Month: September 2022

Whether you’re moving for work, school, or for a fresh start with your family, moving, in general, can take a lot of time and effort to complete from beginning to end. This is especially true for those who have never moved previously and who have decided to move long distances to another province or country. From cardboard boxes and disassembled furniture to loading ramps and moving trucks, to put it quite frankly, moving is a daunting experience that sometimes requires the help of a professional moving company to help lighten the load. Because of this, it’s common to have questions like, “how does long distance moving work?” among others. Therefore, to ensure that homeowners across Canada are able to tackle their long-distance move with confidence and ensure their families and belongings get to their new destination safely, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide that will give you more clarity to the questions you may have. As such, for more information on how long distance moving works, keep reading!

 

How do moving companies work?

 

A long distance moving company functions similarly to other moving companies. Generally speaking, a move is considered “long distance” if you are planning to move across the province, across Canada, or internationally. Furthermore, when calculating the cost of your belongings, a long-distance moving company will first require you to provide a list of items you wish to bring with you –sort of like an inventory list. This preliminary inventory list then allows your partnered long distance moving company to calculate an estimate on the price of services.

 

Fast forward to the day of your scheduled move; once all of your items have been loaded into the moving trucks, the total weight of your items will ultimately determine the final price of what you will be charged. Moreover, beyond helping homeowners move from one destination to another, long distance moving companies often provide additional services. This includes packing and unpacking, loading your items onto the truck, disassembling and assembling furniture, and selling moving supplies.

 

However, it is essential to remember that these additional services are not obligatory. Thus, allowing homeowners to customize their experience to their personal needs and expectations.

 

How should I plan for long-distance moves? 

 

One of the more challenging aspects of moving long distances is planning. This is precisely why we’ve put together a list of everyday tasks you’ll most likely have to complete before the day of your scheduled move. However, we should note that while this is not an exhaustive list of tasks and responsibilities you’ll most likely have when you are planning your move, it should help you get started! Here is a closer look at what you should consider completing:

 

• Contact a professional moving company and confirm that they can assist you well in advance of your actual moving date.
• To avoid overpacking, organize your belongings by getting rid of any unwanted items that you don’t want to take with you.
• Purchase packing materials at least a move in advance to ensure you do not run out of supplies. 
• Label your boxes by room and whether or not they are fragile.
• If possible, disassemble large pieces of furniture.
• Gather all of your essential documents and belongings before loading them into your vehicle on the day of your move.
• Change your address for essential bills and subscriptions before your moving date.

 

 

How far ahead of time should a long-distance move be planned?

 

Furthermore, we can honestly say that the best way to plan your long-distance move is to start as early as possible. This can help alleviate some of the pressures you may feel throughout the process and ensure that you are rushing last minute to finalize all the details of your moving day. At the same time, it is also recommended that homeowners contact the moving company they wish to partner with weeks in advance before they plan on moving. Not only does this help better your chances of getting the moving day that you want, but it also provides the moving company enough time to work out details and prepare for your scheduled move on their end.

 

With that being said, if you find yourself in a position where you need to move immediately within a couple of days, a lot of long-distance moving companies can also provide you with emergency last-minute moving assistance. Again, it is always best to contact the moving company you wish to work with for your long distance move as soon as possible.

 

How long does it take movers to deliver?

 

Admittedly, disruptions are usual in most types of transportation. As such, the wait for your personal possessions to arrive safely at your new home is among the most challenging aspects of moving long distances. Because of this, it’s critical to keep in touch with your movers to stay updated on the status of your shipment. This will give you notifications on the existing timetable, postponements, as well as other variables that may interrupt your shipment’s predicted travel time.

 

Moreover, determining an expected delivery time for your possessions is not as easy as it may appear because many factors are taken into account as your personal possessions travel from place to place. With that being said, most long-distance moves can take anywhere between 10 days to more than two weeks on average. However, because of a number of unpredictable variables, this duration is likely to vary all across the process and between homeowners.

