Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life

Category: Moving

  • Moving Tips and Tricks to Save Time and Your Sanity

    No one enjoys packing for a big move, but that doesn’t mean moving needs to make you lose your sanity. With a little preparation before moving day, the actual move will go smoothly and you’ll feel a lot less stressed. To get started, take a deep breath, read the following packing tips and then get to work.

    Don’t procrastinate

    The time to start packing isn’t a week before you move, or even a month. You’ll want to start packing many months before your move so you can be as thoughtful as possible about what to unload, what to take with you and how to make it all happen.

    To begin, start packing areas of your home and yard that don’t get a lot of traffic. Clean out your garage and storage spaces. Empty the shed of everything except the essentials. If you tackle at least one room or yard space per week, you’ll be in good shape.

    Create a to-do list

    Moving takes a lot of coordination and it’s easy to forget something. Therefore, make a list and write down everything you need to do that is associated with your move. Do you need to repaint your home before moving out? Write it down. Also write down things such as forwarding your mail at the post office and giving out your new address.

     

     

    Contact movers many weeks in advance

    Once you have an idea of when you’d like to move, the next thing to do is call movers three or four weeks in advance. You’ll want to read reviews of movers on Yelp and Google to ensure plenty of other people have had a good moving experience.

    If you decide to forego hiring professionals, make sure to schedule a rental truck and make sure you have people to help on the day of the move.

    Purchase packing tape, bubble wrap and other packing materials

    A common moving mistake is to use boxes from the liquor store or whatever other packing materials you have sitting around. A big professional packing tip to remember is that moving companies will only move well-constructed boxes and furniture, not bags or other items. If possible, use the original boxes that came with your electronics and other delicate items.

    More than anything, it’s important to pack things in an orderly fashion using boxes can easily be stacked into the moving van or truck. Make sure to add enough tape to the bottom of your boxes to ensure they won’t break open during your move.

    Also, while you may be tempted to simply wrap precious items in newspaper, an affordable packing material to use is bubble wrap, which can be purchased by the roll.

    Purge, donate, and sell

    Look around your kitchen. You’ll probably notice that you have more pots and pans than you need, an extra cheese grater, or a basting pan that you haven’t used for many years. Now look around your living room, bedrooms and bathroom. Chances are there are things in each room that you can and should unload. Have a large library? Donate some of it to your nearest public library or look online to find out which nonprofits in your area accept books. The more you purge and donate, the less you have to move.

    You’ll also want to sell some of your gently used things- that wedding gift that’s been sitting for ten years in a closet, for example, and furniture that might not fit the style of your new home.

    Although moving often feels stressful, you can take a load off by carefully following the packing tips listed above. Make sure to relax. If things start to feel overwhelming, take a break, sit back with a cool drink and remember that because you’ve planned so far in advance, your sanity will be kept intact.

  • 5 Tips to Make Your PCS Move Smoother

    About USAA Real Estate Rewards Network:  For over 25 years, the USAA Real Estate Rewards Network offers support in helping USAA Members buy and/or sell a home — and Members can earn cash reward in the process.

    Periodic moves are a defining part of the active duty military lifestyle. However, no matter how enticing your next location may be, the process of getting there can be stressful for even the most seasoned service members and their loved ones.

    These tips can help make for a smooth transition and an arrival with plenty of relieved smiles.

    1. Get a jump on things. Even before you have orders, you can take the first step by visiting move.mil and updating your profile.

    When you find out your destination, do some Internet reconnaissance by visiting the Department of Defense’s military installations website. There, you’ll find a page for each installation that provides information on the cost of living, child development centers, schools, housing, employment and more.

    You can also get ahead of the curve by promptly attending a move briefing at your local personal property processing office, scheduling a move date and getting on wait lists for military housing and child care at your next station. Visit Military OneSource for lots of information about moving and securing housing.

     2. Get organized. You’re going to accumulate a lot move-related material in the run-up to your transition to your next military home. Save time and avoid frustration by using a tablet, three-ring binder, folders or an accordion file to organize and keep track of all those documents, information flyers and personal notes.

    3. Check your weight. You’re entitled to a free move of your possessions, provided you stay within your allowance, which varies depending on your rank, if you have dependents, and whether your move is inside or outside the continental United States.

