6cd21ca3

How to Declutter Before a Move – What to Keep, Sell, or Donate

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 15:55:41 GMT

How to Declutter Before a Move – What to Keep, Sell, or Donate

Moving house is the perfect opportunity to declutter and streamline your belongings. Sorting through everything you own might feel overwhelming, but with a little organisation, you can make your move easier and more efficient. Here’s how to decide what to keep, sell, or donate before your big move.

1. Start Early

Decluttering takes time, so begin well in advance of your moving date. Start with one room at a time and work systematically to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

2. Use the Four-Box Method

As you go through your items, categorise them into four groups:

Keep – Items you use regularly or have sentimental value.
Sell – Things in good condition that you no longer need but others may find useful.
Donate – Items still in decent shape that could benefit a charity or someone in need.
Discard – Anything broken, outdated, or beyond repair.

3. Be Honest with Yourself

If you haven’t used something in over a year, it’s time to reconsider its place in your life. Ask yourself:

Do I love it?
Do I use it?
Does it serve a purpose? If the answer is no, it’s probably time to let it go.

4. Sell Valuable Items

For items in good condition, consider selling them to make some extra cash before your move. Some great ways to sell items include:

Online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Gumtree.
Car boot sales or local markets.
Apps like Vinted and Depop.

5. Donate to a Good Cause

Many charities accept furniture, clothing, books, and household items. Consider donating to:

Local charity shops
Homeless shelters
Community centres
Schools or libraries for books and educational materials

6. Get Rid of the Unusable

Some items are beyond repair or reuse. Check your local recycling centre for responsible disposal of electronics, old furniture, or hazardous waste.

7. Organise What You’re Keeping

Once you’ve streamlined your belongings, start packing strategically. Label boxes clearly, and consider placing frequently used items in an easy-to-access box for your first few days in your new home.

Top 5 Moving Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 12:18:09 GMT

Top 5 Moving Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Moving to a new home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming. Whether you’re moving locally or across the country, there are common mistakes that many people make during the moving process. Luckily, with a bit of planning and preparation, these mistakes can be avoided. Here are the top 5 moving mistakes and tips on how to steer clear of them!

1. Procrastinating on Packing

One of the biggest mistakes people make is leaving packing to the last minute. This leads to unnecessary stress and rushed decisions, often resulting in damaged items and missed packing essentials.

How to Avoid It:
Start packing early—ideally, at least a few weeks before your move. Begin with items you use less frequently and gradually work your way toward the essentials. This way, you’ll avoid the last-minute rush and ensure everything is packed securely and organised. Feeling overwhelmed by the thought of packing your life into boxes? At HLH we offer packaging services to make your move even easier.

2. Not Hiring Professional Movers

Many people think they can save money by handling the move themselves. While this may work for small moves, DIY moving can be overwhelming, time-consuming, and physically exhausting—especially when it comes to heavy lifting and navigating tricky logistics.

How to Avoid It:
Hiring professional movers like HLH Removals ensures your belongings are handled with care and efficiency. Experienced movers have the right tools, equipment, and expertise to get the job done safely and on time. Plus, you can avoid the risk of injury and damage to your property. Fun fact: when a property is ‘completing’, it's advised that the property is vacant by midday ready for the new owners.

3. Failing to Label Boxes Properly

It’s easy to underestimate the importance of labelling your boxes, but when you’re in a new home surrounded by countless boxes, it can be a nightmare trying to find what you need.

How to Avoid It:
Make sure to clearly label each box with both its contents and the room it belongs in. Colour-coded labels or stickers can help speed up the unpacking process and ensure your items end up where they belong. Don’t forget to label fragile items to prevent any accidents.

4. Underestimating the Time Required

Moving takes longer than most people expect, and not allowing enough time for the entire process can lead to frustration and rushed decisions.

How to Avoid It:
Plan ahead and allow extra time for the move. Create a moving timeline that includes packing, loading, transport, and unloading. Factor in some wiggle room in case of unexpected delays, such as traffic or weather. Don’t rush—take your time to ensure everything is handled carefully. You can always ask the removal company to give you an expected time frame so you know where you stand on move day with timings.

5. Overpacking or Underpacking Boxes

Packing boxes too tightly can cause them to tear or break, while packing them too loosely can lead to items shifting or getting damaged during the move.

