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Moving Gadgets

1 comment 05 August 2009 Under: Moving Tips

If you’re a geek who’s into gadgets, then you’ve probably looked at all the gizmos that could help you on your move. From software to hardware we’ve researched all of those contraptions that will help you on your move.

If you’re one of the 37 million fanatic iPhone users out there, then you’ll love this app that was made especially for moving. The Moving List App has 9 categories (DIY (Do It Yourself), Friends & family, Goodbyes, Job Relocation, Movers, New Address, Packing, Transport, and Other) and over 90 list templates to help you organize your move. There’s even a fun, magic 8-ball type application called “The Packing Decider”, which shake to get an answer whether you should keep that from Niagra Falls Commemorative Plaque Aunt Millie or not (hopefully is says not, then you can blame it on the iPhone). Of course, if you’re fairly handy at performig hacks, you can use your iPhone to track where your moving van is, just like this guy. (Moving List App) Available on iTunes for $2.99

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Too many boxes and not enough hands? Then you’ll need one (or a couple) of these handy Strap-a-Handle. These nifty, adjustable devices go around your boxes and provide you with a non-slip handle, allowing you to lift your boxes with one hand. The great thing is, these are re-usable (unlike tying rope around boxes), and after the move, you can use them to carry around almost anything. Available from the website for $12 – $17

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Protect your hardwood floors (and your back) by sticking some furniture sliders like the Moving Men Furniture Set. Just place these under your heavy furniture or appliances and you’ll have the strength of ten moving men! Well, actually, they just help you slide them along smooth surfaces, but you’ll certainly feel like Superman once you’ve moved your furniture around with very little effort. Available from Amazon for $7.99

Can’t quite decide where everything should go, or not sure what fits where? Lay It Out makes life size floor plan templates which you can position around the room. These come in different packs – from individual furniture templates, per-room packages and even one for your entire house. You’ll save yourself the trouble of hauling your furniture around the room or bringing them in and realizing they don’t fit. Available from the website for $19.99 – $99.99

Gifts for a New Home

6 comments 05 August 2009 Under: Moving Tips

Moving to a new neighborhood can be intimidating and scary for anyone, especially if you don’t know anybody. If you find new neighbors driving up to your street, if would be nice to  welcome them to the neighborhood. It’s easy enough to knock on your door and introduce yourself. While you’re certainly not obliged to give them anything more than a handshake, it would be nice if you brought along a small token to help them get settlled into their new home.

So what are good housewarming gifts for new neighbors? Here are some ideas:

  • Neighborhood gift basket – if they’re new to the city or the state, it may be a good idea to put together a neighborhood kit – maps, some products from local stores and discount coupons from restaurants.
  • Cleaning/Tool Kit – people moving to a new home always need a few cleaning supplies and tools. A cleaning kit with sponges, rags and cleaning solutions would definitely be appreciated.
  • Plants – nothing spruces up a room better than a live plant. They last much longer than fresh flowers and they are easy to take care of.
  • Food – when your neighbors busy unpacking and getting your house in order, they may not have time to put a meal together. A gift of food can be most welcome in hectic times, and put you on their good side. Since they’ll have their utensils packed up, you can include some paper plates and plastic knives and forks. Be careful though – they may have different eating preferences and allergies. Alternately, you can give pastries, cookies, homemade jam or fresh-baked bread.
  • Household items – if you have neighbors who are newlyweds, it may be a good idea to gift them with something they might not immediately buy for themselves. A nice vase or serving bowl, or even kitchen utensils like baking pans would be good gifts.
  • Wine or champagne – a staple of housewarming gifts, almost everyone appreciates a bottle of wine.
  • Decorative scented candles – lighting a scented candle  brings warmth to any home.

Of course, there may be some things you shouldn’t give your neighbors:

  • Pets – they might not appreciate having to take care of while they’re busy getting their house in order
  • “Re-gifts” – especially if you still have the original tags!
  • Wilted plants or worn out items – you wouldn’t want someone’s hand-me-downs, either, would you?
  • Novelty items – anything kitschy will just take up space and will either end up in the trash or in the closet.
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