Moving

Posted on November 8, 2021 by Ottawa Moving Logistics

If you’re planning to move into a dorm room for the first time or a shared house, it can be exciting and overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect. After all, it’s a big change and moving into a different space can come with its challenges. But with a little bit of pre-planning, you can make that transition easy and as hassle-free as possible. Check out our top moving tips for back-to-school planning below.

Moving Into a Dorm

Be Practical for the Size of Your Living Space

If you’re moving into a dorm, the typical size is approximately 12 by 20 feet. Usually, you’ll have to share with a roommate, making it feel even more limited on space. So be sure to not overpack. Only take what will fit. Overcrowding an already tight space can make it feel cluttered and claustrophobic. Stick with the essentials.

Prioritize What You’ll Need

To avoid overcrowding your room, think about your daily activities and prioritize what you’ll need. For most dorms, this generally includes a bed, desk, dresser, bookshelf, lamps, and maybe a portable fridge if it’s permitted.

Double up on Multifunctional Items

Storing items can be challenging in dorms, so be extra selective about the items you bring. Consider anything that can serve a dual purpose, like having a dresser that can be used as a desk, or a trunk that can be used as a tabletop as well as for storing items away when they’re not in use.

Moving into a Shared Space

If you’re moving into a sublet or a home that you’ll be sharing with a few friends, first determine if it will be furnished or unfurnished. If it’s unfurnished, instead of spending a large sum of money on furnishings, search Facebook marketplace or similar sites to find what you need that’s gently used and at a fraction of the price.

Coordinate with Friends

When moving in with friends, be sure to coordinate with them so you all understand who is bringing what to be clear on what is needed and not needed.

Book Your Movers Early

Even January semesters can be a busy time for moving companies, which is why it’s worth booking in your movers early. Once you know your moving date, lock in your moving company to make sure you’re not left doing it all on your own.

Ottawa Moving Logistics has you covered for all of your moving-related needs. Contact us today to lock in your back-to-school move!

Posted on October 21, 2021 by Ottawa Moving Logistics

Expenses can quickly add up when you’re preparing for a move, which can make it a stressful process for anyone who’s tight on cash. But moving on a budget can be done when you plan ahead and know how to be a little strategic during the process. To help make your move as smooth and hassle-free as possible while saving some cash, follow this simple guide below.

Get Rid of the Excess Stuff

First things first, spend time dejunking your home. We all end up collecting junk over the years, with many items being stuffed in drawers or on shelves that rarely see the light of day. Start by sorting through one room at a time and keep two bags or containers beside you to separate garbage from donation. Be strict with yourself and get rid of anything you haven’t seen, touched or used in the last two years. You could even make some extra money by selling items online or by hosting a garage sale. It’s a win-win!

Donate

If you have unused furniture or anything in good condition that you don’t want or can’t sell, donate it. Someone else could make use of and appreciate those items you no longer need. Eliminating unwanted or unused furniture means there will be fewer things to move, which will make it a faster and cheaper process on moving day.

Be Thrifty with Moving Materials

Purchasing boxes, tape and paper or bubble wrap, can also add up. Instead of spending more on packaging supplies, get a little thrifty. Use boxes from your local liquor store. Search on websites like Craigslist or Kijiji for free boxes that people want to get rid of. And use towels, clothing and other plush materials to wrap fragile items in to reduce the paper and bubble wrap.

Avoid the Busy Season

It’s not always an option to choose when you can move, but if you do have the choice, try to avoid the busy moving peak periods, which fall between May until September. You might be able to snag lower rates during off-seasons, and it will be much easier to lock in your moving date without having to compete.

Moving on a budget doesn’t have to be stressful when you have the right moving team to support you. Get the best rates and service you can depend on with Ottawa Moving Logistics today. Contact us today.