How to Avoid It:
Use the right size boxes for your items and pack them securely but not too tightly. Fill gaps with packing paper or bubble wrap to protect fragile items. Avoid overloading boxes—make them manageable in weight so they’re easier to lift and transport.

Bonus Tip: Neglecting Storage Solutions

Sometimes, moving requires more than just transporting belongings. If you’re downsizing, between homes, or need extra space, forgetting about storage can cause last-minute stress.

How to Avoid It:
Consider using professional storage services for short-term or long-term needs. HLH Removals offers secure storage solutions, so your belongings are safe and accessible until you’re ready for them.

Moving doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By avoiding these common mistakes and preparing properly, you can ensure a smoother, more efficient move. Whether you need help with packing, transporting, or storing your belongings, the team at HLH Removals is here to make your move as easy as possible. Start planning early, stay organised, and leave the heavy lifting to the professionals!

Need help with your move? Get in touch with HLH Removals today!

How to Protect Your Valuables During a Move

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:04:38 GMT

How to Protect Your Valuables During a Move

Moving can be one of life’s most stressful experiences, especially when you have valuable possessions to think about. Whether it’s fragile heirlooms, expensive electronics, or treasured artwork, taking extra care in packing and transporting these items is essential. At HLH Removals, we understand the importance of protecting your prized belongings. Here’s a guide to help you safeguard your valuables, along with how our packing services and materials can take some of the stress off your shoulders.

1. Use High-Quality Packing Materials

When it comes to protecting your belongings, using durable, high-quality packing materials is essential. Boxes that are worn or flimsy are prone to collapsing, while low-grade tape can lose adhesion, causing boxes to open unexpectedly. To avoid these risks, make sure your packing materials are sturdy and dependable.

At HLH Removals, we stock a wide range of high-quality packing materials at our warehouse, including:

New and once-used boxes in assorted sizes
Strong packaging tape
Packing paper for added cushioning
Bubble wrap for fragile items
Shrink wrap and mini wrap for securing furniture
Mattress and furniture bags (these are highly recommended if you are going to be storing items!)

2. Pack Fragile Items with Care

For items that are especially delicate, like glassware, ceramics, and electronics, take extra care when packing:

Wrap each item individually: Use bubble wrap or packing paper to individually wrap each fragile item. Avoid packing these items directly against each other; instead, add padding between them.
Label boxes as “Fragile” or "Do Not Stack": Clearly mark these boxes to signal that they require gentle handling.
Avoid over packing boxes: While it might seem efficient, overstuffing can lead to breakage. Leave a bit of room to add cushioning materials, reducing the risk of items moving around inside the box.

3. Protect Larger, High-Value Items

Furniture, artwork, and electronics may require special handling to prevent damage. Here’s how to make sure they stay safe:

Use protective covers : For larger pieces of furniture like sofas, mattresses, and armchairs, consider using protective covers. These keep dust, moisture, and scratches at bay.
Shrink wrap furniture: Shrink wrap can help hold pieces of furniture together, which is especially useful for items with drawers or doors that can shift during transit. If you hire HLH, this is something we do for all of our moves so you don't need to worry about it!
Floor protection: Protect your floors on moving day by using floor protection materials, especially if there’s a risk of scratching, dragging, or moisture exposure.

4. Safeguard Small Valuables

Items such as jewellery, important documents, and family heirlooms require special attention. If these items are small enough to fit in a personal bag, consider keeping them with you during the move. However, if they need to go in the moving truck, pack them carefully:

Use smaller, clearly labelled boxes for easy access.
Consider keeping these boxes with you in your vehicle if possible.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Packing can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with fragile or valuable items. If you’re unsure about the best way to pack or handle certain items, our team at HLH Removals is here to help. We offer professional packing services, ensuring that every item is packed securely using the right materials and techniques.

We can arrange a no-obligation, face-to-face consultation to discuss your specific needs, evaluate your belongings, and offer advice on the best approach to packing and moving them.

Why Choose HLH Removals?

At HLH Removals, we pride ourselves on offering not just a service, but peace of mind. Our experienced team is dedicated to making your move as smooth and stress-free as possible. We cater to both domestic and commercial customers and provide competitive pricing that aligns with your budget and needs.

Let us help protect your valuables, and make your move seamless and safe. Contact us today for expert advice or to purchase any packing supplies you might need from our Clovelly Road Industrial Estate location.

Remember, moving is about starting fresh—let’s make sure your valuables get there with you, safe and sound.

