Welcome HOME - Mayflower (Fall/Winter 2024)

FALL/WINTER 2024

A digital magazine about moving and settling in

How to Avoid Moving Scams Learn about red flags from pros who know

The Ultimate Moving Checklist Minimize stress and stay on track with a step-by-step guide

A Love Letter to Your Former Home Help your heart let go as you begin a new chapter

Mastering Your Winter Move Breeze through a cold-weather relocation with helpful tips

From Our Mayflower Family to Yours Moving is a significant undertaking, and we understand it can feel overwhelming at times. But fear not — Welcome HOME is here to ensure your journey is not just smooth, but also empowering.

This magazine isn’t just about packing boxes and decluttering. It’s about providing you with the tools and knowledge to navigate this transition with confidence. We’ve got your back Every Step of the Way®.

First and foremost, your safety and security are paramount. In today’s world, unfortunately, moving scams do happen. That’s why we’ve created MoveRescue®, a program designed to educate you on red flags and offer support if you encounter any questionable practices. Inside, you’ll also find advice on how to avoid rogue movers. Whether or not you move with us, we want you to feel confident and informed throughout your journey.

Since moving is a complex endeavor, we’ve developed the innovative MyMayflower Move Portal to help guide you. Think of it as your one-stop shop for everything moving-related. Here, you’ll find dynamic checklists, shipment tracking and a centralized hub for all your essential information.

It’s designed to simplify your life and reduce stress.

Remember, you’re not navigating it alone. Welcome HOME is packed with informative articles and bite-sized guides that break down moving tasks into manageable steps. Plus, your move coordinator will walk you through everything, from packing tips to unpacking strategies for a smooth transition into your new home.

The bottom line? We’re more than just movers; we’re here to help. We believe in making moving a positive experience. So, relax, breathe easy and let us handle the heavy lifting (both literally and figuratively)!

JENNIFER OLVERA Editor-in-Chief and Senior Content Strategist

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Welcome HOME Fall/Winter 2024

Contents

FALL/WINTER 2024

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PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR THE WINTER SEASON Breeze through a cold-weather relocation with helpful tips.

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PACKING SUPPLIES CHECKLIST Ensure you have everything you need for a successful move.

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GET TO KNOW YOUR NEW NEIGHBORHOOD

3

MAKE YOUR FIRST HOLIDAY SEASON SPARKLE

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ESSENTIAL STOPS IN YOUR NEW CITY

Make the first celebration in your

Find hometown grocers,

new home feel truly special.

doctors and more with these helpful tricks.

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SIX WAYS TO MANAGE YOUR MOVING EXPENSES

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See how to make your move

NAVIGATING YOUR NEW HOMETOWN

budget work for you.

Hit the ground running with tips

Feel like a local with our immersive regional, city and state guides.

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DISCOVER THE MYMAYFLOWER MOVE PORTAL Stay organized with a one-stop hub that keeps your move on track.

on getting around town.

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A LOVE LETTER TO YOUR FORMER HOME

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Honor the place you once called

MANAGING YOUR WINTER MOVE

home and say welcome to your

Know what to do — and not do —

new address.

during a cold weather move.

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HOW TO AVOID MOVING SCAMS Know how to spot rogue movers with advice from the pros.

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FIVE WAYS TO SHOW YOUR CREW APPRECIATION Explore ways to say “thanks” for

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REPUTABLE CHARITIES WITH FREE PICK UP Donate unwanted goods with ease thanks to these pick-up tips.

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THE ONLY MOVING CHECKLIST YOU’LL NEED Don’t miss a beat with our stepby-step guide to making a move.

a job well done.

Fall/Winter 2024

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Make Your First Holiday Season Sparkle in Your New Home Moving can be a whirlwind, but the holidays in your new place — be it Thanksgiving, Hanukkah or New Years — can be magical. Here’s how to make this first celebration in your new home truly special.

