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Moving during the winter season in Chicago can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. On the one hand, moving companies are typically less busy during winter, which means it is easier to secure lower rates and more flexible scheduling options. On the other hand, moving in winter in Chicago presents its own unique set of challenges, such as navigating through snowy and icy roads, staying warm in cold temperatures, and protecting your belongings from the harsh winter elements. However, with the right preparation and planning, you can ensure a smooth, stress-free and successful winter move. Read on as we share some winter moving tips to help you make the most of your move in Chicago.

Check the weather forecast

Checking the weather forecast before moving during winter in Chicago is essential. While the weather in Chicago can be unpredictable, especially during the winter months, keeping a close eye on the forecast can help you prepare for any unexpected changes. Make sure to have a contingency plan in place in case of severe weather conditions, such as heavy snow or winter storms. Regularly checking the weather forecast in the days leading up to your move can help you adjust your plans accordingly and ensure a safe and successful relocation.

Schedule your move to start early in the day

With fewer daylight hours during the winter season, moving after dark can be a challenging and potentially dangerous task. By getting an early start, you can take advantage of the available daylight and avoid any unexpected accidents or injuries. Plus, scheduling your move to start earlier in the day can help you beat the potential afternoon and evening rush hour traffic, as well as any potential weather-related delays. So, schedule your move as early as possible in the day to make the most of those precious winter daylight hours.

Dress for the weather and keep warm

Winter moves in Chicago can be frigid. Temperatures often drop below freezing which can bring snowy and icy conditions. To stay warm and comfortable during your move, start by dressing in warm and waterproof layers, so you’re ready to brave the elements. Think gloves, hats, boots, and cozy jackets. By dressing appropriately, you won’t feel the cold inside the home, making it possible to leave the front door open as items are efficiently carried in and out of the home. Additionally, keep a pot of hot coffee, tea, or hot cocoa available to help keep everyone’s spirits high and the chills away.

Keep walkways clear and protect your floors

Make sure the sidewalks and walkways leading to your home are clear of snow and ice to prevent accidents. Shovel snow and ice from the paths leading to your home and use salt or ice melt to melt any remaining ice patches. Not only will this ensure safety, but it will also make it easier for movers to carry your belongings to and from the truck. And don’t forget to take precautions to protect your floors and carpets from water damage. Use plastic sheets or towels to cover high-traffic areas or lay down protective coverings. It’s also a good idea to keep a box of towels handy so that your moving crew can dry off items or wipe up any excess water that finds its way into the house.

Protect your belongings with proper packing

It’s important to be aware that certain items are more susceptible to damage in cold conditions. Electronics, for instance, can be especially vulnerable to malfunctioning when exposed to extreme cold temperatures. Glassware and dishware may also become brittle in the cold, while musical instruments made from wood could warp or crack. Taking extra precautions when packing these types of items is crucial to prevent damage during the move. We recommend double-wrapping and packing the items inside insulated boxes to protect them from the cold. Additionally, it’s a good idea to shield textile items, such as furniture, bedding, and linens, with plastic wrap or covers to safeguard against moisture, dirt, and scratches. These simple steps can help ensure that your belongings arrive at their destination in their original condition.

Have a back-up plan in place

It’s a good idea to have a back up plan for potential delays due to inclement weather. Snow and ice can make roads more treacherous, leading to slower travel times and even temporary closures. To avoid unnecessary stress, be sure to allow for some flexibility in your schedule and plan for extra travel time. Consider adding an extra day or two to your timeline to account for any unforeseen weather-related delays. This could include having alternate routes planned out or making arrangements for temporary storage if needed. By being proactive and preparing for potential delays, your move is more likely to go smoothly without any unnecessary stress.

Consider hiring a professional moving company

Moving in winter can be tough and challenging. Hiring a professional moving company can make all the difference when it comes to moving in winter. Experienced movers are equipped with the right tools and equipment to move your belongings safely and efficiently, regardless of the weather conditions outside. They also have the knowledge and expertise to navigate through the challenges that come with moving in winter, such as slippery roads and icy walkways. 

