Tips for Moving During the Summer

Found your next home and getting ready to move this summer? We have tips on best practices for moving in the summer, and at TNT Moving Systems, we know just how to make accommodations for the blazing hot and often humid, but gorgeous summer days here in Charlotte, NC.

Are you planning to move between May 15th and August 31st?

Did you know that 70% of all residential moving takes place between May and September? The estimated peak season for moving in the U.S. falls between May 15th and August 31st.
Summer is the most popular season to move, and for good reason! Not only are the highest number of homes for sale during the summer, but it’s usually the best time for families to move, as kids are out of school and if needed, can transition into a new school district at the start of the year more easily. Buyers may also prefer the summer months for moving into a new home, simply because the weather tends to be nicer and more reliable. 

However, even though the benefits of peak season attract buyers and sellers, there are some constraints to consider, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic looming over moves this summer.
Social distancing is still the best method for preventing the spread of coronavirus, but the CDC recommends that masks are worn in places where social distancing isn’t possible. Should you wear a mask while moving? 

In short, the answer is yes. If you plan on hiring a moving company, the movers will likely via company policies be wearing masks, or if you informally find friends to help you move, you should all wear masks as much as possible. Moving into a new home will mean that you’re all in a very close-contact environment and conducting strenuous physical activity. With any close-contact physical activity right now, it’s important to respect the shared space by wearing a mask and limited the spread of COVID-19.

Obviously, the more activity you’re partaking in, the more your breathing will increase, and the more you’re breathing, the greater chance that you will spread the virus if you have it or are carrying it. When everyone involved wears masks together, it is far more effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19.

What should I look for in a mask for moving?

Proper fit
The most important thing to look for in a mask is proper fit that keeps the mouth and nose consistently covered. You do not want to constantly adjust the mask and touch your face, and if the mask is too tight on the ears causing you to pull the mask down due to discomfort or too loose around the face, then wearing a mask isn’t useful. 

Moisture-wicking material
You will also want to find a mask made of materials that wick moisture away from the wearer. Certain mask materials can get wet and begin to touch and stick to your face, meaning particles from outside the mask can begin to seep into your mouth and nose. 

Breathability and air-flow
The element of breathability is the most important of all, especially as you’re experiencing physical activity in often very hot environments. Unfortunately, the breathability of a mask is often a trade-off when it comes to protection. If you use an N-95 mask, which is known for its ability to catch 95% of particles, then this optimization for protection is a trade-off for its limited breathability. N95 masks have very strong filters that for those not used to wearing masks, and when you’re breathing heavily it can make it seem much more difficult to breathe.

If you aren’t used to wearing an N95 mask, medical professionals recommend that you make a transition into wearing a mask, such as wearing a mask in short increments while exercising or packing things around the house just to gain an increased level of awareness with how you normalize your breathing and regulate your body temperature. Covering your nose and mouth with a mask can make it more difficult for air and heat to leave the body, so checking in on how you feel and adjusting your flow while moving may include taking more breaks, drinking more water, or ensuring that the air conditioning and fans are on to increase airflow in the house.

Alternatively, if you want a better balance between breathability and protection, your best bet may be masks that are 100% cotton. The best cotton masks will provide two layers of protection and the option to include a filter. Masks that are the pleated masks, muzzle-shaped, and provide a nose wire for a closer fit to your face provide the best protection. It is also recommended that you use a mask with elastic earpieces that aren’t too tight or too loose, and rest securely against your skin. Tie masks are less effective since they come loose more easily, and aren’t as easy to remove when you are needing a break outside. 

If you have medical concerns about wearing a mask during the exercise of moving, you may want to talk to your doctor about whether it’s safe for you to do so, and plan ahead of time how you might accommodate your mask-wearing on your move day. 

Where can I buy a mask that would be good to wear while moving? 

There are plenty of options on where to purchase a breathable, elastic mask, and we’ve got you…covered! Check out some of these options (not sponsored, availability subject to change).

Etsy
Etsy has numerous sellers with a variety of types of masks and fabrics. Most shops selling masks are available to ship within three days, and you can also read reviews to find a high quality, reputable seller. Here are just a few sellers we found

• 100% Cotton, 3 layers washable adult fabric mask with filterWashable Filter Face Mask
• Mask with nose wire and filter pockets 

Facebook Marketplace
If you want to support local creators, many people are selling handmade masks on Facebook Marketplace right in your neighborhood. You may also be able to find people selling in bulk the more difficult-to-find N95’s or surgical masks as well. 

Big Box Stores: Walmart, Lowes, Home Depot
Pre-COVID, hardware stores or home-repair sections in stores were the easiest places to find masks. Check with your local store to see if they have masks in stock. 

Pharmacies: Walgreens, CVS, etc.
Many local pharmacies have restocked masks supplies, and even offer curbside pickup. 

Online clothing retailers & stores
Check out your favorite clothing store, and chances are on the homepage you’ll find an offer for a cloth facemask. For example, Madewell, Old Navy, Banana Republic, Forever 21, Rag & Bone have all started selling facemasks for a low cost and low shipping. Many other stores that sell home goods or bedding, and just businesses aiding in providing a new service during the pandemic, have also shifted to producing masks. 

