American Van Lines - Miami Movers

Sending Moving Help

2010-08-16T19:24:00.000-04:00

Moving is a difficult task that no one should attempt alone. You may know someone who is about to move and could use all the help they can get. Although you would like to help there may be a time when you cannot physically be there to help. Rather than leave your friend to fend for themselves why not send them moving help.

American Van Lines Miami moving companies offer nationwide moving services. We have nationwide locations so we can easily move your loved ones from anywhere in the country.

Being that you are dealing with the same moving company you can expect the same quality services that we are known for. Our Miami movers will promptly show up at your friend’s home ready to pack and load everything.

Their items are then carefully loaded onto an air ride equipped moving truck and delivered to their desired location. Once there, everything is unpacked and placed in working order. All of the packing debris and supplies are collected and properly disposed of.

The only thing that your friend would have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride. You will still be helping your friend move you just won’t have to be there. Your friend will appreciate the quality moving help and you can rest easy knowing that your friends’ move is in the best hands available.

Moving Fit for Three Kings

2010-08-14T13:19:00.000-04:00

The king is moving to Miami. No disrespect to any king of pop fans or Graceland loyalist, but Lebron James could be the biggest thing to happen to South Florida basket ball since Shaquille O’Neal. As if Miami didn’t have enough reasons to come here the addition of Lebron James only sweetens the deal.

The only real question is how do you move a larger than life entity to a larger than life city? You use the most professional movers in town. American Van Lines has exactly what it takes to complete the tri city trifecta.

Our Miami movers provide quality moving services fit for three kings. Being that we offer full service moves, Lebron and Chris Bosch can enjoy some of the finer things Miami has to offer.

We will handle everything from packing to delivery to the arrangement of furniture while they attend important team meetings or just take in the sights on South Beach and come home to find everything in working order.

Some Miami moving companies would require outside assistance to handle something this big but our movers can accommodate any home relocation regardless of the size. We have a large fleet of moving trucks to get everything moved in a timely fashion.

We operate seven days a week and even work after hours so last minute moves are no problem. If there was ever a time to visit Lebroward, Palm Bosch County or Wade County now is that time. American Van Lines would like to welcome Lebron James and Chris Bosch to the Magic City; we are with you all the way.

Miami Sun, Too Much of a Good Thing?

2010-08-11T18:03:00.001-04:00

Everyone wants to be in Miami. With great weather all year round, beautiful people and plenty to do, who wouldn’t want to live in Miami? With such beautiful weather it may be temping to spend all day having fun in the sun, but before you start building a base tan, there are a few precautions that we encourage you to take. American Van Lines Miami moving companies would like to offer you a few tips to help you remain healthy while you take in all that Miami has to offer.

As we all know, it gets pretty hot here, but not the kind of heat that you can just get used to. Depending on where you’re from you may underestimate the intensity of the heat and sun. Miami’s main attraction is also a hazard. Exposure to the sun can actually be healthy in small doses and can help your body produce calcium and help you look good while doing it. Too much exposure can produce health risks to your skin and eyes that far outweigh the benefits.

The sun produces three different types of invisible Ultra violet rays that affect different parts of your body. The first type UVC rays are the most powerful but only give off short wave radiation which isn’t really a threat to the skin because most of it is absorbed by the atmosphere. The second type is known as UVB rays and they are the strongest rays to actually reach the earth and can affect the outer layer of the skin, causing burns and will eventually cause skin cancer. The third type is known as UVA rays. While being the weakest of the three, UVA rays can penetrate deep into the skin and can rapidly accelerate aging. Long term exposure can cause the skin to appear dry and leathery.

UV radiation doesn’t just affect your skin; your eyes are in just as much danger from too much exposure to the sun. Long term and short term exposure can damage your eyes. Short term exposures even for just a brief moment can inflame the cornea, which will make eyes appear red and teary. This condition is usually temporary but does cause some level of discomfort. Long term exposure causes more permanent damage to the eye.

According to NASA, exposure to small amounts of UV radiation over a long period of time may increase the chances of developing cataract, which damages retina and impairs vision. If you must spend time in the sun, our Miami movers recommend that you prepare in advance. It would be wise to avoid spending too much time in the sun, and schedule time out of the sun every couple of hours. Avoid the sun during peak hours when it is the most intense. The peak hours vary depending on the time of year.