 

What factors affect the time it takes for items to arrive?

 

As we mentioned, the timetable on which your items will arrive at your new location will vary between households. This is due to numerous elements that can affect this process from being streamlined from start to finish. Some of these elements may include:

 

• The distance of your move: This is obvious as the greater the distance, the longer the delivery will take to complete. 
• Your shipment size: The more significant the shipment, the longer the delivery and transit time, which is why we always recommend that homeowners get rid of as many items they do not see themselves using in their new home. 
• Peak moving seasons: Generally speaking, early summer, early fall, and late spring can often cause your shipment to be delayed because many moving companies are overbooked.

 

On the other hand, other factors that may affect the amount of time it takes to have your items shipped during your long-distance move include bad weather and other unforeseeable circumstances that may cause delays. Nonetheless, when working with a professional long-distance moving company, they should be able to provide you with an approximation as to how long it will take your items to arrive.

 

How can I track my belongings?

 

It is not yet possible to track your belongings during a long distance move as if they were a package. However, you can check in with the moving company or driver during the move to see how things are going.

 

You can make notes as to where your belongings are at any given time by inquiring ahead of time about the journey the truck or other transportation vehicles will take. Furthermore, make sure you have at least one of the movers’ phone numbers so you can contact them if they are going to be late. Remember, keeping in touch with your moving company throughout the delivery process will ensure a hassle-free shipment. Staying in touch with the company will enable you to monitor the headway of your delivery and ensure that you are not forgotten during the process. 

 

Final Thoughts on long distance moving 

 

As you can see, moving a long distance can be a hassle for homeowners who don’t know what to expect from the process. However, if you are feeling overwhelmed with the process, there are resources and help available to you if you need it. By using this guide, you can begin the process and ensure your long-distance move runs smoothly from start to finish. At the same time, one of the main ways you can gain assistance during your long-distance move is to partner with a professional moving company you can trust to oversee your experience.

 

At Atlas Care, we have more than 50 years of experience assisting Canadians to move all across the country and around the world, and we are prepared to ensure you get to where you want to go worry-free. Therefore, if you’re in the beginning stages of planning your long-distance move and require assistance, our team of friendly and experienced professionals is here to help whenever you need us.

 

Request a free moving quote from Atlas Canada’s long-distance movers today! We look forward to working with you!

Relocating, whether it is for work, school, or a fresh beginning with your family, can take a significant amount of work and time to complete from start to finish. This is particularly true for individuals who have never moved before and have decided to relocate to a different province or country with a pet. Unlike travelling to your new location with children and other members of your family, moving pets can be a daunting task that needs to be performed correctly to ensure the safety and comfort of your animals. As such, we understand that you may have questions regarding moving pets long distances. This is why we’ve put together a list of some of the most frequently asked questions we often receive as a professional long-distance moving company in hopes that pet owners can find some clarity on the process before the date of their scheduled move. Therefore, for more information about moving your pets long distances, keep reading.

 

How can I make my pets’ long distance move easier?

 

Moving a long distance is more difficult for animals than it is for you because they do not comprehend what is happening. What they can tell, however, is that something isn’t right in their daily routine. As such, the more you do ahead of time to calm them down during their journey, the happier and healthier everybody will be. Making the decision to collaborate with a professional long-distance moving company with a credible and reliable business is the first step toward lowering the stress of a long-distance move for your pet. This is why it is essential that you choose a company with an excellent record for handling pets with the same attention and consideration that you do in your own household.

