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11 Reasons To Hire Starving Students for Moving and Storage Services

July 22, 2022 By Ethan-ssmovers

Moving can be stressful as it requires many details such as packing, unpacking, and getting all your belongings to your destination. While a DIY approach is possible when moving, working with a professional is best for a smooth transition. At Starving Students, we provide innovative moving services to give you and your family a seamless relocation. Read this guide to find out the reasons to hire Starving Students moving services.

1.) We Are Incredibly Efficient

We are experienced and expert movers; we understand how to do the job well. Our understanding of the best routes and methods can save you time and energy. We also strive to minimize fuel consumption for overall costs to serve you better.

SS Movers are aware that situations like road construction and bad weather conditions cause delays. Our skilled moving professionals evaluate such factors and find reliable solutions to avoid unnecessary issues.

2.) We Have Safe Moving Equipment

If you are moving office equipment, furniture, or other delicate items, relocating them safely is a priority. Our experts know that equipment and machinery matter to your enterprise. We provide cutting-edge services and work carefully so that no equipment gets damaged during transportation.

At Starving Student moving and storage services, we employ excellent skills and tools such as straps to get the work done. This makes moving safe, and you don’t have to worry about your employees getting injured or items getting damaged.

3.) We Are Licensed and Insured

Don’t worry about insurance or damages when you work with us. Our company is licensed to verify its qualifications and authenticity. We’re insured to guarantee the safety of your belongings. In the rare situation that something gets lost or damaged, our insurance covers everything and gives you peace of mind.

4.) We Are Cost-Effective

Working with an established moving firm is less costly than DIY moving. The time, energy, and money you require when doing it yourself are higher than hiring a reputable moving company like Starving Students. Our trained and experienced movers do the hard work, allowing you to rest assured that everything is done correctly.

5.) We Have a Great Reputation

When hiring a moving company, you want to work with a trustworthy firm for the best experience. A solid reputation means that the professionals have provided countless customers with satisfactory results.

Our company is one of the renowned moving companies in the country. We have been offering excellent services to residents of California, Washington, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, and Texas for several decades.

6.) You Can Enjoy Focusing on Other Matters

Moving, packing, and unpacking your belongings are time-consuming activities. Our skilled professionals have the expertise to make this process straightforward. If you’re inexperienced, it shifts your focus from your daily operations. When selling a home to relocate, you must meet with lawyers, new buyers, inspectors, and the realtor. You’re busy enough already!

Our moving company gives you time to handle these matters and helps with some documentation. Our able movers get the job done, allowing you to handle such matters as delays and details about your relocation.

7.) We Have a Transparent Compliance Policy

Starving Students aligns with global policies, laws, and regulations. We take this seriously and take pride in providing excellent client service. Our procedures relate to different compliance areas such as sustainability, safety, health, supplier management, privacy, data security, and protection from fraud and corruption.

8.) You Won’t Need To Rent Equipment

With an experienced moving company, you don’t need this since you gain access to innovative moving solutions encompassing the necessary moving tools, including trucks, packaging materials, and vans. We provide all the requirements whether you need trucks, packing supplies, or other equipment. These tools make your relocation smoother and faster.

Our employees understand the importance of followings internal regulations and codes of contact. They exercise discipline in their duty to offer stellar moving services to clients. We conduct training to ensure all employees know how to use our moving equipment properly.

9.) We Keep Track of Your Items

Packing and organizing your belongings when relocating requires time and effort. Evaluate your needs to pick the best moving options. Self-service means you pack all your belongings while our moving professionals help to load and unload, allowing you to get involved throughout the process.

If you pick full service, our experts handle the entire process, and you won’t need to worry about anything. Special moving services may come with additional costs but allows you to transport all items safely, including fragile goods. Whether a rose-wood cabinet, grand piano, or furniture, our professionals handle everything carefully to avoid damage.

10.) You’ll Avoid Risk of Injury

Moving is tedious and increases injury risk for non-professional movers. Our expert movers know how to navigate the process. Experienced movers understand how to lift heavy boxes without posing any dangers while doing the work. Our expert movers understand the risk associated with this activity and use the right skills to perform the duties well.

We use moving straps and other safety equipment to avoid potential injuries and damage. These include measuring tapes, toolbox, hammers, and screwdrivers. With the right movers and proper equipment, you will relocate all items safely and with zero injuries.

11.) You Get Customized Services

Our professionals evaluate your moving needs to understand the requirements for packing and unpacking your belongings. This helps prevent the chances of you misplacing any important items during the process. Moving needs are unique for each person and depend on specific requirements. This means there is no one-size-fits-all solution for relocation, and we focus on providing personalized services to each of our clients.

Work With Starving Students Moving Services

Are you relocating and not sure how to get started? You’re not alone. Moving is troublesome for many individuals as it involves much work. If you want a stress-free process, hire professionals for top-notch moving services.

At Starving Students, our experienced experts are eager to help you settle into your new place with speed and comfort. Contact us today for a free estimation.