Some people love to tan, but Miami residents should avoid tanning salons altogether because you get enough sun exposure during regular activities, so a tanning salon can only make things worse. You should avoid exposing too much of your skin throughout the day. Wearing clothing that has sleeves and hats can block some of the rays that can directly damage your skin. You should always wear plenty of sunscreen preferably ones with an SPF rating of 30 or higher. Also look for brands that are marked as broad spectrum.

Taking measures to protect your eyes is also a good idea. If you drive a lot, you should tent the windows of your vehicle to block some of the UV rays. Every Miami resident should own a pair of sunglasses; if you don’t own a pair you should look into getting a pair as soon as possible to prevent any long term damage. If you follow some of these guidelines you should be able to safely enjoy some of the finer parts of Miami, buff body not included.

Visit our Miami movers regularly for more useful tips and best practices to keep you safe!

Converting Your Garage into a Living Space

2010-08-09T19:16:00.000-04:00

Moving is never an easy thing to do, but at times it is necessary. Many people move because of employment or they are expecting a new addition to the family. No matter what your reasons for moving are, a little extra room is always a welcome addition to your home. Having an additional room built onto your home can be a really expensive undertaking especially if you just moved in. If you need the extra room but cannot afford to rebuild at the moment converting your garage into a living space would solve your problem. American Van Lines Miami moving companies would like to offer some great tips on converting your garage into a living space.

Before you build anything you should check with your local building department. Some cities require residential properties to have a garage. Once it has been confirmed that you can convert your garage you should consider whether you are going to convert your garage permanently or temporarily. This will affect the method you use when converting your garage. If you plan to convert it permanently it would be a good idea to seal off the garage door.

Using cinder blocks would provide a solid foundation to build onto. If your garage doesn’t have any windows this would be the best time to add one by leaving space in the cinder blocks for one to be added later. Make sure to paint and design the outside to match the rest of your home.

Once you have successfully sealed off the garage door you should add insulation to maintain room temperature. Drywall can be added to complete the walls. Replace any garage light fixtures and the garage door opener with a ceiling fan or preferred light fixture. At this point you can paint the interior walls accordingly and replace the flooring with carpet or tile. Once these additions are complete you will have a completely livable space in your home that costs a lot less than having an entire room added to your house.

Choosing the Right Realtor

2010-07-31T11:45:00.002-04:00

People move for various reasons, whether it is for family or employment. In either case you will always want to know that you’re getting the best value for your money. Having the right Realtor can ensure you always come out on top, but having the wrong person handle the selling or purchase of your homes can cost you greatly. American Van Lines Miami moving companies have been moving customers to Miami for years and are familiar with the various setbacks of using an unreliable Realtor.

A good Realtor should represent your best interest whether you’re selling or buying it is your Realtor’s job to make sure that you either sell your property for the most money possible in a short time or find you a home at the lowest price possible. Finding the right Realtor includes more than just buying and selling, a good Realtor can take on many roles. At any given time a Realtor can be a therapist, tour guide, or negotiator. Obviously you cannot expect your Realtor to meet all of these needs but there are just a few basic requirements that every Realtor should meet.

It goes without saying that a person who can’t communicate cannot negotiate let alone respond to your demands. You should have more than one way to get in contact with your Realtor. If you find that you constantly have to leave messages to try and contact your Realtor, then this is a good indication of things to come. If your Realtor is not enthusiastic about returning your calls then they will be just as excited when representing you. Does your Realtor constantly ask what you want or are they always trying to sell you their services? You should try and use movers that ask more than they tell.

Most Realtors work on commission and will try and up sell you on the highest costing properties that you qualify for. It would be in your best interest to find out if you are working with a fulltime Realtor or someone who does it as a hobby or a way to earn extra income. An agent that works full time is constantly aware of changes in the market and will probably have something new to offer and will be available when you need them. You should never feel afraid to ask questions especially concerning credentials that will help you determine this agent’s ability to deliver on your requests; besides, you’re paying for it.

Recommended Questions from your Trusted Miami Movers

Questions like how familiar they are with a neighborhood you have taken interest in or how many homes they sold in that area should be answered without hesitation. A good agent will have a wealth of information concerning your area. They should be able to provide you with even the most trivial information like where the best restaurants are or where to find veterinary services. Your agent should know of local customs and history to help you learn about the place that you plan to call home.

