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Indianapolis & Louisville Long-Distance Movers Provide Tips for Moving Collectible Items

If you are planning an upcoming long-distance move, it can be stressful relocating valuable items like fine china, luxury handbags, instruments, or antiques. Luckily, there are some simple steps that you can take to ensure that your collectible items arrive to your new home safely. When it comes t... Indianapolis & Louisville Long-Distance Movers Provide Tips for Moving Collectible Items published first on https://livecouriertracking.tumblr.com/

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Tips for Moving with Roommates

Moving means a new beginning which can be very exciting! It can also be stressful, especially when roommates are involved. Whether you and your roommates are moving into a place together or you’re leaving a shared space to start your own journeys, it’s essential to be organized. Below are our time-tested tips for navigating the moving experience with roommates to preserve your property and friendship best!

Discuss Timeline, Budget & Expectations

As with most things, it’s best to start with a conversation. It can be easy to assume you’re on the same page about an upcoming move but be sure to sit down and explicitly discuss your game plan. Below are some things to think about:

When are you going to move? If there’s no overlap of time from when you need to be out of your old address and can get the keys to your new one, you’ll need to plan for transitional lodging and storage.

What’s your budget? Moving costs can add up. Be sure to discuss your budget and figure out a plan that works within those constraints. You don’t want any surprises on moving day!

What’s your schedule? Once you have your moving date and your budget, you can work together to map out what tasks need to happen when. Moving always takes much longer than you think it will, so be sure to leave lots of cushion in your schedule.

Make a Moving Checklist

There are many moving parts in a relocation; keep a running list of tasks, needs, and reminders. You can use a shared document or shared list on your phone’s notes app or something similar. When moving with another person, it’s important to be clear about who will take care of which task, so nothing falls through the cracks. A shared list will help you both stay on the same page, especially if you’re not already living in the same space.

Don’t forget to add these things to your list:

Clean and make any needed repairs to your old address

Move utilities and insurance from one address to another

Forward your mail to the new address for all roommates individually

Buy celebratory champagne or cake for your first night in your new place!

Sort & Organize Before You Pack

It’s essential to go through all your belongings and downsize for any move, but this is especially true with roommates. More people means more stuff, and you don’t want to move anything to your new home to donate or throw it away there.

Develop a system for packing and sorting boxes. Some will have shared items, but most will need to be identified by individuals. You could use different color markers or stickers to label boxes. You want to be able to immediately identify which box is who’s without needing to open them. Whatever your system is, be sure to keep it simple. If it’s too complicated, it will be the first thing to go when things get stressful.

Hire a Trusted Moving Company

One of the best decisions you can make is to let someone else do the heavy lifting. A professional team will handle packing boxes, disassembling furniture, moving, unpacking, and reassembling! Just make sure it’s a reputable company like Black Tie Moving. Our mission for every single job is to provide the best moving experience our clients have ever had.

When you and your roommate(s) are ready to plan for your next big adventures, call Black Tie Moving at (844) 920-2966 and learn more about the ways our team will meet all your expectations.

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Tips for Moving With Children

Moving with Children

Moving can be stressful no matter what the reason is for the move. Emotions and tempers can run short during this time. Help your entire family better handle the moving process by talking about it ahead of time.

Talking with your children about the move in advance should be a top priority. Don’t try to keep it from them, they will know something is up and trying to hide things from them can create anxiety. Explain to each child at his or her own level of understanding why you’re moving, what the new home will be like, and how they can each contribute to the relocation.

Encourage them to express whatever feelings they are having even if they are negative. Try to be as upbeat as possible when speaking about the move. Kids take the lead from you, so the more positive you can be about the move, the more at ease they will be.

If the move is associated with disappointment or grief, your children may not fully understand. Acknowledge that both you and your children will have mixed feelings about leaving, no matter how nice your new home situation promises to be.

Above all, be honest.  Truth will go a lot further than pretense or made-up stories when preparing children for the move. Strength of the family unit will contribute immeasurably to the readiness and confidence with which children adapt to their new surroundings.

Tips for Moving with Children

Include the children in making plans for the move. Take them with you, if possible, when you go hunting for your new house or apartment.

If you are moving to a distant place, help your children learn about the new area.

Let the children help in deciding how their new rooms are to be arranged and decorated.

Take the time to make a last visit to favorite family places.

Encourage older children to exchange addresses and phone numbers with their friends. A phone call or card to an old friend is a low-cost way to relieve any post-move letdown.

Prepare a travel package for each child with favorite toys, clothing, and snacks. Label each one with the individual child’s name.

Both parents should spend time with all the children after the move, listen to what they’ve learned about the new neighborhood, new school etc.

