Monday, December 29, 2014

IRS Announces 2015 Filing Season Start Date:


The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has finally announced the 2015 filing season start date. And surprise! There’s no delay. Tax season for paper and electronically filed returns will open on January 20, 2015. That’s 11 days sooner than last year’s start date and 10 days sooner than the 2013 start date (though the 2012 season started a few days earlier on January 17).
Even better? There’s no tiered opening season. All taxpayers can begin filing on January 20, 2015. There was some concern about the tiered filing system because Congress had initially signaled that it might not sign off on all of the tax extenders. Congress eventually approved a tax extenders package which renewed all of those four dozen or so provisions for a year – with no changes – making it possible for all taxpayers to start filing at the same time. President Obama signed the tax extenders package into law on December 19, 2014.
IRS Commissioner John Koskinen said, about the extenders that, “[w]e have reviewed the late tax law changes and determined there was nothing preventing us from continuing our updating and testing of our systems.” He added, “Our employees will continue an aggressive schedule of testing and preparation of our systems during the next month to complete the final stages needed for the 2015 tax season.”

Saturday, December 20, 2014

Tips on Selecting the Right Moving Company:

If you are thinking of moving to San Francisco, one of the first things you should do is select a suitable company to handle the move. Moving can lead to a lot of frustration but with the right company, it can be a lot easier. There are various companies to select from and this is why it is essential to take your time to find one that offers the services you require.
Moving Company Website
Most companies have websites that indicate the services they offer but while this is a good way to start your search, you should not base your decision on the information they provide. Use the internet to get an idea of the companies that are available in the area.
Get References
Get references from real estate agents who are based in the city. You can also use locals who have been living in the area for a while. They are more likely to have reliable information compared to the internet. Ask for references for companies that have been in operation for at least five years. An established moving company is more likely to have reliable services.
Set Appointments
Once you get references, set appointments with at least three movers. One of the best ways to reliable services from a San Francisco moving company is to request for an estimate during the appointment. The estimate should be based on a physical inspection of your home. An inspection will allow the movers to determine how much work will be carried out during the move based on the items in your home. You should not sign a contract before you know exactly how much you will be required to pay for the moving services.
The estimate has to be in writing. This is essential in case the moving company fails to fulfill the contract terms.
Does Your Mover Have Insurance?
This is one of the things that most homeowners overlook when they are looking for a San Francisco moving company. The company you use should be insured. It has to be liable in case any of your items are damaged or lost during the move. Without insurance, you will not get any compensation. You can also choose to purchase the insurance yourself instead of relying on the mover. Comprehensive insurance protects you from unexpected expenses in case anything goes wrong.
Moving Company Insurance
These are some of the things that you need to keep in mind if you want to find a professional and experienced San Francisco Moving Company.

Monday, December 8, 2014

Should I Use a 'You Load, We Drive' Moving Trailer to Move?



As we've previously reviewed, you have three primary transportation and storage options when it comes to a do-it-yourself move: A rented moving truck, a portable storage container (POD), or a 'You Load, We Drive'moving trailer. Today we are going to discuss the 'You Load, We Drive' moving trailer option, helping you understand what this transportation option entails, how it works, and when a moving trailer should be used for your move.


What is a 'You Load, We Drive' moving trailer?

Typically operated by a freight carrier, a 'You Load, We Drive' moving trailer is a 28' truck that is used for long distance moving. A moving trailer is a very affordable long distance moving option for both large and small moves. Companies operating these moving trailers handle all of the driving, you simply load and unload your household items (or hire professional moving help) and they transport the trailer between your origin and destination.

How does a moving trailer it work?

Begin by contacting one of the three major moving trailer companies: ABF U-Pack®, Estes SureMove® or Old Dominion®. Each company will provide you with a quote for the transportation of your items as well as an estimate of the amount of space you will need, from the minimum of 3-4' to the full 28' trailer. The company will drop off your moving trailer at your home and (usually) provide you with up to three days to load your items. Once loaded, the trailer will be picked up and driven to your destination, usually arriving in 3-5 business days. You will then unload your items into your new home and the trailer will be taken away.

What are the benefits of a moving trailer?

A moving trailer is one of the most affordable ways to move long distance, and thus, is a major benefit. Companies that provide this service can offer affordable rates because they will use the entire 28' trailer, regardless of how much space you actually use. For example, if you utilize 13' of space the company will use the remaining 15' of space to transport commercial goods. Rest assured that the shipments are separated by a bulkhead to prevent your items from mixing in with the commercial goods. Additionally, these companies have very low minimum space requirements making it a very attractive option for small moves that only need a few feet of space.

What are the downsides of using a moving trailer?

Although a very affordable relocation option, moving trailers do have several downsides that you should be aware of. First, these trailers do not have an air-ride suspension. This basically means there is little shock absorbed and your items are more likely to be rattled around unless they are very carefully secured. Second, moving trailer companies do not offer a furniture blanket rental option. Because you cannot rent furniture blankets from these companies you are often forced to spend a significant amount of money buying your own or utilize less a effective option, such as bedding and towels. It is important to understand that furniture protection is vital to ensuring that your furniture arrives at your new home without damage. Be sure to factor in the cost of furniture blankets into your moving budget while shopping for a transportation solution.

When should I use a moving trailer for my move?

A 'You Load, We Drive' moving trailer can only be used for a long distance move. A moving trailer is your best option if you who do not want to drive a rented moving truck and if you are able to move into your new home right away without having to store your items temporarily.

Hire moving help to load or unload your freight trailer

Aside from the obvious physical benefits of hiring moving help, there are several other reasons to consider hiring movers. Firstly, you are billed for the amount of space you use on your trailer. By hiring professional movers you will be able to maximize the available space and, ultimately, use less space, saving you money. Secondly, moving trailers have a spring ride suspension and your household items are more likely to rattle around during the drive. Professional movers have the expertise to know when and where to use e-track straps and how to best pad and wrap your furniture to help reduce the risk of damage.
Learn more about hiring movers to load your moving trailer and see why it's both beneficial and affordable. You can also request a moving help quote online or by contacting Customer Support at (888) 354-8303.