Melanie Morris

Melanie Morris

Editor20 articles
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Melanie Morris is an editor and writer at HireAHelper, where she uses observational skills honed from over 7 years of experience (and too much detective fiction) to demystify moving and make sure typos remain at a minimum.

Moving from the southwest up and down the west coast and back again has also given her plenty of firsthand moving experience. Now, she makes sure that even if you're just moving down the block, you have the accurate tips and know-how to make your relocation a breeze.

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A person frantically packing boxes during a last-minute move with a calendar showing the urgent move date

Last Minute Moving: Our Checklist for Getting Out in a Hurry

Packing

Planning to move soon? Like, really soon? Last-minute moving can cause panic, no matter the reason. Maybe an emergency happened, and you have to relocate quickly, or you're offered an exciting job opportunity that... Read More

A couple sits on the steps of a house surrounded by moving boxes, looking into the distance and imagining changes and renovations to their home

Moving Soon? Experts Share the First DIY Upgrades to Tackle Before You Settle In

Move Planning

Moving into your newly purchased house is an occasion worth celebrating, and it's likely you've already identified ways to transform it into your own. The period immediately after closing, but before moving in, is... Read More

Elderly woman sits on a sofa at home with boxes collecting things with memories albums with photos and photo frames moving to a new place cleaning things and a happy smile.

Helping Seniors Relocate with Ease: Expert Tips for a Smooth Move

Senior Moving

Moving as an older adult involves more than changing your address. Whether you're the one relocating or you're supporting a loved one, it's a significant change. Alongside the practical challenges of downsizing... Read More

A man and a woman are carrying moving boxes in a bright room, surrounded by packed boxes. A playful beagle jumps up on them.

Experts Share How to Make Your Pet Feel at Home After Moving

Kids & Pets

Moving already puts a strain on your human family members as you upheave your entire life. But your pets don't get the luxury of understanding the reasoning — they just suddenly find themselves hoisted into a new,... Read More

A dumpster full of broken furniture and various other kinds of junk

How Much Does Junk Removal Cost?

Costs & Saving

Average junk removal costs range from $75 for a small load to $800 or more for a full truckload. That’s a big range, but prices vary so much because there are many factors that go into the price of junk removal,... Read More

A pile of boxes filled with various items. Shoes and pillows are stacked on top of some of them

Moving Day Survival Guide: What Should I Keep With Me?

Moving Day Tips

Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be overwhelming. Proper preparation can make the transition smoother and help you settle in quickly.

One of the most important steps in this process... Read More

A view of the San Jose skyline at dawn

San Jose Neighborhood Guide: Find the Best Areas to Move in 2026

Where to Move

Willow Glen, Japantown, and Downtown are some of the most popular neighborhoods right now in San Jose. The city is a major hub for people looking to live in the heart of Silicon Valley. And according to... Read More

a couple comforts each other with an embrace. In the background, there are several stacked moving boxes

Packing Up Memories: How to Move After the Loss of a Loved One

Senior Moving

Packing up a home after losing someone you love is one of the hardest parts of grieving. A room once full of comfort might suddenly feel impossible to face. Even the smallest items can carry emotional weight, especi... Read More

a woman sits on the floor with a laptop and coffee mug. She is surrounded by moving boxes and look contemplative

What Is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for Moving?

Booking Movers

A certificate of insurance, or COI for moving, is a formal document that proves a moving company has insurance coverage. In short, it’s a written promise that the movers — not you or your building — are responsible... Read More

A woman sets down an item into a box. The angle of the shot is from the bottom of the box pointing upwards, so it looks as through the woman is reaching towards the camera

What Should You Pack First When Moving?

Packing

The short answer to what you should start packing first is to pack things you don’t use daily. If it can sit in a box for a few weeks without disrupting your routine, it can be packed early. Items in garage... Read More

Image of a family moving with kids

The Ultimate Guide to Moving With Kids: Insights From Experts

Kids & Pets

Moving is a very physical experience — you’re literally relocating all your worldly goods from the place you currently call home to a new living space. But it’s also an emotional experience, especially for kids.... Read More

A view of the downtown Philadelphia skyline

Philadelphia Neighborhood Guide: Find the Best Areas to Move in 2026

Where to Move

Fishtown, Rittenhouse Square, and Chestnut Hill are among the most popular neighborhoods in Philadelphia. Most areas are seeing a steady influx of new residents who are drawn to the city's unique blend of colonial... Read More

moving in with partner

The No-Stress Moving in Together Checklist (Including the Money Stuff)

Move Planning

Living with your partner is an exciting milestone, but it's also a complex process packed with practical and emotional hurdles. But, when you've thought ahead and have prepared for potential challenges, you can... Read More

movers carry a box into a home. There are more items in the back of an open moving truck

What Are Small Load Moving Companies?

Booking Movers

Small load moving companies are service providers that specialize in moving smaller quantities. They're useful when you're only moving a few items, a small apartment, or a dorm room. These movers also offer partial... Read More

Two portable moving containers parked on a residential street, ready to be loaded

What's a Moving Container? A Guide for Everything You Need to Know

Container Moves

When you think of moving, you probably picture a moving truck that hauls all your stuff to your new home. But that’s not the only way to go. Moving containers are a popular option for people who want more... Read More

two movers work to lift a upholstered chair

Will Movers Move a Single Piece of Furniture?

Booking Movers

Yes, you actually can hire movers to move a single item. This is a fairly common request, as moving a large item such as a sofa or piano can be difficult and doesn't always happen during a move. That's why many... Read More

Professional movers talking with customers outside a home before a move

Will Moving Companies Help You Plan Your Move?

Move Planning

From shutting off utilities to renting trucks or equipment, planning a move can feel like a full-time job. It’s logistics, timing, and coordination all in one stressful process. So wouldn’t it be great if your... Read More

Customer signing paperwork for short-term storage at a facility with yellow doors

Will Moving Companies Provide Short-Term Storage?

Booking Movers

Yes, many professional moving companies offer short-term storage options to help when your moving schedule is unique or doesn’t go exactly as planned. For instance, your new lease might start a week later than your... Read More

Grand piano in a modern living room ready to be moved by professional piano movers

Will Moving Companies Move Ultra-Heavy Items Like Pianos or Safes?

Booking Movers

Planning a move is a big job, and it can feel even more overwhelming when you remember that family piano that’s been in your living room for decades. While most moving companies handle standard furniture, ultra-heav... Read More