    If you go over, you’ll have to pay for the difference. To avoid that outcome, first figure out your weight allowance at move.mil, and then use this weight estimator to see if you’re in danger of exceeding it. If so, starting shedding and selling right away. You can also access your weight data from previous moves at move.mil.

    4. Get ready for the big day. You don’t want to be scrambling to get ready while the packers are pulling up outside your house, so start organizing yourself well ahead of the move.

        • Take a photo or video inventory of all your possessions, making sure to capture all sides of things like furniture that could be scratched in the move.
        • While your camera’s out, take a good shot of how all the gizmos in your entertainment center are connected to each other.
        • Have lots of ziplock snack and sandwich bags handy to bundle small, loose items like silverware, curtain rings, toys, and hardware from bedframes and other furniture that’s disassembled for the move. Be sure to label the bags.
        • It’s a bad feeling to realize your car keys and wallet were thrown into a box and taken away with the moving truck, so set aside things you don’t want packed for you, including valuable possessions, medications, and important documents you’ll carry with you. Make sure they’re clearly separated from the rest of your stuff with a prominent “do not pack” sign.
        • You should also separately stage items you’ll want immediately accessible when your stuff arrives at your next home. When packed, label these boxes as “Day One” box and load them with the essentials you’ll need to immediately function at your next home. If you’re traveling by your personally owned vehicle, you may want to take charge of these boxes rather than having them moved for you. Don’t forget about traveling with children and/or pets – have familiar items ready for them too.

    5. Learn your rights. There’s a lot at stake in your move. If anything happens along the way that doesn’t meet your expectations, be ready to speak up and get the quality moving experience you deserve as a military service member. The Department of Defense Personal Property Program’s “bill of rights” spells out everything you should expect, like receiving a phone call from the mover at least three days before the move and having packing materials and other debris removed on delivery day.

     

    DID 252869-0618

    USAA® Real Estate Rewards Network is offered by USAA Residential Real Estate Services, Inc., a licensed real estate broker and subsidiary of USAA Federal Savings Bank. Program may be unavailable for employer-sponsored relocations. Not available for transactions in Iowa or outside the United States. This is not a solicitation if you are already represented by a real estate broker. Reward offer limited in some states. Reward amount is based on sale price of home sold or purchased and cannot exceed $24,000 per transaction. To receive the maximum amount offered of $24,000, the sale price of the home sold or purchased must be $4 million or more. In 2017, the average member closing in the program received $1,230. Real estate agent fees still apply. The reward is not available in Alaska, Oklahoma or Louisiana. In Kansas and Tennessee, a loyalty card will be issued that is accepted at specific retailers. In Oregon and Mississippi a credit or commission reduction may be available. In New Jersey, a commission reduction or rebate may be available at closing. Please check with the program coordinator for details. You must be enrolled in the program and be represented at closing by an approved agent with a participating real estate firm in order to qualify for the reward. Reward not available to sellers in a short sale transaction. In certain states, buyers may need seller cooperation in order to participate in the reward program. Availability restrictions apply.

    Use of the term “member” or “membership” refers to membership in USAA Membership Services and does not convey any legal or ownership rights in USAA. Restrictions apply and are subject to change.

  • 5 Tips to Find New and Exciting Things to Do in Your Community

    Moving into a community is an adventure. Think of all the neighbors you can add to your social circle and areas to explore just for fun. Execute these simple tips to make friends and be part of the community.

    Join social media groups

    Social media can help you find everything there is to know about your new community. From local events to citywide activities, everything can be found by simply logging into your account. Conduct a search for local social media groups and join. Connect to others within the area while also being informed of the various options of entertainment your community has to offer. RSVP for an event and start connecting to other attendees with similar interests. Local company Facebook pages are a great way to find out what’s going on in the area.

    Read mail flyers

    Some of the best things to do in the community can be found right in your mailbox. Local events still rely on traditional flyers and ads in local newspapers to garner interest. Take a look through your mail as it may be the key to filling your upcoming weekend with fun and excitement.

    Chat with your Neighbors

    Neighbors can be amazing resources for things happening in the community. The longer they’ve lived in the area, the more familiar they will be with annual events within the community and much more. Neighbors may also know of some hidden gems that you may not have ever discovered otherwise. Turn neighborly chats into friendships.

    Frequent Businesses in the Area

    Skip the drive-thru next time you’re ordering something from a local business. Try to go patronize establishments within the area; many have bulletins pinned with various advertisements of local events and activities. This is an excellent way to meet new people within your community. Focus on frequenting these businesses to help you learn about your new community.