If you’re looking for a reputable mover in Chicago, contact Mighty Moving. Our team of movers can help ensure that your move is a success and that your belongings arrive at their destination intact and on time. Give us a call on 855-699-8999 or contact us online for a free moving quote today!

Are you all packed up and ready for your move? If you’ve hired a local moving company, you might be wondering if you should tip movers. And if so, how much should you tip movers?

Most moving companies will provide a moving estimate that includes things like man hours, gas and transportation charges and packing supply pricing. Gratuity is unlikely to be included in the estimate so it can be unclear whether tipping is required. Although there is no industry standard for tipping movers, most moving companies will allow tipping. Moreover, it is generally considered to be proper etiquette and a nice gesture to show your appreciation, especially if the moving crew has done a good job.

Determining how much to tip movers can be tricky so we’ve provided some general guidelines and things for you to consider when deciding what to do about a gratuity for movers.

How much to tip local movers

We usually hear the going rate for tipping a local move is 15% of the total bill from exceptionally pleased customers. Other customers may prefer to calculate a tip based on the time that the movers spent on the job, rather than taking a percentage of the total moving cost. Depending on the move, this is typically $10 to $20 per hour per mover (including the driver). But ultimately, how much you tip is your choice.

Factors to consider on how much to tip

We have provided a general range for tipping movers, but how do you decide on an exact amount? Obviously, if you feel that you’ve received good service then the larger the gratuity. Here are some other key factors to consider that might influence how much you tip:

How difficult was the move?

Consider the complexity of the move. Did your movers encounter stairways or tight hallways? Did they need to maneuver big or fragile pieces of furniture through challenging spaces? For example, a piano or pool table. Was there a situation during your move that was difficult and ultimately resolved? Moving heavy appliances and furniture on a hot summer day might also warrant a tip at the higher end of the range. The more specific your requests, the more you might consider tipping your moving crew.

Did the movers do a great job?

Think about how the moving day went. Did your movers arrive on time? Were they considerate, personable and efficient? Did they handle your possessions with care and provide extra padding to protect fragile, valuable and sentimental items? Did they go above and beyond such as helping you set up and assemble certain furniture? If you can answer ‘yes’ to most of these questions, or if you were impressed with the quality of service, then consider giving a generous tip to show your gratitude.

How to tip movers

Some moving companies may have gratuity policies or specific guidelines for your (or the workers’) protection, so make sure to check this before tipping your movers. You can usually find these details in your moving contract, the moving company’s website, or simply ask the moving company ahead of time.

There are two simple ways to tip your movers and it’s really up to you on how you want to handle it. You could tip each mover individually, or simply give the total tip to the foreman for the moving job.

No matter how you decide to tip, a cash tip is usually the most welcomed form. If you are tipping the foreman, it will also allow them to easily split and distribute the tip among the workers.

Tipping movers with food

Whether or not you decide to tip, providing refreshments to your movers is a nice thing to do and a great way to show your appreciation for their service. 

You’ll want to make sure the drink is appropriate for the weather. For example, coffee or cocoa for cold days, and bottled water or soda for warmer days. Snacks such as fruit, muesli bars, cookies and chips are great options for short or half-day moves. If your move runs over lunchtime, you could offer your moving crew lunch. Pizzas, burgers and sandwiches are easy lunch options since it’s relatively inexpensive and most people enjoy it.

One thing to note is to only offer non-alcoholic beverages to movers. Your movers will be driving a large commercial moving truck and handling your precious possessions, so you want them to be as sharp as possible to avoid any accidents or injuries.

Looking for a local mover in Chicago?

If you’re ready to schedule a local move in Chicago, Mighty Moving is here to help! Get in touch for a free moving quote or give us a call on 855-699-8999 to start the ball rolling for your upcoming move.

A piano is undoubtedly one of the most expensive pieces of furniture that you could own in a home. Not only are pianos heavy, they are also complicated and fragile instruments. If you’re relocating and own a piano, you will need a lot of careful planning and manpower to ensure your piano is safely transported to the new home. For many piano-owners, this might be enough reason for them to sell or give away the piano instead. But there is no need to go to that extreme if you hire professional piano movers.