Moving and Packing Supplies – A Comprehensive List from the Pros – Part 1

May 29, 2022 By Ethan-ssmovers

What are the packing and moving supplies you’ll need? Right off the top of your head, the first few obvious items are – boxes, tape, and plastic wrap. But, trust the pros when they say you need a lot more. Should you start to search around online or in physical stores, you’ll come across a mind-boggling array of packing supplies. If you’re wondering if you really need to invest in them and what they do, here’s a comprehensive guide. It will help you take the mystery out of the packaging, so you end up buying only what you absolutely need. Ready to dive in?

Rely on the Expert Movers or Purchase Your Own

You can deal with the packing in two ways–rely on the moving crew to handle it. Or, manage the project yourself with family and friends to help. If you assign the entire task to the movers, they will bring in all the materials and box your belongings. But, that might raise your moving budget since the crew will dedicate all that extra time. Collecting the packing materials and having the boxes packed and good to go can translate into significant savings. Also, you can scout around for economical and discounted supplies if you start packing well ahead of time.

Let’s Started with the Basic Boxes

Among the fundamental packing supplies you’ll need, are boxes of different shapes and sizes. Start off by requesting your friends to collect and set aside the boxes they have or get. For instance, boxes that bring your Amazon or any other online shopping. You could also visit the local grocery store or supermarket and request any spare packing cases. Several websites now sell you used boxes at low prices. You can always return them when you’re unpacked and sorted.

An even better option is to hire them at reputable sites. This one’s a great idea for our eco-conscious customers who want to cut back on waste. An added advantage is that you can hold on to them for as long as you want. In case you don’t have the time to unpack entirely right away, you won’t have to worry about the charges.

You’ll Need Lots of Packing Tape

When purchasing packing tape, make sure to invest in high-quality products even if they are pricier. Not only will you need tape to seal full boxes, but it also comes in handy when bundling objects. That’s how you’ll prevent them from shifting around in the box or bumping into each other during the transit. Aside from the regular packing tape, your list of packing supplies should also include painters or masking tape. You can use it to bind together objects like cutlery and tape drawers shut, so they don’t keep opening. The benefit of masking tape is that the adhesive is not that strong. So you won’t have to worry about damaging surfaces and ruining the paint or polish when you take it off. While you’re at it, you might want to throw in a dispenser.

Get Bubble Wrap for Securing Fragile Items

This one’s a no-brainer and an essential on your list of packing supplies. You’re going to need lots of bubble wrap to pack fragile things like chinaware, mirrors, glass things, and other breakable stuff. Once you’ve layered with bubble wrap, use your clothing for added protection. For instance, t-shirts, sweaters, comforters, and couch blankets are great for securing against damage. You could also pile on the kids’ plush toys to prevent shifting during the move. Add some tape and you’re sorted.

Invest Moving-Specific Plastic Wrap

Make sure to purchase a couple of rolls of plastic wrap. You’re going to need it for wrapping couches and other furniture. Place a layer of moving blankets and hold them in place with the wrap. A sturdy roll of plastic wrap has several other uses. Like, for instance, securing a stack of plates before placing them into boxes. Covering up your bubble wrap layer with plastic wrap will ensure that the cushioning stays in place. For instance, when wrapping a dresser with drawers or your cooktop, washer, and dryer. You’ll keep your appliances protected from accidental scratches and dents.

Pick Up a Bunch of Zip-Locks in Different Sizes

Self-sealing zip-lock bags are a blessing and indispensable on your list of packing supplies. When you’re moving house, you’ll have a myriad of small objects that need to be carefully segregated, so they don’t get lost. Think small screws, knobs, handles, and little bits and pieces leftover from when you dismantle the furniture and appliances. You can’t risk losing them since you’ll have to reassemble the furniture later. You’ll also secure valuables like jewelry, cash, and collectibles. Kitchen supplies like spices, open jars of food, and loose cosmetics can all go into separate bags. Unpacking will become a lot easier and you can always reuse the bags.

Keep Your Boxes Sorted with Labels and Markers

An important thing to remember is that when you have your boxes packed and good to go, they’re all going to look exactly alike. Don’t be under the misconception that you’ll remember where you packed everything. Each box will have to carry a label to indicate the specific items it carries. If you can tape a list to the top, that’s even better. But, to maintain privacy, number the boxes instead and save a list on your phone. You can, however, use markers to write down the room where the box will go. “Kitchen,” “Bedroom,” “Dining Room,” and “Kids’ Room” are good starting points. Although it may seem tedious, replicate the marking on all five sides of the box. You’ll save time flipping them around to read labels.

Watch this space for more information on how to collect the essential materials for your move. We will be posting nee information for added materials you should get.

Whether you’re moving short distances like within the city and hiring Los Angeles movers. Or moving across the state of California, having these packing supplies will make the process smoother and quicker. For more information about moving supplies or a quick quote, we invite you to call this number: (888) 931-Move(6683). At Starving Students, we have consultants on standby waiting to answer all your queries.

Remember, We put our hearts into every move!