Posted on September 23, 2021 by Ottawa Moving Logistics

Like with any seemingly overwhelming task, having the right tools can make all the difference. If you’re facing an upcoming move and are dreading the packing process, here are the essential moving supplies you’ll need to sail through it with ease.

Multiple Size Boxes

Of course, you can’t pack up anything without boxes. But choosing the right kind of box is important. Make sure you’re using strong, sturdy moving boxes, and don’t forget to grab a variety of different sizes. You can purchase them from your local moving company, office supply store, or you can grab some free ones from the liquor store. You’ll need a good amount of smaller boxes for those heavier items and specific sizes for items like artwork or lamps.

Tape Dispenser and Packing Tape

To assemble and securely seal up those boxes, you’ll need a tape gun dispenser and tape. You can use standard packing tape or nylon lined tape, which is handy for any boxes that need extra reinforcement. Nylon tape is useful for fragile items as well since it’s impossible to cut or tear unless you use scissors.

Permanent Markers

Labelling the boxes as you pack them up will save you so much time and aggravation when it’s time to unpack them. Use a thick marker so you can easily see your labels when you’re sorting through and shuffling boxes during your move. This will also make it quick and easy for the movers to place boxes in the correct rooms.

Packing Paper

To prevent your belongings from being damaged during the move, use packing paper to wrap your fragile items up thoroughly. Avoid using newspaper since it can leave ink marks behind on certain items. Instead, use towels, tea towels and even clothing to add extra cushioning and protection if needed.

Mattress Cover

No one wants to arrive in their new home and discover a soiled and damp mattress. To keep your mattress clean and dry from the weather, use mattress covers to seal them and protect them during transport. Make sure you have the right size for each mattress so they will cover them completely.

Basic Tools

Moving typically requires some basic disassembling, so have a few tools on hand. This includes a hammer, screwdrivers, utility knife, measuring tape, pliers, and a cordless drill.

Looking for a professional and reliable moving service in Ottawa that offers it all? Ottawa Moving Logistics has you covered for all your moving-related needs, including packing and unpacking too. Contact us today to learn more or to lock in your moving date.

Posted on September 16, 2021 by Ottawa Moving Logistics

Considering moving to Ottawa but aren’t sure if the area is the right choice for you? Find out what Ottawa has to offer you and your family below.

Affordable Detached Homes

With the market in full swing lately, bidding wars galore, and the average price of property skyrocketing across Ontario, there are still affordable detached homes to be found in Ottawa. The area is also rapidly developing, with newly built communities springing up all across the city. So if you’re looking for the chance to own actual land and a big, beautiful home, the Ottawa region is the best place to look.

A Big City With A Small Town Vibe

Few cities in Canada offer an authentic small-town vibe, and Ottawa is one of them. Here you’ll find kind, friendly people who always seem relaxed and happy – likely due to the low cost of living and high quality of life the residents enjoy. The city is also made up of small, quaint and unique neighbourhoods that offer different vibes to suit various lifestyles.

The City Of Festivals

If you love getting out and doing things, Ottawa is the place to be. The city never stops, even in the dead of winter. There’s always a festival going on somewhere across the city. From Canada Day to Bluesfest to Winterlude and every cultural festival you could imagine, there’s always something exciting to do here, no matter the weather.

A City with Unlimited Job Opportunities

Ottawa has always been known as a government city thanks to the Federal Government residing here. However, there are more job opportunities available than just civic duty. The city is littered with local mom-and-pop storefronts, along with big box stores and numerous big tech names such as Shopify, Adobe, and Amazon. There’s a healthy financial sector here too.

Welcoming Spot For Newcomers

The city has also been ranked the #1 best place for newcomers to live in Canada. So if you’re moving here from overseas, there are numerous programs that will ensure you settle in well. People from all across the world have chosen Ottawa over other popular hubs such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. Ottawa is, in fact, one of the most diverse cities in all of Canada. It’s truly a city that recognizes our differences are what makes us stronger.