PLAY TOURIST IN YOUR TOWN Hop in the car, grab some hot cocoa in a

NEW TRADITIONS, NEW BEGINNINGS

thermos and embark

Holidays are steeped

tour through your

in tradition, but don’t

neighborhood. Turn it

be afraid to add a fresh

into a fun game, rating

twist. Whether it’s a

houses on their festive

volunteering activity

cheer. It’s a fun way

with your family, a

to explore your new

themed movie marathon

surroundings while

with friends or a DIY

getting into the spirit.

on a holiday lights

ornament-making

MIX OLD AND NEW DECOR

session, create a new

Unpack your decorations — a touch of familiarity goes

tradition unique to your

a long way. But don’t stop there! Explore local shops

new chapter.

or craft fairs for new decorations that reflect your new surroundings. Imagine these treasures adorning your home for years to come, building a beautiful blend of memories.

casual potluck or cookie exchange — it’s a low-key way to

SEND PERSONALIZED CARDS

introduce yourselves and create lasting connections. You

Holidays are a time

might be surprised by the warm welcome you receive!

to connect with loved

GREET YOUR NEIGHBORS Holidays are a perfect time to break the ice. Host a

GIVE BACK TO OTHERS Volunteering is a rewarding way to

EXPLORE LOCAL EVENTS

custom cards featuring

connect with your

Embrace your new community spirit! Check out your town’s

your new home. A

community and spread

website or local event calendars for festive gatherings,

picture of your family

holiday cheer. Look for

holiday concerts or even caroling nights. You might

gathered around the

opportunities at local

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ones. This year, send out

discover hidden gems and create new traditions all at once.

fireplace, or a cheerful

shelters, food banks or

shot of your decorated

toy drives. This act of

porch, adds a personal Tips for

kindness will warm your

Get more

heart and bring joy to

Celebrating the Holiday

excitement about your

those in need.

in Your New Home.

new beginnings.

Welcome HOME Fall/Winter 2024

touch and shares your

Six Ways to Manage Your Moving Expenses BALLPARK YOUR BUDGET

Move Yourself or Leave it to the Pros DIY MOVE PROS

CONS

May save money

Dollies, furniture blankets and other

First things first: Determine how much you plan to spend on your move. Calculate costs for things like boxes, tape

Flexible timeline

are additional costs

and food as well as expenses for movers or a moving truck. To establish a ballpark budget, get a no-obligation

Friends and family can pitch in

move estimate from Mayflower.

packing materials

Coordinating a move is time-consuming

MAKE A SCHEDULE AND STICK TO IT

Involves strenuous

Planning your move early is key to keeping costs down. If

physical labor and

you decide to use a professional mover, call them at least six weeks ahead. Check out our

the risk of injury

Eight-week Move

Planner to map out your move, step by step.

No one to help unload/unpack

PURGE AND DECLUTTER Make three piles: “keep,” “donate” and “trash.” Go room

No way to recoup

by room and purge unnecessary items. Throw out or

costs if items break

donate anything you do not need or have not used in the past year. Also donate items like food or clothing to a thrift store or

food pantry.

SELL STUFF, EARN SOME CASH A little extra pocket money goes a long way toward trimming down your move expenses. Check out our

HIRING PROFESSIONALS PROS

CONS

Relieves the stress

May cost more

tips for hosting a garage sale.

REUSE MOVING SUPPLIES Instead of purchasing new moving boxes, see if you can get them from friends and neighbors. Also, consider using luggage. Check out our

packing tips and tricks for

advice on packing specific items in your home.

PACK COMPACTLY Consolidate small items into larger boxes and give breakables like dishes, glassware and knickknacks their own boxes. Reduce your need for packing paper by using towels, linens or clothing to fill gaps between items when you load your boxes.

Want more tips to save on your moving expenses?

Check out

10 quick ways to cut moving costs.

of planning a move Needs to align with Saves time; focus on

the move crew’s

your new home

schedule

Added services help

Without an

make your move

estimate, move

easier

costs can spiral

Movers can handle

Packing and

packing, loading and

unpacking typically

unloading

cost extra

Full-value protection covers your belongings

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A Love Letter to Your Former Home Moving is a bittersweet symphony. Excitement for a fresh start dances with the melancholic notes of leaving a place that holds cherished memories.

We understand this emotional rollercoaster all too well.

This time, however, it’s not about helping you pack boxes; it’s about acknowledging the pang of goodbyes. This is a love letter to your former home, a space that witnessed laughter, tears, triumphs and quiet moments of selfdiscovery. It’s also a gentle nudge toward letting go and embracing the exciting unknown that awaits.