 

Beyond this, after choosing a professional long-distance moving company to assist you with your move, you will also want to take your pet to see its veterinarian. During this check-up appointment, you will want to confirm with your veterinarian that your pet is healthy and able to make the long-distance move. Furthermore, it is essential to note that if you require air transportation during your long-distance move, most airplanes will not allow you to sedate your pet in order to transport them. Therefore, it is imperative that you consider the following methods to calm your pet down as much as possible before your move:

 

1. Get a comfortable kennel for your pet.

 

Shipping pets by air, whether nationally or internationally, necessitates the use of an air carrier kennel, as these kennels are precisely created to keep your animal secure throughout its journey. There should be no rough edges that could injure your cat or dog, and there should be plenty of ventilation. As such, if your pet does not currently have a travel kennel, we suggest purchasing one as soon as possible and allowing them to become familiar with it. It will help them naturally become more comfortable with being in their kennel for long periods of time.

 

2. Consider cabin transportation

 

If your pet is a smaller size, you may be able to have it with you on your flight. Therefore, we suggest speaking with your airline to determine what size and weight they allow in flight before deciding whether this is an option for you.

 

3. Keep your pet on a regular schedule as much as possible.

 

Change frightens pets, so try to maintain a regular routine for them as much as possible. To do so, feed them at their usual time and location. Enable more than enough one-on-one time for them and try to take your pet to daycare or keep them in another room when moving-related operations are particularly messy.

 

Should I take my pets to the vet before moving?

 

As we mentioned above, it is always suggested that you take your pet to the vet before moving, especially when you’re moving a long distance. Your veterinarian can assist you in preparing your pet for relocation. You’ll need to ensure that all of their shots are up to date if you are moving to a new country. Furthermore, anxious pets may exhibit unusual behaviour, such as nibbling when they ordinarily would not. The same can be said for peeing inside. Talk to your vet regarding possibilities for soothing your pet, especially if you know your pets are prone to anxiety. Your veterinarian will be capable of advising you on the best natural methods for calming your pet down during the moving period.

 

Furthermore, once you arrive at your destination, before releasing your pet when you make it to your new destination, make sure your new residence and any outside yards are pet-proof. In addition, you should aim to spend a significant amount of time reassuring and entertaining your pet afterward. Confirm that they are aware of their new location and that you have a sufficient supply of their familiar possessions at the new residence that can help them feel comfortable and relaxed. While a few new toys might be fun, you might want to hold off on buying a brand-new bed for your pet until you and your family have settled in your new home.

 

How can I make my pets comfortable during the ride?

 

On the other hand, your long-distance move requires vehicle transportation rather than airplanes; it is essential to make your pet as comfortable as possible during the ride. To do this, you want to expose them to your car as much as possible before the day of your move. This includes taking them for your rides and using lots of treats to praise their behaviour. We suggest starting with short rides and slowly increasing the length of them so they become more accustomed to longer travel times. Beyond this, consider installing a pet safety seat if you do not wish to use a kennel. This will help them stay safe and in one comfortable place in the car while you are on the road.

 

How can I keep them safe?

 

Moreover, beyond keeping your pets comfortable during your long-distance move, it is also equally important to keep them safe. Therefore, what you will first want to do is take your car to the mechanic and ensure that everything is working correctly. This will help you avoid complete breakdowns during your journey.

 

After that, make a decision on how you will transport your pets in your vehicle. The ideal spot is generally in the back of the car, away from any of the airbags. At the same time, If your pets are excitable or unfamiliar with road transport and being in your car for long periods of time, you may want to consider a method to make sure they stay in one location while you are on the road. Some standard techniques that you can consider include backseat barriers, harnesses, and carriers that attach to a seat belt to restrict movement in the scenario where you are forced to suddenly stop. Furthermore, keep in mind that your pets should also have the freedom to be able to move around and sleep soundly.

 

Furthermore, the very last thing you want to do is to rummage through your belongings to find the items your pet requires while travelling. You’ll need a basic first-aid kit, veterinarian documents, more than enough of your pet’s regular food, water, travel bowls, a preferred stuffed animal or two, treats, and a blanket, among other items that will help ensure your pet’s complete comfort throughout your journey. We should also note that pet owners should pack extra food in addition to their travel kit in case they can’t find their favourite brand at their destination. This allows pets to gradually adjust and prevents stomach issues from happening, which can offset their behaviour and make the adjustment period in their new home more stressful.