• Madewell
• Old Navy 5-pack Masks
• Adidas Masks
• Vistaprint Masks

Moving in the heat, made easy!

The sweltering summer sun and high humidity in Charlotte can make a summer move difficult for those doing the heavy lifting. Keep these tricks in mind to keep your move cool:

Start early in the day
Trying to beat the heat? If you’re able to do so, start as early in the morning as possible. A move in the summer afternoon in a hot climate is not going to be pleasant; temperatures are at their highest between 11-3pm, with the sun’s intensity being greater and the UV rays being stronger. Not only will you avoid sunburn by starting earlier, but early mornings can mean a much cooler move. Most moving companies will also prefer to start earlier in the morning during the summer, rather than later in the day. 

Apply sunscreen throughout the day
Whether you prefer lotion or spray sunscreen, ensure that you cover your entire body (don’t forget the face, neck and ears!) with a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher and that is water-resistant. You’ll want to apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every 2 hours. 

Aim for light, loose, and breathable fabrics
Dressing for a summer move is a breeze, especially with the popularity of athleisure. Look for lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen that absorb sweat and moisture, or wear athletic-style clothing that’s made to wick moisture away from your body. Avoid synthetic fabrics like rayon and polyester, and avoid dark colors that attract heat. Ensure that you wear a hat and bring sunglasses to protect your head and face from the sun. 

Ensure that your utilities are turned on before Moving Day!
Cooling down your house a few days ahead of time is essential before a hot move on a summer’s day. Beyond that, you’ll want your water turned on as well to make sure that you have access to clean, running water for staying hydrated, using the facilities, and showering after a long sweaty day in your new home!

Move heat-sensitive items either first or last.
All of your belongings may not fare well in the heat, and the inside of a moving truck during the summer can reach temperatures of 120 degrees. Paper items and electronics are typically fine in the heat, but items like loose photos may start to emulsify and stick together if they aren’t in protected pages. Candles, cameras, shrink wrapped clothes may melt, warp, or ruin other items that they’re boxed with. Many plants cannot withstand extreme high or low temperatures for long, and should also plan to be moved carefully.

You can also take into consideration how long items are sitting in a truck; is it for days as you move states or take longer to unpack a track, or a few hours as you move across town? In either case, ensure that you keep valuables, sentimental items, and heat sensitive items are packed in your personal vehicle and brought into the air conditioning or a climate controlled room as soon as possible.

Keep cool.
Setting up a couple of portable fans around the house, especially in the garage, and opening doorways and encouraging airflow will greatly benefit you during the moving process. These fans are typically inexpensive at around $10/piece, and can be found at any big box store. Coolers also come in handy, if you can fill a cooler with ice and keep damp washcloths inside to provide cold towels for everyone involved in the moving process. Exposure to high temperatures can be very dangerous, so remaining vigilant for signs of overheating and heat-related illness is essential. If someone shows symptoms of overheating or heat exhaustion, get them to rest in an air conditioned space as quickly as possible, and provide water and cold towels to cool down, and seek medical attention if needed. 

Move with confidence this summer.

If you’re moving in the summer, you are automatically in increased competition with other buyers to find a reputable, reliable, and affordable moving company for your moving date. Moving companies during the peak moving season are in great demand; high demand for movers means that you will most likely be dealing with higher moving costs and limited availability. If you do not secure a highly rated moving company ahead of time, you may have to sacrifice the quality of services for your move.

As soon as your moving date is confirmed, book a moving company you can trust. TNT Moving Systems can talk to you today at (704) 523-1455 about availability, pricing, COVID-19 precautions and more.

Tips on Changing Schools and Moving Children

Moving to a new home is an exciting and unique time for a family! It produces new challenges and responsibilities for both the children and parents, and definitely conveys new meaning to the idea of thriving in uncertainty. Want to know the ins-and-outs for a smoother transition? TNT Moving Systems has gathered tips and best practices on changing schools and moving homes with children.
Whether the house move is occurring mid-year or over summer break, changing new schools can bring on many uncertainties for families. For those families who have never changed schools or grown comfortable and familiar with their local school, it can be really hard to adapt to a new setting, new teachers, a new curriculum and tackle making new friends. Combine that with having to reach out and adjust to new neighborhood friends, playmates, and activities, and it can all seem very scary!

With a global pandemic and schools adapting rapidly to the new normal this year, parents also may find themselves with new challenges as they move school districts: what will the fall school year look like? Will my kids be participating in online learning? How can I choose the right school without in-person meetings? Or before all of that: what does moving even look like amidst the COVID-19 precautions, and how will that work with children in the home?

Take a deep breath! On the bright side, for any family moving right now, whether seasoned movers or novice movers, you are all in the same boat. Sometimes just knowing that others are experiencing similar situations can help you find comfort. TNT Moving Systems

Back to basics: How to pack and move to a new home with children
Our top recommendation is this: decide what works for your family to simplify your packing of the house and moving day. Not every tip may work for your family and lifestyle, and that’s okay! Let’s unpack that statement by highlighting some steps you can take and accommodate to your family to ultimately de-stress relocating with children.

• Pack ahead of time, and label everything!