Your Realtor should have a reliable support staff and resources available; they should have access to services ranging from a handyman to home inspectors. You should check with your agent’s references. Past and current clients will give you a candid look at your agent’s credentials. Much like anything else involving your hard earned money, you should shop around before choosing a Realtor. A real estate agent needs to be trusted to be effective so if you feel that you cannot trust them then your relocation will be plagued with setbacks. If you can find a Realtor that meets most of these requirements you should have no problem selling or buying your next home.

Visit the preferred movers in Miami regularly for other useful moving tips!

The Dangers of Moving by Yourself

2010-07-28T18:30:00.000-04:00

Moving is a very difficult task that should be properly planned out. Proper planning does not guarantee that your move will be successful; it just makes it easier to keep up with. It is a common thought that moving companies are to expensive which leads people to try and move themselves. In most cases people are either ill equipped or lack the necessary man power to properly move their household. American Van Lines Miami movers would like to point out some common dangers of moving on your own to help you avoid loss of property or personal injury.

Packing and loading are difficult even with the proper equipment. Renting moving equipment and packing material is an added expense to your move and certain companies simply do not carry everything needed for a complete relocation. Not having enough man power is just as bad as just trying to move everything yourself especially if you have small children. Parents could really benefit from using a qualified mover like our Miami movers, because you could focus on your family’s needs while our professional movers handled your relocation.

It would be nice if your friends and relatives could come by and help you move, but getting everyone together on the same day could be a difficult task. If you do get friends to help, they need to be able to move heavy items properly or risk causing serious injury to themselves. Almost anybody can sustain injury while pushing, lifting or carrying something the wrong way.

Moving furniture the wrong way can also damage the items that you are trying to move. Even if you take the time to properly pack and wrap everything you still risk damaging something if it is handled improperly. The cost of a moving truck is also something to consider when moving on your own. Fuel and food costs are also additional expenses that you cannot avoid.

By using a reputable mover such as American Van Lines movers in Miami, you can ensure that your items are properly transported and delivered. Our moving rates are also the most affordable rates around. If you consider the costs of a moving truck, moving equipment, packing materials, gas, food, and the overall risk of personal injury and damaging your items, using our moving services is your best option.

The Importance of Moving Insurance

2010-07-20T19:21:00.000-04:00

Moving brings up many concerns. For some people, getting insurance during a move is essential, while others may consider it a waste of money. American Van Lines Miami moving companies would like to illustrate the importance of insuring your possessions while moving. While our Miami movers take precautions to protect your items throughout a move, accidents do happen and are unforeseen, so we’d like to give you some useful information about the matter.

it is common thinking that moving companies are obligated to cover any losses that occur during a move. Some people even think that they can claim any damages on their homeowners insurance. Unfortunately, no one is obligated to insure your belongings without your request.

According to the Department of Transportation, moving companies are only responsible for 60 cents per pound without insurance. Even if you have full coverage insurance, moving companies are only responsible for part of the value of your items that are of extraordinary value, i.e. jewelry, unless listed on your Bill of Laden prior to your move. Homeowners insurance only covers items that are within a lived residence so items in transit are automatically excluded.

Third part moving insurance companies are your best bet for the protection of your items. These companies will cover your items depending on the type of insurance you purchased. Some homeowner’s insurance policies will actually cover your move so you should check with them before purchasing third party insurance. Once you have the proper coverage you should be able to focus on the details of your move.

Moving With Houseplants

2010-07-19T17:57:00.000-04:00

We know that moving with all of your possessions intact is crucial. Our Miami movers make arrangements for everything from electronics to household pets, but we rarely give much attention to the care and handling of household plants.

House plants provide a therapeutic atmosphere that some people cannot live without. Certain plants provide remedies for various ailments. You may want to keep these plants around for this purpose and certainly if you are moving to a place where they do not grow, naturally. American Van Lines Miami movers would like to provide a few easy tips to help you safely transport your favorite houseplants to your new home.

Before you do anything, research the kind of plant you want to move to find out how moving could affect it. Compare your findings with the climate and wildlife of the place that you are moving to and determine if it would be a good idea to move with it. You should also find out if there are any laws that prohibit moving with certain plants.