ODE TO THE WALLS

from storms, both literal and metaphorical, and provided a

Think back. What memories paint the walls of your soon-

haven for relaxation and rejuvenation.

to-be-former home? Was it the first wobbly steps your child took on the hardwood floors? The endless cups of coffee

THE INEVITABILITY OF CHANGE

fueled by late-night study sessions in the corner nook?

Life is a flowing river. As seasons change, so do we. We

The joyous chaos of holiday gatherings that spilled out

evolve, our needs shift and, sometimes, our homes can

onto the porch? Each creak of the floorboard, each worn

no longer fully accommodate that growth. Maybe your

spot on the carpet, whispers a story. Those memories are a

family has grown, or perhaps your career path demands

testament to the life you built within those walls.

relocation. Whatever the reason, change — while daunting — is also an opportunity.

ACKNOWLEDGE THE GRATITUDE Take a moment to truly appreciate the role your home

LETTING GO WITH GRACE

played. It was a sanctuary, a witness to your growth and

Letting go isn’t about forgetting. It’s about cherishing

a stage for your life’s unfolding drama. It sheltered you

memories while embracing new possibilities.

ASK THE EXPERT

My child’s upset with me about moving in the middle of the school year. How do I help them through this stressful time?

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP YOU NAVIGATE THIS EMOTIONAL TRANSITION: CREATE A MEMORY CAPSULE Capture the essence of your home by collecting small objects, photos or even handwritten notes that evoke cherished memories. Tuck them away in a box to revisit whenever you feel nostalgic.

HOST A FAREWELL GATHERING Gayla D., Subject Matter Expert for

Invite loved ones over for one last hurrah. Share stories, laughter

Mayflower, replies:

and a final goodbye to the space that served as a backdrop for many gatherings.

Most children and teens will tell you a move is something they

EMBRACE NEW RITUALS

have little control over, and they’re

Create new traditions in your upcoming home. Plant a tree in the

bound to have mixed feelings.

backyard, hold movie nights on the porch swing or establish a special

To keep things on an even keel, plan a farewell party to provide

family breakfast routine. These new rituals will gradually weave themselves into the tapestry of your life.

some fun — and closure — with their friends. Take a mini tour of

As you prepare to turn the key for the last time, whisper a silent “thank

their favorite hangouts. When

you” to your former home. It served you well and now it’s time to embark

everything’s packed, walk through

on the next exciting chapter. Mayflower is here to help you write that

your home together and bid

story, one carefully packed box at a time.

farewell to each room.

On move day, build in extra

We understand the emotional weight of moving. And we’re not just about transporting boxes — we want to help you navigate life’s

time for any unforeseen hiccups

transitions with care and respect. Our crews will handle your belongings

and maintain a steady “move

with the utmost thought, ensuring a smooth and stress-free relocation.

momentum.” If two adults are

Working with a professional moving company like Mayflower can customized, full-

present on move day, have one

take the hassle out of cross-country moves. Our

stay with the children while the

service moving packages can cover all your moving needs. Mayflower’s

other coordinates with the movers.

experienced agents can manage storage, packing, unpacking, car

Before their first day of classes,

shipping, debris removal and more.

walk together around the campus,

When you’re ready to make a move, our blog offers a wealth of ideas to

find their classrooms and see if

streamline your move and help you settle in.

you can meet briefly with their new teachers. Share a comforting moment or two at the breakfast table and be sure books and supplies are ready to go.

Above all, be available to listen. Best wishes for a smooth transition!

Do you have a question about a move-related topic? Reach out to us at WelcomeHome@mayflower.com, and we’ll

Check Out Welcome Home’s Spring Edition The Spring 2024 edition of Welcome Home is packed with even more useful tips and information you’ll find helpful before, during and after your move.

forward it to one of our subject matter experts.

Who knows…you may see the answer in an

Read More

upcoming issue!

Fall/Winter 2024

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Guiding Your Journey

Mayflower is more than just a moving company; we’re your partners in the moving journey. From the initial planning stages to the excitement of settling into your new home, we’re here to guide you Every Step of the Way®. Our commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond the move itself, offering resources and support to help you navigate your new city and create lasting memories in your new space.

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Welcome HOME Spring 2024

How to Avoid Moving Scams Moving is an endeavor — and that’s without the added worry of being scammed.