Moving a piano is a tricky undertaking. It is not an easy task for those without experience. Luckily, most Chicago moving companies know that moving a piano requires an experienced moving crew and specialized equipment to securely move pianos. Read on as we look at why you should consider hiring the best Chicago piano movers.

Why do I need to hire a piano mover?

Here are three key reasons why you should always hire a professional piano mover. 

Avoid injury and damage

Pianos are heavy, awkwardly shaped, and come in different sizes and shapes. They are not an easy object to move, particularly if stairs are involved. You are much more likely to injure yourself or damage the piano if you try moving the piano by yourself. Hiring a professional piano mover will help to minimize these risks. They will provide the necessary manpower, proper equipment and use correct piano moving techniques to ensure the piano and moving crew remain unharmed during the process. 

Saves you money

It may seem like you would save money by not hiring a professional piano mover. However, if you damage the piano during the move, it may end up costing you more to repair the damages than compared to hiring a piano moving company. Using an experienced piano mover will drastically minimize the risk of damage to the instrument.

Saves you time

Moving a piano from one place to another is a time-consuming process, especially if it involves tight spaces and staircases. If you hire a professional piano mover, you won’t need to ask family or friends to help you and you won’t have to waste time maneuvering the heavy piano all day long. Instead, you can use your time to attend to other moving tasks that are more manageable or important.

Looking for a piano mover in Chicago?

If you’re looking for piano movers in Chicago, IL, you should know that not every local moving company is equipped to do specialty moves like pianos. Mighty Moving, however, can handle all types of local moves including piano moves in Chicago. Our crew is professionally trained and highly experienced with moving pianos. Get in touch for a free moving quote or give us a call on 855-699-8999 to let us know how we can serve your local moving needs!

Relocating can be exciting but getting things in order for the move can also be exhausting, complicated and overwhelming. However, moving doesn’t have to be a stressful and tedious process if you plan ahead. Booking a moving company should be one of the top priorities of the planning process. But how far in advance should you book a mover for a local move? Are there any factors that may impact on how soon you should schedule a local moving company?

Best Time to Book A Local Mover: 2 to 4 Weeks in Advance

If you’re planning for a local move in Chicago, the best time to book a local moving company is 2 to 4 weeks before your expected move date. So it is a good idea to start planning for your move several weeks in advance so that you have enough time to gather moving estimates from various moving companies and make an informed decision on which mover to book.

Book Your Move As Soon As You Can

While the general rule of thumb is to book a local mover 2 to 4 weeks in advance, scheduling your move as soon as possible has several benefits. The biggest advantage to booking early is that you have a wide range of local moving companies to choose from. You will have time to gather estimates from various local movers so that you can determine which option is the best for you. 

Some of the other advantages to booking your move early includes increased likelihood of getting the dates you desire, having a solid target on when to start packing for a move, and lower costs as some local moving companies reward proactive clients with better rates.

Time of Year Matters

The time of the year you decide to move in Chicago can greatly impact when to book a moving company. During the winter, preparing to move can be tedious due to Chicago’s extreme cold and snowfall conditions. However this also means less people plan to move during winter, which makes the availability and cost of professional local movers more favorable.

Summer is the peak season for moving. So if you plan to move between May and September then you should expect more competition when trying to book for a local moving company. This is largely due to better weather conditions and families typically prefer to move when kids are out of school. The increase in demand for moving companies during the summer season means that costs are usually higher and you should book a mover as early as possible.

The Pitfalls of Booking a Last Minute Move

You should never intentionally book a local moving company last minute. Even if you are faced with an emergency relocation or last minute move, the first step in your plan is to start calling moving companies as soon as possible. The shorter your timeframe to the moving deadline, the fewer your options for finding an appropriate moving company, especially during the moving peak season between May and September. Leaving too little time will also mean you will become desperate and may overlook some critical considerations, such as evaluating the reputation of the mover and whether they have the required licensing.

Book Now To Schedule A Local Move

Mighty Moving is a trusted local moving company offering affordable local moving services throughout Chicagoland. Get in touch for a free moving quote or give us a call on 855-699-8999!