If you’re ready to relocate to the beautiful region of Ottawa, we’re ready to help you get there. At Ottawa Moving Logistics, we offer affordable moving prices for high-quality moving services. Contact us today to learn more.

Posted on August 23, 2021 by Ottawa Moving Logistics

Packing and unpacking are the most time-consuming tasks during any move. But you don’t have to do it all on your own. Moving companies like ours offer packing and unpacking services to suit your individual needs. So instead of dreading the process, you can hand it over, and our team will take care of it all for you, saving you lots of time and effort. Here is a breakdown of our available services at Ottawa Moving Logistics.

Packing

The Complete Pack

For those who truly hate packing, this one’s for you. With the Complete Pack Service, we will come and pack up your entire home for you. We’ll bring all of the required necessities, including boxes, specialty boxes, tape, packing paper and anything else that might be needed to contain all of your belongings safely.

The Partial Pack

Need help with only a few key areas in your home? We can assist you with that too. Whether it’s the basement, kitchen, or garage that you just can’t face, you can direct us, and we’ll gladly pack up any of those chaotic odds and ends that you don’t want to spend time dealing with.

Help Me Pack

For those who are okay with handling the majority of the packing process on their own, but need some assistance to deal with one room or even just a few delicate, complex items, the Help Me Pack service is ideal. We’ll bring all of the moving supplies needed to securely and safely contain any of your oversized or delicate belongings.

Office Pack

Office moves can be complex, which is why you need an experienced and professional team or your side to help keep everything organized for a smooth process. Whether you have a large or small space to deal with, our team can tackle it.

Items That We Don’t Pack

It’s important to note that there are certain items that we can’t safely and legally pack up for you. This includes any hazardous materials, plants, perishable foods, explosives, liquids, or corrosive and flammable items.

Unpacking

Can’t face the thought of unpacking? We can assist with that too and unpack all of your belongings once you arrive in your new home.

If you’re planning an upcoming move, get the reliable, professional and dedicated moving services that have been trusted throughout Ottawa. Contact Ottawa Moving Logistics today to book your moving date or to learn more about our moving services and rates.

Posted on August 17, 2021 by Ottawa Moving Logistics

It can be a challenging process when you’re debating about whether to move or renovate. It’s not always an easy question to answer, and every situation will differ from the next. If your needs have changed and you’re unsure which is the right decision for you and your family, we’ve put together a few of the most common questions to ask yourself to help you feel confident with your final answer.

What do you need to suit your lifestyle?

First things first, determine what you need to suit your current lifestyle – whether that involves additional bedrooms for your expanding family or functional space to take care of your ageing parents. Once you’ve determined this in detail, consider whether a renovation can offer a realistic solution. If the answer is no, then you have your answer.

Do you have the budget?

Major decisions such as this are based primarily on your budget. It’s essential to be practical about what you can afford when considering both a renovation and a move. If you’re leaning towards a renovation, do you have the budget to afford the type of renos needed to remain in your current home? Is it practical to add on the extra room that you’ll need? The same question applies to moving. Is the market affordable for you to purchase a new home?

What about the extra fees that come with both?

Beyond the basic costs of moving and renovating, both typically come with extra expenses that aren’t always weighed into the initial equation. Renovations can include unexpected costs, especially when it comes to major projects like adding an extension or bump-out. It’s important to be aware of the real estate fees, legal fees, transfer taxes, and other moving costs associated with a move as well.

Do you like living in your current neighbourhood?

This type of decision is an emotional one as well. If your current home and neighbourhood hold sentimental value for you and your family, then maybe a renovation could be worth investing in. However, if you don’t love your neighbourhood and don’t mind the idea of change, moving might make the most sense.

Asking yourself key questions like these will help you determine which is the right decision for you. And if your answer ends up leaning towards a move, our team at Ottawa Moving Logistics is here to help make the process as simple and smooth as possible. Contact us to learn more about our services and rates.