 

Final thoughts on moving your pets long distance.

 

Moving long distances is a stressful endeavour, especially when you have pets. This is why it is essential to make sure you and your family are well-prepared ahead of time. Remember, your pet is a part of your family. As such, you will want to make sure that you have ticked off all your boxes to ensure your pet’s complete comfort and safety during your travels. At the same time, it is also crucial that you partner with a professional and reliable long-distance moving company that can help you prepare your home and personal belongings for the journey ahead of you. Furthermore, they can also help with packing, unpacking, and other additional services that can take some of the stress and responsibilities off of your shoulders.

 

Are you moving long distances with your family and pets? If so, it’s time to partner with a professional moving company that has your best interests in mind.

 

Atlas Care has more than 50 years of experience aiding Canadians to relocate across the country and all over the world, and we are ready to ensure you arrive safely. As a result, if you’re currently in the initial stages of planning your long-distance move and need assistance, our team of friendly and experienced professionals is available to assist you whenever you need it.

 

Request a free moving quote from Atlas Canada’s long-distance movers today! We look forward to helping you move your family, pets, and belongings safely. 

Fall landscaping and exterior home maintenance are essential to the curb appeal of your home. By planning ahead and keeping up with the outdoor chores, this fall season will become simple and enjoyable, rather than stressful. Here are 5 landscaping and outdoor maintenance tips to keep in mind as we head into September.

 

1. Plant Spring Flowering Bulbs

Make sure to plant your Spring bulbs such as tulips & daffodils six weeks before the first frost. This will allow the bulbs to get settled in before colder temperatures start to creep up. Choose a spot that has at least 6 hours of sunlight and add manure or compost to help enrich the soil. The tulip and daffodil bulbs also love well-drained soil so avoid overwatering. Don’t forget, the rule of thumb when planting spring bulbs is to plant 3x as deep as the bulb is tall. This will help hide the bulbs as much as possible to avoid critters digging them up.

 

2. Drain & Cover Water Features (fountains, bird baths, hoses etc.)

Don’t forget to drain any water features you may have in your yard. By draining the features, it will ensure the pipes and pump don’t freeze or crack when the temperature drops. Covering the features with tarps or netting will protect them from upcoming weather elements and will collect any autumn leaves that may fall on the feature.

 

3. Clean Up Exterior of House (siding, porch, eavestrough etc.)

Before the ice, snow and below zero temperatures arrive be sure to clean the exterior elements of your home. Pressure washing is a quick and effective way to clean your siding, brick, and the front/back porch. Empty out your eavestrough before the leaves and twigs freeze, making it harder to tackle this job come the following Spring. Start and finish any outdoor painting you need to get done. September is the perfect time to get any exterior painting complete because it has the best temperatures for the paint to dry, it is not too cold or too hot.

 

4. Pull Any Visible Weeds

Be sure to pull any weeds you may see before they become seeds. To reduce the number of weeds that appear in your yard next year. Make sure to grab the weed by the lower stem, pull the weed straight up and out of the ground rather than on an angle, this will avoid leaving any roots behind. If you cannot get the entire root out, taking off the head of the weed is best.

 

5. Grow Fall/Winter Vegetables & Herbs

Even though the temperatures may get cooler as fall approaches, there are still plenty of vegetables and herbs that you can grow and harvest in September. The following are just some that will thrive during fall in Canada; Pumpkin, eggplant, onion, swiss chard, broccoli, lettuce, radish, flat Italian or curled parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme. Many root vegetables such as squash, potatoes, sweet potatoes and beets will also survive in our cooler temperatures across Canada. These vegetables and herbs play a huge role in autumn cooking. Comfort meals such as; soups, pies, thanksgiving dishes, and pastas are just some examples.