Month: May 2024

Need FREE Moving Boxes? Top 10 Places to Find the Best Boxes!
Finding free moving boxes can significantly reduce the cost of your move. Remember that not all boxes are created equal. There are 3 things to consider before going for those free moving boxes.
1. ECT Rating (Edge Crush Test Rating) – This is printed on the seal of most boxes and tells the strength of the box. If you have a stack of boxes bouncing down the road you don’t want your boxes collapsing and so getting a quality or tough box is key. A side note: Boxes will lose their structural integrity the more times they are used.
2. Tightness of Your Load: If you are moving around the corner this isn’t a deal braker, but boxes that have a similar footprint or in other words stack nicely because they are similar in length and depth can help you pack tighter and this could be the difference of thousands of dollars if you are moving across the country.
3. Type of Box: Your time is valuable and so choosing boxes that are not only easy to label with a marker and boxes that have easy flaps to tape shut are important when you have a whole house to pack.
NOW LETS GET STARTED: Here are ten of the best places to get free boxes:

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1. Grocery Stores: Grocery stores receive shipments regularly and often have sturdy boxes from produce, canned goods, and other products. Ask the store manager or staff if they have any boxes to spare.
2. Liquor Stores: Liquor boxes are especially durable and often come with dividers, making them ideal for packing fragile items. Check with your local liquor store for availability. Remember you might get some looks though when you go to move your house and all people see is liquor boxes.
3. Bookstores: Bookstores receive many shipments and have strong boxes that are perfect for packing books and other heavy items. Local independent bookstores and large chains like Barnes & Noble can be good sources of strong boxes.
4. Retail Stores: Big-box retailers like Walmart, Target, and Costco, as well as smaller retail stores, often have plenty of boxes from their deliveries. Ask a store employee if they have any boxes they can give you. Many stores like Walmart stock late at night or early in the morning and you can talk to someone at the store to see when the best time to grab boxes is.
5. Office Supply Stores: Stores like Staples or Office Depot receive large deliveries of paper and office supplies, which means they often have sturdy boxes available.
6. Restaurants and Cafés: Foodservice establishments frequently receive shipments of ingredients and supplies in durable boxes. Check with local restaurants, cafés, and fast food chains for their excess boxes.
7. Friends & Neighbors: Keep an eye out for any neighbors that have moved recently because they may be wanting to get rid of some boxes. Also if you have any neighbors with toddles or dogs whey might have diaper boxes or Chewy boxes which make for great moving boxes.
8. Facebook Marketplace and Community Groups: Online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, local buy/sell groups, and community groups often have people giving away moving boxes for free.
9. Hospitals & Medical Centers: Many of these places get large shipments of heavy items. I can personally attest to the quality of Cardinal Health boxes which you can find at a lot of hospitals.
10. U-Hauls & Local Moving Companies: Many moving companies and U-Haul’s get used boxes from customers and will give them to you. It never hurts to check with these local businesses and companies.
When collecting free boxes, make sure they are clean, sturdy, and in good condition to ensure the safety of your belongings during the move. Feel free to call us if you are ever interested in free moving boxes and we would love to hook you up if we have some.

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May 21, 2024
Moving with Pets >>> Tricks & Tips

Moving can be stressful for pets, but with careful planning and consideration, you can help ease the transition for them. Here are 20 tips to make moving with pets smoother.

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1. Update ID Tags: Make sure your pets’ ID tags have your new address and contact information.

2. Visit the Vet & Groomer: Before you move, schedule a visit to the vet to ensure your pets are healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. Also groom your animal prior to the move just in case it is hard to find one in your new area.

3. Obtain Records: Get copies of your pets’ medical records to provide to your new vet.

4. Pet-Friendly Accommodations: If you’re moving long-distance, plan your accommodations with pet-friendly hotels or temporary housing.

5. Keep a Routine: Maintain your pets’ feeding, walking, and playtime routines as much as possible before, during, and after the move.

6. Secure Transport: Use secure carriers or crates for transporting pets in the car. For long distances, consider getting your pet used to the carrier beforehand.

7. Update Microchip Information: If your pet has a microchip, update the information with your new address and phone number.

8. Pack Familiar Items: Bring your pets’ favorite toys, blankets, and bedding to provide comfort in the new environment. Also adding a new toy or treat could help keep your pet more occupied and less likely to stress.

9. Gradual Introductions: If possible, introduce your pets to their new home gradually, starting with one room and gradually expanding their access.

10. Safe Space: Set up a designated safe space in your new home where your pets can retreat and feel secure on moving day when things are hectic.

11. Pet-Proofing: Ensure your new home is pet-proofed by removing any hazards and securing windows and doors. This might even include knowing what plants in your new home could be harmful to your pet.

12. Supervision: Supervise your pets closely in the new environment to prevent accidents or escapes.

13. Explore Together: Take your pets on leashed walks around the neighborhood to help them become familiar with the area and make new friends.

