 
  • If you must keep your pet with you, make sure they are travelling in your personal vehicle. Purchase appropriate crates or seatbelt harnesses so your pet is secure while in transit, they deserve safety in vehicles too! 
  • Cats especially should be transported in crates, as they startle more easily than dogs and can effect the safety of the driver and passengers. 
  • Bring along any blankets and toys that will keep them comfy and distracted. 
  • Make frequent stops so they can stretch their legs, relieve their bladder, and drink some water, and eat. Never feed them in a moving vehicle, they can choke or become sick easily. 
  • Do not leave your pet unattended in a parked vehicle, especially during warm summer days! Cracking your window is not a solution, your pet will get overheated, dehydrated and have some serious health risks. 
Long distance moves...
  • For long drives, try your best to stop at least every 2 hours and be sure to have an extra supply of food and water on hand in case your travels are delayed.
  • If driving to your new home is not an option, check with your airline, as many pets can travel in crates with the luggage. Otherwise, look into a professional pet moving service - yes they do exist!!!
Upon arrival...
  • Establish old/new routines as soon as possible. Let cats roam around your new home so they can become familiar with their new territory, if they are outdoor cats give them a couple days indoors until they become more relaxed in their surroundings. Again, take dogs for frequent walks in their new neighbourhood. 
For more tips, do not hesitate to ask your local veterinarian, breeder, or kennel!

By: Andrew Brown & Michelle Langdon