If you are using our Miami moving company, you should opt to move the plant by other means. If you are going to move the plants yourself, it is a good idea to place each one in a plastic bag, in a box and place the plant and a commercial flea collar or bug strip to avoid bringing any stowaways with you to your new home. You should trim the leaves as much as possible or take to a professional nursery to have it trimmed for you. You should cushion the plants using with damp newspapers or packing paper to hold the plants in place.

If you need to stop during your trip you should avoid parking anywhere that will expose your plant to too much sunlight, you should always leave your windows open enough to allow for plenty of ventilation. Once you arrive at your destination you should unpacked by opening the bottom of your box and placed in a pot as soon as possible. if you take the necessary steps to protect your plants you should have no problem bringing them along with you.

Moving During a Recession

2010-07-14T17:56:00.000-04:00

As we all know, our country is in a recession. It is an understatement to say that things are getting a lot harder to cope with. Moving can put a real strain on things especially when most people are financially strapped. It may not be a good idea to try and move in this economy but there may be circumstances that leave you with very little choice in the matter.

If you absolutely have to move, American Van Lines, the moving companies Miami residents have come to know and trust would like to offer some great advice to help ease the transition. Before moving, take an inventory of your possessions and separate everything that is not immediately needed. As the saying goes “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure”. Selling unwanted items can provide extra funds that you can use towards your relocation.

You should expect to spend on travel expenses and possibly hotel fees if you are moving far away. Calculate the amount of funds you can dedicate to moving. If you can, plan to cover most of your expenses with some money left over in case of emergencies; you never know what can happen between destinations.

There is always a chance that you will damage something valuable when trying to move on your own and replacing things that you already own is not really cost effective. The best way to avoid any costly mistakes would be to use our supreme moving services to move your possessions. Our moving rates are affordable and you can be sure that your items will be delivered in working order.

If you had to move to find work you can claim it on your taxes as long as you file within the first year of employment. Everything from packing material and boxes to hotel stays and meals can be claimed if it is in relation to your move. It will still be hard to move in this economy but hopefully these tips could help to relieve some of the stress associated with moving as well as saved you some money in the process.

Moving After a Divorce

2010-07-10T10:29:00.000-04:00

Divorce is the dreaded word that no one considers at the start of a marriage; when the wedding glow is still fresh and the honeymoon bliss radiates off your skin. Unfortunately divorce does happen and is a fact of life for many people. However commonplace, this does not make it any easier to handle moving on after a divorce. Our Miami movers have compiled some strategies that will help you deal with the stress and emotional repercussions of divorce.

Yes divorce represents the end of a marriage, but it also represents the beginning of something new that only you can define. Starting fresh by getting rid of your old furniture can be a great way to start your new life without anything to keep you focusing on the past. Having a yard sale is a great way to start putting the past behind you and preparing for the life ahead. The money you make from the yard sale can be used to purchase new household items that represent your personal style and individuality. As humans, we have a way of making emotional associations and deep connections with our belongings. Shedding some of those things may help you move on from your past and focus on building a happy future.

After you have moved, create new rituals for yourself. Maybe your previous marriage kept you from doing something you’ve always wanted to try. This is the best time to try new activities. Focusing on a healthy recreational activity such as kayaking, arts and crafts, writing or taking dance lessons will keep your mind occupied on something positive and constructive. This will make you feel good about yourself and your situation.

As much as divorce may hurt, you have to take the bitter with the sweet in order to gain an optimistic outlook on life and regain the strength necessary to let go of the hurt, fear, sadness and all other undesirable emotions that you may be dealing with. If possible, do something therapeutic to deal with the emotional baggage. Talking to a therapist can facilitate the healing processing. Keeping a journal and logging your thoughts can also help.

I’m sure there are varying opinions on the matter, but it is best to remain single for sometime after a divorce. Divorce is an emotionally charged circumstance and taking time to heal is necessary so that you do not carry the thoughts, emotions and judgments of your past into a new relationship. Starting a new relationship too soon can result in you trying to make up for what you feel was lacking in your previous marriage. Healing takes time and cannot be rushed. However painful the healing process may be it is important to remember that it is a process. You owe it to yourself to be patient in the matter.

