Updated on July 28, 2023
Everyone has advice and tips for those starting the moving process, but it can be tough to wade through all the information coming from various sources. Plus, some language and terminology used during a move can be new and difficult to decipher. We have created a vocabulary cheat sheet for moving to help you interpret the information that will be presented to you throughout the process. We hope this information will help to simplify your move.
Moving and Storage Containers
These all-steel, secure, weatherproof portable storage containers can be delivered on-site to your home or business for packing, storage, and moving. You can choose which size (8ft, 12ft, or 16ft) best fit your individual needs. The best part is, unlike traditional moving truck companies or even van line moving services where everything has to be done in one day before fees start piling up, you can keep your 1-800-PACK-RAT portable storage container at your home for as long as you need it. Pack at your pace, avoid having to rush, and, when you are done, give us a call and we will pick up your container and either have it delivered to your new home or have it stored in one of our 65+ secure warehouse locations across the continental United States. It really is that simple. We take the guesswork out of moving and storage so you can focus on more important stuff!
Contents Protection Plan
Events beyond everyone’s control, such as fire, lightning, wind, hail, snow, and other naturally-occurring phenomena, could cause harm to your belongings. A Contents Protection Plan can offer you that extra bit of peace of mind of having coverage over your belongings. Just like when buying a home or any other type of insurance, it is highly recommended that you take some time to thoroughly evaluate what you are packing and how much it is worth to ensure that you have full coverage in the event of a loss. 1-800-PACK-RAT offers multiple plan levels, so you can choose the best coverage depending on the value of items you will be placing in your container.
Downsizing
Moving is hard enough. Don’t make it harder by packing or moving anything that doesn’t have a dedicated space in your new home. Most people take time to downsize their belongings before a move. It is wise to base the decision on which items to keep on the layout and size of your new home. Knowing each room's exact size and dimensions will make decisions more straightforward because you know what will and will not fit. Using portable storage allows you to take your time with these decisions while packing your container at your own pace.
Inventory List
Creating an up-to-date inventory list of all your personal belongings should be a top priority before packing and moving. Keeping track of every item can be a tedious process, but it can be a lifesaver if you're ever in a situation where you need to replace your personal property after a loss. Plus, an inventory list will ensure that you have purchased enough insurance in the first place to replace your belongings. Your inventory list can be categorized by room, type of item, collection, or other relevant criteria. It can be made digitally or with pen and paper. Find a system that works for you.
Moving Discounts
It is possible to save money when you move and store the convenient way. Whether you're moving, need storage, or require both, 1-800-PACK-RAT has an offer for you. Check out our list of current promotions and see how you can save on your move today.
Moving/Storage Quote
This is an estimate provided by a moving and storage service provider of how much it will cost to move your items. Before getting a quote, have a good idea of how much stuff you will need to move. This will help you determine the number of containers you will need for your moving or storage event. 1-800-PACK-RAT offers an easy online process to receive a quote for all your moving and storage needs.
Non-Allowable List
It is important to remember that not all of your belongings can be packed in a portable moving and storage container. Items such as aerosol cans, fertilizer, pesticides, charcoal, disinfectants, ammunition, fireworks, pool cleaning chemicals, paint thinner, fire extinguishers, car batteries, and gas cans are considered too hazardous for moving. You can consider giving these away to neighbors before moving or properly disposing of them.
Packing Supplies
These items will be used to organize and protect your belongings during transport. Sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, stretch wrap, moving blankets, and a tape gun dispenser are a few of the essentials. To simplify moving and storage, 1-800-PACK-RAT has partnered with Lowe's® Home Improvement to provide our customers with premium moving supplies. From item specific boxes to moving blankets, and everything in between, your local Lowe's Home Improvement store has what you need! Check out what they have to offer online or visit one of their nationwide locations for everything you need.
PPM or DITY Military Move
Personally Procured Move or PPM is the official term for a Do-It-Yourself (DITY) military move. Unlike a full household goods move where the government will hire a commercial contractor to pack and move you, a DITY move involves you making arrangements to transport your belongings and get reimbursed based on weight afterward. Although most people think that a DITY or PPM move means that you'll be in charge of doing all the work yourself, with portable storage containers from 1-800-PACK-RAT, you will have an experienced team on your side throughout this process.
Space Calculator
This online tool can help you estimate the number of portable storage containers you might need to move or store your belongings. Choose the quantity and type of furniture you wish to move or store, and this tool will help visually show you how much space it will take up in the container. The more accurately you fill out the space-calculating tool, the more accurate the recommendation will be.
Third-Party Packing and Loading Providers
A professional labor provider can make your move even easier if you need assistance packing and loading your stuff. 1-800-PACK-RAT has partnered with Hire A Helper, a reliable and professional labor company, to help you quickly find professional packers and movers for your move.
We hope this moving vocabulary cheat sheet helps as you get ready to plan your local or long-distance move. We invite you to compare the 1-800-PACK-RAT process to other ways of moving. Using a portable storage container gives you a little more control over the moving process and timeline. Our portable storage and moving containers offer tons of flexibility with a predictable cost that will simplify your move. Give us a call or go online for that free quote today to see how we can make moving and storage simple and on your terms today!