Unfortunately, fly-by-night moving companies prey on unsuspecting homeowners and businesses every day. But don’t let fear hold you back from planning your move. With a little knowledge and preparation, you can protect yourself from these unscrupulous operators.

SCAMS TO WATCH OUT FOR HIDDEN FEES Beware of movers who spring surprise charges on you at the last minute. Reputable companies will clearly outline all costs upfront.

ADVANCE DEPOSITS Legitimate movers won’t ask for a deposit to hold your move date. Be wary of any company that requests payment before the job is done.

SUSPICIOUSLY LOW QUOTES If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Lowball bids often come with hidden costs that can quickly add up.

ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL PRICING Avoid movers with flat-rate pricing.

A reputable mover will tailor a quote to your specific needs, considering factors like the size of your home, the distance you’re moving and the

RUSHED ESTIMATES Don’t let a mover rush you through the estimating process. A thorough virtual or in-person inspection of your home is essential for an

VOLUME-BASED QUOTES Interstate moves based solely on cubic footage are illegal. Be cautious of any mover who tries to quote you this way.

accurate quote.

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM MOVING SCAMS GET RECOMMENDATIONS Ask friends, family and colleagues for referrals to trusted movers.

DO YOUR RESEARCH Check online reviews and ratings to learn about a moving company’s reputation.

VERIFY LICENSING Make sure the moving company is licensed and insured.

READ THE FINE PRINT Carefully review the contract before signing anything.

DOCUMENT EVERYTHING Take photos and videos of your belongings before the move and document any damage after delivery.

Choosing a reputable moving company is crucial to a stress-free move. While we hope you’ll choose Mayflower for your relocation, we understand you may explore other options. Our goal is to provide you with the information and resources you need to make an informed decision.

With nearly a century of experience, Mayflower is committed to providing our customers with a smooth and hassle-free moving experience. Get started with a free online moving quote today.

weight of your belongings.

Fall/Winter 2024

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Finding Your New Normal

Essential Spots in Your New City

Moving to a new city is exciting, but it also means finding new go-tos for everything from groceries to healthcare. Don’t worry, you’ll find your new favorites in no time.

GROCERY STORE Hit up a few different stores to see what you like.

Farmers markets are also a great way to discover local produce, vendors and products.

DOCTOR AND DENTIST Finding new healthcare providers can feel overwhelming. Ask friends, coworkers or your new neighbors for recommendations.

GYM OR FITNESS STUDIO Whether you’re into yoga, weightlifting or dancing, there’s a gym for everyone. Many offer free trials, so take advantage of those.

OTHER HELPFUL TIPS EXPLORE YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Walk around, check out local shops and talk to neighbors — odds are, they have great recommendations.

USE ONLINE REVIEWS Websites like Yelp and Google can lend intel on everything from restaurants to hair salons so you can make informed decisions about where to go based on customers’ past experiences.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO TRY NEW THINGS Part of the fun of moving is discovering new places and new experiences.

Remember, building a new routine takes time. Be patient with yourself and embrace the joy of exploring your new city. And be sure to check out our

city and

state guides, which are designed to help you hit the ground running at your new address.

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Welcome HOME Fall/Winter 2024

Navigating Your New Hometown Moving to a new city can feel like exploring a whole new world! Whether you’re trading in your car for public transport or vice versa, there’s a learning curve and that’s okay.

CAR LIFE MAP IT OUT Grab a physical or digital map and familiarize yourself with major roads, highways and landmarks.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT Dedicate time to exploring your new surroundings. Even short drives can help you learn your way around.

EMBRACE TECH GPS apps can be a lifesaver given they provide real-time traffic updates and alternative routes.

PUBLIC TRANSIT MASTER THE SYSTEM Get familiar with bus or train routes, schedules and fare systems. Most cities have helpful apps or websites to help get you up to snuff.

START SMALL Begin with familiar routes and gradually explore new ones as you gain confidence and familiarity.

ASK LOCALS Don’t be afraid to ask locals for tips and advice. They often know the best ways to navigate the system.

Remember, getting lost is part of the adventure, so enjoy exploring your new city — one street at a time.

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This creates a safe path for movers carrying your precious belongings and minimizes the risk of slips and falls.