Spending time with loved ones, family and close friends is very therapeutic. When you don’t want to think about your divorce and just want to have fun, do so. When you want to cry, do so. Be honest with yourself and your emotions and before long you will notice that you’ve come a lot further than you once were.

Changes to FHA Loan Requirements

2010-07-09T18:13:00.000-04:00

Our Miami movers have reported on the current real estate market trends and how many people in South Florida have been clamoring to take advantages of this buyer’s market. Acquiring an FHA loan use to be the easiest way to qualify for a home loan, but according to FHA website, the Florida Housing Administration (FHA) is tightening the strings on their lending requirements. Although an official date hasn’t been released, here are the changes that you can look forward to if you plan on qualifying for an FHA loan.

If the borrower’s credit score is less than 580, then a minimum of 10% down will be required. This is a hike from the 3.5% that is currently required as a down payment.

The Primary Mortgage Insurance (PMI) has increased from 1.75% to 2.25% for all FHA cases assigned after April 5, 2010.

Seller contributions have been reduced from 6% to 3%.

The FHA has enacted these changes to combat the rise in delinquencies and to help them stay in good financial standing.

What are your views on this issue?

Tips for First Time Home Buyers

2010-06-30T19:30:00.000-04:00

In Miami, as in many parts of the country, it has truly become a buyer’s market. The low price of homes and different government assistance programs has enticed first time home buyers to jump into the housing market head first and take on home moving like never before. While homeownership is exciting, it is a commitment that should not be entered into lightly.

Our Miami movers have helped many families move in and out of their homes over the last year and we want to provide prospective homeowners with pertinent information that will support informed decisions and economical choices.

There is a lot to learn when it comes to buying a home and American Van Lines Miami movers has seen many house moves, both successful and unfavorable. We have compiled information and resources that will help you start the journey with your wits about you. If you’re thinking about buying a home, you should consider the following:

Preliminary Concerns

• Budget – Before you contact a lender or go house hunting, create a budget and decide on a comfortable monthly payment. Even if you qualify for more than you expected, stick to the price range that is within your budget and try not to deviate from this price. Home moving is exciting, and it’s easy to get carried away.

• Taxes – Property taxes vary from district to district, keep this in mind and always ask what the taxes are when considering your home. These fees will greatly impact your mortgage payments. Our Miami movers suggest visiting your county’s website for information on property taxes for the current tax year.

Government Assistance Programs

There are different assistant programs available through the county where you are purchasing your home and also state assistantship programs that can cover portions or the entire expense of your down payment and/or closing costs. Visit your county and state websites for more information.

Out-of-Pocket-Fees

Unbeknownst to many first time home buyers there are a few upfront fees that you have to pay before signing your closing statement.

• Down payment – Conventional loans require at least 20% down. At the moment, Florida FHA loans require 3.5 % down, but this may change in the coming months. Visit the US Department of Urban Development (HUD) for more information.

• Appraisal fees – The value of your prospective home must be assessed before purchase so that your lender knows its limit on the amount of money to lend on the home. Most lenders will not give you more money than the home is worth.

• Inspections – Although inspections are not mandatory for most lenders it is strongly suggested. A home may seem fine at first sight, but an inspection can reveal many defects that an untrained eye cannot see. Inspection reports can also give you leverage in negotiating the price of the property.

• Closing costs – These are the fees due at closing. These fees cover various fees such as payment to the title company, your Realtor, Mortgage Company and other expenses. A common practice is to ask the seller to contribute 6% toward closing costs which in most cases covers all or most expenses.

Choosing a Lender (Bank)

Research & compare lenders before making a decision. Ask to be briefed on lending policies and ask as many questions as possible. Here are a few questions to get you started.

1. Interest rates - Compare your lender’s rates against the national average to ensure you’re getting a fair mortgage rate.

2. Monthly payments - Get estimates of your total monthly mortgage including taxes, insurance, principle and interest.

3. PMI – Also known as Primary Mortgage Insurance, PMI is the lender’s protection in case you default on your loan and can no longer make monthly payments. If you are able to put 20% down, you may not be required to purchase PMI. This fee is typically paid monthly and can be removed after you have paid enough towards the principal to cover the 20%. Remember, you must contact your lender to request the PMI is removed from your monthly payments. Most people forget or fail to make this request.

