First Class Moving & Storage

We Keep Our Prices Very Competitive Because We Want to Earn Your Business

West Valley 623-434-2646    Central Phoenix 602-696-0048   East Valley 480-200-7877

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Moving Tips, Tricks, and Guides

General Tips 

• Give ample thought as to which room in your new home you want your items need to go.
• It is important to book your moving services well ahead to secure an ideal date for you.
• Have someone at the door to direct the movers where to place boxes and items. 
• It helps to have a diagram or map hung near the entrance showing item locations.
• Obtain a notebook and use it to keep track of all the important dates and times relevant to your move, including utility shut-off and start-up dates. Keep track of your moving expenses and keep copies of all of your receipts.
• With most movers, having the movers take an inventory as items are moved is optional. For the movers to take the inventory means the move will take somewhat longer and your total bill will be slightly higher. The inventory is kept by the movers and agreed to with you as the move is taking place so the movers are slowed down a little which takes them longer to complete the job. A job that is being done at the agreed upon hourly rate will thus cost more. For a job that is being done at a flat rate price, the inventory cost will be an extra fee included in the flat rate. It is highly recommended that you take this option. It is well worth the extra cost to avoid disputes if anything is accidently damaged.
• Some movers include standard insurance and charge a nominal extra fee for  replacement value insurance. The extra cost for the replacement insurance is well worth it. An inventory is usually required to obtain replacement value insurance.
• Remember to contact your local post office and fill-out forwarding address forms.
•  Leaving a small welcome card with your forwarding address for the people moving into your old home is a nice way of asking for any additional pieces of your mail to be redirected. This also applies to your "old" neighbors.
• Call your local utility companies (gas, electric, water, telephone, cable/satellite/Internet providers and trash). Verify when your service will be discontinued and when it will be restored at your new address.
• Do the same with any lawn care, house cleaning or security firms you employ.
• Stock up on moving supplies. You’ll need masking tape, scissors, box-cutters, moving pads, newspapers, blankets, bubble wrap, bungee cord, felt-tipped markers, plastic storage containers, possibly a hand truck, and many boxes. You can usually obtain several different sizes from your local grocery store. Avoid making any box heavier than 50 lbs.
• Ensure your children are registered at their new schools and that their records have been transferred.
• Get referrals for doctors, dentists and veterinarians in your new area.
• Make arrangements for new homeowner’s insurance coverage. If you’re moving out of state, ask if you’ll need new car insurance.
• If you belong to any clubs or associations, find out if there are any similar clubs or chapters in your new area. You may even be able to transfer over some or all of your membership fees.
• Do not have your phone disconnected until after loading day. You might need to make last minute phone calls or there might be an emergency. Be sure to provide us with your cell phone number if you have one in case we are delayed in traffic or we need to contact you.
• DON'T polish your furniture! This makes the furniture slippery for the movers or yourself, also when we wrap pads around the furniture it can leave marks on the furniture where the pad was placed, do to buildup of cleaning residue.
• Reserve ample parking for the truck. If parking is to be on a city street, it is your obligation to tell the movers of any meters that need to be capped by the city. In the winter, be sure to have the parking area and walkways clear of snow and ice.
• Prepare an "Unload First" carton with essentials that you'll need immediately at your new home Include a bag filled with hardware from disassembled items, such as dresser mirrors and beds.
• Keep your tool box handy where it can readily be found.
• Try to keep boxes to 50 pounds or less and always lift with your legs. Be very careful because 50 pounds is pretty heavy for many people and can hurt you, especially if the box is large and awkward to pick up.
• Be very careful carrying boxes when steps are in the vicinity especially small drop steps on side walks. The box could obscure your vision of the step and an injury could result. 
• Tape the bottom of all boxes to make certain they will hold your belongings.

 Thirteen Rights and Responsibilities Between You and the Mover

Things You Should Discard or Carry Yourself:

• Most movers, including First Class Moving & Storage, do not move cash, jewelry, watches, coin collections, stamp collections, any other collectables, important documents such as wills, evidence of debt, securities, and deeds, photographs, guns and ammunition, home videos, precious stones and gems, art collections, computer software, silver and silverware, furs, garments trimmed with furs, precious or semi precious stones, figurines, musical instruments, and antiques.  Please consider moving these and other important belongings to a safety deposit box while you move or take them with you in your vehicle. Make a detailed list of all of your valuables listed above and put a copy in the safe deposit box and keep a copy with you.
• Fragile antiques and art work require special packing materials and boxes.
• Determine the items you want to throw away, donate or sell. Moving is a good time to get rid of items you no longer need. You will save money and have less to pack and unpack. Give yourself enough time to make these decisions.
• Avoid moving anything you don't really need. It is expensive, time-consuming, and physically unnecessary to move things you won't be using. If you don't use it now, you most likely won't use it later. Please consider that most moves are made on a per hour basis and the more things you no longer use that have to be moved by the movers, the longer it will take to complete the job on both ends of the move.
• Dispose of broken tools, old toys, old clothing and other items that you no longer need, before you move. Give usable items to charity or hold a garage sale.
• Lighten the load. Try to use up all leftover food in the days leading up to your move. This will reduce the amount of food you have to pack up and take with you. Remember that canned goods will spoil if exposed to heat in an un air conditioned storage unit for extended time. Refrigerated food items can only be kept fresh for limited times.