Practical Moving Tips from the Best Movers in San Diego

April 13, 2022 By Ethan-ssmovers

Best Movers in San Diego

Whether you’re moving across town or from other locations, you’ll want to hire the best movers in San Diego. Getting in touch with local people is always advisable. That’s because they can provide you with in-depth information about how the city works. Their familiarity with the different areas and communities can prove invaluable when you’re figuring out the actual move. Here are some of the practical tips you can expect from the trained crew at Starving Students. Tap into their half a century’s worth of experience in the moving industry. And you’ll soon be settled into your new home.

You Can Plan The Move At Any Time Through The Year

“America’s Finest City”, San Diego has a fantastic all-year climate. You can look forward to warm, sunny summers when the temperature does not go higher than 90°F (32°C). Winters tend to get cloudy and cooler, but it’s still pleasant with temperatures averaging at 66°F (19°C). The city gets a maximum rain of 2.1 inches (5.3 cm) in winters, which is negligible.

Since the weather is awesome, you won’t have to worry about planning your move according to favorable climate conditions. Typically, moving house gets complicated in locations that get heavy snow or rainfall with bitterly cold weather. Not so with this city. Nor will you have to worry about paying higher charges to the best movers in San Diego. In most other cities, moving costs tend to be higher during the prime moving season, which is usually summertime.

You’ll Factor in the Traffic

Like most other metropolitan cities in the US, San Diego has its fair share of traffic. You can expect jams on the freeways and arteries leading to downtown areas from 6:30 am to 8:30 am. At times, traffic can also extend up to 9:00 in the mornings. As for the evenings, 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm is the main rush hour on the freeways leading away from downtown San Diego. Fridays can be busier, and you might want to avoid the I-5 from Carlsbad to downtown. That’s the route party-goers and tourists take for reaching the hip and happening spots in the city.

When working out the best time for moving, your best movers in San Diego may suggest that you pick afternoons. That’s when there’s less traffic on the roads. You’ll also want to do this mid-week since most people move house on the weekends. Booking a moving service will be easier and most crews are available.

You’ll Pick the Right Community with Care

Many factors go into selecting the right neighborhood to buy a place like proximity to a good school district. Or, the best shopping centers, entertainment venues, and health care in San Diego. If you work in a downtown place, you might want to get a place close by to make the commute easy. You could walk or invest in a bike to get around. Most San Diego residents living in locations like Little Italy or the East Village prefer the bike to escape the traffic. You’ll also find public transport like the bus service and trolley lines.

But before finalizing where to live, check for adequate square footage to fit in your furniture, boxes, and other belongings. That’s because East Village primarily has apartments, luxury condos, and warehouses converted into multi-family homes. If your place is too small, you may have to get storage solutions for the extra stuff or liquidate them before moving.

You’ll Check the Access Streets to the Property

What many homebuyers tend to overlook is the access streets to their property. There are several neighborhoods with streets that are too narrow for the moving truck. If you have more furniture and boxes, you’ll need spacious trucks to transport all of them. Then again, parking in front of the house makes it easier for the moving crew to haul your stuff inside. The further away the truck is parked, the longer it will take the movers to complete the assignment. Factors like these can raise the final moving costs you pay.

Moving into a House or Apartment?

If you’re moving into a neighborhood in Coastal or North County of San Diego, you’ll find an array of houses. When walking through the two and three-bedroom homes, check for the navigability of the stairways. If you have heavy and bulky pieces of furniture, getting them to the upper floors could get tricky. Take the time to discuss your moving requirements with the best movers in San Diego. They’ll advise you on whether the pieces will have to be disassembled at your point of origin. And later, reassembled in the rooms at your destination.

Then again, if you’ve chosen to move into an apartment, check if the elevators are spacious enough to haul the furniture to your floor. If you need the movers to lug them to a second or third floor, that could raise the final costs you pay.

House hunting when moving to San Diego, undoubtedly, involves careful consideration. But, before picking out the right place to live, you might want to pre-plan the actual move. Keep these factors in mind and contact a reputable moving company like Starving Students. Getting a quote early on will help you plan for the final costs associated with the move. Call us at 888-931-6683 and talk to our customer care agents. We’d love to help!

Checklist for Choosing a Reputable Moving Company

April 9, 2022 By Ethan-ssmovers

Moving a home or business is, undoubtedly, a monumental task. And hiring a reputable moving company is always advisable. Yes, you do have a cohort of friends, family, and colleagues who are happy to assist with the move. All you need to offer is a cold beer, pizza, and lots of laughter to get the job done. But, hiring the experts is a more practical option. Moving involves myriad aspects, whether to a new city or across town. This is why, getting experienced people can make a world of difference. You can confidently expect a seamless move with the crew taking utmost care of your belongings. So, how would you know if the movers are qualified for the task? Read ahead for some of the key factors to discuss.