If the situation permits, start packing as soon as you’ve signed on you’re moving, or better yet, before you even have a place to move to! It’s never too early! Start by sorting out what’s non-essential for the short-term  (think: out-of-season clothing, décor around the house, books etc.), and label your boxes with a naming convention that works for you. Some people simply label by room (e.g. living room, kitchen, bathroom), by the contents of the box (e.g. books, clothes, kitchen utensils), by the person’s name to which it belongs, or a combination of those. Choose what works for you, and label boldly on two sides of your boxes for increased visibility.

• Don’t forget to pack and separate an essential box for every family member.

Anytime you move, ensure that you have a box of essentials for each member of the family. These essential boxes should include the items that will be needed on the night before, day of, and few days after the move. This is particularly important if the move is longer than one day, and the moving truck may not arrive on the day that you arrive.

• Involve your child in packing their belongings.

If the child is old enough to help with packing, labeling, or folding, assign them to a space and let them work until they’re no longer interested. We wouldn’t expect a small child to stay on task for long, but making moving tasks into a game or contest can make a positive experience and overall association with moving for your children!

• Secure childcare for the moving day.

Two weeks before your move, ensure that you have a plan in place for your young children that require childcare. Moving out of a home can be hazardous to young children who don’t understand what’s going on, and may not be able to stay out from underfoot, and require extra attention from parents during this stressful time in their home. Some parents may assign one parent to focus on watching the children, while others may find that scheduling for a child to be outside of the home to daycare, a neighbor’s house, or family member may be the easiest way to handle moving day. With the current stay-at-home orders and limiting young children’s exposure to outsiders, this can be trickier than ever, so it’s best to have a plan and a back-up plan in place to ensure the safety of your child on moving day.

• If your child wants to help during moving day, find age-appropriate tasks.

Kids typically love to help and feel needed by their families! If they sense stress from their parents, they don’t want to be told they’re too young to be useful and to get out of the way – they want to hear that you have “just the right job!” for them. Obviously, that job doesn’t have to require helping lift the couch or carrying heavy boxes. Make it age appropriate!

• Plan moving day activities ahead of time.

Like any other stay-at-home day, planning a few activities for your child ahead of time can limit distractions throughout the moving day. Consider preparing a few different activities, like a coloring book, video game, toy, or playlist of YouTube videos or movies, or reaching out to other neighborhood parents to shoulder watching the children play with their friends outside.

• Work with a professional moving service.

Working with a professional moving service like TNT Moving Systems can free up your time and energy by cutting back time on packing and physically moving out of your house. Not every family will have weeks in advance to plan and pack for a move in time, and a professional moving company can bring their expertise to get you to your new destination with the least amount of worries. Our team is fully operational during the COVID-19 outbreak, and prepared to safely serve the Charlotte area.

• Involve your child in moving to the new house.

Beyond limiting your stress as a parent, you can help ease your child’s stress and anxiety about moving to a new home by involving them in some of the decision making.  Has your child sorted through their belongings and made a donation pile? Moving is always a great time to decide what you want to bring to your new home, and it’s an excellent time to start teaching your kids how to part with the belongings they’ve outgrown, no longer play with, or no longer want. Model the behavior by sorting your own belongings out into boxes and donation piles, and provide help and supervision as age-necessary.

Another way to eliminate apprehension your child might have about moving into a new house is to have your child plan out the look, décor, paint, or theme of their new bedroom. It doesn’t have to be costly though, if purchasing new décor is out of the budget; think to ask your child to sketch out what the layout of their new room should look like, cutting out ideas from magazines or using Pinterest to create a vision board of what their dream bedroom could look like, or making a game-plan of what their first to-do’s will be when they move into the house and start to explore their new neighborhood or town. Just as planning, making lists and thinking ahead helps adults, it can help kids sort out their thoughts and feelings for moving as well!

Saying goodbye to your old school, neighborhood, and friends
It’s never easy to say goodbye to the place you call home! While some children truly might not prefer not to make a big deal out of it, it’s important for parents to assess their child’s emotional needs. Instead of “making a big deal of moving,” we recommend simply making it special to your child. Are they leaving behind their teammates or best friend? Are they moving schools and the beloved classmates they’ve had the past few years? Are they going to miss their neighborhood friends? Is there a particular restaurant they’re going to miss? Here are a few ideas on how to say goodbye:

• Social distancing soirée!

There are still activities your children can partake in with their neighborhood and school friends to say goodbye. Consider an outdoor movie night, a bike ride through the neighborhood, hosting a game night on the Houseparty app or an online game like Fortnite, or simply walking around and chatting to neighbors at a safe distance.

• Plan a parade through the neighborhood

Reach out to your neighborhood friends on Nextdoor, and plan to wave goodbye to them on moving day! You can even make signs to hang out of your window to shout out how much you’re going to miss them.

• Write letters or send a craft to say goodbye!

Handwritten letters are making a comeback, and what better way to say goodbye than to have (or assist) your child in writing a letter to everyone they want to say farewell to? Better yet, include a craft to have them “remembered” by, whether that’s as simple as a drawing or outline of their hand with their name and the date. Don’t forget to include your new mailing address and other contact information to stay in touch!