The first few weeks in a new school may be difficult for your child. Connect with the teacher as soon as possible.

Younger children may react to the move by reverting to babyish actions. Be reassuring, not scolding. They will soon relax and return to normal behavior.

Any abnormalities that linger – particularly physical ones, such as loss of appetite, insomnia, night terrors – should be referred to a doctor.

Adults can find moving emotional and stressful. It is likely to be even more so for your children. You will move many valuable possessions when you change addresses, but none as precious as your children. Give them the attention they deserve and need.

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Black Tie Moving’s Founder Dusty Black Featured in People Magazine

  Image credit: Chase Lauer

Black Tie Moving’s founder and CEO Dusty Black was featured in the July 2021 issue of People. While many know the 38-year-old as the driving force behind the country’s fastest-growing moving company, the article focused a lens on another of Black’s professional passions – his new career as a country singer-songwriter.

Generations of Music & Moving

It seems like both music and moving run in the Black Family. Dusty Black’s grandfather was a banjo player on the Louisiana Hayride for Johnny Cash. Black’s father was also a musician with dreams of playing professionally, but he decided to pursue other opportunities to provide for his family. Ultimately, Black’s father ended up in the moving business, where Dusty Black had his first experience with the moving industry.

As a kid, Black often worked with his father, gaining industry knowledge and experience. He was also exposed to movers who were not always the most professional of role models. As an adult, Black carried these memories with him and was initially discouraged from working in the moving business. During his real estate and finance industries tenure, he had clients who had horror stories from moving experiences. Then, Black built his own home and hired movers for himself. He chose the largest moving company in America but was shocked when less-than-professional movers showed up in his house, smoked on his lawn, and caused more than $30,000 in damages – all for a move that totaled $4,000.

There had to be a better way.

And that’s how Black Tie Moving got its start – Dusty Black saw a need in the market and built on his father’s work and his own life experiences to create the VIP experience that is Black Tie Moving today.

Moving Forward

In 2019, Dusty Black’s father died, making him reassess his life’s passions and priorities. It was a wake-up call for him. Black told People, “Success and money became far less important to me after he passed, because you realize you can’t take it with you and that at the end of the day, it’s not really what defines you.”

That’s when he decided to pursue his childhood dreams of being a musician. 

Somebody’s Mama

Black shared his new song, “Somebody’s Mama,” with People in July. The song is written by Monty Criswill, Derek George, and Houston Phillips and features Black’s friend Gary LeVox of Rascall Flatts. Black and LeVox met when LeVox hired Black Tie Moving to move his family into their new home.

“Somebody’s Mama” is an emotional song for both Black and LeVox, as it’s about a father’s love for his daughters and the bittersweet emotions that come with them growing up. Both Black and LeVox are “girl dads,” so it was a moving song for both.

Exceptional Performance

Whether performing on stage or working with Black Tie Moving, Dusty Black believes and pursues excellence. Black Tie Moving’s mission is to create the best moving experience you’ve ever had every time you work with them. It’s a service delivered by true professionals with a focus on exceptional customer service. 

Read the full People article about Dusty Black, and learn more about how Black Tie Moving can handle all of your residential and commercial.

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State of the Moving Industry 2021

State of the Moving Industry 2021

If you’re like so many thousands of people, you are looking to move in the near future. Please don’t be surprised if your moving company of choice is not easily able to accommodate your needs.

There are many reasons why moving & storage companies may be having trouble keeping up with demand:

June-August remains the busiest time of year for moving individuals and families.

Moving companies looking to buy or lease new trucks are experiencing issues due to computer chip shortages and new fuel emission standards.

Industry-wide labor shortages are debilitating local and independently-owned moving companies.

Major slowdowns around ports and US customs are restricting access to people looking to move and ship their items.

We will discuss the challenges that moving companies must overcome in order to be successful.

Under-Employment

COVID-19 and other factors have contributed to the reduced workforce for all moving companies. The moving industry is stripped of its workforce even though wages for non-managerial employees were raised 14% nationally in 2021 according to the Washington Post. Due to the average age of Long-Distance drivers being 62 years old, the industry immediately lost 15% of our drivers. This was due to drivers taking early retirement or deciding to hunker down and wait till things were safer, and they felt more comfortable crisscrossing in and out of multiple states.

People are experiencing troubles they would not normally have with a fully-staffed moving company. Jesse Newman of the Wall Street Journal featured Debora and Brian Roland of California in early 2021. The couple hired a moving company that promised the move would be completed within 6 to 12 days. After 4 weeks, their items were still undelivered and the home they just bought remained unfurnished. Simply put, the moving industry is overbooked and undermanned. You should be mindful that the trend will continue beyond 2021.

