Category: Moving Tips

5 Tips For Decluttering Before A Move

You finally scored your dream apartment, building, or home. That’s great! Now it’s time to prepare for the moving process. You have to clean, pack, and sort through the seemingly never ending pile of clutter you own. This process is not for the faint of heart. It can sometimes feel impossible to know which things to donate and which to keep.

Fortunately, UF Mover Guys is here to help with your decluttering. Our expert moving professionals can assist you with storage, junk removal, box labeling, and even disassembling large belongings. Contact us today regarding your next Gainesville, FL move.

Make Three Piles

It sounds intuitive, but the ‘three pile’ decluttering technique is popular for a reason. The purpose of the ‘three pile’ process is to assist you with narrowing down your belongings to only the ones you truly love, cherish, or frequently use. To participate in this method, make three piles on your floor. Section each one off. In total, you will need a ‘Donate,’ a ‘Toss,’ and a ‘Keep’ pile. In some cases, you may need to construct a fourth pile for ‘Maybe’ items that you haven’t yet decided on.

Any items that you no longer use, but are still in good condition, can be donated to a friend, a local charity, or a nonprofit organization. This act keeps clothes, toys, and accessories out of landfills. It’s decluttering you can feel good about!

Likewise, any objects you no longer use that are broken, ripped, scratched, or in disrepair should be appropriately disposed of.

Person putting clothes in donation boxes

Schedule Breaks

Decluttering can be tedious and difficult. It can cause stress and frustration in even the most experienced packers. To prevent burnout, it is important to avoid cleaning all in one batch. Take the process one step at a time. Write out your steps in a to-do list, and only focus your attention on the current task at hand. If you can, be sure to rest and relax every few hours to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Depending on what best relieves you, you can light candles, play music, read a book, or talk to friends in between.

Utilize The 90/90 Rule

Despite its name, no, the “90/90 rule” is not a diet or weight loss plan. This rule refers to the practice of asking two essential questions while decluttering your home. One: Have you used this particular item in the last 90 days? If you are moving an item with you, it should be something that you use frequently. Secondly, will you use this particular item in the next 90 days? If not, it is unlikely you will ever need to utilize it again. It is not worth the struggle to pack and move an object, simply in hopes that you might need it in the future. Instead, try practicing these reflective questions to determine if an item is significant enough to move.

Tackle Your Papers

It’s very easy for loose papers to pile up around the house. Homework, documents, and notes can quickly accumulate in your backpacks and desks. To conquer this mess, create three piles for your papers: shred, file, and recycle. For any out of date scratch papers, gather them together and take them to your nearest recycling bin. Think to yourself: what are the chances you will need your 8th grade biology homework again? This thinking helps you keep old, outdated items from taking up space in your new home. 

If the paper you no longer need is confidential, shred it with a paper shredder. This simple device can reassure you that your private information will not fall into the wrong hands. 

If the paper you are examining is sentimental, recent, or contains information you will likely need to refer back to, invest in a personal filing system. Manila folders and labels are an affordable and excellent way to organize similar documents in one centralized location.

Delay Purchasing Organizers

Organizers can be cute, stylish, and trendy. However, you should try to manage your temptation to purchase one immediately. Wait until after you declutter to research storage options. This way, you can get rid of unnecessary items first and accurately anticipate the size and type of storage you will need. You don’t want to buy a giant shoe rack just to donate half of your old sneakers!

How To Pack Electronics When Moving

Enable Tracking

Most newer models of smartphones offer user’s the ability to track their devices. This feature allows people to find their phones in the event that they are lost or stolen.

Setting up tracking is easy. Simply open your phone’s tracking app and allow it access to your location. Now, your phone will appear as a tiny dot on a map of your surroundings. In the event that your phone is missing from your moving boxes and luggage, all you have to do is log into your phone’s Cloud account on your computer to see where it is at.

Remove Batteries

If possible, safely take out the batteries from all of your electronic devices and remotes. This prevents your battery’s from potentially overheating or leaking during your move.

We recommend that you keep all of your removed batteries in a central, safe location, such as a plastic ziplock bag. This way, you will not misplace or lose any of them.

Back-Up Important Information

Although it is never pleasant to think about, it is wise to be prepared in the unfortunate event that your device becomes damaged during travel.