     

    New areas can be intimidating. Put these tips into place and by the end of the week, you’ll have plenty of new and exciting things to do on the weekend.

     

     

  • Tips for Moving with a Baby

    Moving can be incredibly stressful. Add a baby and there might be more than one tantrum in your near future. The best way to handle the change in location is to be prepared before, during and after with these tips.

     

    Before

    Find a pediatrician

    Now is the time to start researching a new doctor so you have one waiting once you’ve moved. Make sure the office takes your insurance and that they are close to your new home to avoid too much back and forth. Ask about their office hours and their availability after hours to provide peace of mind. Your current pediatrician may be able to provide a recommendation – just ask.

    Firm up childcare

    The decision between daycare and in home care is a big one. Whichever you choose, know that the process to find the right fit isn’t quick, even if you started well before your move.  Get advice from family and friends, and once you’ve narrowed down the list, make sure you perform background checks. Visit at least three daycares and spend enough time in the infant room to see if it’s the right fit for your little one. One question that should always be asked during the decision making process is the ratio of infants to caretakers.

    Have movers ready to go

    You’ve done the hard part of packing up while taking care of your baby. To simplify the process, hire professional movers to unpack and set up your new home.  This will save you time, money and sanity so you can be the best parent to your child during this stressful time.

    Keep essentials handy

    Babies need a lot of stuff on a daily basis. Bibs, bottles, formula, diapers and wipes go in the diaper bag, but make sure you also have a few changes of clothes, favored toys and bath products on hand to make the transition easier.

  • How to Meet New People in Your New Neighborhood

    Once you’re settled into your new home, it’s time to make it feel like yours. Try to meet your new neighbors in the first couple of days to build a sense of community. Meeting new people can be tough. Although technology plays a huge part in the way the world operates today, there are some tricks to bringing back traditional means of communication.

    Provide a positive first impression

    Make it a habit to greet your neighbors. Even if you’re eager to unload and unpack, ignoring your new neighbors will send the wrong message. Since it only takes a second for others to form a first impression of you, give your neighbors a smile and wave.

    Introduce yourself and strike up a conversation within the first couple days

    Spare a couple of minutes to meet your neighbors. You don’t have to go around the entire neighborhood, but you should certainly take the time to introduce yourself to your immediate neighbors. Do this right away to avoid making it an awkward introduction later.

    Host a housewarming party

    If you’re hosting a housewarming party, add a couple more invites for your new neighbors. Make sure to invite as many people as you can from the neighborhood – you want to be inclusive, especially when you are new.

    Join a local Facebook group

    Social media is a powerhouse for connecting individuals, including those who are complete strangers to one another. While you certainly don’t want to ‘friend’ your new neighbors without ever talking to them, you can use the platform to connect with others in the community who have similar interests. Conduct a Facebook search for local groups and community events. You never know who’s in your community until you make an effort.

    Frequent local businesses

    Instead of making the trip across the city to your favorite coffee shop, considering frequenting the one in your new neighborhood. This can be an excellent way to meet people from all over the community. Become a regular at local establishments to meet new neighbors who have similar interests. You may even find a new favorite coffee shop, reading nook or dog park.

     

    The community in which you make an investment is what turns your house into a home.

     

     

     

  • To Fly or Not to Fly?

    Is Air Travel the Right Choice When Moving with Your Pet?

    If you are traveling a long distance when moving to your new home, you may consider flying.  When it comes to taking your pets along, you may be wondering if flying is the best option.  Flying is definitely a quick and seemingly simple way to get you and your pets to your new home.  Instead of spending hours driving, you and your furry friend will spend a lot less actual travel time when you are on a plane.  However, like all travel methods, flying does pose some potential obstacles and risks to take into consideration.

    If you are not sure whether to fly to reach your new home destination, here are some important questions you should ask before you book that flight.

    1. Is your pet in good health?

    If your pet is ill or hurt, or he has other limiting factors that will make the flight an uncomfortable experience for him (and you), it is best to find another option for getting your pet to your new home.  Driving to your destination may take more time than flying, but if it is the best option for your pet, it will ultimately be the best and easiest option for your entire family.