As in the case above beware of companies that may be over-promising delivery dates. A professional company will be upfront with you about these dates, but we still find some salesmen just simply overpromise to make the sale.

Peak Season

Industry-wide, moving companies are accustomed to the peak moving season. There’s a strong correlation between when school is let out for the summer and an increase in demand for moving companies. June-August moves are scheduled 4-6 weeks in advance for local moves and even longer for long-distance. The non-peak season is usually booked 2-3 weeks in advance. Of course, if you call last minute you might find your favorite mover has an opening, but it’s safer to schedule as far in advance as possible to secure your preferred date.

Keep in mind since the COVID outbreak things have been a bit different. With children participating at home for school, and parents working from home, the normal busy months are busy but “busy season” started earlier this year and we expect it to continue well into October.

In a normal year moving & storage professionals recommend scheduling your move during non-peak season. People looking to move find there are usually benefits to scheduling a move between September-April. Typically there is a price reduction that we have not seen yet and dates are more flexible which again we have yet to see this season.

Appointments will fill up quickly for the best moving companies, so be sure to do thorough research on companies you’re considering:

Check reviews on trusted review sites like Google, Yelp & BBB.

Make sure the company you are hiring has a physical address near you and not just a pretty website.

NEVER hire a broker. Brokers simply farm the move out to a company that may or may not have a good reputation. Most reputable companies do not need to engage a broker to find work. Go directly to the source and hire an actual company, not through a third party.

NOTE: Lugg are NOT trained, professional movers. Anyone with a truck of any size (pickup or van) is able to register and they send that person jobs to do. Lugg is also expensive. They are charging per minute so, in the end, you are paying professional rates and not getting a professional mover.

Do your research. The Department of Consumer Affairs reported more than double the number of mover-related complaints between March and December of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. Complaints included:

Moving companies that take your money and don’t complete the move.

Moving companies that hold your stuff hostage until you pay an exorbitant fee for unfinished services.

Moving companies that provide a super-low estimate to get your business, then overcharge you upon delivery.

Do your research to avoid hiring the wrong moving company.

Supply Chain

Moving companies rely on their fleet of trucks to move every client. New trucks have been built but are sitting in a lot because they don’t have the computer chip needed. So, no one can purchase new trucks at will.

Trucks are also being taken off the road, regardless of the milage because according to the California Air Resources Board (CARB), by January 1, 2023, all trucks and busses operating in California must have at least a 2010-year model engine. This policy will require companies to retire many perfectly functional trucks. Moving Companies are scrambling to make sure they are not left with a depleted fleet but remember the first line above – there are few new trucks available to purchase.

CARB: This is a much bigger issue than people realize and adding to the supply chain issues. Both public and private companies are having to sell perfectly good trucks to other states because California doesn’t want vehicles on the road with engines older than 2010. These trucks are simply being sold to other states. No one is saving the planet it’s simply creating a hardship on many California companies, private as well as public entities are suffering.

This has also created a situation where Long Haul Drivers are refusing to come to California. A truck coming into California has to be retrofitted with air quality “stuff” at a cost of more than $30K per truck in order to enter. As an independent driver why come to California when they’ve got 47 other states to service.

Long Distance Moves

There are many reasons why people move out of state.

New employment opportunities

Moving home to be closer to family

More buying power for a bigger less expensive home

Overall lower cost of living

Better quality of life

Retirees moving to their dream home out of State

According to MoveBuddah, California dropped in population between January 2020 and January 2021. The first-ever population decline in the state’s recorded history. High costs of living and a statewide housing shortage, a slowing birth rate, and COVID-19 are all contributors to this loss of 180k residents.

With many more people moving out of California than moving to, moving companies began experiencing logistical struggles. The volume of outbound California moves is many times higher than the inbound moves creating a major issue with efficiency as many moving companies make return trips with empty trucks.

Your move may take longer to get from point A to point B during this time. Make plans that allow you to be without your belongings for a long period of time. Be mindful that the best and most professional moving companies are committed to providing you a quality moving experience, but there are just things beyond even the best companies’ control right now.

If you’ve hired a moving company that is experiencing logistical struggles, it’s important to be considerate of their challenges during this difficult time.

Borders and Ports

COVID-19’s impact on how we move internationally is significant. COVID-19 has put a halt to many things but moving isn’t one of them. People are continuing to relocate internationally for many of the same reasons people move out of state. Employment opportunities, closer to family, cultural experience and of course the biggest sector relocating is still retirees.