PROTECT YOUR FLOORS FROM WINTER’S MESS Winter weather brings the challenges of snow, ice, slush and water to the moving process. No matter how well you clear the exterior pathway leading to the door, the floors in the residence can still be subject to the winter elements. Our movers will help protect your floors by covering entrances and high-traffic pathways.

Carpet shield, floor runners and cardboard are commonly used to protect floors during a move.

GIVE YOUR FURRY FRIENDS A WARM WELCOME Moving day can be stressful for everyone, including your pets.

Don’t Sweat the Snow!

with heated runs. This keeps them

Mastering Your Winter Move

comfortable and out of the way during

Dreaming of a new home, but worried about winter throwing a wrench in your moving plans? We’ve weathered blizzards and bone-chilling temps to help you navigate a smooth and stressfree relocation.

any potential damage.

WEATHER THE STORM WITH KNOWLEDGE Preparation is key. Monitor the forecast closely in the days leading up to your move. This allows you to adjust your plans and understand your mover’s cancellation policy if a blizzard rolls in.

DOUBLE THE PROTECTION FOR FRAGILE TREASURES Cold weather can make delicate items more susceptible to breakage. Give your valuables extra love by double-wrapping them. Consider keeping irreplaceable items with you in the car to ensure they stay in a controlled environment.

CLEAR THE WAY FOR A SEAMLESS MOVE Safety first! Ensure walkways, driveways and stairs are free of snow and ice.

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Consider boarding them at a kennel

Welcome HOME Fall/Winter 2024

the hustle and bustle.

KEEP YOUR LAPTOP WITH YOU Pack and keep your laptop with you during the move. That way, you can keep its temperature stable and avoid

DRESS FOR THE CONDITIONS Moving often involves open doors and chilly drafts. Dress in layers and wear gloves to stay comfortable throughout the day.

With these tips and Mayflower’s expert movers by your side, your winter relocation will be a success story, not a snowy nightmare. Looking for more insight? Read Moving During Winter.

7 Tips for

Give them a good review. Besides positive word of mouth, a thumbsup review online helps burnish the mover’s reputation in the wider community. It’s important to mention specific things you appreciated about your move experience that others will find useful and informative.

Hand each crew member a goodie bag containing hand sanitizer, moist wipes and even a gift card to a local truck stop or coffee shop. It’s sure to make them smile and help the day go more smoothly.

A JOB WELL DONE

How to Show Appreciation to Your Van Operator and Crew

A "thank you" and handshake go a long way in acknowledging their efforts. They value your business, so show them you value their skills and abilities. It’s good karma all around!

Have food and drink available. Moving is thirsty work, so be sure you have water or sports drinks on hand. If your move happens around mealtime — or even if it doesn’t — consider providing a pizza

Tip, if you’re so inclined. While

or snacks, like energy bars

Mayflower has no official guidelines

or sandwiches.

or policies around tipping, giving a little extra for a job well done is warmly welcomed.

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Prepare Your Home for the Winter Season The days grow shorter, the air turns crisp and a cozy feeling beckons us inside. But before you settle in with a mug of hot cocoa, make sure your home is ready for the winter chill! We want to help ensure a smooth transition into the colder months, keeping your home comfortable and avoiding any unwelcome surprises.

SEAL THE DEAL Drafty windows and doors can significantly impact your heating costs and comfort level. Inspect for

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Welcome HOME Fall/Winter 2024

cracks and gaps and seal them with

temperature automatically, saving

caulk or weatherstripping. Consider

energy when you’re away or sleeping.

storm windows or heavy-duty plastic

This keeps your home comfortable

sheeting for added protection.

while preventing unnecessary heating costs and potential pipe bursts.

GIVE YOUR PIPES A HUG Frozen pipes can burst, causing major

TAME THE TREES

headaches (and wallet aches). Insulate

Heavy snow and ice can make weak

exposed pipes in unheated areas like

branches a hazard. Prune trees and

the basement or garage. You might

shrubs around your home before

also consider using heat tape or letting

winter, focusing on those close to

a trickle of water run from faucets

power lines, walkways or your roof.

during particularly cold spells.

Ready to explore the full checklist?