• Schedule a Zoom or Google Hangout call with your child’s class

Check in with your child’s teacher and ask if they might be willing to give a shout-out or host a goodbye party with your child’s class. With everyone learning from home, it’s important now more than ever to connect online and see your friends and classmates face-to-face.

Choosing and adjusting to a new school and neighborhood
After you’ve moved in and unpacked, set aside some time to spend helping your child adjust to the move.

• Take walks around the neighborhood and meet the other families.

It can be intimidating to enter into an established friend group of a neighborhood, whether you’re a child or a parent. Walking around together, introducing your family, and getting to know your neighbors can ease your children into developing friendships with other children.

• Zoom chat with the new teacher and your child.

Once you’re enrolled in a new school and have a new teacher assigned, and with the uncertainty of whether our children will physically be back in school this fall or have a summer open-house, consider reaching out to your new teacher to introduce them to your child. This can get your child more comfortable with a new school and to have a familiar face on their side the day they enter the school. The teacher may also be able to put you in touch with some new classmates and give you a jump start on making a new school seem less frightening!

• Join social media groups to find play dates and recommendations fun places and activities in the new neighborhood.

When in doubt, ask for recommendations! It’s a great way to meet people and get involved in your new community.

• Enroll in summer camps, activities, and have fun with creating a “new normal” for your family!

Moving is a wonderful, exciting time for families, and often we think of moving to a new home as a new beginning. Whether you’re finding a new sports team for your child creating a new tradition for the family like movie nights in the backyard every Friday, enjoy your time adjusting to a new home! It goes by quickly, and soon enough, it will feel like home for all of your family.

TNT Moving Systems would love to assist your family in your next move. We are happy to talk with you about what precautions we’re taking for COVID-19, and ease any anxieties you may have about moving during an unpredictable time. Our moving professionals are friendly, efficient, and ready to help, so give us a call today at 704-523-1455 and we can provide you with a free moving quote!

We’re Open for Business! Tips for Moving During the Coronavirus Pandemic

No one needs to tell you that the novel coronavirus pandemic has made a significant impact on virtually every sector of industry and society in both the U.S. and abroad. The spread of the virus and its accompanying disease (COVID-19) has ramped up in previous months, and while it appears that the spread could be trending down soon, even the world’s leading experts are not sure of what the next several months will entail.

What’s more, the CDC director, Robert Redfield, has recently warned that the coronavirus could return next winter alongside a flu epidemic. And a second wave of the coronavirus combined with the flu could prove even more dangerous than the circumstances we are experiencing now.

All this to say that there could be significant economic uncertainty well into 2021, and the impact that will have on businesses across the country is not hard to imagine. Already, all businesses deemed non-essential have been ordered to close their doors, forcing companies of all shapes and sizes to dramatically adjust their day-to-day operations or otherwise shut down completely.

So what does this mean for people who need to move to a different home? Fortunately, moving companies are considered essential businesses, meaning that most are allowed to keep their doors open, though some may choose not to. Here at T-N-T Moving Systems, we are open and fully operational, ready to serve Charlotte with its moving needs—long or short distance, planned in advance or suddenly.

Below we will discuss several factors concerning the moving process during the coronavirus pandemic. This will include Governor Roy Cooper’s COVID-19 executive order for businesses and residents of North Carolina, how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting moving services, and general moving advice for residents amid the coronavirus pandemic. Let’s get into the details concerning these factors:

THE EXECUTIVE ORDERS 
North Carolina’s stay-at-home order and Mecklenburg County’s order both deem professional moving services a critical trade. This is largely due to the assistance that moving services provide for residents to shelter in place. After all, if you have no other option than to move, and you don’t have family or other household members to help, then you would be put in a precarious situation amid a worldwide pandemic.

Because moving services are considered a critical trade, companies are free to keep their doors open despite the stay-at-home orders. Nonetheless, T-N-T Moving Systems are following strict protocols so that we can serve customers effectively and safely.

CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC PROTOCOL 
Some moving companies across the country, particularly smaller franchises, are choosing to close either temporarily or indefinitely. While we are taking this pandemic very seriously, we have opted to stay open so that we can continue to serve Charlotte and the surrounding areas. Because of this decision, we have adjusted our operations and customer service practices to help ourselves and our customers combat the ongoing spread of the virus.

For example, we are abiding by all federal and local guidelines when it comes to social distancing and sanitization. Not only are we practicing social distancing with customers, but we are also practicing it within our team as much as it is practical. Moreover, we are frequently disinfecting all of our company vehicles and equipment, along with keeping hand sanitizer and other preventive supplies (e.g., gloves, masks, etc.) on hand. If you have any questions about our coronavirus policy as a company, be sure to contact us directly so that we can answer those questions.

PREPARING FOR A MOVE 
Even with the coronavirus pandemic in full swing, there are basic moving practices that can make your whole experience go much more smoothly. From estimating the costs of moving to packing efficiently to preparing your new home, here are some factors to consider as you are planning your move:

Determining Whether to Move 
Though our company is fully operational, it’s important to be certain that moving is the right decision for you at this time. Ask yourself, ‘Is this move essential?” If your moving timeframe is flexible, it’s worth considering holding off on your relocation until there is more information available on the coronavirus and the spread is more controlled. This is especially the case if you are considered to be in a high-risk group.