Moving internationally takes in-depth planning. Consult with an experienced international moving company and they will guide your move from start to finish. A professional international mover will handle the move from start to finish including customs paperwork, packing, loading and unloading directly into your new home no matter what country you are moving to.

Here are some tips that professional international movers suggest in the weeks leading up to your move:

Keep your important travel documents in your carry-on, separated from the rest of the household items. You’ll want easy access to passports, tax documents, visa information, immunization and medical records, pet medical records, travel insurance.

Check your mobile phone plan and add an international plan to your service if needed.

Contact your credit card companies to see who charges a fee for out-of-the-country purchases. You’ll want to take advantage of companies that don’t charge those fees.

Create a bank account that is local to the region where you are moving.

There are many slowdowns at ports and border crossings into the United States. Worldwide, several countries like the United States, China, Canada, Australia, implemented restrictive measures on ports and harbors aiming to curb the spread of COVID-19. The same restrictions were placed at border crossings.

If you’re moving internationally, understand your move may have more slow-downs compared to pre-COVID-19. The best advice we can give is to be patient with your moving company and be courteous to the volume of moves they deal with annually. You should be prepared to be without your items for longer than normal so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Moving companies across the industry are all experiencing all the same issues related to staffing, peak season, COVID, supply chain, CARB, congested Ports.

Therefore make sure you:

Research moving companies early

Schedule early

Stay away from Brokers and other sites that sell leads

Do not shop price

Be patient with regard to schedule

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Louisville & Indianapolis Long-Distance Movers Provide Moving Tips for Seniors

When changes occur in your life, you want a trusted Louisville & Indianapolis long-distance moving company to make the transition smoother. Whether you are moving to your retirement home or moving to be closer to your family, there will be some mixed emotions involved as you start the downsizing... Louisville & Indianapolis Long-Distance Movers Provide Moving Tips for Seniors published first on https://livecouriertracking.tumblr.com/

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Indianapolis & Louisville Long Distance Movers Provide Relocation Stress-Reduction Tips

So, the time has come to move. Don’t panic! Though you may already feel the stress creeping in, you can take a deep breath and relax. The Louisville long-distance movers and Indianapolis long-distance movers at Allied Van Lines are here to give you some tips about how to manage stress levels through... Indianapolis & Louisville Long Distance Movers Provide Relocation Stress-Reduction Tips published first on https://livecouriertracking.tumblr.com/

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Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Moving Tips

  There’s a lot to worry about when setting up a move and, if you’re environmentally conscious, being as sustainable as possible is one of them. If you’re interested in the most eco-friendly relocation process possible, read on for tips on sustainable moving.

1. Downsize & Donate

The more belongings you have, the more boxes and packing material you’ll need to use. Additionally, moving excess items may result in more trips back and forth which will burn more fossil fuels than necessary. Before starting to pack in earnest, take a day or two to go through your belongings and donate, gift, or sell those you don’t use, want, or need. In addition to lowering the number of boxes you’ll use, you may also find yourself with more space than you expected in your new home.

2. Don’t Buy Boxes

While going out and buying boxes is sometimes the simplest way to obtain moving containers, it’s certainly not the most sustainable. Instead, look to other sources like the ones you already have at home. Plastic bins, suitcases, reusable grocery bags are all viable options for packing. Most of us do a fair amount of online shopping, so if you know you’ll be moving soon, you can break down and save the shipping boxes for later use. You can also ask friends and family for boxes or look on websites like Craigslist and Freecycle to get what you need.

When you absolutely must acquire more boxes and have exhausted the options above, consider renting moving boxes. These often come in the form of plastic totes, which have a variety of advantages including being stackable and much sturdier than their cardboard counterparts. You pay a fee to use the boxes for the move and return them when you’re finished. This removes the need to break down and recycle a bunch of boxes and keeps your eco-footprint neutral.

3. Try Unusual Packing Materials

Much like moving boxes, it’s surprisingly simple to get packing materials for free. Because things like bubble wrap and foam are often not recyclable and end up in the landfill, you should look around your house for items you can use in their stead. Comforters, towels, and linens can all be used as effective packing materials in many cases. You can even use clothes to safely wrap items, like securing plates and other kitchenware in t-shirts. If you do need to use plastic, find out ahead of time where and how to dispose of it properly.

4. Minimize Back & Forth

It’s not always easy to get everything you need in as few trips as possible when you’re moving locally. For example, you may start by getting bedrooms set up only to realize you forgot lamps. Then, when you leave and return with the lamps, you can see that you also forgot bedsheets and must go back to the old place to fetch them. This type of back and forth is not only highly inconvenient, but it can also increase your driving emissions by quite a bit depending on the distance and frequency driven. Plan as much as possible to avoid this outcome.