TURN UP THE HEAT (SMARTLY)

Check out

A programmable thermostat can be a

Your Home for Winter.

lifesaver. It allows you to adjust the

12 Tips for Preparing

Tame the Moving Mayhem with Our Packing Supplies Checklist Moving day looms, and your living room resembles a scene straight out of a cardboard box avalanche. Mountains of packing peanuts threaten to engulf the furniture, and the onceorganized clutter now seems like an insurmountable foe. Fortunately, Mayflower equips you with the essentials to navigate the cardboard jungle and emerge victorious on the other side.

BUILDING YOUR BOXES The first line of defense in any move is wellassembled boxes. Variety is key: Large boxes for lightweight companions like pillows and blankets, while smaller, sturdier ones work best for heavier books or treasured trinkets. Don’t forget to enlist some specialty boxes — wardrobe boxes will keep

ESSENTIAL EXTRAS

your clothes wrinkle-free during their journey,

No expedition is complete

while dish pack kits will cradle your fragile dishes.

without the right provisions. Crumpled packing paper or packing

SECURING YOUR STRONGHOLDS

peanuts fill empty spaces

Once your boxes are assembled, it’s time to ensure

in your boxes, preventing

their integrity. Invest in high-quality packing tape to

your belongings from

keep your boxes sealed tight. Don’t forget a pair of

shifting during transport.

trusty scissors and a box cutter.

A dolly helps with moving heavy boxes and furniture,

MAINTAINING ORDER The key to a smooth move lies in organization. Use a permanent marker to clearly label the sides of your boxes with the room name and a brief description of the contents. This will save you time and frustration when you reach your new home and begin the unpacking process. Plastic bags keep small stuff and disparate pieces organized. Use them to keep track of disassembled furniture hardware — label each bag with the corresponding piece of furniture, ensuring a smooth reassembly process.

taking the strain off your back and making the move a breeze. Of course, our crew will handle this part during a full-service move.

Finally, don’t forget to stock up on paper towels, all-purpose cleaner and other essentials for a smooth move-out clean.

PROTECTING YOUR TREASURES The heart of your move lies in safeguarding your valuables. Packing paper or bubble wrap offers a protective cocoon, shielding your delicate treasures from the bumps and jostles during the journey.

Furniture pads or moving blankets guard your furniture against nicks and scratches. Finally, we deploy floor protectors like floor runners or cardboard sheets on high-traffic areas. These act as a force field, protecting your floors throughout moving day. When you book a full-service move with Mayflower, you can opt to let us pack. We provide all the packing material and peace of mind knowing the job is done right.

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Virtual Versus In-Person Surveys.

What’s Best for You? With Mayflower, our flexible approach to moving

Get to Know Your New Neighborhood

starts at one of the very first points of contact. You can

Moving to a new city or state is an exciting

either have an estimator come to your place in person,

adventure, but in the midst of packing boxes and

or you can use Mayflower’s Virtual Survey option to

planning, questions often arise. What’s the vibe of the

get an estimate using a smartphone or tablet.

neighborhood? Where are the hidden gems? How do

Both in-person and Virtual Surveys are equally

locals spend their weekends?

accurate; the choice is really based on your personal

Mayflower goes beyond just getting you there. We

preferences. To help you decide, here’s an overview

want to help you feel like a local from day one. That’s

of how both options work.

why we’ve curated a wealth of resources on our blog, designed to give you the inside scoop on your new

IN-PERSON SURVEY

destination. Be sure to explore our robust city and state

As the name implies, an in-person survey means our

content so you can hit the ground running.

estimator does an in-person walkthrough of your belongings at your home. Simply schedule a mutually

CITY GUIDES

convenient time in advance, and they’ll handle the

Packed with essential information, from must-see

rest. Keep in mind your mover may only be available

attractions to hidden cafes

during regular business hours, so plan accordingly.

STATE GUIDES VIRTUAL SURVEY

Unveiling the diverse landscapes, cultures and best-kept

With a Virtual Survey you do the legwork, walking

secrets of each state

through your space with your tablet or smartphone in hand. But don’t worry — your estimator will guide

REGIONAL GUIDES

you through the process. This type of survey is more

Unpacking the unique charm of different areas, helping

flexible from a scheduling perspective, and you don’t

you find your perfect fit

have to wait at home for an in-home estimator to arrive. Another plus is that the estimator can go back

INSIDER GUIDES

and review the video multiple times to make sure the

Get tips straight from the locals, from navigating public

quote is as accurate as possible. And in most cases,

transportation to uncovering the tastiest local eats

you also get your move quote more quickly.

