The Art of Lifting

In the transportation industry, we lift objects all day long. Obviously we lift a lot of boxes – small and large boxes, oversized boxes, heavy and light boxes. We lift furniture, appliances, household items of every shape and size, heavy and light items. We lift office equipment, machines, chairs, desks, filing cabinets. We lift sculptures, oversized artworks, crated objects – you name it! 

We move all of these items up stairs and down stairs. We move them down long passageways, through tight doorways, up ramps and down ramps, out of basements and into basements. 

There is a lot of bending and lifting that goes into moving these varied objects, but one constant remains the same – how we protect our bodies when we lift ANYTHING.

Lifting 101

• You have heard this a million times, but it is the holy grail of lifting – do not lift from your back, lift from your legs. Be sure your footing is solid, and keep the object as close to your body as possible.
• Every time you lift, be aware of what you’re about to do. Don’t lift without thinking, because it’s those sudden lifting movements that cause most injuries.
• Test the weight of the object before lifting it so you are prepared for a heavy or light load.
• Lifting a large or heavy piece with someone else takes the load off both of your backs.
• Keep your eyes open for anything sharp that may cut you – nails, splinters, sharp edges.
• Pull your stomach in while lifting to protect your lower back.
• If you need to turn while you’re lifting, move your feet instead of twisting your back/waist.

Moving With Pets

Moving can be a stressful time for adults and children, but for pets, it can also be a very confusing experience. You can take some simple precautions that will keep these precious members of your family safe and relatively stress-free during your move.

Tip # 1
When you begin the packing process, and the regular layout of your home is disrupted with boxes and furniture all over the place, it’s a good idea to establish a stable area for your pet to stay in that remains the same and has their familiar items, such as blanket/bed, toys, food and water bowls. This is very reassuring to animals, who do not understand changes to their environment as easily as humans.

Tip # 2
Ensure that your pet is wearing an identification tag with your name, address and phone number, just in case he/she becomes frightened and bolts away through an open door or window.  Also bring a leash and collar for walking your pet before travel, during travel if you take a break, and for when you reach your destination.

Tip #3
Air travel – Check your airline’s requirements, as they may allow pets such as cats, dogs, pet rabbits or household birds to travel in a carrier with you on the plane. Obtain your pet’s shipping container a few weeks before your flight to familiarize your pet with it.

Tip # 4
Car travel – If your pet is not used to traveling by car, acclimate him/her with short trips prior to the move day. On move day, be sure to bring a seat cover or blanket, paper towels, water, food and toys to make the trip as comfortable as possible. A collar and leash are very important if you are traveling with your dog.

Tip # 5
State and Local Animal Laws – Check with the appropriate agency of the state you are moving to, to be sure you have your pet’s interstate health certificate in order. Some pets require an entry permit as well.

Tip # 6
When you reach your new home, keep your pet inside the home and slowly acclimate it to your new surroundings.  Cats should stay inside for several weeks before you let them out, to prevent them from trying to find their old home.

Your pet has to adjust to his/her new surroundings just like you and your family, so take your time and explore your new home safely and carefully!

Tips For a Stress-Free Move

Arnoff Moving & Storage knows first-hand how to make moving easy, and we hope the following tips will be helpful to you when you start the moving process. We recommend that you ask questions during the moving process if you do not understand something. The mover is there to assist you in every aspect of the move. They are the professionals, so let them guide you through this journey.

1. Do not wait for the last minute to plan your move. This will limit your options and can  result in disappointment when it comes to securing the services of the mover of your choice.
2. Ask for recommendations from friends, neighbors, or relatives for a reputable mover.
3. Be sure you have the representative from the moving company come to your house and give you a written quote.
4. DO NOT get estimates on the phone or over the internet.

MEETING THE MOVING COMPANY

Ask your mover if they are a member of the American Moving & Storage Association and if they are a CMC (Certified Moving Consultant).

• Ask the mover for a guaranteed price. You do not want to worry that the quote is not accurate and have to pay more on moving day.
• If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• Ask the movers to show you feedback and/or references from customers.
• Do not give a mover a down payment of cash. You may have to prepay with a credit card, but avoid other down payments.
• Show your mover everything you want to move and have packed. If the mover does not get any surprises, neither will you.
• Ask the mover to explain how their liability coverage works and how they handle a claim, in case of an accident.
• Find out who your contact will be during the moving process at their company. There should be a dedicated person for you to contact in case you have any questions or changes to your move dates.
• If you sell your home prior to your new residence being completed, you may need storage. Ask the representative to explain what your storage options are.

ITEMS THAT SHOULD NOT BE MOVED

• Cash, coin collections, jewelry, and important documents, such as wills, passports, etc).
• Paints, aerosol cans, propane tanks or any other flammable items.
• Foods in glass jars or bottles are not recommended.

SETTING UP THE MOVE DATE

• Call the mover’s contact coordinator with the moving date. If packing services are being provided, this will be done the day before your move.
• Make sure the coordinator has your correct contact information, including a cell phone number. Many times the local phone company disconnects your home service early. The moving company needs to be able to reach you at all times.

MOVING DAY

• You must be present on packing and moving day to give directions to the movers and to answer any questions they may have.
• Pay the mover according to the terms of your agreement, before your possessions are unloaded.
• The movers may be required to do an inventory of items they are moving. You should be present while they are doing this process to ensure that you are in agreement with their assessment.
• There will be many documents for you to sign — the Bill of Lading is the legal binding document, so you will need to read this and sign it on moving day.
• Retain copies of everything that you sign.
• After loading takes place, walk through your home with the mover to make sure nothing was left behind.
• At your new residence, please be present to show the movers where you want everything placed. You should have a good idea of this, prior to moving in. Movers do not intend on moving items three or four times until you decide where the sofa should go.
• Check your items for any damage when they arrive. You should report any loss or damage as soon as possible. This will help expedite your claim process and allow you to enjoy your new home.