Before moving, upload all of your photos, documents, and necessary information onto an external USB flash drive or the Cloud. In doing so, you preserve all of your data.

Label Wires

Wires for electronic devices often look similar. When jumbled together in a single box, they can become especially confusing to decipher.

It is best practice to accurately and diligently label all of your wires, cords, and chargers. Use a sticker to wrap for your cables. On this sticker, legibly write the name of the devices the cable connects, or the item the cord powers.

Next, gently coil your cable and use a rubber band or zip-tie to secure the coils. This prevents the coils from coming loose and tangling together. Then, place each wrapped cable into a plastic bag that corresponds with the cord’s purpose. For instance, you might have a designated bag for audio cables, or a similar bag specifically for video cables.

This labeling process, while tedious, allows you to enjoy quicker and more convenient electronic set-up in your new residence.

Computer inside a cardboard box

Use Bubble Wrap

Unlike newspaper, bubble wrap will not accidentally transfer onto your screens or scratch your fragile devices. This factor, along with its affordable price and abundance, makes bubble wrap a prime candidate for all of your moving endeavors.

When packing your electronics in a cardboard box, we suggest that you use bubble wrap to cushion the top and bottom of your device. If you do not have access to bubble wrap, cloth towels serve as a good alternative.

Contact Our Professional Moving Company

At UF Mover Guys, our friendly and helpful team is able to help you move large appliances, such as TVs, computers, and gaming consoles. We employ the safest and most secure packing methods available to carefully and reliably transport your precious valuables. Additionally, all of our drivers are trained in best driving practices for a smooth, gentle moving experience. Contact us today to witness the power of our professional moving services for yourself!

Moving Tips For Florida’s Unpredictable Weather

Moving day is here! All of your belongings are packed up and ready to load onto the moving truck and haul to your destination. And despite your wishes for cool weather with plenty of sunshine, the weather forecast projects stormy weather. What should you do now? North Central Florida offers a wealth of benefits for residents, from a vibrant and growing economy to no state income tax. But living in Florida also comes with some drawbacks, namely unpredictable weather. Without the proper preparations, even the best-planned move can become thrown into turmoil. Here, our moving company in Florida, UF Mover Guys, offers helpful moving tips for Florida’s unpredictable weather.

Looking for Gainesville movers who you can count on no matter the weather? Contact UF Mover Guys today to book your move and learn more about our affordable moving services.

Check The Weather Report

One of the most important things you need to do when moving to or within the State of Florida is to check the weather report often. Follow weather predictions for your zip code and the zip code of your destination (if it differs from your original location) regularly in the weeks and days leading up to your moving day. 

Checking the weather projections isn’t a foolproof practice, but it is the best way to know how to pivot details of your move to account for various weather conditions. Fortunately, when you hire our Gainesville moving company, you can leave all the details and heavy lifting to our skilled moving team, rain or shine!

Weatherproof Your Belongings

Among the most significant concerns for moving on a day with rainy weather are water-logged furnishings and damaged belongings. To help prevent damage to your items, be sure to cover furniture with water-resistant or weatherproof coverings, like plastic wrap or moving blankets. If a big storm or heavy rainfall is projected, add a few extra layers of protection to your items.

If you’ve packed your belongings into sturdy, new cardboard boxes, they should hold up amidst the downpour so long as you tape them with high-quality packing tape and avoid letting them soak through. Our movers in Gainesville, FL, will swiftly transport your boxes from the moving truck to your indoor space to ensure the safety of their contents!

Have A Contingency Plan

When unexpected weather conditions are to be expected on your planned moving day, it’s always good practice to have a backup plan in place. If there is a hurricane or heavy storm on your move-out and move-in day, staying safe and avoiding moving until the weather clears up is best. While it’s inconvenient to have to reschedule your move, it’s always best to be safe.

Having a backup plan is particularly important during months of the year when unpredictable weather is most common, such as during summer and fall in North Central Florida. Don’t wait until you only have a single day to move out of your current place; pad your schedule with plenty of time to make adjustments, just in case an unexpected storm rolls through town.