How to Pack for a Move

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 09:24:44 GMT

Packing Tips for a Smooth Move

How to Pack for a Move: Packing Tips for a Smooth Move

At HLH, we're always happy to offer our clients helpful packing advice to make moving less stressful. While we're here to assist, here are some tried-and-tested packing tips to ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible.

1) Use Boxes Whenever Possible

If it can fit in a box, pack it in a box! Sealed boxes are easier to stack and handle compared to bags or loose items. They also provide extra protection for your belongings, minimising the risk of damage during the move. With fragile items, label the box with 'DO NOT STACK' on the top and the side of the box.

2) Tape Both the Top and Bottom of Boxes

To prevent any accidents, make sure to tape the bottom and top of your boxes securely. This will stop items from falling out during transit. For extra strength, tape over areas where there’s already tape; tape sticks better to tape! If your tape isn’t adhering well, rub your hand over it to secure it in place.

3) Prepare a Last-Minute Essentials Box

Moving can be overwhelming, so have a box for essentials like medication, phone chargers, important documents, and a change of clothes. This will reduce the stress of searching through multiple boxes for important items when you reach your new home.

4) Label Everything!

It might seem obvious, but labelling your boxes can save a lot of time. Write down which room each box needs to go in, and even label furniture using low-tack masking tape (placed on an inconspicuous spot like the inside of a drawer). This way, you won’t have to answer lots of questions about where things go during the unloading process. It may also be helpful to number the top and front of each box and keep a corresponding list of what each number represents, making it easier to find what you need.

5) Keep Track of Dismantled Furniture

If you take apart any furniture, put the screws, nuts, and bolts in a small bag, and tie or tape the bag directly to the furniture piece. Shrink wrap works particularly well for this and ensure everything stays together.

6) Avoid Using Tape on Furniture

Tape can leave sticky residue or even damage furniture surfaces. Instead, use shrink wrap, which sticks to itself without harming your items. (We stock shrink wrap in our warehouse, so feel free to ask!)

7) Label Duplicate Items

If you have multiple items that are similar and need disassembly, label them as ‘one of one’ and ‘two of two’. Even if they look the same, they might not go back together in the same way, and this will help avoid mismatches—especially when dealing with things like beds or pillows.

8) Disassembling Ottoman Beds

For ottoman beds, don’t struggle with the lifting mechanism. Most ottoman beds can be disassembled easily by removing a 13mm bolt on the gas strut (look for the yellow sticker). This simple step will save you a lot of effort.

9) Protect Delicate Pictures and Clocks

Fragile items like mirrors or clocks with protruding parts need extra care. We recommend shrink wrapping these items to a large piece of cardboard to offer more stability and prevent damage during the move. Don't forget to take batteries out of clocks and similar items before a move. This is especially important if your belongings are going into storage as it minimises the risk of fire.

10) Relax and Leave the Packing to Us

And finally, the best advice we can give? Put the kettle on, sit back, and let us take care of the packing! Moving doesn’t have to be stressful when you’ve got professionals to handle the heavy lifting.

The Ultimate Moving Checklist

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 11:00:49 GMT

How to Plan Your Move Like a Pro

The Ultimate Moving Checklist: How to Plan Your Move Like a Pro

Moving house is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not properly prepared. We’ve helped countless locals move over the years, and trust us—having a plan makes all the difference on the day. To help make your move as smooth as possible, we’ve put together a handy checklist so you can get organised and feel confident when the big day arrives!

8 Weeks Before the Move: Start Planning

Declutter Your Home

Now’s the perfect time to go through your belongings and decide what’s coming with you and what’s not. The less you move, the easier it’ll be. Donate, sell, or recycle items you don’t need anymore.

Book Your Removals Company survey

Once you know your moving date, it’s a good idea to book your removals company survey early—especially if you’re moving during peak times like summer or at the end of the month. Once your survey visit is complete, we can ensure the process of booking your move is seamless , as soon as you have your date. As a family-run removals team, we get booked up quickly, so give us a ring as soon as you have your date set!

Notify Your Landlord (if renting)

If you’re renting, make sure to give your landlord the required notice. Most tenancy agreements in the UK need at least one month’s notice, but double-check your contract.

6 Weeks

Before the Move: Get Organised

Gather Packing Supplies

Start gathering boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and labels. You can often pick up boxes from local shops, or we can provide professional packing materials if you need them—just ask! At HLH we stock all packaging materials required for a move and our warehouses on Clovelly Road Industrial Estate, Bideford have an assortment of materials available for both trade and domestic customers to purchase.