Hazardous Materials

The law prohibits us from moving hazardous materials that are flammable, combustible, corrosive, or explosive of any kind. Please dispose of these in advance of the move or arrange to transport them yourself.  Please contact your local governmental office for proper disposal of these items. Hazardous materials include:

• Acid (Including pool acid and pool chemicals. Leave these for the buyer of your home).
• Aerosols
• Ammunition
• Batteries
• Car Batteries
• Charcoal
• Chemistry Sets
• Cleaning Fluid
• Fertilizer
• Fireworks
• Gasoline
• Poisons
• Kerosene
• Lamp Oil
• Lighter Fluid
• Liquid Bleach
• Loaded Weapons
• Matches
• Motor Oil
• Nail Polish & Remover
• Paints
• Paint Thinner
• Pesticides
• Propane Tanks
• Weed Killer
• Empty gasoline from lawnmowers, chain saws, and all other gasoline engines.

Appliance Moving Guide:

Moving appliances from one home to another requires know-how and a great deal of coordination.

A moving company will do all of the heavy work - the actual transporting of your appliances from your home into your new home. However, the preparation of major appliances and other home furnishings is an important activity for you to schedule.

• Disconnect appliances (ice maker, washer, dryer, etc.) or reconnect them in the new residence. (Disregard if terms of your home sale specify the appliances are part of the sale and will be left in your home)
• Disconnect utilities.
• If you are taking the washing machine, the water hoses must be disconnected by you prior to out arrival. The faucets must be turned off and must not be dripping. Extensive damage to flooring can result from any dripping indoor faucets left for extended periods of time. Faucet repair and all subsequent home damage is your responsibility. The purchaser of your home could have a large claim against you.
• The gas company service representative disconnects gas lines and caps the pipes.
• The moving company provides personnel for careful, efficient handling of appliances during a move. Every effort is made to ensure that appliances reach your new destination safely.
• The owner assumes responsibility for having appliances properly serviced, both at origin and destination. It is best to have a reputable service representative prepare appliances for moving at least one day before they are to be loaded on the van.
• Thorough cleaning and drying of appliances, particularly the refrigerator, freezer and range, are necessary. This is especially important if they will be in storage for any length of time. Mold and mildew can grow in freezers and refrigerators if they are not properly cleaned and dried prior to storage.
• Cleaning instructions are included in the owner's manual which accompanies new appliances. If no instructions are available, use a mild detergent solution. Or use a solution of three quarts warm water and one tablespoon of vinegar. Do not use harsh abrasives that will scratch or ruin finishes.

Packing Guide:

• Don't just start packing - plan how you will pack. Pack items you seldom use first. Pack items of similar size and weight together. Don't make any carton too heavy to easily lift.
• If you decide to pack yourself, plan on at least six weeks to pack and get ready for your move
• Start packing several boxes each day a few weeks before your move.  Be sure to use new boxes.  Be sure that the items you pack won't be needed before your move.  By pacing yourself you'll be more organized and the job won't be so overwhelming.
• First of all, begin by putting some kind of packing material in the bottom of the moving box you plan to use. For packing materials, you could use bubble wrap, tissue paper, packing peanuts, newspaper, or even towels, sheets, blankets and pillows. If you choose to use newspaper, use caution with valuable items because the print may rub off onto packaged items. As an alternative to newspapers as packing material, consider purchasing packing paper, which is designed for this very purpose.  
• Always use proper packing cartons and wrapping materials. Use professional packing tape, which is a wide, strong, clear or brown tape. Masking tape is not strong enough to support the weight of a fully-packed carton. Tape all cartons closed on the top and bottom - don't just fold the end flaps closed. Use crumpled, unprinted newspaper to pack items in boxes.
• Pack heavy items in small boxes, light items in larger boxes.
• Do not pack heavy items like books with fragile objects.
• Pack books flat, not standing on end (which may cause damage to the spines). Books are extremely heavy, so don't pack too many in one box
• Be very careful not to pack anything on top of something that may break.
• When you are putting items into a moving box, put the heaviest items on the bottom, and stack the items progressively lighter. After each layer, fill all the gaps with packing material. Once the box is packed, put more packing material on top before closing the box. This will keep the items from shifting while they are being moved, and will also help keep the moving box firm.
• Fill all cartons to the top without overfilling. Cartons with items sticking over the top cannot be properly closed or stacked; cartons that are under filled tend to crush when stacked. Always make sure each carton is filled totally to the top before closing. A small space at the top can be filled with paper, a towel, a blanket or other similar items
• Have rugs and draperies cleaned before moving and leave them in wrappings for the move.
• Pack medicines in a leak proof container.
• Pack any electronic equipment back in their original boxes, if you have them. If you do not have the original box, find a moving box that is slightly larger than the item while still allowing a little room for whatever packing material you are using. Wrap or box each item or pieces of items separately.
• If you are moving mirrors, framed artwork, or pictures, put packing tape over the glass in an x or star pattern, so the glass will stay in place if it should happen to break. Wrap unframed artwork in bubble wrap packing material. Pack your mirrors, artwork and pictures in flat picture/ mirror boxes that are only slightly bigger than the item. If you still have the original boxes for your mirrors, use them, along with packing material. As with other fragile items, make sure to put fragile on the outside of the moving box.
• Some items such as large pictures, mirrors, glass tops and shelves, clocks and mattresses may require special cartons which we can provide
• When you are moving locally some items do not necessarily need to be packed. Items such as mirrors, large pictures and mattresses can usually be transported safely for short distances without packing. Generally, these items should be packed for long distance move and for shipments moving into storage. Lamps and lampshades should always be packed
• Give special attention to electronic equipment and lampshades.  You will want to have them properly packed for safety. Remove bulbs before packing your lamps
• Plates and record albums should be packed on end vertically, rather than placed flat and stacked
• Clothing: Clothing left on hangers and placed in wardrobe cartons used by moving companies will arrive at destination wrinkle-free. You might want to purchase several of these special cartons from us. One will hold about two feet of compressed clothing on hangers. If wardrobe cartons are not used, each garment should be removed from its hanger, folded and placed in a suitcase or a carton lined with clean paper. Some lightweight clothing such as lingerie and sweaters may be left in bureau drawers. Hats may be left in hatboxes and placed in a large carton. Or, stuff the crown of each hat with crumpled tissue paper; wrap tissue loosely around the outside and place in a carton lined with clean paper, with the heavier hats on the bottom. Don't pack anything else with hats. Label the carton "FRAGILE." Footwear may be left in shoeboxes and placed in a large carton. Or, wrap each shoe individually and then in pairs. Footwear should be cushioned to avoid damage to heels or ornaments. Don't pack heavy items on top of shoes. Furs must be moved by you rather than us.
• Linens & Bedding: Blankets, sheets, tablecloths, towels, pillowcases and other linens may be protected by a large plastic bag and packed in a carton that has been lined with clean paper. Wrap your most prized linens in tissue. Also, linens and bedding are good for cushioning or padding many types of items. Special mattress cartons in various sizes are available from us. Pillows may be placed in bureau drawers or packed in cartons
• Tape all boxes closed.  This will allow our personnel to easily stack your items and protect them from damage.
• Label the contents on the outside of all boxes, along with the rooms to which they should be delivered to in your new home. Clearly mark all boxes on two sides to identify their destination room When packing fragile items, clearly mark "fragile" on the outside of the box, with arrows on the sides to indicate the correct upright position.
• Indicate boxes holding essential items such as cooking utensils, bedding, linens and toiletries that need to be opened first by writing "open first" on the box and making sure these are the last boxes to be loaded onto the moving van.
• Time will be saved on your move if you arrange cartons in stacks of similar sized cartons four to five feet high. This enables the cartons to be easily dollied from the house to the truck
• We hope these packing hints and tips will assist you in packing your household goods safely so that there is no damage while being moved. We can further assist you in "doing it yourself" by calling 623-434-2646 with any questions you have. We have a wide range of box sizes and types for all you packing needs. Please call us for free delivery if your order is over $100 or click on the following picture to order your supplies online
• If you discover as you begin your packing project that it is a daunting task and can be complicated for some items, we offer professional movers who are experienced at packing. They immediately know how to approach all your packing needs. They know which items and how many items go into what kind and size box. They know how to safely protect your items with the right kind of materials. Above all they can usually accomplish a whole packing job in a day. Packing rates are by the hour depending on the number of movers needed. Our rates for labor can be found by clicking here: packing rates. Any materials needed by the movers to pack will be billed at the rates shown here Please call our estimator if you would like for him to make a short visit to your home to give you an estimate of how many hours it would take us to pack for you.
  