5. Hire an Efficient Moving Company

Efficiency is everything when you’re trying to keep your carbon footprint down during a move. Whether long-distance or local, it will always be more eco-friendly to hire a company with true expertise in organization and logistics. If you’re interested in how a top-notch moving company makes it easier to lower your moving footprint, contact Black Tie Moving for more information on our red carpet service and other solutions to your relocation needs.

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Indianapolis & Louisville Commercial Movers Discuss Best States for Business Relocation

Have your business tax rates gotten out of hand? If you’re tired of spending more money on taxes than you have to, consider moving out-of-state to reduce your tax burden. There are a few states that are known for their lower-than-average business tax requirements. Florida, Nevada, and North Caroli... Indianapolis & Louisville Commercial Movers Discuss Best States for Business Relocation published first on https://livecouriertracking.tumblr.com/

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Moving From the City to the Suburbs

It’s no secret that the real estate market is booming across the United States, and much of that interest is in suburban neighborhoods. In fact, a Q4 2020 Zillow survey predicted that Dallas will be the nation’s sixth-hottest housing market in 2021. Surrounding suburban areas are sure to benefit from this trend, especially as COVID-19 has made remote working and schooling the norm.

If you’re wondering if a switch from the city hustle to suburban solitude is right for you, here are a few points to consider before jumping into this hot market.

Larger Homes & Yards vs. More Maintenance

The average square feet of a two-bedroom apartment in downtown Dallas is around 1,000 square feet. But moving out to the suburbs of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington area will double that, with many coming in closer to 3,000 square feet!

That makes a big difference, especially for those planning to expand their family. Additionally, these larger homes sit on larger plots of land that provide outdoor space that just isn’t feasible in most city neighborhoods.

On the con side, you have to take care of all that space. More appliances, larger units to fully service a bigger home, a lawn to mow, repainting the previous owner’s pea green kitchen … it all adds up to heavier lifting on your part as well as your wallet’s. Plus, suburban dwellers are often hit with higher property taxes and homeowner’s association (HOA) fees. That can add significantly to your monthly costs and should be carefully considered before making a move.

Peace & Quiet vs. Missing the City Life

Former city lovers often say they chose to move to get away from all the bustle and noise. Sure, traffic and late-night bar-goers can keep you up at night if you’re in a central location – but is it enough to fully relocate?

For some the answer is yes. The idea of only hearing birds and crickets is an appealing way to unplug. For others, the sounds of silence could leave them craving the energy of downtown living. Take this into consideration when you’re looking at different neighborhoods, and even spend a few nights in prospective areas to fully understand what your new environment will be like.

Stronger School Districts vs. Zoning Hurdles

While it is sometimes a misconception that city schools are inadequate compared to suburban counterparts, it has historically been shown that suburban schools receive more funding and benefit heavily from the higher property taxes we talked about earlier. This can mean smaller class sizes, better-maintained facilities and a more appealing workplace for sought-after teachers.

However, it’s important to note that you may not automatically receive all this when you find your perfect suburban home. School district zoning can be strict and, at times, seemingly random. Your home could be zoned in a district different from your neighbors across the street. If moving for better schools is at the top of your list, pay careful attention to zoning lines before you buy.

Suburban Conveniences vs. Longer Commute

While cities do offer a lot of appealing activities from restaurants to stores to museums, they are often spread out and require a lot of planning beforehand. Suburban shopping centers provide the convenience of popular retailers and eateries all in one spot. Ample parking also eliminates a common city headache.

On the other hand, one location that may not be close is your office. Moving out of city limits could mean you’re suddenly battling rush hour and spending more time in your car than with your family. It’s certainly worth a test drive to see if your new route is one you can realistically handle every day.

Ready to Make a Move?

Once you have fully weighed the pros and cons and are ready to make your move, make your first call Black Tie Moving. From the very first consultation to the last piece of furniture placed in your new home, we’ll provide in-depth care and attention to detail so your relocation is stress-free.

Our skilled local moving team is a part of the community, living and working here every day. We know the ins and outs to help customers with smooth, easy transitions. Plus, we offer a full range of customizable services that allow you to create the moving plan to fit your budget.

Call Black Tie Moving at 844-920-2966 or fill out our online form to learn more about our personalized concierge services and receive a no-obligation written price estimate.

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Office Rightsizing: How work post-pandemic will change

Office rightsizing offers safety for businesses hoping to resume operations

As companies prepare to welcome employees back post-pandemic, more and more offices are making adjustments to their workspace. In order to keep their employees safe, offices are “rightsizing” – making modifications that meet social distancing measurements and keep workers safe and comfortable.