    2. Is your pet considered brachycephalic?

    Pets who are snub-nosed and have short muzzles are called brachycephalic, and they are more prone to breathing and respiratory problems.  Some breeds with this characteristic include Persian cats, pugs and bulldogs.  When flying, they may have a more difficult time adjusting to the air and pressure changes in the cabin, and conditions below-cabin are even more risky for these pets.  If you choose decide to fly with your brachycephalic pet, check with the airline before you purchase your tickets.  Some airlines have actually banned these types of pets from their commercial flights.

    3. Is your pet’s temperament acceptable for flying?

    You know your pet best.  If he is often shy, does not like crowds, acts aggressively, and can become agitated in new surroundings and situations, then flying may not be the best option.  Again, driving may take a lot more time, but it will be the best option for you and your pet in the long run if the flight will be too overwhelming for him.

    4. Is your pet meeting the USDA regulations?

    The USDA guidelines state that your pet must be at least 8-weeks old and fully weaned for at least 5 days for you to be able to take him on a flight.

    5. Will your pet fly in the cabin?

    Each airline has its own regulations on pets and flying.  In general, pets who are under 20 pounds, including their travel crate, and whose crate can fit safely and securely underneath the seat, can fly in the cabin with their parents as a carry-on.  If your pet meets the airline’s guidelines for traveling in the cabin, this is probably the best option for him.  You should consider whether your pet often cries or barks when he is in a restricted space, as he may bother other passengers.

    6. Will your pet have to fly below-cabin?

    If you are required to check your pet to travel below-cabin, the situation will be more involved than taking him on the plane with you.  There are also some extra risks to your pet, as he could become lost or injured.  However, millions of pets fly each year, and most of them arrive safely to their destinations.  If you are concerned about how your airline measures up when it comes to pets flying, the Department of Transportation publishes a monthly Animal Incident Report that you can review beforehand.  All airlines are required to document any issues that pets have on their flights, so the report is comprehensive.

    Since each plane is unique, there are varying below-cabin conditions and load capabilities.  However, it is reassuring to know that all below-cabin areas are climate controlled and self-pressurized.  For safety during flight, most baggage handlers will strap and secure the pet kennels in the climate-controlled area below-cabin.  This is usually located directly underneath the passenger cabin area.  Additionally, some airlines will wrap the travel kennel with breathable, air cushioned rolls for extra protection.

    7. Does your pet have an updated health certificate?

    The airlines require their passengers to show a valid health certificate for pets who are being checked-in to fly below-cabin. This must be completed by a licensed veterinarian, and while some airlines allow the certificates to be completed within 30 days of the flight, others require completion within a 10-day timeframe.

    If your pet will be able to fly with you in the cabin, he may not need a health certificate.  You can check with your airline for their specific requirements.  However, most states require that pets coming across state lines have proof of current rabies vaccinations and valid, recent health certificates.  To be safe, you should get an updated health certificate for your pet, even if your airline does not require one for travel.

    8. Are there going to be extreme temperatures?

    The below-cabin area is climate-controlled when the plane is in flight, but not when the plane is parked on the tarmac and the engines are not running.  Many airlines’ policy for pets ensures that they are the first ones to board and the first ones to leave, so pets spend less time being exposed to the weather.

    Because there is no true way to keep your pet from being exposed to extreme heat or cold, most airlines do not allow pets to fly below-cabin if the forecasted temperatures are below 45 degrees or above 85 degrees.  If you are moving during a time when there are periods of extreme cold or heat, then driving may be the best option.

    9. When will you be flying?

    Flying late in the afternoon and early in the evening are considered peak travel times.  There are also peak travel seasons, like during the summer months or spring break, when people are more likely to fly.  During these times, there will be more stress, as well as less room and less comfort during your trip.  It is best to fly during non-peak times to avoid the extra stress and to ensure your pet is most comfortable.  Also, try to avoid flying on or around holidays if possible.

    10. Is a direct flight available?

    If you don’t have a direct flight and will encounter a layover, there is an increased chance that something unexpected can come up that affects your pet.  If you take a direct flight, this will lower the chances of any unforeseen complications, and ultimately ease the stress for your pet.  Therefore, if a direct flight is available, you should take advantage of that option.

    You know your pet and what he needs during your travels, so you should take everything about your pet into consideration when deciding to fly with them.  Whether you choose to fly, or choose to drive, always follow the established pet safety guidelines to make sure he gets to your new home in a happy, healthy, and safe way.

