Mountain Moving

We've said it before, and we'll say it again.  Moving is stressful.  Sometimes it's so easy to get stuck in that stress, but it is important to take a few moments to try to lessen your stress and relax a little.  WebMD gives the following 10 tips for stress relief:

Meditate. A few minutes a day can help ease anxiety.  Research suggests daily meditation may alter the brain's neural pathways, making you more resilient to stress. It's simple.  Sit up straight with both feet on the floor.  Close your eyes.  Focus your attention reciting - out loud or silently - a positive mantra such as "I feel at peace".  Place one hand on your belly to sync your mantra with your breaths.  Let any distracting thoughts float away.

Breathe Deeply. Take a 5-minute break and focus on your breathing.  Sit up straight, eyes closed, with your hand on your belly.  Slowly inhale through your nose, feeling the breath start in your abdomen and work its way to the top of your head.  Reverse the process as you exhale through your mouth. Deep breathing counters the effects of stress by slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure.

Be Present. Slow down. Take 5 minutes and focus on only one behaviour with your awareness.  Notice how the air feels on your face when you're walking and how your feet feel hitting the ground.  Enjoy the texture and taste of each bite of food.  When you spend time in the moment and focus on your senses, you should feel less tense.

Reach Out. Your social network is one of your best tools for handling stress.  Talk to others - preferably face to face, or at least on the phone.  Share what's going on.  You can get a fresh perspective while keeping your connection strong.

Tune In To Your Body. Mentally scan your body to get a sense of how stress affects it each day.  Lie on your back, or sit with your feet on the floor.  Start at your toes and work your way up to your scalp, noticing how your body feels. Simply be aware of places you feel tight or tense without trying to change anything.  For 1 to 2 minutes, imagine each deep breath flowing to that body part.  Repeat this process as you move your focus up your body.

Decompress. Place a warm heat wrap around your neck and shoulders for 10 minutes.  Close your eyes and relax your face, neck, upper chest, and back muscles.  Remove the wrap, and use a tennis ball to massage away tension. Place ball between your back and the wall.  Lean into the ball an hold gentle pressure for up to 15 seconds.  Then move the ball to another spot, and apply pressure.

Laugh Out Loud. A good belly laugh doesn't just lighten the load mentally, it lowers cortisol, your body's stress hormone, and boosts brain chemicals called endorphins, which help your mood.   Lighten up by tuning into your favourite sitcom or video, reading comics, or chatting with someone who makes you laugh.

Crank Up The Tunes Research shows that listening to soothing music can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety.  Create a playlist of songs or nature sounds, and allow your mind to focus on the different melodies, instruments, or singers in the piece.  You can also blow off steam by rocking out to more upbeat tunes or singing at the top of your lungs.

Get Moving. You don't have to run in order to get a runner's high.  All forms of exercise, including yoga and walking, can ease depression and anxiety by helping the brain release feel-good chemicals and by giving your body a chance to practice dealing with stress.  You can go for a quick walk around the block, take the stairs up and down a few flights, or do some stretching exercises like head rolls and shoulder shrugs.

Be Grateful. Keep a gratitude journal to help you remember all the things that are good in your life.  Being grateful for your blessings cancels out negative thoughts and worries.  Use these journals to savour good experiences.  When you start feeling stressed, spend a few minutes looking through your notes to remind yourself what really matters.

"Moves can be stressful for pets too.  They may feel unsure of their new environment, which can lead to behaviour issues that were not a problem in the past.  Some pets will absorb their caregivers' emotions: if you feel anxious, they may be jumpy and extra sensitive; if you feel scattered and chaotic, they may feel insecure.  They may become focused on establishing their "territory" in their new home, or they may want to stay under the bed or in their crate and hide."

Be Consistent. "Keep your routine schedule for feeding, walks, playtime, cuddling and bedtime.  If a dog is used to a doggy door, set one up in your new place.  If your cat is accustomed to outdoor time, arrange for that - even if you have to use a leash initially for safety purposes and to keep him from running away."

Bring Favourites. "You may be tempted to get your pet new accouterments, but this is not a good time to introduce new items.  Instead, bring your pet's favourite bed, crate, toys, food and water dishes, treats and other familiar items.  Put them in similar places as they were in your previous home.  Favourites will help your pet feel in control and at home more quickly."

Minimize Anxiety.  "Think of ways to ease your pet's transition.  Some animals will feel best being near you no matter what you're doing.  Others will do better in a crate away from the moving madness.  Or perhaps it is better for your animal buddy to stay at a friend or family member's home during the actual move; joining you once you've unpacked.  The more secure they feel, the better they'll weather the change."