The New York Times wrote about the changing office landscape post-pandemic. They are predicting expanded gathering spaces to ensure everyone is properly distanced, as well as fewer personal workstations due to the success of working from home.

These new arrangements can mean that companies will need less space in the future, leading some companies to cut back on their real estate. Target, based in Minneapolis, plans to give up some office space. In September 2020, REI sold its headquarter office in Bellevue, Washington.

Companies like Google, Microsoft and Walmart have already announced their plans for “hybrid” work models with flexible schedules, so employees can choose to work at home when they wish.

In other companies, gone are the days of permanent desks with family photos and knickknacks. Many companies are replacing them by “hoteling” workstations, also called hot desks, which are used by anyone who needs a workstation.

Many companies are implementing smaller changes, too. From spacing out desks to installing plastic barriers to reduce face-to-face interaction, the solutions had to be creative and ensure safety.

What Is Rightsizing?

Across all industries, workplaces are being reimagined. Transitioning employees from work from home setups back into the office can be challenging for some companies, especially those with small workspaces.

Rightsizing works by taking a look at your office space, making a design plan to meet social distancing guidelines and reduce risk, then setting up the office in a way that continues to ensure employee health while being productive.

Offices are no longer a one-size-fits-all investment. Depending on the size of your team, what they do, and how they work, your needs can vastly differ from the next company.

What Rightsizing Looks Like

Depending on your business, rightsizing will look different. Company size, number of employees, team structure and how big or small your office space will all change your approach to rightsizing.

Hire a professional moving company to help you. This is the best way to redesign your office – many moving companies can offer an all-in-one service.

Consider your space and inventory your items. Are there spaces in your office with high traffic? Spaces you don’t use? Consider using those spaces in a new way, like moving desks further apart or repurposing communal spaces like conference rooms to hold less people at a social distance.

Design a floor plan. This gives you a visual roadmap of how your office will look and how you will use the furniture you currently have.

Store unused furniture. By hiring a moving company, storing any unused furniture, and moving the rest of your office furniture will be a breeze.

Create a return-to-work action plan. Creating a plan can answer any questions employees may have.

How a professional moving company can help you rightsize your business

Sometimes, some things are best left to the experts. When it comes to rightsizing, moving companies are expertly equipped to handle offices of all sizes.

Form a plan

The first step in the rightsizing process is coming up with a plan for your space. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to making your office space suited for social distancing, so a moving coordinator or planner will visit your space – in-person or virtually – and assess the scope of the project. This helps to eliminate inefficiency and streamline the reorganizing or redesign process.

Rightsize your office

The second step is the most crucial – the rightsizing of your office. Professional movers will come to your space, pack and move things according to the plan that has been set in place.

Movers are experts at what they do, so they know how to rightsize your office quickly and efficiently in such a way that will lead to minimal downtime for your business.

Additional Services

Once your office is rightsized, there may still be more to do. If you need additional services like hanging artwork, packing services or storage for any extra furniture, the moving company you hire will do that for you.

What Can You Do for Your Employees

Local health departments have studied the pandemic and implemented requirements for employers to make their workspaces healthier for businesses, including:

Minimize the number of employees working close together. Employee workstations should be at least 6 feet apart.

Rethink large meetings. Zoom meetings have dominated work schedules during the pandemic, and coming out of the pandemic, holding large meetings and conferences online or over the phone is a surefire way to keep everyone safe and healthy.

Consider hybrid schedules. If you have a large team of employees, staggering their schedules will reduce the number of people in an office at one time.

Implement flexible sick leave policies. Now, more than ever, people are weary of working while ill. With a more flexible policy, employees should be able to stay home when sick without having to go to the doctor’s office for a note.

When it comes to staying safe in a post-pandemic world, there are no perfect solutions. Remaining adaptable, flexible, and willing to compromise with your employees will be key in reopening your business.

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Further Your Medical Career By Moving from Indianapolis & Louisville to Texas

If you are a medical professional that’s open to relocation, then you will be glad to know that many opportunities are in store for you. The state of Texas contains a heavy concentration of educational and research facilities, hospitals, and more. Whether you want to continue your education, contrib... Further Your Medical Career By Moving from Indianapolis & Louisville to Texas published first on https://livecouriertracking.tumblr.com/

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What NOT to Pack & Essentials to Keep Handy for Your Move

Moving is often a hectic process, especially as your move date nears. You may find yourself haphazardly throwing things into boxes just to get the house cleared out. But what you may not realize is you’re packing items that shouldn’t relocate with you, or even essentials you’ll wish you had access to during the actual move. Pack smarter with our guide below.