However, a lot of people don’t have much choice. For instance, maybe your lease is ending or you have a closing date set in stone for a home you just sold or bought, among other possible scenarios. In that case, you will need reliable services to help you follow through with the move in a safe and timely manner.

Figuring Up the Costs
Before arranging your move, go over the costs associated with relocating to make sure you can budget appropriately. Along with professional moving fees, be sure to factor in the costs of packing supplies (e.g., boxes, tape, padding, etc.), cleaning supplies and/or services for your previous home, storage services, vehicle maintenance, and travel expenses (e.g., gas, food, lodging, etc.).
Additionally, it can help to create an emergency fund for unexpected incidents or accidents that could occur during the moving process. Having money set aside for such occurrences will help you to avoid additional financial stress in an already stressful situation.

Getting the Necessary Supplies
Having the right supplies on hand is essential to conducting a smooth relocation. Here are some items that you will want to be sure to acquire:

• Boxes of various sizes
• Bubble wrap
• Packing paper or linens
• Packing tape
• Scissors
• Box cutters
• Permanent marker
• Labels

Typically, it’s a good idea to look for free packing supplies on sites like Craigslist or groups like Freecycle. However, considering the current pandemic, this is not advisable. This is primarily because the coronavirus can live on cardboard for up to 24 hours. Instead, look for new boxes and other supplies from retailers. If you can order the supplies, that’s the best option; but if you need to visit a store in person, try to use self-checkout when you purchase.

Hiring Professionals
While we would love to have your business, we still think it’s important for each customer to research their options and make an informed decision about who to hire. Look for online reviews of various moving services in the area, confirm that any company you’re considering is licensed in the state you are traveling, and make sure to review each company’s insurance policies. We are confident about what you will find when you look up T-N-T Moving Systems, and we are even more confident about the top-notch services we can offer you!

Enlisting the Help of Family Members
Getting help from others for your move is critical, even if you are using a professional moving service. From packing belongings to lifting or moving furniture, from watching the kids or pets to unpacking and arranging items in the new home, help from others can prove invaluable. Under normal circumstances, it would be advisable to enlist the help of all the family members, friends, and acquaintances that you can for a relocation. However, these are obviously not normal circumstances. If possible, try to limit those who help you with the move to only the people in your household.

Mapping Out the New Home
If you know the dimensions and layout of your new home, make the most of them. If possible, study them before you pack up all your belongings for the move, and draw up a plan for where you will put your belongings and how you will arrange everything. This will not only help you know how to pack more efficiently, but it will also help you to avoid keeping items that you won’t be able to use or unloading heavy furniture in your new home and realizing that you can’t put it where you want it.

Getting Your New Home Ready for the Move
As early as possible in the process, try to inspect your new home for any repairs, upgrades, or other types of improvements that will be necessary. That way, you can come up with a plan for fixing them in a timely manner. If you will have access to the new home before you need to leave your previous home, use the time to make the changes so that you don’t have to deal with it while you’re unpacking. But even if you have to wait until you move in, having a plan of attack will help the process feel less overwhelming.

Labeling Boxes and Cleaning As You Go
One way to save tons of time and energy when packing is to label each box thoroughly. Nothing can make unpacking annoying quite as fast as not knowing where a particular item is and having to search through boxes until you find it. Not only will labeling help you, but it will also help anyone who is helping you unpack.

Furthermore, as you’re packing, clean and disinfect each item as you go. This will make the moving experience safer for everyone involved and reduce the likelihood of taking the virus to your new home.

Designating Essential Items
Finally, think about which items you will be using the most when you arrive at your new home. Then, place those items in the moving vehicle where they will be the first you can unload. For example, you don’t want to have to unload your out-of-season clothes and seldom-used kitchen appliances before you can get to your bed and other essential items. Also, put together a travel kit with items that you might need while in transit. This kit could include things like toiletries, an extra set of clothes, medications, and so on.

ADDITIONAL PRECAUTIONS TO CONSIDER 

There are a few more precautions to think about when moving during the coronavirus pandemic. For instance, be sure to contact your moving service if you need to cancel your arrangements, and try to give them as much notice as possible. If you are planning to move, then contact your movers ahead of time to discuss what the process will look like on moving day, including the protocols that the company will be implementing as well as the ones they expect you to implement.

Also, if you or anyone in your household are having coronavirus symptoms, it’s essential to let the movers know. Lastly, try to finish all your packing at least 24 hours before your movers are scheduled to arrive. Even though the movers will be following a safety protocol, this will ensure that none of the boxes or other items have the virus on them. And it’s also a good idea to leave out some disinfectant wipes/spray and hand sanitizer for the movers.

Conclusion
The coronavirus outbreak doesn’t stop people from needing to move. Fortunately, here at T-N-T Moving Systems, we are able to keep our doors open and are fully operational. Whether you need to move long-distance or locally, and whether you plan well in advance or need to move in a hurry, our company would love to serve you. Just give us a call at (704) 523-1455 to discuss arrangements, and remember to consider the moving tips mentioned above.

T-N-T Storage Facility Solutions

There are mind-blowing differences between storage facilities around the Charlotte area.  Our team of online researchers did not find a facility that we would rank BEST, but we did find many personal preferences to consider in self-storage shopping.