How Experienced is the Moving Company

Should you Google “moving company,” the list of movers and packers that comes up for your town is utterly overwhelming. If you’re wondering how to identify the best company, check for how long they have been in the business. The longer the movers have been working with clients, the more hands-on experience they have likely gained. You can safely trust them to handle the little-known nuances of executing a move efficiently and on schedule. Check for the year when the company was established, the number of people they have helped, and their history. You may also want to ask them about their experience with executing interstate or cross-country moves.

Recommendations from Friends and Family

Did you know that, on average, Americans move house at least 11.7 times in their lifetimes? You’re sure to know a bunch of people who have hired moving companies. Check with them for suggestions for movers they have used and their experiences. You can compare rate quotes, their skills, and their expertise in handling heavy and fragile items. Also, ask about on-time delivery and overall demeanor before making the final choice. You might even come across a reputable moving company that has worked with your parents or grandparents. What better way to prove exceptional success rates and a long track record in the business. While you’re at it, check with them for the tips they offered the crew in appreciation for their time and effort.

Transparency in Costs

A good mover will suggest you call them, discuss the finer details, and then, arrive at a rate. This number can be an hourly rate or a rate calculated after assessing weight and distance. For instance, if you wish to move heavy items and furniture, you can expect the costs to be higher. That is, even if the house is small and has say, only one bedroom but also a study. Further, you may need a bigger crew to do the heavy lifting. And specialized packaging materials to secure your property to ensure minimal risk of damage.

Reputable moving companies may suggest taking an inventory of the items they will be moving before giving you an estimate. These nuances can ensure transparency in the final costs. Keep in mind that unexpected factors can add to the final charges you pay, such as:

Bad weather conditions
Heavy traffic on the roads causing unnecessary delays
Unexpected roadblocks necessitating time-taking detours, or just slowing down

Having reached out to different moving companies, you’ll pick out the service that offers competitive prices that fit your needs and budget.

Availability of Customized Moving Services

Every home or business organization is unique when it comes to the belongings they need to relocate. You’ll need a reputable moving company that can accommodate your needs. For instance, say you have young kids and a whole collection of plush toys. The movers should have the necessary materials to ensure that this precious cargo arrives intact at your new destination. Then again, if you’re moving a gourmet ice cream store, you’ll likely have a large collection of equipment. These may include freezers, utensils, churners, and fragile glassware that has to be transported with care. The movers should survey the items and create a customized plan that matches your needs.

Packaging Materials

One of the most critical aspects of the move is getting the appropriate packaging materials. The movers you select should provide all the supplies you’ll need. Discuss in advance whether you would prefer to pack some of your things on your own. Or leave the entire project to the experts. Accordingly, you can discuss options like getting boxes from family and friends and sourcing them from offices and supermarkets. If you can handle some of the packing tasks, that could bring down the moving costs in terms of labor and time.

With so many aspects involved in relocating your home or business, your best bet is to work with experts who have decades’ worth of experience. Entrust the entire task to the teams assigned by Starving Students Movers. Sit back, relax, and get set to begin life in the new city. Stop worrying or have any of the stress that typically comes with a move. Call us at this number: (888) 931-Move(6683), and let’s talk some more.

How To Pack Stuffed Animals for Moving

March 11, 2022 By Ethan-ssmovers

Moving into a new home, especially when you have kids, can be a tough task. Packing their toys is one of the very first things you need to do so that the children can settle down in their new home comfortably. Understanding how to pack stuffed animals for moving without damaging them can be a little bit harder than you might think.

Stuffed animals play a vital role in a child’s life since they are more than just toys. They are best friends that are always there for the kids, ready to listen, be with them, or console them in difficult situations. Most importantly, they are familiar objects in an unfamiliar environment which will make them feel secure.

What You Need to Pack Stuffed Animals

Before you start packing your children’s stuffed animals, make sure you have all the necessary supplies at your disposal. Here’s a list to help you out-

Packing boxes
Tapes
Wrappers (plastic or paper)
Ziploc bags
Bubble wraps
Water-proof bags
Labels
Scissors

How to Pack Stuffed Animals

Your kids might feel anxious about moving to a new home, especially if they have lived in their old home for some time. Or, if they have known it as their only home all through their conscious lives. This is why it is important to carry their belongings in an organized way to make it easier for them and also for yourself. The last thing you need is trying to get your three-year-old to sleep without their favorite unicorn at the end of an exhausting day.

Follow these steps below to learn how to pack stuffed animals for moving.

Categorize the Toys

When packing stuffed animals for moving, the first step is to check the entire collection of soft toys. Here are the things you should consider while sorting the toys.

Favorite and Not-so Favorite

Identify the ones you can safely get rid of, like toys that are not needed or your kids do not play with anymore. But, tread carefully. Kids have this habit of unexpectedly missing toys they can’t find. Asking your child if they want a toy isn’t going to work. Instead, put away specific toys that have been ignored for a while now. This will help you pack the favorites separately so that you can unpack them first in your new home.

Condition

If you have a large collection of plush toys for your children, chances are high that many of those toys are not in a good condition. It’s better to get rid of those ones, as stuffed animals do take a considerable amount of space. Donating those toys to underprivileged children will make their day, and yours too.