What NOT to Pack

Save time and money with our list of five categories to avoid loading onto the moving van:

Clutter– Moving gives you the opportunity to reassess all of your possessions, so don’t waste this chance to weed out what you no longer use. Not only will it make the moving process easier and less costly, it will start life in your new home off on the right foot. Whether you sell, donate, or trash the items, never pack anything you don’t ultimately need. We recommend paying close attention to clothing, paperwork, toiletries, and mementos.

Bulky Items– Space is money when you’re renting a moving van, so carefully consider if larger items are really worth the room they take up. Books, electronics, furniture, mattresses, bicycles, and appliances all merit a second look before packing.

Vehicles– The family car is an obvious “must take,” but you may want to consider selling any extra cars or other vehicles (such as large landscaping equipment, ATVs, boats, etc.) that have been sitting around or won’t be a good fit on your new property. This helps save on moving costs as well as simplifies the overall process.

Food – Depending on how far you’re moving, trying to pack up your pantry can be a pointless task. Much of it isn’t likely to last a long-distance trip; it could even attract bugs. Consider donating your perishables to a local shelter or soup kitchen, and re-stock once you’re in your new place.

Non–Allowables – This is an industry term for the list that professional moving companies won’t transport. It generally includes items that could potentially endanger the movers or moving equipment. For example, Black Tie Moving’s own non-allowables list includes ammunition, fuel, fireworks, guns, drugs, and anything else flammable.

What to Keep Handy

Before you and the movers hit the road, make sure you have the following items close at hand for security, convenience, and peace of mind:

Personal Bag– Make your first night in your new house simpler by packing a bag of personal essentials: change of clothes, pajamas, toothbrush, medication, sheets, pillow, etc. Have each member of your family pack one as well so you’re not digging through boxes when you could be relaxing in your new space.

House Set–Up Kit – Similar to the above mentioned personal bag, it’s also smart to assemble a kit filled with the things you’ll need to initially set your house up. This could include items like cleaning supplies, groceries, wi-fi information, a few toys to keep kids occupied, and of course, toilet paper.

Irreplaceable Items – Whether they hold monetary or sentimental value, it’s smart to keep items that aren’t easily replaced by your side. If you are worried about moving fragile or expensive belongings, Black Tie Moving’s Concierge Services coordinate each step to protect your possessions from start to finish.

Personal Records – Any important paper documents such as birth certificates, passports, or financial records are best kept off the moving van to ensure privacy and security.

Pet Necessities – Put your furry family members at ease in their new environment with their favorite toys, food, and bed. Having these familiar objects right away will give them comfort during what can be a stressful transition.

We Make Moving Stress-Free!

Now that you know what not to pack and what to keep close at hand, turn the rest of your move over to the professionals at Black Tie Moving. As an A+ BBB accredited business, we proudly offer each and every one of our customers superior moving services with luxury feel at a cost-effective and competitively priced rate. We promise your relocation will be customized to your precise needs and you’ll work one-on-one with a dedicated move coordinator every step of the way!

Trust Black Tie Moving to take care of your move with expertise and care. Contact us for a FREE moving estimate today!

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Antique Moving Tips from A Professional Indianapolis & Louisville Moving Company

Moving valuation coverage gives you peace of mind that you’ll be covered if items are damaged during your relocation, but what about when the items are irreplaceable or especially valuable? Moving antique furniture and other valuables requires special handling, so only moving companies with antique-... Antique Moving Tips from A Professional Indianapolis & Louisville Moving Company published first on https://livecouriertracking.tumblr.com/

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Moving from Indianapolis & Louisville to Austin to Advance Your Tech Career

Are you not moving up the ladder as quickly as you’d like at that tech job? Is the cost of living too high where you are now? There are many other areas of the country with fast-growing technology industries where you could find better opportunities, including Austin, TX.  If you are considerin... Moving from Indianapolis & Louisville to Austin to Advance Your Tech Career published first on https://livecouriertracking.tumblr.com/

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Is There a Best Day of the Week or Month to Move?

  There are so many factors that go into when you move – house availability, work, the schoolyear, etc. – that it’s difficult to plan it at the optimal time. While you can’t control everything, you can make an informed decision when the moment comes. You may not realize it, but your moving experience can vary based on what season, month, day of the week and even time of day you choose. Our guide breaks it all down.

Best Season

This is one of the toughest aspects to time, but there are a few factors to be aware of. Winter is the least popular time of year to move and therefore the cheapest. Housing demand is low, professional movers are more available, and it’s easier to get deals on necessities like a moving van. Of course, it may not be an ideal season depending on where you are moving or if you have school-age children. Early spring is another low-demand option, specifically in March and April, and the weather may be more palatable for longer-distance moves.