4. Hidden fees - Ask about any other possible hidden monthly charges.

5. Loan Application – The loan application seems like a mountain of paperwork. Review everything before signing and what you do not understand, review with your lender in detail so there are no surprises at closing.

Homeowner’s Insurance

Homeowner’s insurance is a requirement when borrowing funds from a lending institution. SHOP AROUND!!! Every company has different rates; do not go with the first quote you receive.

Information builds a society of informed consumers. American Van Lines, your primary Miami Movers hope to arm you with the information you need to be successful in your journey toward homeownership.

Visit your premier Miami movers frequently for more moving tips that will save you a lot in the long run. For affordable moving and storage options that are second to none, there is only one, American Van Lines.

Moving on a Tight Schedule

2010-06-18T18:28:00.007-04:00

So the time has come to relocate, but life’s many responsibilities will not wait while you move. Dinner still needs to be cooked and your family still needs your attention. Your premiere Miami Moving Company wants you to know that the key to moving under limited time restraints is doing a little bit every day. Start weeks in advanced and before you know it, you will meet moving day with your wits about you, sipping lemonade and ready to go.

Packing the items in your home in this order

Least used items - Start with the items you give the least attention to first. Pack your library. Gather the books from the shelved and dismantle the book shelf. Family albums and picture frames can also be stored at the beginning of your process.

Surplus items – Move on to the bulk items you have an abundance of. You know those sets of mugs you have more of than people you’ve met in your life. Pack the china sets, plates, Tupperware and other silverware. Leave just enough for daily use.

Out with the old – Use this move as an opportunity to clean out your closet. If you haven’t worn an outfit in over 6 months to a year chances are you likely won’t ever wear it again. Box the clothes you no longer need and donate it to charity.

Clothes – Pack the clothing that is not currently climate appropriate. If you are moving in the summer, pack your winter coats and vise-versa.

If your heart is set on self service moving and you’re not using the assistance of one of our Movers in Miami, then packing items in this order should help ease the process.

Miami Teen Curfew Effective May 1, 2010

2010-06-11T18:58:00.004-04:00

The Miami police department will implement a new curfew effective May 1, 2010 for children under the age of 17. On school nights the curfew will be 11:00 PM and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

This is a hot topic that has been getting many mixed reviews. The presumed premise for this curfew is clearly to protect children from being victims of and contributing to crimes. This curfew will also force many parents to keep tabs on their children as parents or their children will incur a fine of up to $500 after a teen is caught violating curfew three times.

Opponents of this new law argue that it isn’t fair to make good kids pay for what some bad kids do. Others are uncomfortable with what they perceive to be “too much policing”.

What do you think?

Do you agree or disagree with this curfew?

Are there legitimate reasons for children to be on the streets after 11PM and 12 AM?

Will this curfew distract police officers from focusing on more important crimes?

Our Miami Movers want to know what you think. Voice your opinions; it’s the only way to be heard. Check back with your premier Movers in Miami for other issues that affect our community.

Moving Coverage - Valuation vs. Insurance Coverage

2010-04-14T18:03:00.011-04:00

Valuation is not insurance!

Before you sign your moving contract make sure you choose the coverage option that is best suited for you. Many people don’t weigh their options, assuming that noting will go wrong during their move, but accidents do happen.

Your mover may or may not inform you of your coverage options. If your moving company doesn’t offer a verbal explanation of your options and you do not read the fine print on your Bill of Lading, you will automatically be covered under your moving company’s Full Value Protection (FVP) coverage. Please note that FVP is not insurance, but valuation.

Valuation is the worth of your shipment to the moving company. All FVP rates vary among moving companies, but are usually calculated at $6. per pound and is based on the total weight of your shipment. Valuation is not regulated by a governing body, such as the State insurance laws are; rather FVP rates are left to the discretion of the moving company, but are typically calculated at $6 per pound for the total weight of your shipment.

Insurance coverage on the other hand is offered by a third party vendor and allows you to choose your coverage and deductible. If your belongings were to incur any damage the insurance company would pay the cost of lost or damaged good minus the deductible. You can choose the deductible you are comfortable with. On average, a higher deductible will reflect a lower cost and vise versa.

Visit your Miami Movers often for pertinent information that affects your moving services.