  

Packing Fragile Items Guide:

• Figuring out how to pack your delicate, breakable and/or valuable possessions can be one of the most challenging parts of moving. However, if you pack your fragile items properly, you can ensure they make the journey safe and sound.
• Next, carefully wrap each fragile item in the packing material. Put especially fragile items into small individual boxes before placing them into the moving box
• Plates should be stacked vertically as if in a dish drain; glasses and stemware should be placed in an upright position; again, use plenty of paper on all fragile and breakable items
• If a carton is packed in a manner that requires it to be always kept in an upright position, draw arrows on each side indicating which end must always be kept up. Any cartons containing particularly fragile items should be labeled as such
• Write "fragile" on the outside of the moving box, and make sure to write which side of the box should be kept up so that the heavier items on the bottom don't end up on the top and crush the lighter items. Label the outside of the moving box with what is inside and what room it should go to in your new home

Moving Large Screen TV's

• Large screen, LCD, plasma, projection, or other high def TV's have to be boxed in the original packaging they came in or professionally crated by the movers. Labor is at the agreed upon moving rate and crating materials are billed extra.

Packing Wine and Liquor Bottles Guide:

• Check your inventory and determine what you really want to keep before you start packing. Liquor and wine bottles are heavy and if you're paying per pound to move them, consider what is worth moving and what isn't.
• Use a divided/cell box that you can get free from a specialty wine shop or liquor store, or purchase a cell kit from a moving store. Use smaller boxes so they are easy to lift and carry.
• Secure your box well. Tape the bottom and/or reinforce it by lining the inside bottom with cardboard. Check your box to make sure it will hold the weight. Don't use a box that is worn.
• Place a stack of plain packing paper on the working surface.
• If you're packing opened bottles, ensure they are properly sealed by tightening the caps.
• Place a bottle on its side perpendicular to the corner of the top sheet of paper. Leave enough room at the corner to be able to start wrapping the bottle.
• Select two to three sheets of paper and wrap it around the bottle, rolling the bottle as you push forward.
• Wrap the ends of the paper into the roll as you go. For wine bottles, mold the bottle's neck as you roll to ensure it's tightly wrapped.
• Secure the wrapping with tape and make sure there are no loose ends.

Moving Outdoor Items:

• Our insurance does not cover potted plants. If you want us to move the potted plants (at your own risk), you must place a plastic bag around the bottom and seal it so moisture or anything else can escape onto other items in the truck. Most household plants will not survive a long move, so consider giving them to friends. If you decide to take them with you, check with your local Department of Agriculture office to see if there are any restrictions on moving plants across state lines.
• Contact your municipal government or poison control center to find an approved disposal site for any flammable or combustible materials you may have (fireworks, paint cans, gasoline for lawn mowers and camping stoves, solvents, etc.) and poisons (insecticides or weed killers).
• Grills should be cleaned and the propane must be disconnected.
• Children’s swing sets and play houses can be dismantled ahead of time by you or our crew will do it .

 Moving Pets:

As you prepare for your move, you should plan on preliminary preparation for your pet so they too can be well prepared. There are many things you can to do make the move less stressful for your pet. This guide will help make your pet's transition into a new home much easier.

Once you've made the decision to move to a new home, you will need to do some research. Certain localities may have stringent requirements or restrictions regarding pet ownership. You may need permits or registrations.

• Don't forget to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Your pet should have a check-up before moving. Be sure to attain your pet's veterinary records so that they can be forwarded to your new veterinarian.
• For local moves, it probably makes the most sense to transport your pet in the car with you on moving day.
• Remember to make sure that your pet is safe. Keep your pet in an unused room, or perhaps even outside. And of course, as always, your pet should have plenty of fresh water, and enough toys to occupy their time.
• Be sure you have a plan for when the movers arrive. Perhaps keep your cats in the bathroom with the litter box, or put your dogs in a fenced in yard. Also, take care to do what you can so your pets feel comfortable in your new home. Bring their favorite toys, give them attention, and don't leave them alone for long periods of time for the first few days.
• If your new home will be rented, prepare a pet resume for prospective landlords. Your vet may agree to write a referral letter.
• Always remember to get a new pet ID tag with your new address and contact phone numbers.
• Moving Fish - It's wise to visit your local Aquarium or Pet Shop and ask for special fish containers to safely transport your fish. They should be able to offer suggestions on what's best for different types of fish.  

