Founded in 1890, Hansen Bros. Moving & Storage the parent company of Portabox has successfully weathered many history-changing events including the Great Seattle Fire, WWI, the Spanish Flu of 1918, the Great Depression, WWII, the 2008 recession, and 9/11 among many other public crises. We are taking the current COVID-19 threat very seriously and will promptly adhere to any and all directives from local, state and federal government officials. Hansen Bros. and Portabox have been categorized as an essential industry business (moving & relocation) within the current mandate established by Washington State Governor Jay Inslee.

As essential services, we will maintain normal operations until such time as either company management determines we must close our offices or we are directed to do so by a governmental authority. We are taking extensive precautionary measures including the adoption of all CDC guidelines and the establishment of our own policies intended to minimize health risks for all customers, employees, contractors, vendors, and community stakeholders. We are proud to be able to support the needs of our customers during this crucial time but are prepared to quickly change course as required.

Stay safe together with Hansen Bros. and Portabox

The COVID-19 crisis is fluid and there are many uncertainties and factors outside of our control that may, with little or no advance notice, impact our delivery of moving & storage services. Please be aware the current crisis could potentially result in small inconveniences such as a delayed project start time or significant inconveniences such as the complete rescheduling of services.

Although there are many unknowns to be navigated, you can be certain that Hansen Bros. and Portabox will be timely and transparent in our communications regarding servicing your moving & storage needs, and our professional relocation consultants will work diligently to offer creative solutions in the event your project is impacted by the current health crisis.

Steps We're Taking:

  • Company-wide Implementation of all precautionary measures recommended by the Center for Disease Control (CDC).
  • Office staff and crews are being monitored daily for symptoms and/or known exposure by management and asked to go home, contact their healthcare provider, and self-quarantine as directed. Staff that experience symptoms and/or aware of exposure when not at work have been directed to stay home and notify their supervisor.
  • Office staff and crews are receiving daily briefings on precautionary measures and have been directed to follow them on and off the job.
  • Office staff and crews are being instructed to maintain appropriate “social distance” of 6 feet minimum between one another, customers, and all other people.
  • Office staff and crews are being provided with appropriate hand sanitizer and surface disinfecting supplies. They have been directed to disinfect truck cabs and moving equipment between each move to the best of their ability. These supplies will continue to be replenished as we are able, based on availability from retailers.
  • We are limiting visitation to our branch offices. If you wish to purchase moving boxes or supplies, please simply call in your order and we will happily deliver to your vehicle outside.

We are all in this together.  The team at Hansen Bros. and Portabox is proud to continue offering our services in accordance with the necessary precautions outlined above. We are here to make the process of storing belongings seamless & safe for you.

Organizing for new additions: Preparing space for babies or elders

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Welcoming a new family member is a cherished moment in every household. But beneath this layer of joy and anticipation lies a set of challenges – from safety precautions to functional necessities. It isn’t merely about decking out a room as much as it’s about crafting a place that’s both inviting and accommodating. For many Pacific Northwest families, resolving these changes often relies on handy storage units North Seattle provides, ensuring every family member has their own special space. So, are you ready to craft the perfect home for your youngest or eldest loved ones? Explore our ideas for preparing space for babies or elders and organize on time!

Preparing for a baby: Practical first steps

Welcoming a newborn requires meticulous planning and adjustments around the home. Here’s a breakdown of the three pivotal stages:

  • Prioritizing baby-proof measures to eliminate potential hazards.
  • Tailoring the space to cater to both the baby’s comfort and the caregiver’s convenience.
  • Systematically arranging and storing baby necessities for easy access.

Now, let’s explore each stage in detail.

Safety first

Ensuring your home is baby-safe is not just about caution, it’s a fundamental requirement. You need to ensure that electrical outlets are covered, sharp corners are padded, and potential hazards, like stairs, are secured. Throughout this process, consider decluttering areas that could become easily congested. Many families have found that utilizing Woodinville self storage can provide a practical solution, creating more room for essential baby items.

Baby Sitting and Playing in the Cradle
Babyproofing your home ensures a safer environment, reducing risks for curious little ones.

Designing a functional nursery

When setting up a nursery in your Seattle residence, prioritize functionality without compromising on comfort. Select a sturdy crib, invest in a reliable changing table, and incorporate sufficient storage options. Lighting plays an integral role in this space. Dimmable lights, for instance, are ideal for maintaining a serene sleep environment for the baby. If space constraints become a challenge, on-demand storage solutions in Seattle can help. Such services ensure you have all the necessary items at hand when you need them without crowding the nursery.