Posted on July 19, 2021 by Ottawa Moving Logistics

Moving can be a tedious process overall, which is why it can be extra challenging and even dangerous for our ageing parents. Aside from being physically demanding, moving can take an emotional toll on them as well. To make the process easier and safer, here are some simple ways to help your parents with their move.

Encourage Them to Start Early

There’s a lot to do when it comes to moving, so the earlier they can start, the easier it will be. Downsizing from a family home can also require more time since there are so many memories tied to the home, and your parents will likely need time to process it all as they move through the packing stage. Be there to offer your assistance and emotional support while also gently nudging them forward to get through everything in time for their moving date.

Help Organize

With so much to sift through, it can be easy to get lost or overwhelmed by everything. Help them stay organized by making a to-do list and a light schedule to help keep them on track. You can start in one room at a time and keep a separate space for any items that will be donated, sold or discarded.

Book Movers Early

Have your parents booked their moving date? This should be done as soon as they know when they will be moving since certain seasons can get busy, which means movers can book up quickly. To ensure they get their preferred date, call to book the movers well in advance, so they don’t have to stress about it later. Hiring a professional, reputable company will make the process much easier, safer, and smoother for everyone involved.

Help Clean

When everything is packed up, one significant way to help out your parents is by cleaning. Sweep and mop the floors and tie up any loose ends that need it so that it’s left in a clean and presentable state for the new owners.

Pack an Overnight Bag

Your parents will need some essentials that they can easily access while the moving process is taking place. Help them pack up an overnight bag with clothing, medications, toiletries, and anything they will need for a few days while the boxes are being unpacked.

When you’re ready to book professional and reputable movers that you can count on to take good care of during your parent’s move, contact our team at Ottawa Moving Logistics.

Posted on June 25, 2021 by Ottawa Moving Logistics

Have you considered relocating but feel unsure about which area is the right fit for your Millennial lifestyle and needs? To help you make the right choice, here are the top Canadian cities for Millennials right now.

Ottawa

If you prefer somewhere that offers a quieter place where urban meets small-town living, Ottawa might be the best fit for you. Our nation’s capital offers it all, including good job opportunities, lots of green space to enjoy throughout the city, a low crime rate, reasonable housing prices, lower traffic congestion, and convenient public transit. There’s also a good variety of neighbourhoods here, from family-centric to trendy and hipster. Anyone who prefers a city that’s dialled back a bit from the typical urbanized chaos will enjoy Ottawa.

Montreal

It’s one of the most popular Canadian cities for Millennials to call home, and it’s not hard to see why. Montreal is a beautiful city that is far from boring. It’s busy and lively, with lots to see and do. It has a vibrant nightlife, lots of festivals throughout the year, and has a large population of young people. It’s also one of the most bike-friendly cities in Canada. If music, arts, and culture are your thing, this is an excellent spot to consider moving to.

Toronto

Toronto is the unofficial capital of Canada, and it’s a city that literally has something for everyone. As one of Canada’s economic powerhouses that have grown popular on the world stage, it’s an exciting place to live. It’s also one of the most diverse cities in the world, making it welcoming and accommodating to people from all walks of life. It’s easy to navigate, and it has many unique neighbourhoods with different characteristics in each. It’s also a fun city with lots of events happening throughout the year. Plus, it’s a major foodie hot spot.

Kingston

Kingston is known as one of Canada’s most walkable and cyclable cities. It’s also ranked as the best for raising a family. It has a smaller population, making it a comfortable size for those who don’t want the big, hectic Toronto city life. Located along the shores of Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River and the Rideau Canal, it is a beautiful and scenic place to live. There’s lots of opportunity for outdoor recreation, along with great dining options, attractive neighbourhoods, historic buildings, and affordable living.

Planning to relocate this summer? Get the reliable and professional moving services you can count on at Ottawa Moving Logistics.