Prepare Each Property

When it rains, slippery surfaces and water-soaked flooring can significantly threaten safety. Whether you’re moving on your own or you’ve hired a local moving company to take care of the heavy lifting for you, you’ll want to ensure there are no accidents throughout each stage of your move. Set out some non-skid, non-slip mats in the entryway of each property.

Keep an extra set or two on hand to replace one of the mats you set down in case they require replacement. Consider placing some temporary, water-resistant floor covers in place to protect surfaces from mud and water throughout each property. It might likewise be a good idea to have some towels on hand to wipe water away once you’re inside.

Hire Professional Local Movers

If you’re concerned about the safety of your items or yourself during your move, or if you’re unable to lift heavy items and need a helping hand, leave your move to our trusted Florida movers. UF Mover Guys offers a comprehensive range of moving services, from partial packing and full packing services to loading and unloading and moves of any size. Ready for a better moving experience? Contact us today to request a free estimate from our moving experts!

Tips For Choosing The Right Moving Company

Millions of people move every year in the United States. With so many people relocating, whether it’s within their neighborhood, across town, or to a different city, it’s a miracle that most of them happen without any issues at all. But even with so many smooth relocations, there are many problematic moves, with questionable moving companies and shoddy practices. That’s why it’s critical that you be informed about every step of the moving process, from choosing a Gainesville moving company to asking them the right questions, ensuring you have a positive, seamless experience. Here UF Mover Guys offers simple tips to follow for choosing the right movers in Gainesville, FL, for your next relocation. 

Looking for a Gainesville moving company you can count on? Contact UF Mover Guys today to book your move and learn more about our affordable moving services.
Benefits Of Hiring A Professional Moving Company

Hire A Local Moving Company

Deciding whether you’ll hire professional Gainesville movers or move on your own depends on a number of factors, such as the difficulty of the move, your budget, distance to your new home or business, and your health, among other factors. Overall, hiring a local moving company will save you all the heavy lifting, ensure your belongings are safe, and ensure our services are delivered efficiently and on time. There are many benefits of working with local movers over hiring a random company you find online For one, you can avoid being tricked into doing business with a fake moving company that operates only over the internet. Additionally, local movers are likely well-known by neighbors and others in the community.

Check For Qualifications

Professional movers have certain qualifications that are easily verifiable, such as long-term experience handling all types and scales of moves and significant training. If a moving company has been in business for more than a decade, chances are that they hire and properly train employees to ensure they complete the job well. UF Mover Guys offers fast, free, and no-obligation estimates. Our professional movers are trained, licensed, and insured to ensure you receive the highest quality moving services available. We respect the rules of your community and offer highly personalized service with attention to detail. Contact us today to find out why our moving company is Gainesville’s first choice for local movers!

Read Ratings & Reviews

If you’re wondering whether to hire a particular company to handle your move, online research can tell you a great deal about a company. As you start your search for a moving company near you, take a look at their customer reviews. Selecting a company with plenty of positive, authentic reviews can help ensure you have peace of mind in hiring them for your move. Read the reviews to learn about the experiences of previous customers who have worked with them in the past. Once you have a specific mover in mind, check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see whether or not they have accreditation and a good rating. 

Look Out For Red Flags

Most moving companies you come across will be legitimate. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t many scammers out there looking to grab your cash without providing the promised services. There are several red flags to be on the lookout for; if you spot these red flags, there’s a good chance the company in question is not legitimate.

  • The company doesn’t have an online presence
  • The movers refuse to sign a contract
  • The company is not insured or licensed
  • The company doesn’t offer protection for items against loss or damage
  • You receive a low-ball estimate from the company

Ask The Right Questions

Before you settle on the moving company you’ve chosen, you should put together a shortlist and narrow it down thereafter. Request a moving estimate from three or more companies before you move forward and decide on a company Once you read their customer reviews and check their BBB accreditation and rating, call them to ask questions that will aid you in narrowing down your search. Prepare a list of helpful questions to help determine whether the company you’ve chosen is trustworthy and capable of handling your specific moving needs. Consider including the following questions on your list:

  • Is your company licensed and insured?
  • Do you offer protection against damage or loss?
  • How long has your company been in business?
  • What is the timeline for the move?
  • Can you provide an estimate in writing?