14. Maintain Rules: Reinforce rules and boundaries with your pets in the new home to establish a sense of normalcy. Be sure to put food, beds, cages in similar rooms so they can adapt quicker.

15. Monitor Stress Levels: Watch for signs of stress in your pets, such as hiding, excessive vocalization, or changes in appetite, and provide comfort as needed. See your vet if problems last longer than a week.

16. Update Pet Records: Update your pets’ information with the local authorities, such as registering them with the city or obtaining any necessary licenses. Also research the area you are moving to ahead of time so see any pet restrictions or regulations.

17. Find a New Vet, Groomer & Pet Boarding: Research and establish a relationship with a new vet in your new area. You can ask for recommendations from local pet groups on social media.

18. Continue Training: Consistency is key. Continue training your pets in the new environment to maintain good behavior. Make sure you have snacks on hand so you can reinforce positive behaviors in your new home.

19. Give them Attention: Moving is very stressful and can take up a lot of your valuable time. Spending quality time with your pets will help them adapt quicker and will keep them from causing damage out of stressful behavior.

20. Patience and Reassurance: Be patient with your pets as they adapt to the changes, and provide plenty of love, attention, and reassurance throughout the process.

By following these tips and tricks, you can help ensure your pets survive and thrive and settle into their new home.

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May 16, 2024
Moving to IDAHO? 15 Things you must know before moving here!
Idaho is an awesome place to live, but where you move in Idaho will drastically impact your life based on lots of varying factors like weather, culture, and recreational options. You should consider and research the following to ensure a smooth transition and to familiarize yourself with the state’s lifestyle, climate, economy, and culture. Here’s a list of things to know before moving to Idaho:
1. Housing Prices: In Idaho you have cities in and around Boise, Idaho Falls, and Coeur D’Alene which are all very fast growing cities with higher housing and land prices. Idaho has several hotspots for the wealthy and these areas like Sun Valley, McCall, and Teton Valley will all have high rates because they are destination locations. The homes here may be overpriced or go extremely quickly. Along with these fast growing cities we also have a lot of rural and remote areas around the state of Idaho that might be a lot more affordable, but with rural properties in Idaho you will often be quite isolated especially in the winter months.
2. Cost of Living: Research the cost of living in different cities or regions of Idaho to understand housing, utilities, groceries, and other expenses. Climate: Idaho has a diverse climate, with colder temperatures in the northern parts and warmer temperatures in the southern regions. Familiarize yourself with the climate of the area you plan to move to. For example the city of Rexburg is a smaller city north of Idaho Falls, but due to a large university there you will see a higher cost of living due to that factor.
3. Job Market: Investigate the job market in your field to ensure there are opportunities available in Idaho that match your skills and qualifications. If you work remote be sure you are looking at areas that might have access to internet and cell service. Boise area tends to be the tech area of the state, and the main employers in Idaho are agriculture and Idaho National Laboratories.
4. Outdoor Recreation: Idaho is renowned for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, skiing, hunting, fishing, and camping. Consider how these activities align with your lifestyle preferences. It is important to understand also that Idaho has long winters. It is the beginning of May as I am writing this and we just got a snow storm yesterday. If you don’t have winter hobbies or are not a homebody then you might want to be selective as to where you move in Idaho, because the east side of the state tends to have longer winters, but perfect summers.
5. Cultural Diversity: Research the cultural diversity of Idaho and consider how it may differ from your current location. Idaho has a mix of urban and rural areas, each with its own cultural characteristics. Farming and agriculture have a huge influence on the culture of Idaho. Idaho also is a very conservative state as a whole and you will see that in the culture that exists, especially in the more rural areas. Outdoor recreation, especially with hunting and fishing are a big part of the Idahoan culture, which makes sense when you see that Idaho borders Yellowstone, has tall mountain peaks, large national and state parks, and is home of some of the best fishing rivers in the country. You will notice also the culture tends to be very family oriented and a large percentage of the state is of the religion, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Check different cities and you will find a lot of different cultures around the state.
6. Education System: If you have children or plan to pursue further education, research the quality of schools and higher education institutions in the area. Although the school funding isn’t like that of other states, it is my experience that they still have really qualified teachers. Idaho is also home to some great Universities and offer graduate and postgraduate degrees at affordable prices.
7. Healthcare Facilities: Look into healthcare facilities and services available in the area to ensure access to medical care when needed. Some areas of Idaho can be pretty rural and remote. During winter months some cities might not have easy access to healthcare. Keep this in mind when looking at cities to live in Idaho.
8. Transportation: Consider transportation options and infrastructure in Idaho, including public transit, highways, and airports, especially if you rely on commuting or travel frequently. Idaho has great highways and the state takes good care of their roads. With the winters you might need to have a 4-wheel or all wheel drive vehicle to get around in harsher conditions. Airport travel is getting more affordable, but Idaho doesn’t have a lot of large airports to choose from. If you fly often you might notice Idaho as a bit more pricey to fly in and out of.
9. Economic Stability: Understand the economic stability and major industries in Idaho, as well as any potential challenges or opportunities in the local economy. As a whole the state has a wide range of industries that help to support the local economy.
10. Community and Lifestyle: Research the local community and lifestyle of the area you’re considering moving to, including amenities, social activities, and community events. Facebook tends to be the biggest social gathering place and communication source in Idaho. There will be some people on apps like Nextdoor, but Facebook groups are really popular here and they are a great way to stay connected.
11. Natural Disasters: Be aware of any prevalent natural disasters in the region, such as wildfires, earthquakes, or floods, and take necessary precautions. As a whole Idaho is a really safe place to live in the way of natural disasters. Our largest dangers are wildfires, high winds, and winter blizzards.
12. Taxes: Understand the state and local tax laws in Idaho, including income tax rates, property taxes, and sales taxes. In Idaho we do have sales tax and property taxes, but we don’t have some of the odd item taxes that some other states have.
13. Licensing and Registration: If you’re bringing a vehicle or plan to work in a regulated profession, research the requirements for licensing and registration in Idaho. Licensing and registration isn’t very strict or complicated when compared to many of the other states.
14. Local Laws and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations, including zoning ordinances, pet and plant regulations, and noise ordinances. These will vary a lot from city to city and from urban to rural areas.
15. Community Support Networks: Look into community support networks, such as religious organizations, volunteer groups, and social clubs, to help you integrate into your new community. Obviously the bigger the community the more support groups you will have access to.
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Hope this list of 15 things to know about Idaho helps you in preparing to move to Idaho. It really is a beautiful state with areas that fit most lifestyles and cultures. Let me know in the comments if I missed anything or if you have a difference of opinion.