Dry-Clean (If Necessary)

You’ll need to clean some of the plush toys before starting to pack them. Sending the toys to a local dry-cleaner is recommended, but it’ll add to the moving costs. If you don’t have the time to dry clean them, you can use a handheld vacuum cleaner to remove the dust particles, baby spit-up, and bits of food sticking to the fur. Make sure the suction power is set to a minimum to avoid damage to the stuffed animals. Cleaning and drying the toys thoroughly is important just in case you don’t get around to unpacking them right away. If they sit untouched for a while, they could attract mold.

Don’t try to rush things and wash the toys in a washing machine. And, check labels for directions on how to maintain them first. Your children won’t be happy to see their favorite toys ruined. Also, don’t forget to pull the batteries out of the stuffed animals that have them. Dry-cleaning the toys with batteries inside may damage them.

Wrap and Pack

By now you should know which toys should be wrapped and packed separately. For starters, bigger toys and your kid’s favorite toys should be segregated.

Here are the steps you need to follow to properly wrap stuffed animals-

Pick the right-sized wrapper
Place the toy on the wrapper
Fold the wrapper over the paper, do a double-fold if necessary
Use tape on the edges and the middle to hold the wrapper together
Use labels if the wrapper is not transparent
Put the toy inside a carton

You may also opt for big Ziploc bags instead of regular wrappers. Ziploc bags are usually more secure and don’t need labels since they are transparent.

You may also pack stuffed animals for moving in plastic bags, tie the tops, and put them inside the cartons.

Once you are done wrapping the toys, put them in cardboard boxes, and seal the boxes with tape. Remember to use labels, or finding the boxes carrying your children’s toys might become difficult when you reach your new home. And, carry the batteries separately in a waterproof bag.

Place the Stuffed Animal Boxes inside the Moving Truck

Even though stuffed animals are not considered that ‘fragile’, you need to make sure nothing heavy is placed over the boxes containing your kid’s plush toys. Stuffed animals are squishy, and they may get deformed if something heavy is placed over them all throughout the drive.

You need to place the plush toy boxes over the boxes carrying heavy stuff. You should also let your movers know that these boxes contain squishy toys and don’t want them damaged. It’s one of the basic steps of how to pack stuffed animals for moving.

Bonus Tips

Use Soft Toys for Securing Other Toys

Your children’s other toys can be packed between the plush toys. Place stuffed animals inside plastic bags and secure the tops. Arrange them in the gaps to stop the other toys from colliding with each other. In this way, all of the toys will be safe and undamaged.

Don’t Pack Literally Everything

Remember, moving is difficult for your children as well. They have to get accustomed to an entirely new environment and make new friends leaving their old ones behind. Letting them have their favorite plush toy during the move can help reduce that stress.

Before you begin packing, declutter your life to make moving day as affordable and stress-free as possible. Here are six professional ideas for decluttering before moving day!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Packing Stuffed Animals

Now that we’ve covered some of the tips for packing your kids’ favorite friends, let’s talk about some of the don’ts.

Art supplies, paints, crayons, and other things should always go into a separate box. Accidents happen when you least expect them.
Sealing each stuffed toy bag is always advisable, so they don’t attract dirt and unknown odors. Kids are very sensitive to scents and want their toys to smell like they know them.
Don’t try to squeeze in too many plush toys in one box.

We’re Here to Help!

Moving with your children and their large collection of stuffed animals? No need to worry or stress; let us help! Starving Student Movers is an affordable moving company with 45+ years of experience and trust. We can help you move locally or across the country at the most reasonable prices.

Call (888) 931-Move(6683) today to book us or get a free quote!

Final Thoughts

Soft and favorite toys can be your best friends when moving house. Always pack them up last. Put your kids with their toys and a couple of empty cartons in an empty room that you’ve already cleared up. You could also add their sippers and a few snacks. Gather up the kids and their things, last of all, when you’re ready to leave. When you reach your destination, clean up a room, and set out all that final paraphernalia you packed. Your kids may not notice the different environment when they’re playing, and you’ll have time to get other stuff settled in.

Unpacking your child’s playroom in your new home can be a daunting task. But it can be a lot easier when toys are properly arranged beforehand. So, collect their favorite belongings and organize them properly to make the move easier.

Also Read: Should you tip your movers after paying for their services? learn through our complete guide to find out why and how much you should tip movers for a local or long-distance move.

How Much Do Movers Cost in Los Angeles

March 2, 2022 By Ethan-ssmovers

When moving a home or business in Los Angeles, one of the first questions you’ll have is how much do movers cost? Several factors can influence the final costs you might have to pay. Read ahead for some of the criteria to keep in mind.

Factors that Influence Your Moving Costs in LA

1. House Size and the Volume of Your Belongings

The size of your home influences the cost of moving in a big way. For instance, the moving fee for a studio apartment is likely much less than a three-bedroom apartment. The volume and weight of your belongings are other crucial factors. Heavy furniture like a king-size bed, pool table, piano, and antiques will cost you more than lightweight belongings like small dressers and chairs. Then again, the number of floors the movers may have to navigate when moving your things will also count.