Online ReviewsThe biggest take-away from this research is that it pays to read the 1-star reviews.  There is great advice and earnest warnings from previous customers on the rental pain-points. With that said, Charlotte storage companies have, on the whole, done and excellent job in serving their communities.   There were many more good reviews than bad.

Of note, Google Reviews are brutal and often very unfair to small companies that cannot afford reputation management.  Competitors and angry customers can destroy a reputation with the click of a button.  Please take this into consideration when reviewing this list.

Company	Google Review Rank	Website
ExtraSpace Storage	5	https://www.extraspace.com/
Cube Smart	4.9	https://www.cubesmart.com/
Life Storage	4.8	https://www.lifestorage.com/
Smart Stop Self Storage	4.8	https://smartstopselfstorage.com/
Noda Self Storage	4.7	https://www.nodaselfstorage.com/
Public Storage	4.7	https://www.publicstorage.com/
Morning Star Storage	4.6	https://www.morningstarstorage.com/
OutBox Self Storage	4.4	https://outboxselfstorage.com/
South End Self Storage	4.4	https://www.southendself-storage.com/

Desired Features
Reviews indicated that the following features were most important:

• Climate Control- This was a feature that was available at every facility.
• Rent Online- Online rental and payment was absolute must-have for 90 percent of the people that left reviews. Some websites were better than others.  In particular, we liked Outbox Self Storage and SmartStop Self Storage.  Outbox even had a clickable UHaul Reservation button!
• Surveillance – Every site mentioned video surveillance and 24/7 surveillance. There were only a couple that mentioned staff solutions and that seemed to change often.  If security is important to you, this is definitely worth a phone call to find out exactly what kind of surveillance is available.  Many storage facilities have multiple methods of surveillance. 24-hour surveillance can refer to the individual unit alarms, the electronic gate codes, or the monitored video surveillance. The in-person surveillance would be more on property guards and the monitoring of video surveillance. These features varied widely by location.
• Some offer in-person security guards, while others offer high-tech video surveillance.
• Access - Extended Access Hours, Electric Gates, Keypads and On-staff Assistance was one of the top three features that customers complained about. Being able to park, access your unit, and connect with a real human customer service representative
• if something goes wrong was a huge concern for most.  Electric Gates and Keypads solved a lot of those issues.
• Website Database – Storage unit pricing changes more often that the stock market! Having an online, searchable database to find the best unit for the least amount of money is really important.  ExtraSpace and Outbox both did an excellent job of finding that information instantly.
• Inside vs Outside Units- The differences depend on your needs for storage. Indoor units are located in multi-level buildings and can be accessed by an elevator and usually have wide hallways. Outdoor units are usually found on a single level and have drive-up access.
• Fencing- If a storage facility has outdoor units, there is fencing surrounding the property. This is where renters would use their gate access to enter. If a storage facility is mainly indoors, you may not see a fence; building security codes are used to gain access.
• Drive Up Access- Most drive-up access is found when renting the outdoor units. All outdoor units are a single level. Indoor units are in multi-level buildings. Storage facilities like Life Storage offer the convenience of loading and unloading directly from your car.
• Electric Gate Access- This allows renters to access their storage unit anytime they desire. During these hours, anyone with your code can access your unit. If you are in need of extra hours, you just need to contact the property manager.
• Lighting- All facilities are fully lit inside and out. The lights are there for safety and for convenience. Contact the facility manager for other specific questions.
• Wide Driveways- At many facilities, such as ExtraSpace Storage, Out Box Storage and many others, are prepared for renters to park RVs, boats, and cars. Many of these require large driveways to maneuver, so yes, if they have storage and parking available, they will also accommodate you with wide driveways.
• Month-to-Month Rentals- Storage facilities are known for their ability to meet short-term needs. Most offered upgradable sizing and month-to-month rental agreements.  There were; however, significant price breaks for long-term commitments.
• Military Discounts- Some storage facilities offer military discounts. You must call the desired location to see what discounts are available.
• Tenant Property Protection Plan Available- Protection plans are offered at all storage facilities. They work with your insurance provider to find plans that are affordable and offer excellent coverage. Tip: Check your homeowner’s insurance before you buy.  It may be possible that you are already covered for rental.
• Long Term Self-Storage Units- Because self-storage units are on a month-to-month basis, you may extend your rental as long as it is needed. No contracts keep you in charge of the length of your stay.
• Wide Aisles- Your storage unit’s door is as wide as your unit. The aisles are made to fit anything that can be brought indoors. In some cases, the ceilings are also extended to help fit those larger items you would like to store indoors. This special feature can be found at Noda Self Storage. If more room is needed, look into renting an outdoor, drive-up unit.
• Computerized Keypad Access- These are used at most facilities to manage the traffic coming in and out of the facility.
• Distance to Your House- It is also important that you find a storage unit that is close to you house. Sometimes the deciding factor isn’t the price of the unit, but the easy access a closer location might offer. Storage facilities like Cube Smart, Morning Star Storage, and many others allow you to enter your address to help you find the closet facility to your home.

Common Complaints
Sometimes you have to take the good with the bad. This can be said about some of the complaints related to storage facilities. No business can go without some negative comments. Clearly not every arrangement is the right fit and there were a few personal preference related complaints.