Keep Them Safe. "During the packing stage, the actual move and the transition in the new home, plan for your pet's safety.  Some animals will be upset and scared once the boxes and suitcases take over.  They may hide or run away.  Set aside a safe place where they can't get lost or hurt.  Make sure your pet has identification and your contact information, and that you have copies of veterinary records.  Learn about any aggressive animals in the neighbourhood, or any structural risks in the home or yard."

Be Patient. "Allow your pets to take their time sniffing around.  Let them explore - and if they decide to hide for a while, that's ok as long as they know where the doggy door or litter box is.  Alloe them to come out when they are ready.  Their behaviour may change for a while, including eating and 'potty' habits, barking, pacing or protection behaviours.  They need time to get used to their new home, just as you do."

Give Them Extra Love. "Give your pet the attention he is used to.  A bit of extra loving will go a long way as they come to feel at home in their new surroundings.  Remember that difficult behaviours don't mean the pet is bad and can't change.  Get help from a professional trainer or veterinarian if your pet's difficult behaviours persist, and remember all the unconditional love they give you."

Most people have heard at least one moving horror story.  There are a lot of them out there - everything from belongings being "held hostage" while the company demands more money, to internet scams that require large deposits, never to be heard from again.  It is important to make sure you are working with a legitimate, reputable company.

Here are 10 tips to keep in mind to avoid a moving scam of your own:

Ask Around The general consensus among moving professionals is that word of mouth is the best way to find a good mover.  You can ask trusted friends & family members, co-workers, even your real estate agent.  Referrals are key to making the best selection for a moving company.

Investigate the Companies  Read reviews, look at their website, Facebook page, everything.  Keep in mind that a few bad reviews does not necessarily mean it's a bad company.  Use your judgement.

Make Sure Moving Company Visits Your Home You should always have someone from the moving company come to your home or apartment to physically look at what has to be moved, as well as the lay out of your home.  Good companies will spend approximately 20 minutes or more with a potential customer, answering questions and giving information. If you can, (and want to) ask if you can visit the company's office or headquarters.  A lot of times, internet-advertised moving companies do not even have a facility. Also, make sure the weight load of the estimate seems accurate to you, as many companies will give a low-ball number and purposely underestimate the weight in order to get your business, leaving you with extra costs on your moving day.

Get 3 Estimates It's best to make comparisons to see what services are included in each company's services.  This is a good time to get a feel for the company and how they run business as well.

Ask About the Claims Process Even reputable movers occasionally drop a vase or scratch tables.  The difference between a good mover and a bad mover when this happens is that a good mover has a solid claims process to make sure you recoup damages.

Ask About Hidden Costs Anything you need to pay should be brought to your attention right away.  There should not be any hidden charges (some companies add things like "driver's fee" to the bill at the end of the move).  Some movers will charge for pads and other moving equipment without telling you.  Others demand a 20% gratuity on top of the bill with no mention of it in an estimate or contract.

Be Cautious of Internet Movers It's easy to find moving companies in your online search.  Many offer special moving deals, and have legitimate-sounding names.  If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  Anyone can put an ad online these days - some companies that are advertised don't even have their own moving trucks.  Unfortunately, the internet is making it easy for scam artists to prey on consumers.  Since moving is not usually a regular occurrence for most people, it is not something many people have knowledge about, making it easier for scammers to trick people into hiring them.

Ask About the Actual Trucks Used The condition of the truck is a good indication of how your furniture will be treated.  When it's moving time and your hired mover shows up with a rental truck, it is ok for you to cancel on the spot and demand your deposit back.

Pay Little Up Front Some companies require a down payment or deposit as high as 25% of the total move.  But reputable companies do not require you to pay everything (or anything) up front.  If they do require a deposit, ensure it's refundable.  Be very wary of a local move that expects a payment up front - especially a large one.

Know Your Own Responsibilities Did you know that moving companies are not responsible for the loss or damage of any items of extraordinary value if they were not disclosed beforehand?  Did you know that any loosely packed items damaged in transit are the responsibility, not of the one driving, but the one who packed it?  Each province has laid out rules regarding the carriage of household goods in their motor vehicle act.  Educate yourself beforehand, and you know your own responsibilities.  This can save you a lot of heartache on moving day.

Getting an estimate for your move is not a necessity, but it is recommended.  This is your chance to get as much information about as many companies as you can so you can make an informed decision. Here are six questions you should ask when a moving company comes to give you an estimate.