Most importantly, the availability of parking space around your home could raise the costs. The further the movers have to carry your furniture to and from the truck, the higher their charges will be, because of the added time and effort.

2. Weather Conditions During the Move

You can keep your moving costs down by planning the relocation around the best seasons. For instance, the weather is relatively mild and warm during fall and spring in LA, which is why many people prefer to move house during this time. But, this is also the high season when moving companies are busy and booked. Scheduling a move at this time may cost you a lot more.

You can get around the problem by planning your move during the off-season. Booking the company well before your expected moving date can also help bring down the costs. Also, book the movers mid-week to avoid moving during the weekends, holidays, and at the beginning and end of the month. Work out these factors when calculating how much do movers cost.

3. Handling Fragile and Expensive Items

Packaging and moving fragile and expensive items not only requires excessive precautions and care, but the movers may also have to bring in special packing materials to wrap and keep them safe. These materials can result in your running up a higher tab.

4. Additional Services

When estimating how much do movers cost in Los Angeles, account for the additional services you may need. Customers who need their move completed within a specific deadline or need the movers to pack and unpack at the destination typically pay more. Disassembling and assembling the furniture and setting the pieces instantly in your new location will add to the final budget. Other possible overheads include extra moving insurance, long carry charges, and travel fees.

5. Tipping Your Movers

Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation for the time and effort invested by the moving crew. A 10% to 20% tip per local move is customary. While this charge is not mandatory, it’s certainly a nice gesture. In most cases, you will need to pay cash for the tips. Though, some companies may allow you to pay the tip via credit card transactions.

Organize and mark things to help the movers find them faster and put them in the right location at your new residence. This will speed up the relocation and save money.

Costs to Move Locally in LA

If you are moving within your town or to a nearby city, that’s a local move, and you will be charged accordingly. The charges will depend on the size of your home, the average weight of your possessions, and the hours needed to pack, move, and unpack them.

Companies that offer full-service moving can charge you in two ways:

Flat-rate contract
Hourly contract

You can also arrange to move your belongings with the help of family and friends. But then, you will need to pack your things, hire trucks, and unpack all by yourself.

Full-Service Moving Cost

If you go with the full-service moving, it will cost you by the square footage of your home and the distance you are moving. You can expect that the move will take one to two weeks to complete.

Most companies provide the following services with a full-service contract:

Packing belongings
Disassembling furniture
Loading the belongings
Transporting the belongings to the destination
Unloading the goods
Unpacking
Assembling the furniture

Flat-Rate Contract

You have the option to get a flat rate contract from the moving company. This option typically has no hidden charges, and the final charges vary according to the criteria explained above.

Pros and Cons of Flat-Rate Contract:

Flat rate moving can get tricky during execution. While you’ll confirm the volume of your belongings over the phone with the company to get a cost estimation, the final rate may change as the move progresses. You could have more furniture or need extra hands or trucks than you originally anticipated. All of these add-ons will cost you extra.

Pros	Cons
Ensure the fast and safe moving Allows you to budget your moving costs No hidden costs Convenient for moving heavy, bulky, and considerable amounts of belongings.	Takes more time than the hourly-rate moving option Costs more depending on special items Companies may charge more for last-minute additions, heavy traffic, bad weather, tight spaces, and the number of stairs.

Hourly Contract

If you live in a small apartment with minimal belongings or shifting somewhere nearby, an hourly estimation can be a good option for you. Moving companies often charge by the hour to move locally. They’ll include services like packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and unpacking, along with the cost of packing supplies and tips. Essentially, it’s an all-inclusive contract.

Pros and Cons of Hourly Estimate:

Pros	Cons
Advisable for moving small apartments, fewer belongings, and short distances. Perfect for small moving jobs	Can experience unexpected delays like bad weather conditions and heavy traffic The budget can fluctuate due to the day and time Estimating exact costs can be hard

Do-it-Yourself Costs

If you’re making a DIY move, make sure to budget for the entire cost. For starters, you’ll need boxes of different sizes, duct tape, wrapping, and stuffing materials that are typically available at the Home Depot or other similar stores. You may also need moving blankets and bubble wrap to protect the furniture and other fragile items.

You can ask smaller stores for spare boxes and maybe get them free. Ask friends and families to save old boxes from Amazon deliveries ahead of time. They can be convenient and help you save on some of the costs. Also, factor in the charges for hiring trucks and workers to help with the heavier furniture. Friends and family are sure to help with the move, so you can save on the costs.

Tips for Saving On Your Moving Costs

If you want to save on costs, you can opt for the DIY option. But, moving all your furniture and other belongings safely and reassembling them at your destination can be extremely challenging. Here are some of the tips you can use to cut down on the costs of hiring professional movers and packers.