     

    TripsWithPets.com is the premier online pet friendly travel guide — providing online reservations at over 30,000 pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the U.S. and Canada.  When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets.com for detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities.  TripsWithPets.com also features airline & car rental pet policies, pet friendly activities, a user-friendly search-by-route option, as well as pet travel gear. For more information, please visit http://www.tripswithpets.com

  • Pet Hotel Etiquette When Your Move Involves an Overnight Stay

    If your move involves a long road trip, you’ll likely need to find pet friendly lodging along your travel route.  You may also find that you need temporary accommodations in your new home town.  It’s important to be sure to follow some simple tips for making sure the hotel stay is enjoyable, and that your pet does not “wear out his welcome”.

    Find the Best Pet Friendly Room

    If possible, it is best to book a room on the hotel’s ground floor, and one that is near an exit.  This makes it convenient and easy to get outside quickly for bathroom breaks.

    Make Sure Your Pet “Goes” in the Right Spot

    When you arrive, ask the manager or front desk where the established area is located for your dog to use the bathroom.  You should be vigilant in following their rules about where your dog can go to “do his business”, and of course, be prepared to clean up after your pet with your own supply of poop bags.

    Exercise is Key

    In addition to the move itself,  the long car ride and hotel stay can cause your pet to become a bit anxious.  Ensuring that your pet gets ample exercise will help to lessen his anxiety, and will result in a calmer (and well-behaved) pet.  You can ask the hotel staff about a nearby area where where they recommend you walk or run with your pet.

    Respect the Accommodations

    You should properly cover all furniture and beds where your pet may lay.  If the pet friendly hotel has rules about pets not being allowed on the furniture, be sure to follow them.

    Where to Put the Litter Box

    If it is your kitty who is traveling along with you, place his litter box in the bathroom.  This allows for easier clean up and less mess.

    When You Have to Leave the Room

    Pet friendly accommodations have different rules about whether your pet can be alone in the room.  It’s advised to only to leave your pet unattended when there are no other options.  Even if your pet is well-behaved, he can still bark, become restless and then cause damage when he is somewhere unfamiliar.  If you have to leave your pet alone, don’t be gone long.  Tell the front desk or manager that your pet is alone in your room, and then turn on the radio or TV to make your pet more at ease.  If your pet uses a crate or kennel, put him in there when you leave.  Also, stick a note on your door to let others know that your pet is in your room.

    Leave a Good Impression, Not Critters

    When preparing for your trip, be sure to give your pet a bath, which includes a flea and tick treatment.  Also, use a preventative flea and tick method to keep him critter-free on the trip.  If you leave behind a bad smell, or even worse, the pests, then you are at risk for losing your pet deposit.

     Accidents Will Happen

    If your pet does not have “accidents” at home while inside, he may when he is in unfamiliar territory and stressed.  Pack a disinfecting spray and a towel for the trip, just in case you have to clean up after your pet.  Once again, you could lose your pet deposit if you leave a mess behind.

    Always Keep Him On-Leash

    In order to keep your pet safe, you should avoid situations where he may not be under your control.  When you keep him leashed, you will ensure his safety, and the safety of other guests, in case he decides to try and run or become disruptive.  Also, steer clear of the dining areas or other off-limits areas in the hotel, and don’t allow him to roam freely.  Keep in mind that breaking these rules may cut your trip short, if the hotel staff asks you and your furry friend to leave.

    When you move, following these simple tips will help to ensure that your overnight stays at pet friendly hotels will be smooth and stress-free.

     

    TripsWithPets.com is the premier online pet friendly travel guide — providing online reservations at over 30,000 pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the U.S. and Canada.  When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets.com for detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities.  TripsWithPets.com also features airline & car rental pet policies, pet friendly activities, a user-friendly search-by-route option, as well as pet travel gear. For more information, please visit http://www.tripswithpets.com

  • Finding Pet Friendly Things to To Do in Your New Hometown

    After the big move, and when you finally feel settled in and are (mostly) unpacked, it’s time to explore places to go and things to do in your new hometown.  If you’re like most pet parents, you’ll want to include your furry family member in these new adventures.

    Here are suggestions for finding pet friendly places and things to do as you explore the new place you call home!

    Pet Friendly Restaurants & Breweries

    Many restaurants with outdoor seating areas allow dogs to dine with their people.  From coffee shops and snack shacks to pubs and fine dining establishments — there are pet friendly eateries for any budget and any palate!