Posted on June 18, 2021 by Ottawa Moving Logistics

Since the advent of remote work and at-home learning, more people have moved out of the downtown core and towards the suburbs and countryside. An especially popular place to buy has been in Orleans, which has seen house prices soar over recent months as demand for homes in this area has skyrocketed. So why are more people moving to Orleans?

Big homes and backyards

Orleans has a mix of older and newer homes, which means house prices will vary. People moving from the downtown core will likely find themselves in a larger living space with a much larger backyard. This is a desirable quality in a home right now as multiple people work remotely and require their own workspace. Children who have been learning virtually also take up room and have to be accounted for. For people who typically travel in order to get away from the world, having a backyard that they can turn into a personal oasis has become appealing. The backyard is also a draw to people who have taken in pets in the last year. In addition, people with good credit have discovered that, with no place to travel, now is the time to invest in property.

Wide outdoor spaces and walking paths

Orleans has a lot of walking paths woven into its many neighbourhoods. It’s a great opportunity for people to get out of their house and go for a walk, providing the mental stressbuster that many of us need after a full day working at a desk. There are also multiple enclosed dog parks in the area, giving your pup an opportunity to run off-leash and socialize and giving you a chance to meet other dog owners.

A good place to raise a family

Whether you have young children or teenagers, Orleans is a good place to raise your kids. Not only does it have a very low crime rate, but it has excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities. There are plenty of after-school activities for children to participate in, as well as fairs and festivities.

Wide swath of entertainment choices

On the subject of festivities, Orleans is a prime choice if you’re looking for a place with entertainment. It has plenty of bars and restaurants that play live music, a bowling alley, several craft brewing companies, and the Shenkman Centre, where you can take up pottery, art, and theatre. Orleans is also huge on celebrating holidays. At Christmas, Taffy Lane becomes a tourist hot spot.

Are you ready to move? Get a quote from Ottawa Moving Logistics to make your move easier.

Posted on May 31, 2021 by Ottawa Moving Logistics

Need to pack up your bedroom but don’t know where to start? Certain areas of the home can feel more overwhelming to tackle than others, which can lead to procrastination and last-minute panic mode. To avoid this, here are some helpful tips on how to pack up your bedroom.

Start with Non-Essential Stuff

Like with any area of your home, it’s best to begin packing up things that are non-essential. So anything you don’t use on a daily basis is where you should focus first. This can include your desk, knick-knacks, old memorabilia from your college days, your bookshelf and seasonal clothing.

Disperse Weight

When you’re packing up your bedroom items, make sure you’re dispersing them to avoid overstuffing and adding too much weight to the boxes. For example, only place a few books in a single box and combine them with other lighter items. Keep testing the boxes as you pack by lifting them to see whether they are getting too heavy and need to be balanced out.

Declutter Clothing

Before you start packing up your clothing, spend some time sifting through your closets and dressers to dejunk any items you don’t wear or that no longer fit. Any items that are in good condition, place them into a bag so you can drop them off at a donation center. Anything that’s too worn, discard or upcycle into rags if possible. Also, if you’re moving during the summer, pack up your fall and winter gear since you won’t be needing those any time soon. When you’re sorting through your closet, leave clothing on the hangers. It’s easier and makes the unpacking process faster since you can just hang them up right away. Bonus tip – use your suitcases to transport some of your clothing.

Pack Mirrors in Original Box

If you kept a few old boxes for electronics or mirrors, use them to place them back in for moving day. If you didn’t keep them, try to find boxes that are strong and sturdy, and use extra wrapping to protect them from moving around.

Disassemble Your Bed and Wrap Up Mattress

When you’re removing your mattress, lean it upright and wrap it up well to protect it from dirt, damage and the weather. When you’re taking the bed frame apart, make sure you keep all of the screws and other bits safely together so you don’t lose them. It can be a nightmare when you get to your new place and can’t find the right pieces to put your bed back together.

Planning an upcoming move? Book your moving date with our professional moving team at Ottawa Moving Logistics today!

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