Schedule your move earlier to make substantial savings on the cost. Booking 2-4 weeks earlier can save you great hassle and money in the busy seasons.
Schedule your move outside of holidays, weekends, and rush days.
You can cut moving costs by getting rid of unwanted and unusable stuff. Have a garage sale to sell them for extra cash or donate them to charity. You’ll reduce the weight of the things you have to move, pack your items efficiently, and spend less on the move.
Partial DIY moving can reduce the cost of your moving. You can buy packing supplies and move most of your belongings, leaving only the heavy furniture for the moving company.

Do You Have Any Plans to Relocate This Season? Contact Us Right Now!

Having a professional moving service takes a lot of stress off your shoulders while you’re moving. You won’t have to worry about your belongings being harmed or misplaced if they’re caring and trustworthy. Choose Starving Student Movers to relocate to Los Angeles if you’re looking for an affordable local and long-distance mover.

Call (888) 931-Move(6683) to get a free quote or book us today!

Moving across the country or just a few blocks is a bother. Moving may be stressful and difficult, especially without a plan. Thankfully, our expert moving staff at Starving Students knows exactly how to make your relocation as quick and painless as possible.

The Takeaway

Moving can be a tough task when you have zero experience on how to get it done. It is better to hire professionals to aid you in the relocation. They know how to pack your things properly to avoid damage and disassemble and reassemble furniture correctly. Take the time to check around for information about how much movers cost in Los Angeles. Compare the costs and pick the company that can offer you the best and most economical deals. Most importantly, rely on a brand that has decades’ worth of experience in the industry and can guarantee you exceptional service. Contact us at Starving Students, and we’ll give you an quote free of cost.

How to Wrap a Couch for Moving

March 2, 2022 By Ethan-ssmovers

A typical household has many bulky pieces of furniture. And, working out how to wrap a couch for moving is likely one of your main concerns. To put it simply, sofas are really quite difficult to move. Especially when you have bigger pieces like say, a six-seater recliner, stylish love seat, or a Lawson. Of course, if you own a sectional, you’ve got a tough task cut out ahead.

Relying on Expert Movers is Always Advisable

Calling in the experts to wrap a couch for moving is advisable since they are experienced in handling ungainly pieces. The moving crew will make sure to transport your prized possessions with the minimum risk of scratches, staining, or breakage. They’ll also bring in the right materials to wrap a couch for moving and handle each piece with care. An expert touch can make the ultimate difference in it arriving at your new location in perfect condition.

Packaging Materials You’ll Need

If you’re planning on a DIY, here’s a quick overview of the packing supplies and other tips you’ll need:

Stretch Plastic Wrap to wrap the furniture and protect it from dirt and grime, make sure to get products specially designed for moving.
Moving blankets to cushion the fabric against impact and sharp objects
Packing tape to secure the wraps and blankets
Furniture dolly or a platform with wheels to move the couch without having to carry it manually
Furniture sliders to help with moving the heavy pieces
Rope to secure the pieces in the truck and prevent them from shifting during transporting in the truck
Furniture moving straps to secure the piece to the dolly
Paper or foam padding to cram into boxes with smaller items
Toolkit for unscrewing the feet and packing separately

Ready to Get Started?

Before you read up on how to wrap a couch for moving, you may want to examine your furniture with a critical eye. If the sofa is sturdy enough to withstand the move, it makes sense to invest in transportation to your new place. If not, you could consider donating or selling it when decluttering your home before the move. But, if you’ve decided it’s a keeper, let’s get on with packing it properly.

Plan the move.

Purchasing the couch and installing it in your living room is easy. The piece probably arrived in a box, and you simply assembled it on site. But, now that you have to move it, you’ll plan the process down to the last detail. Work out if you can dismantle it, which is the easiest way. But, if you can’t, start by measuring the length, width, and height. Next, measure your doorways and the pathway to the truck. Once you’ve identified the tricky parts, you’re ready to begin.

Remove all the loose parts.

Remove the cushions, throw pillows, couch blankets, and other accessories. Pack them carefully in a box and label them. Next, use your screwdriver to detach the arms, legs, and other hardware. Most sectional couches are designed to enable dismantling and moving. Get zip locks to package the screws and other smaller parts, so you don’t lose them. Place the bags in the boxes along with the cushions. Once you’ve taken the entire couch apart, you can start packing it individually.

Wrap the couch in plastic.

After you have made sure that you have properly disassembled your couch, it is now time to wrap these individual parts into moving blankets. Next, use the protective kind of stretch wrap, which will protect the fabric from tears and dirt. Wrap the couch with multiple layers and secure the ends with tape. Remember to double layer the corners that are likely to bump and rip. A smarter option is to cover the corners with a layer of foam or packing paper before the plastic wrap. Leverage the hollow ends on both ends of the roll. Place your fingers in the gap and walk around the couch, unrolling as you go. The plastic should stick much like cling film. Cut off the ends using a pair of scissors.

Mount on a dolly.

If you have a clear path to the truck, you can mount the sofa on a dolly and tie it in place with straps. But, if you’re navigating stairways, you might have to go with sliders. Since you’ve measured the sofa and doorways, you’ll know whether to turn the piece on its side or leave it upright. If the couch is too wide, you may have to tilt it at an angle. Heavier or bulkier couches may need furniture sliders to move. That should cover the basics of how to wrap a couch for moving.