Begin Packing Non-Essentials

Start with items you don’t use every day, like out-of-season clothes, books, and decorations. Be sure to label every box with its contents and the room it’s going to in your new home. This will save you a lot of time later.

Arrange Time Off Work

Make sure to book time off work if your moving day is on a weekday. You’ll want at least the day of the move free, but it might be wise to give yourself a couple of days to unpack and settle in.

4 Weeks Before the Move: Take Care of the Details

Notify Utility Providers

Contact your electricity, gas, water, and internet providers to let them know you’re moving. Most will need at least two weeks’ notice, and you’ll need to take final meter readings on moving day. Don’t forget to set up utilities for your new home too!

Redirect Your Post

To avoid missing important letters, set up a post redirection service with Royal Mail. You can choose to redirect your mail for 3, 6, or 12 months. This is especially useful if you're expecting bills or other essential documents.

Change Your Address

Make sure you update your address with your bank, doctor, DVLA (for your driving licence), and any other services or subscriptions you’re signed up for.

2 Weeks Before the Move: Final Preparations

Confirm Details with Your Removals Company

Double-check all the details with your removals team, including arrival times and any special instructions. If you need help with packing, let us know—our team can step in and take care of it all for you.

Pack an Essentials Box

Put together a box of essentials you’ll need for the first night in your new home. Include things like toiletries, a kettle, tea bags, mugs, snacks, important documents, phone chargers, and a change of clothes. Keep this box with you so you can access it easily.

Arrange Childcare/Pet Care for Moving Day

Moving day can be stressful for kids and pets, so if possible, arrange for someone to look after them. If that’s not an option, make sure they have a safe, quiet space away from all the action.

1 Week Before the Move: The Final Countdown

Finish Packing

By now, most of your home should be packed up. Leave out only the essentials you’ll need in the last few days. Make sure everything is clearly labelled and ready to go.

Disassemble Furniture

If you’re handling the disassembly of any furniture, now’s the time to do it. Label all parts and screws to make reassembling easier in your new home. If you’d rather leave it to the pros, our team can help with this too!

Clean Your Home

Whether you’re selling or renting, leaving your home clean and tidy is a nice gesture for the next residents. If you’re renting, a deep clean can help ensure you get your deposit back.

Moving Day: It’s Go Time!

Meet the Removals Team

Our team will arrive ready to load your boxes and furniture onto the van. Let us know if there are any fragile or high-priority items that need extra care. Although the team will arrive early , we will normally start removing items from upstairs in the property to allow you to finish your breakfast/ get the children ready etc.

Pets

Please make sure your pets are secured, either in their own area or in a room, and inform our team of this so we can leave that room until we have another empty room. We don't want to risk letting any animal out , or causing any unnecessary stress.

Take Final Meter Readings

Before you leave your old home, take photos of your gas, electric, and water meters and send them to your utility providers.

Do a Final Walkthrough

Once everything is packed up, do one last walk around the house to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything. Don’t forget to check the loft, garden, and garage!

Hand Over the Keys

If you’re renting, return the keys to your landlord or estate agent. If you’ve sold, drop them off with your solicitor or the new owners.

Moving might seem daunting, but with a bit of preparation, it doesn’t have to be! If you have any questions or need an extra hand with packing, just give us a call. We’re here to help make your move as stress-free as possible.

What we are doing to keep you moving safely during these unprecedented times

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 20:36:34 GMT

What we are doing to keep you moving safely during these unprecedented times

As you are all aware the government have put the UK in another national lockdown.

The good news is - this time removal companies like ourselves have been given the ok to continue currently ( this is subject to change if the government feel the need to)

As a company we feel safer than we have done, having applied new safety measures into our day to day running, including many things such as:

* Hand sanitizing/ washing.

* Sanitizing our vehicles at the end of each job.

* Ensuring materials are isolated for 72 hours between our jobs.

* Limiting customer/Staff contact.

* We complete individual Covid risk assessments before doing a job.

You can be assured that your move will be as safe as possible with HLH!

We thank you all for your continued support in these difficult times.

Kind regards Colin, Amy and the whole team at HLH Removals

Well, this is how we protect the floor in your new home at HLH Removals.

Fri, 24 Aug 2018 18:30:00 GMT

Well, this is how we protect the floor in your new home at HLH Removals.