Benefits Of Hiring A Professional Moving Company

A professional moving company can be a beneficial and worthwhile service to invest in. For example, if you have a lot of furniture and belongings, you may quickly learn that it can be tedious to keep everything organized. Moving companies will assist you with labeling and stress-free transportation while keeping items properly sorted. Don’t let the process of moving intimidate you. Instead, let our moving company take care of the boring, rigorous tasks, so you can focus on enjoying and decorating your new home. 

Our Gainesville moving company offers a range of helpful services, including trained drivers, crating for valuables, and disassembly and reassembly. We deliver an affordable and quality moving experience to each and every customer, so contact us today for a free quote!
Benefits Of Hiring A Professional Moving Company

Labeled Boxes

Picture this: you are moving into your new space. You want to cook a meal in your new kitchen but can’t find your silverware! You frantically tear through every box, digging through them and making a mess in the process. Our moving company can help prevent this stressful scenario by carefully labeling each of your boxes, so they can be unpacked in the exact room that they belong in. In addition, our moving checklist helps make sure nothing is lost or forgotten during your move.

Disassembly For Difficult Items

The problem with moving is that not everything can be crammed into a box. Some large items, like bookcases, beds, trampolines, and children’s swing sets, may require disassembly before they can be transported, which can be difficult. You may not remember exactly where to unscrew a shelf or how to take a trampoline apart. A professional moving company can help figure this out for you by packing and reassembling your large items in your new location. 

Clutter Removal & Disposal

The benefit of moving into a new space is that it is clean and fresh – full of infinite new possibilities and memories yet to be made! But, it can be hard to enjoy this when your apartment or home is cluttered with the same junk or unwanted items from your old place. A professional moving company can remove these unsightly things and allow you to maximize the potential of your home. They can remove anything, from small boxes to heavy old furniture – as long as it is nonhazardous. A moving company can also throw away and remove cardboard boxes and leftover packaging that was used in the moving process.

Our Gainesville professional moving company is unique from others in that we offer an eco-friendly approach to junk removal. Not everything needs to be thrown away – often, a piece of furniture or clothing can be thrifty and reutilized. Depending on the item, we will work with you to assess whether it can still be donated or recycled.

Peace Of Mind

With some valuable, priceless items, bubble wrap and newspaper won’t be of much use. That’s why professional moving services offer crating. Crating allows your fragile belongings, such as electronics or art, to be handled with care. 

UF Mover Guys wants to give you peace of mind regarding your upcoming move. That’s why we train our employees in best driving practices. Your favorite finds and collectibles are transported smoothly and safely in our vehicles, allowing you to worry about more important things. 

Navigating Senior Relocations: A Comprehensive Guide for a Seamless Move

Moving is undoubtedly a challenge at any stage of life, but for seniors, the process comes with unique hurdles. From age-related mobility concerns to the emotional weight of downsizing a lifetime’s worth of belongings, the prospect of relocating can be daunting. At UF Mover Guys, we understand the intricacies of senior relocations, and that’s why we’ve crafted a comprehensive guide to assist seniors and their families in making the moving process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

5 To-Do's To Settle Into Your Gainesville Student Apartment

Understanding The Unique Challenges

Seniors face distinctive challenges during the moving process, and acknowledging these hurdles is the first step toward a successful relocation. Our guide delves into the specific needs and concerns of seniors, offering insights and solutions tailored to their unique circumstances.

A Comprehensive Guide for Seniors and Their Families

Our recently developed guide is a valuable resource that provides practical tips and advice for seniors and their families embarking on a relocation journey. Here’s what you can find in our guide:

1. Choosing the Right Home

Discover valuable insights on what to look for in a new home that caters to the unique needs of seniors. From accessibility features to amenities, we guide you through the process of selecting a home that ensures comfort and convenience.

2. Implementing Safety Modifications

Learn about essential safety modifications that can be made to the new living space. Our guide outlines key considerations for creating a secure environment, reducing the risk of accidents, and promoting overall well-being.

3. Stress-Reducing Strategies

Moving can be a stressful experience, especially for seniors. Our guide provides practical tips on how to manage stress during the relocation process. From planning ahead to seeking support, we offer insights to make the journey more enjoyable.