Moving Pianos:

•  We move regular pianos at the same hourly rate as your move. There is no extra charge . There is an extra charge to move baby grand pianos. Please contact our estimator at 623-434-2646  for a quote to move your baby grand piano

Moving Pool Tables:

• We will refer you to three reputable companies that specialize in pool table moving and you may chose which you want to move it for you. You pay them directly.

Moving Large Dog Houses, Doll Houses, and Storage Sheds:

• Our movers will move anything you want moved from your back yard if practical including large dog houses, doll / play houses, and storage sheds if you want to take them with you. Please assure that your sales contract states that you can take these with you and are not part of your sale. This will alleviate you of any legal problems down the road with the buyer of your home.  You can save money by dismantling large items in advance of the move. Our movers will attempt to dismantle storage sheds if practical. Screws on metal storage sheds become rusty and might break when unscrewed. Our movers will know if this is the case and advise you accordingly. Our estimator can also visit you home at no charge and advise you on what can be taken apart and what should not be. Large items can be lifted over fences sometimes and loaded onto trailers.  You can request a free in home estimate by clicking on this button:   or by calling 623-434-2646 and asking for our estimator.

Moving Portable Spas:

• Portable spas require special equipment and labor. We will move your spa at the regular hourly rate and at no additional charge. They do take time for our movers to prepare and lift so please make sure our estimator at 623-434-2646 knows that you want a spa included in your move so he can include it in the estimate.

Moving Your Vehicles:

•  We will move your vehicles or you can arrange to have them moved . There is an extra charge to have us move your vehicles. Please contact our estimator at 623-434-2646 for a quote.
• It may be tempting to load your car up with boxes but this may not be a good idea. First, any damage or loss is typically not covered by the insurance. Second, if you overload the car, you can make it heavier which may make it more susceptive to damage when being loaded and unloaded from the truck. Finally, auto-transporters are generally not licensed as interstate movers and can be fined for carrying personal goods across state lines - any fines will be passed on to you. Check with the mover, though--some allow you to fill your trunk with goods.

Out of Country and Overseas Moves :

• We will move your goods into appropriate containers and arrange for their shipment. Please contact our estimator at 623-434-2646 for a quote.

Ways to Help Minimize Your Costs:

For moves made at the agreed upon hourly rate will cost more than estimated when. Even moves made at an agreed upon lump sum can cost more for certain unexpected events:

• You are late arriving at your home at the agreed upon start time and none is at the home to let the movers start.
• You are not ready when the movers show up. You are still packing boxes.
• You forgot to tell the estimator about the items in the attic or the patio furniture
• You tell the estimator that you are not taking some items and decide to take them to your new house instead
• The closest spot to part the moving truck is taken, forcing us to park further away.
• Kids and pet are running around the house while the movers are loading and unloading. This interference will slow the move down
• Give ample thought as to where your items would go in your new home. Make sure someone is at the door to direct the movers as to which room to put the items. The movers will gladly move your furniture to several spots as you desire until you are satisfied, but remember that the job will be at the agreed upon hourly rate. Just remember it costs more to move things twice
• A good rule of thumb to help the movers move things more efficiently is that if something will fit in a box, then pack it in a box
• If you are not completely packed at move time, expect the charges to go above the estimated cost because the movers must sometimes wait  for you or work around you. That slows down the movers. 

Final Things to Do:

• After everything has been loaded in the truck, you will be asked to take one last walk through your house with the crew leader to make sure that nothing has been overlooked and that the home is completely empty except for major items you want to leave such as the refrigerator. You will be asked to initial the moving contract agreeing that all is out of the home and into the truck.
• Make sure the water, gas, and electricity are turned off.
• Make sure faucets for washing machines and dishwashers are not dripping. Extensive damage to flooring that you will be responsible for to the new homeowner can happen if the home is to be empty for an extended period.
• If the home will be subject to freezing and the water pipes are in the attic, freezing can rupture the pipes causing extensive damage to ceilings, walls, and flooring if the water is left on. You should make arrangements to winter proof your home if it might be vacant in the winter.
• Sometimes it is customary to leave a gift in the refrigerator such as a bottle of wine or champagne with a note attached for the new home owners.
• Send thank-you cards to friends who helped you with your move and mail out notifications of your new address to friends and family.

Tipping the Movers:

• If you feel the movers did a good job for you, it would customary to tip a total of 5% of the move divided between the movers.
• Please call 623-434-2646 and let us know how the movers did. Compliments count on their bonus awards.
• Please send us by mail or e-mail testimonials of how your move went and we will publish it on the web site and other advertising. We will only use your first name and will not give your address.
• Please let your friends and neighbors know about how we did on your move.