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1.  Can I get a copy of the estimate in writing? You should request a written moving estimate and look at it first hand in order to avoid fraud or any complications later on.  Make sure you provide the correct details of your current location as well as the location you want to move to so that the company can give you a figure that is closest to the total cost of your move.  Make sure that you have the company visit in person, as an over-the-phone quote is likely to be inaccurate.

2.  Am I providing the most accurate information possible? Ensure that you provide the moving company with precise info so that they can make an informed estimate, which will be as close to the actual cost as possible. Leaving out things or forgetting to add items that will have to be moved will only add more money to your bill later. Most moving companies charge their customers on an hourly basis and the items required to move.  Take those factors into account and make sure that the company is well informed.

3.  What is the pricing structure? It can be quite confusing to figure out the cost of your move, which is why it is essential that you understand the price structure that the moving company is implementing.  Not only will this keep future headaches away, it will also allow you to prepare beforehand for any unforeseen expenses that invariably creep into every move.  Understanding the pricing structure properly will also allow you to negotiate better with the moving company.

4.  What is included in the estimate and are there any additional charges? The estimate should include everything that will be required during the move, including all items that have to be moved, the cost of packing and unpacking (if applicable) and the total distance from one location to the next.  Also, make sure that you inform the movers of any obstacles (i.e. lots of stairs, etc) or heavy/specialty items (i.e. pianos, etc) so that you aren't charged extra later on.

5.  Is there any coverage included in the estimate? Look for any coverage from your mover in the estimate.  Most moving companies provide insurance and valuation protection to people, which ensure that the moving company will cover potential damages during the move.

6.  Am I getting a binding estimate or can the estimate change? This is one of the most important things to get right since it will make the move a lot easier for you.  A binding estimate means the cost of the move cannot be changed, even if it exceeds the first estimate.

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Even a local move can be enough to throw off and/or stress out children of all ages.  It is an exciting time, but adjusting can be difficult.  Depending on the distance of your move, you child or children may need to change schools, sports teams, and may feel they will lose their current friends.  It is important that you maintain a positive attitude for your child or children in order to make it an easier transition.

Some quick points to help with the adjustment include:

Infants & toddlers are likely the easiest to adapt.  They are too young to understand an explanation of the move, and are more affected by the reactions of their caregivers than the actual move.  Young kids do best with routine, so keeping their routine as similar as possible is something to keep in mind.  If possible, avoid other "huge changes" for the child (potty-training, new bed, etc) to avoid overwhelming or confusing the young child.

School-aged children may be worried about making friends in their new neighbourhood, and depending on the distance of your move, at their new school.  If a new school is on the horizon, try to arrange for a meeting/tour of the school to help the child to feel more comfortable.  They may even get a chance to meet their teacher before their first day.

Teenagers might be more resistant to the change.  As a teenager, their identities are constantly evolving and changing, and they likely have established solid friend groups.  Ensure, if possible, that teens are able to keep in contact with their friends.  Again, it depends on the distance of the move as to what the impact may be.  If switching schools, some teens may worry that their academics may suffer.

Depending on the circumstances of the move, some children will thrive in a new environment.  An accepting peer new peer group, and a supportive mentoring from adults in their lives are things that will help keep the idea of moving positive.

If children are old enough, ask them what would help them transition better and how they feel about the move.  Just being able to voice their opinion is helpful.

Pack a "Can't Live Without" bag, and let children decide what items they want to be able to keep with them at all times.

Get children & teens excited about their new rooms, and allow them to have a say in the decor & set up of the room.

If possible, invite friends over so children can have help figuring out what is "fun" in their new house and/or neighbourhood.

It is important to ask the right questions when getting a moving quote.  Here are six great questions to ask when getting yours, whether it's with us or another company.

[Source: http://www.angieslist.com/articles/6-questions-ask-when-getting-moving-estimate.htm?CID=SocialPin__6Movingqs_22414 ]

1.  Can I get a copy of the estimate in writing?

You should always request a written moving estimate and look at it firsthand in order to avoid fraud or any complications later on.

Make sure that you provide the correct details of your current location as well as the location you want to move to so that the company can give you a figure that is closest to the total cost of your move.  Make sure that the company visits in person so they can gather accurate information about the move.

2.  Am I providing the most accurate information possible?

Ensure that you provide the moving company with precise information so that they can make an informed estimate, which will be as close to the actual cost as possible.  Leaving out things and forgetting to add items that have to be moved will only add more money to your bill later.

Most moving companies charge their customers on an hourly basis and the items required to move.  Take those factors into account and make sure that the moving company is well informed.

3.  What is the pricing structure?

It can be quite confusing to figure out the cost of your move, which is why it is essential that you understand the price structure that the moving company is implementing.