    Additionally, there are an overwhelming number of craft beer breweries popping up, and the good news is that many of them welcome dogs indoors.  However, just like restaurants, those that prepare and serve food are not permitted to allow pets indoors.  So grab your furry sidekick and head to one of the pet friendly breweries in your new hometown to try some local beers on tap.

    Before you go be sure to confirm the establishment’s pet policy.  It’s also important to make sure your pet is prepared to be on his best behavior.  If your pet is not good around crowds, you’ll want to go at an off-peak time.  If he’s high energy, be sure to exercise him a bit beforehand.

    Dog Friendly Beaches
    Running, splashing and kicking up the sand are some of the best ways to get your pooch outside and exploring in your new hometown.  There are many beaches — whether lake or ocean — that welcome four-legged beach-goers.  Before you pack up your pooch and hit the road, be mindful of the beaches’ rules and regulations.  Some beaches require that your dog be on-leash at all times, while others allow pets off-leash under voice control.  Most beaches have restrictions on when your dog is allowed on the beach.  Dogs may only be allowed on beaches during certain months and/or certain times of the day.
    A visit to the beach can be a great retreat for you and your pet after moving.  Just be sure you’re both prepared to follow the beach’s pet guidelines.  This will help ensure your day at the beach is the respite you both deserve!

    Pet Friendly Attractions
    Each town has its own fun things to do, including those that allow pets to come along and join in that fun.  Some may seem obvious, like dog parks and hiking trails; however, depending on where you now reside, there may be unique attractions available that you would not have considered to be pet friendly.  Winery tours, whale watching excursions, perusing art museums, apple picking, paddle boarding, panning for gems, and exploring flea markets are just a sampling of some of the “not-so-obvious” pet friendly things to do with your pet!

    Moving to a new hometown brings about many changes for you and your pet, even when it comes to simply walking around your new neighborhood and meeting the human and furry neighbors.  Getting to know the local pet friendly things to do will help you and your pet see that change can be great, and together you can experience all that your new hometown has to offer.

     

    TripsWithPets.com is the premier online pet friendly travel guide — providing online reservations at over 30,000 pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the U.S. and Canada.  When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets.com for detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities.  TripsWithPets.com also features airline & car rental pet policies, pet friendly activities, a user-friendly search-by-route option, as well as pet travel gear. For more information, please visit http://www.tripswithpets.com

  • Should You Use a Pet Relocation Service When Moving?

    Moving your family to a new home involves much planning and preparation, especially when it comes to the four-legged family members.  Most importantly, you should take care of all the details in advance when moving with your pet, to ensure an easier transition for everyone.  The most important consideration is how you will be moving your entire family, including your pet.  It is always recommended to travel with your pet.  However, If you are moving across the country or overseas, this may not be an option.  In this case, you may want to look into a pet relocation service.

    How to Select a Pet Relocation Company

    Since your pet is part of your family, you can’t trust everyone out there to move him cross country when you move.  How do you know which companies you can trust?  One option is to check with the Independent Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA), a group that provides a network of professionals who transport pets.  These people must register with the USDA and follow the rules and regulations set forth by the USDA’s Animal Welfare Act.

    When you start to narrow down the options and try to decide which company to work with, you should make a list of questions about the pet relocation processes.  The following are some important questions to ask each potential company:

    • What are your specific policies and procedures regarding pet transport?
    • Do you have a license, and are you insured?
    • How long have you been in the pet relocation business?
    • When will my pet arrive at our new home?
    • How often will you keep me updated during the trip?
    • Who will be my contact throughout the entire process?
    • What are your fees? Are there additional costs?
    • How do you make sure that my pet receives enough food and water?
    • What necessities should I pack for my pet?

    As you interview the prospective companies, they should be helpful and be able to answer any question that you have.  It is also very important to research reviews from previous customers who used their services, and to ask for referrals from pet parents who were satisfied with the service they received.  You want to do your due diligence to attain the utmost confidence in the company you choose – after all, they are responsible for your very precious family member.

    The Process Can Be Easy

    Pet relocation companies handle all of the travel arrangements for you, as they know the best airlines, reliable pickup and delivery services, and the rules and regulations for moving animals.  They also keep up with the regulations as they change to make sure they are following proper procedures.