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May 14, 2024
15 Ways Idaho Might or Might not be Right for You
Idaho is unique in a lot of ways and it varies significantly based on what part of the state you are moving to. Idaho is broken into 4 main sections: Western Idaho (Boise Area), South-Eastern Idaho ( twin Falls and East), Central Idaho (includes all of Sun Valley and up to Salmon), and Northern Idaho (Coeur D’Alene). Each area is very different and so be sure to do your homework before moving.

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1. Outdoor Lifestyle: Idaho is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, so expect to see residents enjoying activities such as hiking, skiing, fishing, hunting, and camping year-round.
2. Scenic Beauty: Prepare to be surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and canyons. The scenery in Idaho is often breathtaking and offers ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and photography no matter where you live in the state.
3. Four Distinct Seasons: Idaho experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters, mild springs, warm summers, and crisp autumns. Be prepared for snow in the winter months, especially in northern, eastern, and mountainous regions.
4. Friendly Communities: Idahoans are often known for their friendly and welcoming nature. Expect to encounter tight-knit communities where neighbors know each other and are willing to lend a helping hand. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has a large presence in Idaho and they play a big part into the culture of communities.
5. Low Population Density: While Idaho is experiencing growth, especially in urban areas like Boise and Idaho Falls, much of the state still maintains a relatively low population density. Expect to find wide-open spaces and a slower pace of life in many rural areas.
6. Agricultural Heritage: Idaho has a strong agricultural heritage, with potatoes being one of its most famous crops. You can expect to see farmland and ranches throughout the state, contributing to its rural charm and economy.
7. Conservative Politics: Idaho tends to lean conservative politically, especially in rural areas. Expect to encounter a political climate that reflects conservative values on issues such as gun rights, limited government, and individual freedoms.
8. Affordable Housing: While housing prices have been rising in some areas due to population growth, Idaho generally offers more affordable housing compared to many other states, especially in rural and smaller towns.
9. Cultural Events and Festivals: Idaho hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its diverse heritage and interests. Expect to find events ranging from music festivals to agricultural fairs to art exhibitions.
10. Limited Diversity: While Idaho’s population is becoming more diverse, especially in urban areas, it still has a predominantly white population. Expect to encounter less diversity compared to larger metropolitan areas.
11. Relaxed Lifestyle: Idahoans often embrace a more relaxed and laid-back lifestyle. Expect to find a casual atmosphere in many aspects of daily life, from dress codes to social interactions.
12. Wildlife Encounters: Idaho is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, elk, moose, bears, wolves, and various bird species. Be prepared for the possibility of encountering wildlife, especially if you live in rural or mountainous areas.
13. Proximity to Outdoor Attractions: One of the perks of living in Idaho is its proximity to outdoor attractions such as national parks, forests, and wilderness areas. Expect to have easy access to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the country.
14. Water Activities: With numerous rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, Idaho offers plenty of opportunities for water activities such as boating, kayaking, rafting, floating, and fishing. Expect to see locals enjoying these activities during the warmer months.
15. Seasonal Events: Idahoans embrace each season with seasonal events and activities. Expect to find winter festivals, summer concerts, fall harvest celebrations, and springtime markets happening throughout the state.
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Overall, moving to Idaho offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, friendly communities, and a relaxed lifestyle that appeals to many individuals and families seeking a change of pace.

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May 13, 2024