How Our Movers Can Help

At UF Mover Guys, we recognize the unique challenges that seniors and their families face during the moving process. Our comprehensive guide is designed to be a valuable companion, offering practical advice and solutions to navigate the complexities of senior relocations successfully.

Moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With advanced planning and the right guidance, seniors can embark on a new chapter in their lives with confidence. Explore our guide to ensure a seamless and stress-free relocation experience for seniors and their families.

To learn more about senior moving. You can go to this link: https://www.caring.com/caregivers/senior-moving/

Helpful Checklist For Moving To An Apartment

When you move into a new apartment, your mind might be filled with daydreams about interior design and party-hosting. You might spend hours envisioning what furniture and items you will use to decorate your new space. But what about the important aspects of moving that we tend to overlook or forget?

With UF Mover Guys, moving doesn’t have to be stressful. That’s why we compiled this easy-to-follow checklist on what to do when moving into an apartment. We want to help make your apartment feel like home as quickly as possible. If you need packing, loading, unloading, transportation, storage, or residential moving services in Gainesville, FL, contact our team today.
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Invest In Storage

Depending on the size of your apartment, you may need to invest in hidden storage. Storage ottomans and coffee tables with concealed, empty centers are great options for hiding unsightly clutter, mail, or miscellaneous board games. However, before purchasing large storage furniture items, measure your apartment space to make sure everything fits. When unpacking your closet and wardrobe, you can also use door organizers to hang up your shoes, belts, and accessories. Play around with different options to discover the perfect fit for your apartment. 

Research Renter’s Insurance

While no one wants to think of disaster striking them and their home, it is always a possibility. Renter’s insurance allows people to stay prepared. This insurance option, depending on your insurance provider, can be relatively affordable when paid month-to-month. The purpose of renter’s insurance is that it offers coverage in case of loss or damage to your personal belongings. Whether an unexpected fire starts in your home or water floods your building, renter’s insurance is there to protect your items. Each insurance provider offers different coverage options, so be ready to research and compare. It’s better to be safe and sorry – look into renter’s insurance today.

Update Your Address

Most people forget to do this! When you move from one place to the next, make sure to update your address information on any important documents or services. Check your voter registration, driver’s license, subscriptions, bills, and upcoming deliveries. That way, all of your necessary things will be delivered to the correct location. 

Conduct An Inspection

Don’t be held liable for a previous tenant’s negligence. Most landlords and apartment managers require you to complete an inspection sheet after you move in. You are given the first few days to assess the condition of your kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, bedroom, living room, and closets. It is important to be thorough in your inspection in case you need to file any necessary maintenance or service requests. Additionally, if you mark down all of the damage you see, you can also ensure that you get your security deposit back. Check to see if there are any leaks under the sink, if the light switches, fans, and appliances work properly, and if the doors lock and close completely. 

5 To-Do’s To Settle Into Your Gainesville Student Apartment

Moving into a student apartment in Gainesville is an exciting step in your academic and personal life. Apartment living offers much more flexibility and convenience than dorm life, with perks like in-unit washers and dryers instead of the communal laundry room, furnished apartments so you can decorate your space to your taste, pet-friendly living so you can finally bring your fury friends along for your college experience, and much more.

However, moving into your very first apartment and settling into apartment life can feel overwhelming and unfamiliar. Here are 5 tips to make this transition smooth and comfortable.
5 To-Do's To Settle Into Your Gainesville Student Apartment

Knock Out All Paperwork & Fees Prior To Move-In Day

Move-in day is a chaotic day of unloading and unpacking boxes and adjusting to your new space. Before moving into your apartment near UF, communicate with the apartment office team on your to-dos to pick up keys. 

Make sure that all your paperwork is filled out, including little things like sending in your pets’ vaccinations or renter’s insurance information. Confirm that all your move-in fees have been paid, including leasing fees, deposits, pet deposits, and more. You’ll feel much more at ease when you arrive to the leasing office on move-in day with nothing left to sign or pay. Just pick up your keys and get moved in!

Set Your Roommate Relationship Up For Success

Lots of student apartments in Gainesville offer individual leases in bigger floor plans like 3-bedrooms or 4-bedrooms so you only have to worry about your portion of the monthly rent. Many communities also offer roommate matching and assign your roommates based on lifestyle habits like sleeping schedules, cleanliness, and more.