Whether you’re moving across the city or just to the next suburb, moving is a big deal. One of the most important parts of a move is packing up all your household items. Packing up all your belongings must happen before you can actually move and there are many things to consider: Do you hire packers? Or do you handle the packaging yourself? Here are some of the pros and cons to self-packing for a local move.

Pro: It’s Cheaper

The average cost of a local move is not cheap. Doing your own prep means you can save the money you would otherwise spend for a professional crew’s labor and supplies.

Con: You’ll Need Time

Many people often underestimate the amount of things they have accumulated in their homes. So you’re probably not considering just how many things you have packed away in storage. If you decide to hire packers, they show up and get your home packed quickly and efficiently. Getting packed up for a move on your own could take you days, but experienced moving companies can get it done so that your valuables are safely packed and protected from damage.

Pro: Control on Organization

If you prefer to have total control over the organization process then self-packing could be an ideal option. You can decide what goes where and exactly how the items are wrapped or protected. However, keep in mind that it can be easy to lose track of where things end up when you self-pack. If you rely on movers to handle filling up all of your moving boxes, they will also pack according to your specifications. At your new home, the movers will know where each box goes and you could spend less time finding, sorting and placing everything when you get to your new home.

Con: Supplies

If self-packing for a move appeals to you because you think you’ll save money on packing supplies, it might initially. However, professional packers provide their own supplies which are specifically appropriate for the type of items that need to be packed. You will only get charged for what’s actually necessary, saving you from buying unnecessary packing supplies. On the other hand, you could wind up with too few supplies if you go the DIY route, meaning you have to find more. You might also wind up with too many, or you could have odd-sized boxes that don’t really fit what you need to pack. Professionals use materials that can withstand the moving process, including special dish packs and wardrobe boxes.

Pro: Go at Your Own Pace

Packing for a move on your own means you get to decide what goes in each box. You also get to decide what rooms you start with. You can take down your home one closet and drawer at a time. With all the hectic things going on in the rest of the process, having something move a bit slowly can be kind of relaxing.

Con: Liability Is All Yours

If you’re trying to counteract the cost of moving by doing the packing yourself, then there’s not going to be any liability on the movers you use. The transit during a move can be a bumpy ride for your things. Local movers can not be held liable for damage to anything that was self-packed because they don’t know what condition it was in before packing occurred. They’ll get the items from point A to point B but can’t guarantee the boxes’ condition. Using cheap or previously used boxes from grocery stores might mean they collapse, crack or tear under pressure, no matter how well you packed them.

Pro: Friends Can Help

Packing your home to move is a huge undertaking, but while DIY stands for doing-it-yourself, that doesn’t mean doing it alone. Friends and family can all help you divide the labor and get the moving boxes packed. Some will do it out of loyalty, some want to spend a little more time with you before you go, and if you are moving across the city, you could welcome the time to visit.

Con: Packing Things Wrong

Is the guy you only see at poker night the right person to be handling the dishes you inherited from your grandmother? Does anyone in your crew really know how to disassemble furniture? Professional packers don’t just show up and stuff boxes. They will identify what items need special packaging, and they know how to do it right.

Get Help from Professional Movers!

You might start seeing the upside of having professionals pack all your things. Overall, the cons outweigh the pros when it comes to self-packing your belongings for a local move. Compared to the average cost of a local move, it doesn’t add all that much, especially if you shop around for moving companies weeks in advance. If you’re grappling with the cost of moving locally, then be sure to book a reputable mover. The time you save can be used towards handling the million other details, and there’s no substitute for the sheer stress you’ll save.

Mighty Moving is a trusted moving company in Chicago, offering affordable and quality packing services. Our moving crew will ensure your possessions are packed safely, securely and appropriately. Get a free moving quote online or give us a call at 855-699-8999!

You’re preparing for a move in Chicago and need to hire a local moving company to help ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible. But how do you choose the right local mover?

Unfortunately, some local moving companies can rely on misleading pricing, unreliable crews and even uninsured operations to cut corners and cheat customers. Such uncertainty will hardly put your mind at ease so you will want to avoid these dishonest moving companies.

Here are five questions you should ask your local moving company before signing a moving contract:

Are you accredited?