“WHAT IT’S REALLY LIKE” SERIES Whatever you decide, it’s important to remember both in-person and Virtual Surveys need to be

Immerse yourself in real stories about life in specific cities and states, told from a local perspective

scheduled in advance. Want to know more?

Check here for details.

Ready to unlock your new home? Visit

our blog and

dive into the vibrant communities waiting to welcome you.

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Welcome HOME Fall/Winter 2024

connections or booking childcare for moving day, the timeline keeps you on track and reduces the risk of lastminute surprises.

But the MyMayflower Move Portal goes beyond mere scheduling. It also provides comprehensive checklists, a lifesaver for those who thrive on organization. No more scrambling through scattered notes or forgetting crucial tasks. Our checklists ensure you have everything covered, from packing essentials to transferring prescriptions and updating your home address.

The MyMayflower Move Portal isn’t just about logistics, though. From packing tips and unpacking hacks to guides on navigating the emotional rollercoaster of relocation, the portal provides a wealth of information to keep you informed and empowered throughout the process.

Make It Your Easiest Move Yet with the MyMayflower Move Portal

Whether you’re a seasoned mover or embarking on your first relocation adventure, the MyMayflower Move Portal is your one-stop shop for a smoother, more organized move. With its intuitive features, helpful resources and centralized organization, the portal takes the guesswork out of moving, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your new chapter.

Learn more about the

In the midst of moving, it’s easy to feel like you’re being swept away by a tidal wave of to-do lists, packing boxes and frantic phone calls. But what if there was a way to streamline the process, a digital lifeline to keep you afloat amidst the chaos?

Discover the MyMayflower Move Portal, an online hub designed to simplify and organize every step of your move.

Imagine a central command center for your relocation, accessible from any device. That’s the essence of the MyMayflower Move Portal. It’s more than just an online checklist app; it’s a comprehensive toolkit guiding you through the entire moving journey.

One of the portal’s most valuable features is the customizable moving timeline. This interactive roadmap lays out the essential tasks you need

MyMayflower Move Portal.

Online booking Moving milestones Helpful moving tips Interactive move checklist Contacts for easy access

to complete before, during and after your move, ensuring nothing gets overlooked in the pre-move scramble. Whether it’s scheduling utility

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Reputable Charities with Free Pick Up Donating the things you no longer use is a great way to downsize your move while helping the local community. That said, with everything else going on in the move process, you might be a bit too time-challenged to transport the items yourself.

To make things easier, here’s a list of national charities providing free pickup services.

Bank Network’s website to see whether a participating

THE ARC

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY RESTORE

The Arc has been supporting individuals with intellectual

Get free pickup services in many areas for large items

and developmental disabilities since 1950.

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES Goodwill offers free pickups for clothing, books, toys and small furniture. You can

schedule a pickup on the

Goodwill website or call your nearest donation center.

like furniture, cabinets, doors and lighting.

Visit the

organization’s website.

organization’s website to schedule a pickup.

FURNITURE BANK NETWORK

PICKUPMYDONATION.COM

The Furniture Bank Network helps those who lack the

Your request will go out to your nearest nonprofit thrift

resources to furnish their homes.

17

Visit the

organization in your area offers free pickups.

Welcome HOME Fall/Winter 2024

Check the Furniture

store. If the need is there and you meet the minimum

Take or Toss?

size requirements, you can schedule a pickup.

Visit

the organization’s website to make a donation request and

Whether it’s a duplicate toaster or a hand-medown quilt, we’re keeping it easy on what to ditch and what to keep.

be prepared to include a list of items you intend to donate.

PICKUP PLEASE Go on the

Pickup Please

DO YOU LOVE THIS ITEM?

website and enter your ZIP Code to see if they operate

NO

YES

in your area. You can usually schedule a pickup within 24 hours. If you won’t be home at your scheduled pickup time, leave the items in bags

HAVE YOU USED THIS ITEM RECENTLY?

IS IT STILL USEFUL?

YES

or boxes outside your home

IS IT SENTIMENTAL (LIKE A FAMILY HEIRLOOM) OR AN ITEM OF HIGH VALUE?

labeled “Donation Pickup.”