Roommate matching is an awesome way to make friends in college, but it also comes with some responsibility. Start a group chat ahead of move-in to clarify who’s bringing what apartment items and expectations for your living situation. It’s always easier to communicate concerns like hosting friends over too late or leaving the kitchen a mess if you establish expectations from the start.

Make  A Checklist Of Must-Have Items

While most student apartments are furnished with all of the basics in your bedroom and living room, you’ll need to think through what additional items you need when settling into your new home. Start a checklist a few months out from move-in day of items you need to pack or purchase, thinking through spaces like your study desk, bathroom, and kitchen. Do you need a lamp for your desk for late night study sessions? Do you need an organizer for under your bathroom sink? Do you need to stock up on cleaning supplies? What appliances does your kitchen come with, do you need a microwave?

It’s inevitable to forget little items and it takes some time living in your apartment to realize everything you’ll need to be successful and comfortable, but it’s always best to be as prepared as possible ahead of time. 

Familiarize yourself with the neighborhood.

Gainesville is a wonderful city full of culture and fun. It can sometimes feel like you’re living in a bubble when living in an on-campus dorm as you typically don’t need to leave campus. Don’t feel overwhelmed when transitioning to off-campus housing near UF.

Gainesville has a neighborhood for everyone – from Midtown right off the UF campus packed with restaurants and nightlife, to Archer Road featuring Butler Town Center and Celebration Pointe with tons of retail and entertainment, to the scenic Sorority Row & South area close to UF Health and the Sweetwater Wetlands park. 

Plan a night with your roommates after class to drive around the neighborhood, noting restaurants or things you want to check out!

Find Community In Student Housing

If you’re feeling lonely, lean on your roommates, neighbors, and new-found community at your student apartment! Most apartments offer monthly or even weekly resident events, offering free food and fun activities for you to connect with your neighbors and the leasing team. 

Everyone feels a little isolated transitioning from the constant hustle and bustle of on-campus living to off-campus living, so remind yourself that everyone is looking to make new friends and find new community!

Tips & Benefits For Moving In The Winter

Moving in the winter may seem like a daunting task, but it’s an experience that offers a unique tapestry of benefits. As the temperature drops in North Central Florida, so do the demands on your wallet, as winter brings the promise of cost-effective moving prospects! Embrace the magic of the season as we embark on a journey through the tips and hidden advantages of winter moves. From cozying up to a warm cup of cocoa in your new home to the satisfaction of beating the springtime or summertime rush, there are numerous advantages to relocating your home or business in the winter months. Here, our Gainesville moving experts at UF Mover Guys discuss tips and benefits for moving in the winter. Book your move today!
Moving In The Winter

Hire Professional Movers

The best way to ensure your move is successful at any time of the year is with the help of experienced professionals in the world of moving, such as those at UF Mover Guys! Our team of movers specializes in all sorts and scales of moves, from packing and transporting your belongings to storing and unpacking your things in your new space and so much more! When you work with a moving company that cares about you and your belongings, you have the confidence necessary to focus on more important things. We make it our business to provide our customers with the highest quality moving services possible. Make your winter move seamless with UF Mover Guys! Contact us today to get started!

Get Started Early

One of the biggest moving challenges for people planning to relocate is managing their belongings before, during, and after moving. Packing up your belongings early can give you the opportunity to sort through items and throw out or donate items you no longer want and need and offset any big stress associated with completing the packing process closer to your move-out date. The earlier you start packing up and organizing your belongings, the easier your move will be as you approach moving day. Consider packing up one box each day until your move-out day. You should also designate a box storage area to separate your already-packed boxes from your belongings that still need to be secured and packed.

Be Focused & Flexible

When you have a move coming up, it’s a good idea to make a moving list comprising everything you need to get done before the move-out day arrives. Once you have your list, you can sort each task in order of priority or importance or deadline and work down from there. It’s important to remember that you should stay flexible and open-minded during your packing up and moving out process. As moving day approaches, call our movers to confirm your moving date and services, watch the weather forecast and dress accordingly, and manage your change of address (at least 1 month in advance) with the post office. If you have any pets, you should have a pet plan in which you board your pet on moving day, have a friend or family member watch them, or find them an alternative place to hang out while the moving process takes place.