Before setting a moving date, you should make sure your movers are licensed and insured. Knowing that the company you’ve hired is up to the task is critical. Hiring local movers who are licensed and insured protects against anything that might go wrong on the big day, as well as liability coverage for any damages.

What is the true cost?

You never want to be surprised, learning your bill has doubled–or worse–halfway through a move due to unforeseen fees. Taking the time to double-check the agreed-upon price makes for a worry-free moving day. Get that price in writing on a signed, dated contract. Be wary of any mover who won’t commit to hard figures.

How much packing should I do in advance?

If you are doing the packing yourself, you must be ready for the moving crew to start loading the truck once they arrive. In addition to having your boxes packed, be sure to put away heavy items from storage drawers, desks, dressers and cabinets. This streamlines the process and minimizes the risk of damage. Remember to ask your movers what items they can’t move (e.g., plants, nail polish, cleaning supplies, hazardous materials), so you can plan accordingly. Ask about custom crating services for specialty items such as oversized televisions, antiques, pianos and artwork.

Is a parking permit required?

If you’re moving from an apartment, avoid the headache of locating a spot for the truck on moving day. Ask your local moving company early on about how it handles parking and loading. Your movers can provide information on how they typically handle parking, as well as who to contact if a permit is required.

What if I want to postpone or cancel?

Unforeseen situations can come up. If you need to postpone or even cancel your move, you don’t want to get stuck with a bill. Get your local moving company’s cancellation policy in writing. Document your conversations with the company in regards to how a moving cancellation might be processed. Record the deadline for a cancellation or postponement. This way, there will be no surprises, even if something comes up. 

If your moving company can answer these five questions to your satisfaction, you should be safe to sign the moving contract. Mighty Moving is a trusted local moving company in Chicagoland. Our professional movers can answer these questions and more. Give us a call 855-699-8999 or request a free moving quote!

You have made the big decision to pack up and move across the city for an exciting new adventure in life. That was the hard part. Now comes the planning to make sure everything goes as smooth as you want it to. 

Packing up your life into boxes can be stressful and make you question what you are doing. But planning ahead and hiring a professional local mover is the key to make this move in Chicago a success story that you can tell everyone for years.

A reputable local moving company not only will help all your belongings land in your new home just the way you left them, but they will provide peace of mind that things will get to your new home. A great local moving company will make sure your items are not damaged and the packing and unpacking go as planned. 

So, what do you need to know before you set out on your move in Chicago? Here is a checklist to make sure everything goes smoothly.

CHECKLIST FOR MOVING IN CHICAGO

• As early as you can, research local moving companies in Chicago.
• Create digital files of quotes you have for the move. 
• Plan on what you want to spend on the move. 
• Start to sort through your items to see what you want to take and what you can purge from your life. If you have not used it in a year, chances are you don’t need that anymore.

THINGS TO DO WHEN MOVING

• Take an inventory with photos and video of all your items going to be moved.
• Find totes and boxes for the move and find out if your local moving company supplies them. 
• Think about where your items will fit in your new home. 
• Prepare your children and pets for the move. 
• Get all your personal records together. 
• Call cable, electric and gas companies to tell them you are moving. Also contact any places that provide a service to your home, such as gardeners and cleaners.
• Plan to decide what to do with plants for the move.
• Confirm dates with your local movers and what they are doing and when.
• Pack up your belongings if your local moving company is not going to provide packing services.
• Clean your home.
• If you are selling your home, make sure all that is taken care of before you leave.
• Relax. You hired a local moving company for a reason. Embrace this change in your life.

CHECKLIST FOR MOVING TO A CHICAGO SUBURB

• Visit the suburb you are moving to and get to know the area.
• Budget your money for the move.
• Look at schools in the area you are moving to if you have children, and notify the old school.
• Find a new home in the suburb.
• Forward your mail to your new address.
• Tell friends you are moving.