Organizing essentials

Every item in the nursery should have its place. Label bins or drawers for different-sized clothing, ensuring easy access. Keep diapers, wipes, and other essentials within arm’s reach to streamline care routines. As gifts and hand-me-downs accumulate, the volume of baby clothes can become overwhelming. Before considering an overflow into other rooms, think about local storage solutions. Checking out Kirkland self storage options can be a savvy move, allowing you to store excess items until they’re needed again.

Preparing for elders: Crafting a comfortable and safe living space

As we age, our requirements and preferences shift. When preparing a home for an elder, it’s crucial to address their unique needs while ensuring the space remains functional and hazard-free. Here’s what to consider.

Two women packing and preparing space for babies or elders
When preparing space for babies or elders, it’s crucial to prioritize safety, functionality, and personal touches to ensure a comfortable environment for all.

Safety measures

Safety at home isn’t restricted to babies. It’s equally vital for our elderly family members. Hence, you would need to:

  • Remove potential trip hazards like loose rugs or scattered items.
  • Install grab bars in the bathroom, especially around the toilet and shower area.
  • Consider the flooring; non-slip mats can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

And in the process of making your Seattle home a safer space, some personal items may need to be relocated. For such requirements, portable storage containers in Seattle offer a reliable solution, allowing for temporary storage without compromising accessibility.

Comfort and accessibility

As you certainly know, elders often have specific comfort needs. Indulge them, ensuring that bedding is tailored to their requirements, perhaps considering orthopedic mattresses or cushioning. Lighting is another crucial factor; sufficient illumination can aid in reading or simply moving around without straining the eyes. Quite importantly, everyday items should be within easy reach, possibly involving some rearrangement of essentials.

A personal touch

To truly make your aging loved one feel at home, infuse personal elements into their space. This could include family photographs, their favorite books, or familiar pieces of furniture. Clear pathways for navigation and consider adding labels or signs to assist those with memory challenges. As you make these adjustments in your Seattle home, think if storage solutions can ease the process for you. Convenient door-to-door storage Seattle provides can aid in keeping spaces clutter-free while ensuring that cherished items remain accessible.

Storage solutions for both scenarios

As Seattle households evolve and expand, so does the demand for adaptable and efficient storage solutions. Hence, regardless if you’re preparing space for babies or elders, know that smart storage solutions can significantly optimize your environment.

a bathroom with hand rails
Installing grab bars in bathrooms can significantly enhance safety for elders, promoting their independence and confidence.

Maximizing existing spaces

Closets can be organizational wonders when used to their fullest potential. Consider incorporating adjustable shelves or compartmentalized storage boxes to tailor the space to your needs. Under-bed spaces, often overlooked, can be ideal for items that aren’t needed daily. With rolling storage bins or vacuum-sealed bags, you can easily stow away seasonal clothes or bedding. Additionally, multi-functional furniture, like ottomans with storage or beds with built-in drawers, can serve dual purposes: providing functionality while decluttering your space.

Opting for external storage

There are instances when Seattle home storage isn’t enough, especially when safeguarding items you don’t currently need but can’t part with. Off-site Ballard self-storage options offer flexibility and security. They allow families to keep their belongings safe without cluttering their living spaces.

Moreover, for items you want to store but also access from time to time, they provide the perfect balance, ensuring that your items are both out of the way and within reach when needed. In both scenarios, whether anticipating a new baby or welcoming a beloved elder, efficient storage strategies can simplify transitions, creating a harmonious living space for all.

Crafting harmonious homes for all ages

Transitions in family life, from welcoming a baby to integrating our valued elders, demand adaptable living spaces. Efficient storage solutions and intentional design choices both maximize our spaces and instill a sense of warmth and belonging. So, as you implement these strategies for preparing space for babies or elders, remember the goal: to create a home where every family member feels cherished and at ease. Invest in smart storage and thoughtful design solutions, and let your home resonate with comfort for all generations.

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Locations Served

LYNNWOOD PORTABOX

2902B Lincoln Way Lynnwood, WA, 98087

SEATTLE PORTABOX

10750 Aurora Ave N Suite B Seattle, WA 98133

NEWCASTLE PORTABOX

6868 Coal Creek Pkwy SE Newcastle, WA 98059

BOISE PORTABOX

103 N Curtis Road Boise, ID, 83706