Not only will this keep future headaches away, it will also allow you to prepare beforehand for any unforeseen expenses that invariably creep into every move.

4.  What is included in the estimate and are there additional charges?

The estimate should include everything that will be required during the move, including all items that have to be moved, the cost of packing and unpacking, and the total distance from one location to the next.  Also, make sure that you inform the movers of obstacles and special or heavy items so that you aren't charged extra later on.

5.  Is there any coverage included in the estimate?

Look for any coverage from your mover in the estimate.  Most moving companies provide insurance and valuation protection to people, which ensure that the moving company will cover all damages during the move.

6.  Am I getting a binding estimate or can the estimate change?

Moving is one of the most stressful things you will do.  Choosing the right moving company is imperative in helping to alleviate that stress.  Some may assume that going with a franchised company, whose name is everywhere, is the best choice.  However, this may not always be the case.  Franchises  have deeper pockets allowing them to have larger advertising campaigns, which is great for branding, but it's the service you are receiving that counts.

Locally Owned

Mountain Moving Systems has been moving families & businesses in Durham Region since 1986.  Owner Mike Mountain has lived in Durham Region his entire life.  We know Durham Region.  When you call a franchise, you may not even be speaking with someone in your area.  You always have the option of speaking with Mike directly, as we believe that part of providing the best possible service is direct contact with customers.  We treat customers the way we would like to be treated, and one thing we know we'd like is to know exactly who is responsible for most (if not all) of our earthly belongings.  Mike is still the one who personally does all in-home estimates, and loves interacting with potential customers.

Franchises may claim to be local, but at the end of the day, they report to a corporate office.  A large amount of the revenue made by franchisees goes directly to that head office.  For Mountain Moving Systems, we put our revenue to good use - to ensure our business is providing quality trucks, equipment, and responsible staff.  The lack of franchise fees also helps us to maintain a more reasonable rate, as we do not carry the same operating fees that a franchise does (which are often reflected in your cost).

Experience

Since our start in 1986, we've seen it all; the good, the bad, and the ugly.  There are very few circumstances that may arise that we have not experienced or would not be prepared for.  Moving is what we do, and it's what we've done for almost 3 decades.  Franchise moving companies may say they've been in business for a certain number of years, but that is likely the corporate office as opposed to the actual franchise owner you would be dealing with.

We Care

It is literally our name on the line when it comes to our business.  Mike Mountain started Mountain Moving Systems because of his desire to help others.  He views his company as a third child.  This is not simply an investment where someone else manages it while we sit back and watch.   The investment is our time - managing a family business is 24/7, 365 days of working, thinking about, and essentially breathing our business.  Our number one goal is to provide the best possible service.

I once heard someone say that moving is the most stressful thing there is, after death and taxes.  It’s probably not far from the truth.  So here are a few things you can do to help make yourself feel as little stress as possible during the moving process.

Make a To-Do List Write a to-do list weeks before your moving day (if possible) with absolutely everything move-related that you need to do.  Feel free to add to the list as you remember or as new tasks pop up.  This helps you to feel a little more in control, and lets you avoid forgetting anything or rushing days before.

Get Enough Sleep & Eat Well This may seem like a no-brainer.  But you need to be functioning at your best levels in order to avoid burning out.  Make sure you are taking care of yourself.

Treat Yourself It doesn’t have to be anything huge.  But you’ve been working hard - give yourself some time to yourself, go see a movie, or buy yourself that pricey coffee drink.  Rewarding yourself for your work is something that will help reduce stress levels.

Get Rid of the Junk Before packing your contents, donate old clothes, furniture, etc. that you know you won’t wear or use in the new home.  Fresh start!

Stock Up on Packing Supplies Make sure you have plenty of the packing supplies you will need.  You don't want to run out of something mid-pack.

Hire Movers ASAP Getting it done sooner can help to reduce anxiety.  Waiting until the last minute may leave you with less options.

Divide Tasks by Week To help you from trying to do everything at once, organize tasks into separate weeks.  You will feel more organized, and as a result, LESS STRESS!

Give Yourself Time A good amount of time to start planning is approximately 8 weeks.  Some people may not have the luxury of time, but if you do have the time, utilize it.  Allow yourself as much time as possible.  

"Say Goodbye" Moving can be emotional.  You may not realize how attached you can become to a residence.  Help this by throwing a party, inviting friends for dinner, having a family movie night, or something else special to you.  A ritual like this will help with any lingering need for closure.

Go With the Flow Things go wrong sometimes, even for the most organized person in the world.  Unplanned events or bad weather can and will happen; you need to remain flexible and allow for some breathing room.