    If you are relocating overseas, your destination country will have specific rules regarding how pets are imported and exported.  There is usually a hefty amount of paperwork when it comes to pets entering another country, and some countries even require a passport for your pet.  Additionally, there may also be periods of quarantine to consider.  The pet relocation service should be responsible for ensuring that all of the necessary paperwork is adequately completed, and their professionals will let you know about the country’s quarantine policies as well as other import details.

     When Should You Consider Other Options?

    If you are on a strict budget, you may find that pet relocation services are quite costly, and it is not so easy on your wallet to get your pet from here to there.  On top of paying for the documentation, ground transportation and airline fees, you are still required to pay the company for their time and efforts.  This is a big consideration when you are planning a move with your pet.

    Additionally, there are some pets that a relocation company will consider to be a risk to move.  If your pet is elderly, overly anxious, or has other health issues, he may not be a good candidate for a pet relocation service.  Also, pets who are brachycephalic (short muzzled) and may have respiratory issues could potentially become injured under the high stress that a move can bring.  You should ask your vet about these potential obstacles if they apply to your pet in order to make the best possible choice for his move.

    Moving brings about many challenges, and planning ahead is key.  Be a responsible pet parent and make sure that if you plan to use a pet relocation service to move your furry family member, you take the time to investigate thoroughly.  In the long run, you and your pet will be happy about the safe journey he took to get to your new home.

     

    TripsWithPets.com is the premier online pet friendly travel guide — providing online reservations at over 30,000 pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the U.S. and Canada.  When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets.com for detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities.  TripsWithPets.com also features airline & car rental pet policies, pet friendly activities, a user-friendly search-by-route option, as well as pet travel gear. For more information, please visit http://www.tripswithpets.com

  • Pet Travel Tips For the Car When Moving to Your New Home

    You’re all set and ready to pack up the car, load up the family, and travel to your new home!  Your group also includes your four-legged family members, which adds an extra component to your traveling adventure.  However, hitting the road with your pet does not have to be stressful; with a little preparation and planning, the trip will be simple and fun as you travel to your new residence.  Here are our best tips for traveling in a vehicle with your pet.

    Pre-Travel Preparation

    Start Off Happy and Healthy
    It is important to take your pet to the vet for a checkup to make sure he is current on all vaccinations and receives a clean bill of health.  This will help ensure that he is not sick while you are traveling to your new home.  Also, your vet can provide a health certificate and a rabies vaccination certification.  Both of these are especially important if you plan to travel abroad.  

    Plan Ahead to Keep Your Pet Safely Secured
    Determine how you will keep your pet safely secured in your vehicle while you travel.  This necessary part of pet travel is often overlooked. In reality, many pets are hurt during accidents because they are not properly secured in vehicles.  More essentially, an overly-excited pet can easily distract the driver, which can lead to a costly accident.  There are many great safety options for keeping your pet secured when traveling in a vehicle.  It is also necessary to allow your pet to become familiar with the option you choose ahead of time, so he is comfortable during the trip on moving day.

    Update Identification Tag & Chip
    Unfortunately, sometimes pets do run off and escape their parents. If you have an updated ID tag and a current photo of your pet, this will to ensure his safe return.  Make sure he is wearing a collar with the ID tag attached, and ensure that your cell phone number is listed.  It is also important to make sure your pet’s microchip is updated with your appropriate contact information.

    Pack the Essentials
    When deciding what to pack for the car trip, a plentiful supply of their pet food is essential.  You cannot rely on being able to stop along the way to purchase your pet’s food, or being able to readily buy it at your new location.  Your pet’s brand of food may not be easy to find, and it is not a good time to try and introduce a new brand of food when you are traveling.  Other necessities when packing for your pet include pet travel bowls, pet beds, cat litter and a litter box, leashes, collars and tags, toys, grooming supplies, a first-aid kit and medicines.  Also, don’t forget to always have plenty of fresh water available for your pet.

    Where to Stay Along the Way
    Finding pet friendly lodging along your route is necessary if your travels involve a long drive from start to finish.  It is important to book ahead before you start your trip so you will know where you will be staying along the way.  

    Updated Copies of Medical Records
    Just in case there is a medical emergency with your pet when you are traveling, we recommend that you bring along a copy of your pet’s medical records.  It is best to keep these with you, and they should include your veterinarian’s contact information, in case he or she needs to be reached for a consultation.