Clear a pathway to the truck.

Now that your sofa is packed and good to go, make a quick run to the truck, and check if the pathway is clear. Shift boxes and any other items out of the way. You’ll also want to use door stoppers to keep them open as the couch passes through. The professional movers will likely set up mini metal ramps to navigate curbs and cover the height of the truck.

Load the couch into the moving truck.

There are many ways in which you can move your couch into the moving truck. The main factors that will come into play are the size of your particular couch and the structure and limitations of the available space. Make sure that the frame of your couch is placed towards the front of the truck up against the driver’s cabin. This will help with the proper distribution of the weight of the couch and make sure it has proper balance while the truck is moving. You may also want to put the couch in the upright position to make space for any other things that you need to move. Remember not to place any heavy items on the couch or you risk damaging the springs.

Unwrapping and Reassembling

Now that we’ve covered how to wrap a couch for moving, let’s talk about the unwrapping. Cut away the plastic wrap carefully, making sure not to damage the fabric with nicks. Reattach the legs and replace the cushions. Most furniture needs cleaning when it arrives at the destination, so you may want to schedule a deep cleaning. Remember to collect the packaging materials, including the plastic and boxes, and place them in the recycle bin.

Yes, there’s a difference between knowing how to wrap a couch for moving and actually doing it! And, yes, it’s not as easy as it looks! Leave it to the professionals to manage the task for you. Contact us at Starving Students, and we’ll assign a trained crew to assist you. Have a quick question? Call us at this number: (888) 931-6683.

6 Pro Tips to Decluttering Before a Move

February 24, 2022 By Ethan-ssmovers

Planning to relocate anytime soon? Now is the time to get started with decluttering before a move. Getting rid of unwanted stuff well before the scheduled move will help you save on the time and effort needed to pack them. Take the time to sort through possessions you don’t need and certainly won’t use in the new place. At the same time, you’ll also save on the moving costs for transporting the stuff. Read ahead for some practical tips on how to declutter your home so you bring only the essentials.

1. Feeling Overwhelmed? Start Small

Sorting through the things you absolutely need and the ones you can get rid of is a challenging task. As soon as you’ve made the final decision to move, start getting rid of unwanted items. Each time you spot something you know you won’t use, relegate it to different piles. Just remember that the sooner you start, the easier will be the move when you get down to it. Starting with one room at a time over the weekend is also a great idea. How about the garage, basement, attic, or even, the laundry room?

2. Divide Your Belongings into a Few Parts

A practical hack is to separate your things into piles that will then determine their fate. Sort them according to sell, donate, and discard. Anything that still has some use in it or can be recycled should be sold or given to charity. The choice is yours. Here are some categories:

Keep
Trash
Shred (sensitive documents/personal records)
Sell or Donate
Storage
Recycle

3. Get the Whole Family Involved

Respect that each family member should be allowed to decide what to keep and what to bring along to the new place. If your five-year-old insists on bringing their entire stuffed toy collection, respect that. Moving to a new place is a scary prospect for a child and having familiar objects could make the transition easier. Remember not to make decisions for your partner, let them sort through their possessions. Anything that has sentimental value for you or any other family member definitely goes in the keep pile. If you can’t decide, for now, set the item aside for revisiting it later. Accept that decluttering before a move can be an emotional roller coaster.

4. Dedicate Time

As the actual moving date draws closer, you’ll have to make a conscious effort to dedicate time every day. Set aside an hour after work and you’ll be surprised at the tasks you manage in that time. Getting close friends and family to help is also a good move. Sometimes, you need a second set of eyes to evaluate whether or not to keep things. You can also get them to help you check every nook and cranny of the house to make sure you don’t miss anything. And, that includes drawers, cabinets, under-the-bed hideouts, and closet corners.

5. Restrict or Stop Shopping Entirely

The weeks before the move are a good time to cut back on shopping. Don’t purchase anything unless it is absolutely needed. When buying groceries, focus on getting only the minimum supplies that you’ll need for the next week or so. When putting away the groceries, get rid of the expired and useless food as you check each cabinet. You’ll save time decluttering the kitchen when it’s time to move. Empty out the fridge and try to use up as much as possible.

6. Have a Garage Sale

A garage sale is the best way for decluttering before a move and getting rid of some of the stuff you absolutely don’t need. Put a reasonable price tag and set up the things in your front yard. Remember to advertise the sale on your neighborhood social media platform or local news website. It’s a great way to raise some extra cash while finding new homes for your pre-loved possessions.

Also Read: Should you tip your movers after paying for their services? Continue reading to find out why and how much you should tip movers for a local or long-distance move.

We’re Here to Help!

Moving can be stressful and challenging but here at Starving Student Movers, we have been in the moving business for more than 45 years. That’s the kind of moving experience you’ll have at your disposal. Whether you are moving locally or even across the country, we can help you move at the best possible rates.

Call (888) 931-Move(6683) today to book us or get a free quote!