Benefits Of Moving In The Winter

There are plenty of benefits to moving in the winter. From more options for moving dates due to decreased demand and greater availability of rental trucks, commercial spaces, and residential places to speedier move-outs, quicker transportation, and a range of cost-saving perks! Contact UF Mover Guys to find out how you can benefit from moving during the winter!

  • Flexible Moving Dates
  • Quicker Transport
  • Greater Availability
  • Cheaper Housing & Storage
  • Faster Relocations
  • More Time For Your Needs
  • Fewer Housing Fees
  • Bonus Offers
  • Cooler Weather
  • A More Comfortable Move               

The Ultimate Guide To Moving A Long Distance With Pets

You have your moving checklist in hand, you’ve booked moving services, and you’re just about ready to embark on your next move, but what about your pets? Pet owners and pet parents love their animals, but when it comes to moving a long distance with them, they may not be aware of how to go about their relocation with their animals. After all, you don’t want to forget about the needs of your furry or feathered friends come moving day! Most pets take comfort in their routines, from their regular feeding times and favorite toys to their sleeping spots and activities.

Moving derails pets from their routines and can cause a significant amount of stress and anxiety until their routine restabilizes. Here, our Gainesville moving experts with UF Mover Guys offer tips for moving long distances with pets and how to make the process as streamlined as possible. Looking for reliable movers to handle the heavy lifting? Contact us today!
Curious cat in cardboard box

Acclimate Your Pet To Change

Moving is a significant transition for everyone in your household, but even more so for your pets. Whether your pets have fur, fins, scales, feathers, or otherwise, your pet’s needs should be at the top of your priorities through each stage of your move. As such, there’s quite a bit of organization and preparation needed prior to moving a long distance with your pet. The sooner you start planning your move with your pet and acclimating them to the changes that will occur, the better. 

In many cases, the safest way to relocate a pet is with them in a crate or carrier. Purchase one well in advance of your move and ensure it meets the requirements of the airline carrier (if applicable) or that it will fit comfortably in your car or other mode of transportation. Some pets love their crate or carrier, but others may take time to get used to them. Allow your pet to spend time around and in the opened crate or carrier ahead of your move. That way, but the time moving day arrives, they will be comfortable in it. 

Visit Their Veterinarian

During the planning phase of your upcoming move, you should make sure to visit your pet’s veterinarian for a check-up as well as any vaccinations, medications, refills, documentation, and anything else your pet may require. If your pet is prone to motion sickness, you can ask your vet about options for medication to remediate it. Consider getting your pet microchipped prior to your move-out date. Microchip implantation is a speedy, relatively painless, and simple procedure necessary for most pets. 

If you are ever separated from your animal, the implanted microchip will provide anyone who scans it with your contact information so you can reunite with them. In addition to microchip implantation, ask your vet about vaccinations, blood tests, and parasite preventatives. Ask them if they can recommend a veterinarian in your new location where you can take your pet when you arrive at your new destination.

Prepare Your Pet For The Move

Proper planning is the ideal way to make a long-distance journey with your pet more simple. You should spend time gathering the following. Depending on the duration of your travel, you may need to identify and reserve stays in pet-friendly hotels or B&Bs long before your move-out day arrives. You should also compile a list of stopping points that are friendly to pets so you can take breaks with them along the way.

  • Vaccination records
  • Identification tags
  • Portable food and water dishes
  • Several days of food and fresh water
  • Treats and toys
  • Cat litter, litter box, and scooper
  • Dog waste bags
  • Harness and leash
  • A cozy blanket and pillow or bedding
  • Pee pads and protective coverings
  • Cat carrier or pet crate 

Keep Your Pet Safe & Comfortable

You should ensure your pets are as safe, secure, and comfortable as possible throughout each stage of your long trip. Depending on the type of pet you have, you should discuss the best protocols for keeping them safe in the car or on the airplane with your veterinarian. If your pet is in a crate, you should ensure the crate is sufficiently roomy enough for them to stand up, turn around, and rest comfortably. Crates are generally made from metal, which is uncomfortable for pets, so be sure to line the crate or carrier with an appropriate amount of cozy blankets, throws, and padding.