Summer is the most popular moving time for obvious reasons (no school, favorable weather), which unfortunately also makes it the priciest time. If you’re looking to save money, try to avoid peak season. The upside, though, is you could get a higher price if you’re selling your home as well.

Last but not least, fall is a great time to plan a move. Weather conditions are still mild, and since it’s considered the start of the “off season,” you’re more likely to get a better deal on your new home and moving expenses. If you’re not beholden to school schedules, fall is a top choice.

Best Month & Week

Moving experts estimate 80% of moves in the United States occur between April and September, with June through August as the busiest months. Moving outside of this peak season will certainly keep your moving costs down, as there’ll be more availability from movers with lower rates. That makes late September to early April the ideal range.

Once you’ve narrowed down your month, demand will once again influence which week of the month you choose. The first and last weeks of any month will inevitably be the busiest, especially for renters whose leases begin and end at those times. As a result, prices can also be higher. A mid-month move is therefore preferable if you can swing it.

Best Day of the Week

If you’re sensing a theme here, our advice on which day to move won’t surprise you. Weekends (including Fridays!) are unavoidably the busiest and priciest days, as well as the toughest to rent a van or hire movers. When possible, stick to Monday through Thursday. It may mean you have to take time off work or pull the kids out of school, but it will save you money in the long run and could be the key to a less stressful move.

When you have your day locked in, get as early a start as possible. This gives you the most energy, ideal temperatures in the warmer months, and time to unpack once you get inside your new digs. Plus, professional moving companies are generally early birds and will be most efficient if you are, too.

Get Year-Round Moving Expertise

No matter what time of year, month or week you’re planning to move, Black Tie Moving is here to make it a VIP experience. We believe everyone deserves to be treated like a rock star, so our moving specialists offer concierge services to custom fit your move. Whether it’s rain or shine, summer or winter, weekday or weekend, you can count on Black Tie Moving to provide top-notch service for a stress-free move.

Trust Black Tie Moving to take care of your move from start to finish with expertise and care. Contact us for a FREE moving estimate today!

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Why People Are Moving Out of California

California Exodus

California has long been lauded by its residents as the best state to live in, with so many unique features – the ocean, the mountains, exciting big cities and quaint small towns – but in recent years, the “California Exodus” has proven that the so-called California dream might be over.

At the beginning of 2021, U-Haul published their yearly ranking of growth per state. Surprisingly (or not), California ranked last. Since 2016, the Golden State has ranked 48th or lower.

653,000 people left California in 2020, while only 480,000 moved into the state, leaving a net negative in population growth.

State officials said in late 2020, the state’s growth slowed to the lowest rate on record.

The Bay Area, particularly San Francisco, was the top region that saw departures after the COVID-19 pandemic was declared a national emergency in March 2020. San Jose and Oakland were also affected.

Why are so many people moving out of California?

One of the largest reasons people are moving out of the Golden State is affordability, according to an article by Sacramento’s ABC10 News.

Home prices have skyrocketed and buying and maintaining a home in California is much more expensive than in other nearby states. The state’s median home price hit a record high of $712,000 in September 2020.

High taxes, politics and the business climate are other reasons for leaving, as noted by local media.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, unemployment claims reached 1.6 million in 2020, and in September, the Census Bureau named California as the state with the highest real-world poverty rate with about 7 million Californians living in poverty.

Many people in the state have lost their livelihoods during the pandemic, they have chosen to move back to their hometown, or closer to family, or to get a fresh start.

For those who have not lost their jobs, remote work looks like it is here to stay in many industries. This is leading people to leave high cost-of-living cities that are now offering less amenities than before due to pandemic-related closures, in lieu of lower cost-of-living cities where they can own a home, live comfortably and work remotely.

Lower commute times, less crime, bigger houses and more all factor into the draw of leaving a large urban center for a small town.

With the move of popular personalities out of California, like Tesla’s Elon Musk and podcast magnate Joe Rogan, who both moved to Texas, Californians are increasingly interested in leaving the state.

Where are people moving to from California?  

People are leaving California to go to Texas, Arizona, Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Tennessee and Nevada – the last two being states with no income taxes for residents.

Tennessee was the top state for growth in 2020 according to U-Haul’s study. In addition to no state income tax, many of its cities have a lot of job openings and business opportunities.

Whatever one likes about California – it’s beachy lifestyle, creativity in entertainment, technology hub – can be found elsewhere in the country, more and more people are realizing. Whether you think the grass is greener on the other side of the country or just across state borders, moving out of California is the new dream for many residents.

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