by Eliza Freiday

Last week, I spoke with a customer of mine who was trying to talk herself into having a garage sales before her upcoming summer move. I advised her that this is the best way to solve clutter problems and bring in some extra cash before moving. I gave her a few tips, such as advertising in the newpapers, calling friends and putting yard signs up around her neighborhood. We discussed how to dispaly certain items, such as hanging all the clothes up on a line, so people could sort through the clothes in a organized fashion! Well wouldn’t you know, after speaking to my customer today, she told me that my tips helped her have a organized, profitable garage sales, and to top it off, she said she received many compliments on such a well organized sale! Now she has decluttered her home, and earned some extra cash for her upcoming move.

Click on the link at right to get some of Eliza’s tips for successful garage sales. Planning and Holding a Successful Garage Sale

by Erica Beiser

Boxes…Paper….Tape…More Boxes….Tape…Paper….and again More Boxes!!!

As funny as it sounds, it’s true, when you are getting ready to move your life will become filled with boxes, paper and tape. When packing your own items, the materials that you would normally take for granted might suddenly seem hard to find. But they don’t have to be – if you know what you need and where to find them. Your Barrett Moving and Storage office is the best place to start. All the proper materials are avalible for a minimal fee.

You can always find your own boxes as well. You can try places like grocery stores, liquor stores, friends and family. The boxes have to be whole and complete. We cannot move boxes that do not have a top, or have an open space in the top. They do not stack well. We also deter customers from packing in TV boxes as well as shoe boxes.

Paper is easier to come by than boxes. We recommend the use of white packing paper or news print. Other useful filler/wrapping items are tissue paper, gift wrap, towels, small blankets and other linens. Be careful not to put news print or gift wrap on any items that might absorb the ink.

Boxes should be taped as if you were sending the item through the mail. 3×3 we call it. Three pieces on the bottom and three on the top, one vertical and two horizontal. Do not use masking tape, it does not stick to the boxes well, and there is no need for duct tape. Just plain old box tape. It can be purchased at any Barrett office, hardware store, home improvement centers and even the grocery store.

Pace the packing, don’t try to do it all in one day, or you will burn yourself out. You never realize how much stuff you have until you have to find a box for it all to go in. Complete a few boxes at a time. Then do something else, and go back to it. We don’t want to pick up a box and be able to hear what is inside, unless there is a bell the size of Rhode island in the box!!! Try to make it fun, have a packing party! Pizza, Soda, and Boxes, make a great combination!! If questions do arise about packing, be sure to call your move coordinator for direction on the how to’s. Smile and Happy Packing!!