NO

NO

THE SALVATION ARMY

YES YES

The Salvation Army offers free pickup services for large furniture like couches, dressers and tables which it either

WILL YOU USE IT SOON?

KEEP IT!

DO YOU NEED IT THEN?

NO DOES IT TAKE UP A LOT OF SPACE?

distributes to those in need or YES

sells in its family stores.

Use the Salvation Army website to schedule a pickup.

NO

YES

NO KEEP IT!

YES NO

IS IT DAMAGED?

IS IT SEASONAL?

NO YES

NO

YES

KEEP IT!

Many Mayflower agents participate in Move For Hunger, an organization that sorts and sends unopened, non-

IS IT WORTH FIXING?

DO YOU NEED IT THEN?

YES

OFFER TO FAMILY, THEN DONATE OR SELL IT!

NO

perishable food items to local food banks. Ask

DONATE OR SELL IT!

YES

NO

KEEP IT!

DONATE OR SELL IT!

your move coordinator if

TRASH IT!

the agent handling your move participates.

Read More

STORE IT!

Fall/Winter 2024

Welcome HOME

18

Eight-Week Countdown The Only Moving Checklist You Need

When you choose Mayflower, America’s most trusted mover, you have peace of mind knowing our work is backed by nearly 100 years of residential moving experience and seamless white-glove service. Having moved more than one million satisfied customers in the last 10 years alone, we offer services from the largest nationwide network.

To simplify and streamline your move, our moving checklist keeps you on track so you’re ready for the big day. Check out some of the highlights and download the full, printable checklist.

8 WEEKS OUT

Familiarize yourself with our

Schedule an Estimate

Responsibilities” brochure

Arrange for a Mayflower agent to visit or conduct a virtual survey your home for a personalized estimate Review important moving policies

“Rights and

Confirm your move-out date and plan with your move coordinator Keep your coordinator’s contact info handy for questions

Discuss added moving services with your salesperson Ensure all items to be moved are accounted for, including those in storage

6 WEEKS OUT

Change Your Address Notify the post office and update your address with

7 WEEKS OUT

Read the Fine Print Sign the estimate/order for service after reading and ensuring you understand each section

19

Welcome HOME Fall/Winter 2024

providers Update your address with banks, insurance, subscriptions and professional service providers

5 WEEKS OUT

1 WEEK OUT

Give Away, Sell or Toss Unwanted Items

Last-Minute Details in Preparation for Moving Day

Sort belongings for move and organize sales/donations

Ensure mechanical and electrical equipment is serviced for shipping

Donate unwanted items and keep receipts for tax deductions

Be present for appliance preparation and double-check you’ve packed everything

Manage perishable items and reduce excess household supplies MOVING DAY

Learn about our partnership with

Move For Hunger

4 WEEKS OUT

Check in with Your Move Coordinator

Make the Big Day Go Smoothly Oversee the loading process and sign inventory and bill of lading Complete necessary paperwork and provide your

Notify your move coordinator of any changes to

destination address

inventory or dates Ensure your destination address and contact numbers

DELIVERY DAY

are correct

Accepting Your Belongings

Arrange for any added stops or auto transport needs

Make sure access to your new home is clear, both inside and outside

3 WEEKS OUT

Inform Friends and Family, Confirm Travel Plans and Start Packing Let loved ones know you plan to move Confirm travel arrangements and accommodations Start packing non-essential items in preparation for your move

2 WEEKS OUT

Oversee the unloading process and sign necessary paperwork

SETTLING IN

One Week After You Move Review delivered items and report any issues Arrange other services you need at your new home Retrieve held mail and update legal documents

Plan Pet Transportation and Finish Errands Arrange travel plans for pets and ensure they have needed health certificates Complete errands, return borrowed items and doublecheck your preparations are on track

Fall/Winter 2024

Welcome HOME

20

You’re one step closer To your best move ever.

At Mayflower, we’ve been helping customers on their journey to Finding Home for nearly a century. A lot has changed along the way, but one thing still holds true. We want every customer’s move experience to be as worry-free as possible, from the moment they engage with us till the van leaves the driveway — and at every touchpoint in between.

We’ve proudly earned this privilege one move at a time — by doing all we can for valued customers just like you, Every Step of the Way®. © 2024 Mayflower Transit | U.S. DOT No. 125563