TIPS ON MOVING LOCALLY

• Save your receipts.
• Pack your items strategically. That way unpacking will be so much easier to find what you are looking for.
• Make sure things like TV, Internet and utilities will work at your new home when you arrive.
• Make your own moving checklist.
• Know what date the movers will arrive at your new home.
• When you arrive at your new home, treat yourself with a nice dinner and some relaxation. This is a big moment in your life.
• Make sure your items are insured for the move by the company doing the work.
• Keep in contact with the local moving company with a phone number.
• Have all essential items with you when you leave.
• Check your items when they arrive at the new home.
• Get to know your new neighborhood.

BEST WAY TO MOVE LOCALLY

Hiring a professional local moving company is the best and safest way to move in Chicago. Trying to load up all your belongings and put it in a vehicle that you will drive yourself is extremely stressful. Not only do you have to drive through areas that you may be unfamiliar with, but the drive alone will be challenging.

If you are planning a local move in Chicago and looking to hire a professional, reputable mover, get in touch with Mighty Moving! We are a trusted full service moving company in Chicago, providing the best relocation services at affordable prices. Apply online for a free moving quote or give us a call at 855-699-8999.

Your home looks like a greenhouse. There are plants everywhere you turn. You are the best plant parent ever. But now, you are moving and you don’t know how to move your plants. Most people wouldn’t understand how important your plants are in this process, but Mighty Moving does.

Plant moving can be tricky, but there are ways to make sure your green leafy friends are well taken care of. Check out these tips to find out the best way to move plants.

Preparing Your Plants for the Move

When getting ready for plant moving, preparation is essential. Follow these tips for the best way to prepare your house plants in the days leading up to moving day.

Watering

Keep taking care of your plants the way you have been, keeping the same watering schedules. If your plants are able to fit in your vehicle, make sure you skip watering them a couple days before you move, up until you get to your new home. You’re not going to want mud dripping in your car! Most house plants can tolerate seven to ten days without water with litter harm, but ensure the soil is moist in the pot.

Check for plant pests

Check your plants for any pests they may have, and prune any dead or dying leaves in preparation for the journey.

Use plastic pots or cartons

If your plants are in heavy pots such as terracotta or ceramic, you will want to transfer them into plastic pots or cartons before the move. This will help to save spaces, make it lighter to move and prevent any damages or accidents.

How to Transport Plants When Moving

• If you can, place your plants in the vehicle in or near seats, buckled if necessary. For smaller plants, place their pots in an open box and buckle them in. Either way, don’t put your plants in the trunk—plants are sensitive to extreme temperatures and the truck can be too hot in summer, and too cold in winter.
• Plants can also be affected by the heating/cooling from your car. Close or tilt away any vents near where your plant will be.
• Use a bed sheet or other breathable material to wrap around your plant, be sure it’s not too tight. Ask at your local greenhouse if they have any tips for this. You want to make sure your plant makes it to your new home without any damage.
• Just like any family member needing a pit stop, your plants need a break too. Mist them with some water and make sure they are situated for light.
• Car windows can intensify sunlight, so consider a baby shade if you have a plant that’s especially sensitive to direct sunlight.
• Put your plants in a good area as soon as you arrive in your new place. Water them and inspect for any damage too.

Best Way to Move Large Potted Plants

If you have a massive plant, you will need some help to move it. Use an appliance dolly to transport your Seymour-like friend and ask for help when putting it in your vehicle—you will want to make sure your plant will clear the top of your car or van. Bubble wrapping the pot will help it remain in one piece and a bungee cord will help keep it stationary during the transport.

Will Local Movers Move Plants?

Most professional local movers will accept moving plants if the distance is less than 150 miles and/or delivery within 24 hours. We suggest double-checking with your chosen local moving company.

Plants and Moves: Tough Decisions

As much as you want to bring every plant with you, you probably know that you may have to leave plants behind. Check with your local greenhouse if it’s possible to take a cutting from your plant to propagate it at your new home. Consider giving your larger, more cumbersome plants to your neighbor. It’s a great way to make sure your plants are taken care of, and it makes a wonderful gift!

Get help from knowledgeable local movers

If you are a plant parent and planning a local move in Chicago, contact Mighty Moving to help you with your move. Our moving crew is experienced with moving all types of things. Get a free moving quote online or give us a call at 855-699-8999.