• Access Hours- Some customers were unhappy with the access hours provided by their storage facility. It’s important that you know in advance if you need access 24 hours a day.  Most restrictions were listed primarily for the safety of their customers. If you need special entry during certain hours, speak with the location manager before you buy.
• Reservations- Complaints about reservations were really more about communication. When booking a reservation, make sure that the facility you select corresponds via your favorite method.  Maybe you only text?  Or perhaps you like to speak with someone in person.  If phone communication is necessary, call in advance to be certain that the phone system is always attended.  Tip:  If you make a reservation online, call before you arrive with your things to be certain that your payment and reservation have been received.
• Lock fees- A few folks complained about “hidden lock fees”. Again, this was a lack of communication prior to lease.  Facilities may require you to purchase a lock from them due to the different types of doors. The locks for sale at the facilities will fit your unit door and they have a separate selection for locks with extra protection.
• Admin fees- Read your agreement! Most storage facilities fees are covered in your rental amount, but there may be other costs depending on the time of year or the popularity of the location. Check your local facility to see about rental fees and more.
• Aisle access- There were a handful of complaints about dollies and carts. During popular moving times in the spring or on weekends, this equipment may be hard to find.  If you know you are going to need a cart, you might want to bring your own, or arrive at a less popular time.

 Storage Facilities to Check out
In looking at a few different storage facilities, we have some suggestions. When it comes to the website and being able to find what you need quickly and efficiently, SmartStop Self-Storage and OutBox Self Storage are in the top. They provide very helpful information that is easily found and accessed. They also have dedicated buttons for U-Haul rental and some of the best prices around.

As you do more research, you may need some helpful tips for storage and packing. Public Storage and Cube Smart have excellent blogs on decorating and packing tips. They also provide a high standard in quality seeing that they are national facilities.

When looking for the right storage facility for you, make sure you have done your research. Our team found that pricing was not significantly different from company to company but amenities varied greatly!  T-N-T Moving Systems will be glad to help you move items into your storage unit no matter which one you select.  We’re open and ready to help you make the next move!

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Breaking Up, and Packing Up: Tips for Moving After a Divorce

Divorces can be tough, but moving doesn’t have to be. TNT Moving Systems has you covered on how to plan for a move during or after a divorce, peacefully separate your belongings, and make it through the days and weeks leading up to the big move.

What kinds of divorces are there and how could they impact your move?

1. Hostile takeover of the house

This could entail a locksmith coming to your home, changing the locks, and leaving one partner locked out suddenly. In a hostile takeover, it’s to be assumed that this is a high-conflict and malignant divorce.

2. Semi-peaceful separation

In this case, both parties have agreed to the moving plan, but there still may be issues to iron out, such as the separation of items in the house.

3. Peaceful separation

A peaceful separation entails both parties are in agreement, and are amicable with one another enough to settle the divorce.

Before the Divorce Move:
Settle any major legal issues before starting with your moving plans.
From legal affairs to custody battles, and boundless stress, a divorce isn’t easy for anyone involved. Moving out before major legal issues are settled can bring about even further chaos down the line.
If you are moving out of state, your lawyer will need to be aware of your plans. Moving states prior to the finalization of a divorce can complicate the proceedings. If you have custody of children and plan to move out of state, failing to appropriately inform the spouse about your move can lead to that partner filing objections or changing the original custody agreement. Some states even require you to file a petition to move out of state.
Talk to your lawyer about the timeline of these processes, and make sure you can meet all of your legal obligations before the moving day.

Sell the house. Find a new place?
You may be the one who keeps the house, or you may be the one moving out. Sometimes, both parties agree to sell the house and move on. You might move in with a friend or back in with family, move cities or states, or perhaps into a new apartment. In any case, a divorce entails lifestyle changes.
A house previously shared by you and your partner may be too much financially or emotionally in the next phase of your life. Moving can entail downgrading the style or space of the house.

7-8 weeks out from the move is the important timeline for:

• Preparing to tell your children that will be moving or a partner will be leaving the home
• Informing the children’s schools that they may be moving, and giving yourself time to find another school for the children to enroll in
• Increasing your chances of moving on your preferred date when scheduling with a moving company
• Hiring professional packers and house cleaners, if wanted

Work with a professional to sort out high-stake items and who-gets-what.
The rush for one partner to leave the house isn’t worth the headache of getting to the day of moving and arguing over a bedroom set. Meet with a legal professional or mediator and take the time to have both parties agree on who will take, leave, or sell the items in the home. It may seem tedious, but with the stress of a divorce and the emotional toll on both parties, neither partner wants to spend the moving day arguing over the items in the home or later regretting giving away something sentimental or expensive for the sake of keeping the peace. If you’re paying a moving company, this will ensure that their labor the day of is as efficient as possible.

5 or 6 weeks before the move is a good time to begin sorting your belongings, splitting items with your partner, and agreeing on who gets what. Consider the space you’re moving into, be practical about what you absolutely need and want, and decide what you can do without. If you have items to sell, donate, or toss, you’ll have plenty of time to handle them. If there are items you may need to wait on due to a lease or if you’re planning to temporarily move into a smaller home, you might consider renting a storage unit.

Ensure you start packing at least 4-5 weeks out and label boxes clearly.
What has worked in previous, conventional moves to label your belongings may not work in a divorce move. If both partners are leaving and labeling boxes as vaguely as “Bedroom” or “Kitchen,” then there’s bound to a mix up. Break out the bold Sharpies, and be extremely meticulous in your labeling and sorting, even if it means assigning one color to one partner’s boxes, and an opposite to the other. Write on the top and two sides of the box to increase ease of visibility.

Start packing by finishing one room at a time before moving on, and boxing similar items together. Make sure you don’t pack away items you’ll need prior to the move, but be mindful of how you can minimalize your lifestyle leading up to the move.  Having an essential items box can be handy for your first night in a new home.

During this time, you may want to start cleaning your house as you clear the rooms. Empty your lawn mower and weed eater of gasoline. Areas and items that may take a while to clean could be your windows, the oven, and garage; you’ll be glad you tackled them ahead of time, instead of on moving day!

Make important notifications regarding any change of address.
Your bank, insurance, driver’s license, and other state and federal agencies should be notified of your change in address 3 weeks out before moving. You’ll also want to set a disconnect date for your utilities, and a connection date for your new move-in.

Here are few to keep in mind:

• Gas
• Water
• Electric
• Phone/Landline
• Internet
• Trash/Recycling
• Cable
• Mail-forwarding
• Bills
• Doctors
• Subscription services
• Retirement accounts

Reach out to your support system.
Reach out for help from the people in your life who care about you, like family and friends – and of course, the people at TNT Moving Systems (who will definitely be of great help on moving day). Having people help you move can make the day go by faster, and keep your spirits lifted during a difficult time.

Decide how the moving day will proceed, based on the type of divorce.
Based on how the legal affairs are settled and how splitting the items are going, you’ll probably have a fair idea on whether you and your spouse should both be home during moving day. If you truly can’t get along for even a day, you may want to plan to move when your spouse isn’t at home. If there is potential for violence during your move, request a police presence on your moving day. Keeping yourself safe is the main concern, and you should not be afraid to have a police presence – this is not an uncommon practice.

During the Divorce Move:
Set ground rules for behavior and expectations for the day, and ask that all people involved in the move hold themselves accountable.
Having a friend or family member with you on the day of the divorce move can be great, but more people can also mean more chances for snarky remarks, confrontations, and provoking comments if both partners are present. It can help everyone involved to start the day by asking everyone there to keep the peace, despite how uncomfortable the situation may be. Of all the tips, we know this may sound like the most insurmountable feat, but asking for one day of peace and sticking to it can lead to an all around better moving experience.

If there are children in the relationship, this may be a good time for a family member or friend to take the children out of the house for the day.
Moving out of a childhood home or witnessing a parent who’s in emotional distress leave a house can be jarring and traumatic for a child, no matter the age or maturity. If it’s within your budget or you have the resources to lean on, consider having someone take the kids out for the moving day.

Furry pets will also be happier staying with a friend or in boarding.
We love our pets dearly, and the emotional support they provide in trying times is absolutely unparalleled. However, in the urgency and chaos of a divorce moving day, pets will not understand what’s going on.
Pets can undergo a lot of stress whether they’re experiencing the packing, moving, and unlikely schedule, the scariness of strangers coming in and out of the house, or just the noise that comes with tearing down, packing, and moving items out of a house. A divorce move is the last possible time that you want your pet to be in danger of running out of the house, getting in the way or stepped on, or becoming stressed out from the situation. Boarding your pet with a friend, vet, or daycare can ease your mind that they are safe and happy, as well as simplify your moving day.

Final Pro-Tips
Don’t be too quick to toss your marital keepsakes.
When it comes to sensitive items like marital keepsakes, wedding photos, or mementos from dating, it can be tempting in the divorce move to toss them and move on. However, letting your post-divorce emotions settle is important. There may come a day when you want to look back on that time in your life or share it with those who are important to you. Consider boxing it away safely, and returning to it at a later time.

Personalize your new home.
Moving is always a great opportunity for a fresh start. When you’re moving somewhere new after a divorce, it’s important that your space invites healing and positive energy. It may be a good time to switch up the furniture, rearrange, and have a fresh outlook on the newest phase of your life.

Be kind to yourself during the process.
The moving day during a divorce can feel like insanity, finality, happiness, and sorrow all at once. The first day out of a house, or in a new home can be the hardest. Be kind to yourself. Utilize your time throughout the move to practice self-care, such as making sure you eat two to three meals a day, exercising, catching up on rest, or meeting up with a friend.

No matter the circumstances of your divorce, we’re here to help.
It’s important that you honestly communicate your moving situation to TNT Moving Systems, especially as it may affect your moving day. If you would like to discuss with our moving professionals about how to keep your move discreet, such as in the case of domestic violence threats, we can talk with you about our options to keep your move low-key, organized, and safe. Your safety is very important to us at TNT Moving Systems.

Find a Good Moving Company in Charlotte, NC
Going through a divorce move? You don’t have to do it by yourself. Make sure that you choose a reputable moving company that is fully licensed and insured, has reliable, trustworthy employees, and affordable packages. Let TNT Moving Systems help you move on by contacting us today.

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