Having followed the growth and success of JamStorage, the Headteacher of Longdean School, Mr Graham Cunningham, contacted Matt and Justin, asking if they would return to the school to present the prizes at the annual Senior Presentation Evening that takes place in December.  They were humbled to be welcomed back for the event, 8 years after they had left school, and felt they had a duty to deliver a great speech with the right message to the current pupils.

They gave an inpiring speech about their time at Longdean and how this helped them shape their careers, and how they have grown from two guys and a van to employing nearly 40 people and carrying out moves around the UK and across the world.

Justin and Matt met at Longdean School and became friends when they were both Economics and Business students.  During their time there they decided that instead of going to university to learn more about the theory of business, they would just dive right in the practical experience.  With little money they looked for an industry with a low budget entry point. A removals company only required a van and a little manpower and so JamStorage was born.

Along the way they were given some valuable business insight from Sir Richard Branson, who told them he had found success by finding under-performing industry segments and shaking them up with innovation and great customer experience.  The removals industry was old fashioned, typically run by older men wary of new technology. The time was right for JamStorage to disrupt the status quo.

In 2016 Matt and Justin were awarded the Young Entrepreneur of the Year in the Hertfordshire Business Awards.

The early days of JamStorage was a steep learning curve but any mistakes made along the way have served to make the business even stronger.   They told the students “Whether it’s school, work, business or just life in general, you will always make mistakes, but there are three things we have always sworn by; Admit it, learn from it and don’t repeat it.”

Matt also encouraged the students to step outside their comfort zone to get the best out of themselves. “Rather than stressing and bench-marking yourself against others, keep your head down, focus on your aspirations and you will start to form your own ideas and achieve what you want.  You might just be surprised at what you can do when you step out of your comfort zone.“

During the presentation evening Matt and Justin personally handed out over 150 awards including subject awards, trophies for Performing Arts, Sport, Music and Maths as well as presenting last year’s Year 13 students with their A Level certificates.  After the speech and prize-giving there was time to talk to the pupils and their parents and catch up with the teachers, many of whom had taught Justin and Matt.

The post JamStorage Go Back To School appeared first on JamStorage.

His bike has been a regular feature in the warehouse over the last few months, cycling to and from work and even taking his bike with him on a recent move to a Germany (pictured below) to ride in the evenings, committed to not waning from his training regime.

Whether he’s moved your family, you work with Dan or you’re simply a JamStorage fan, every donation counts, let’s see how much we can get Dan up to.

Read Dan’s story here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/daniel-peacock3

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Each of the Parliamentary Review’s editions focuses on a key governmental policy area, with a variety of organisations sharing personal insight alongside cabinet ministers, government agencies, associations and trade bodies.  This year’s review includes forewords by the Rt Hon Theresa May MP and the Rt Hon Chris Grayling MP.  The aim of the Parliamentary Review is to highlight best practice from UK organisations of all sizes. and forms an indispensable guide to the industry, showing how leaders in the Transport sector have responded to political and economic challenges.

JamStorage took up the opportunity to publicise our history, growth and successes together with our company ethos and share it with the wide audience that the Parliamentary Review attracts.

The 3 page article explains how we have grown from a 2 man, 1 van local start up to the leading London removals and storage company with a team currently composed of 32 employees and 13 vehicles, in just 8 years. We take a responsible view of our employees and regard them as the business’s greatest asset, offering them internal training and progression. Many employees began as casual workers, quickly moving to become full time employees with guaranteed hours as the business has grown.

The training and skills developed in the removals industry are transferable to other markets, meaning we have been able to diversify into furniture store deliveries, logistics, commercial moves and fine art and antique shipping and storage.  This means that our business is not solely reliant on a volatile housing market or the future uncertainty that Brexit brings.

JamStorage has been diligent in keeping our fleet of vehicles up to date and we are ready for the introduction of the new Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in 2019.  Other businesses not so prepared may be facing a substantial cost to update ageing and out of date fleets.

The article also details other innovations and advances JamStorage have made, especially our market-leading website and virtual survey technology,  as well as our investment in back office staff with international and European removal experience.

You can read the full article here:- http://www.theparliamentaryreview.co.uk/organisations/jamvans

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There could be a number of reasons why you need storage for your antiques and fine art.  It could be that you aren’t ready to move into your new property yet, or that you’ve downsized, and don’t have room for them at the moment.  You may be an antiques dealer or gallery looking for temporary storage before shipping the antiques to your client. Or it may simply be that the prized possessions don’t fit in with the look and feel of your current home, but you don’t want to be parted from them.

Fine art and antiques need a special type of storage facility and you may find that most self storage companies are not quite up to standard.

We can ensure the correct storage environment for your antiques and art in both London and Hertfordshire, on both a long and short-term basis and then deliver them to you safely when required.

We can keep your items secure in state of the art storage facilities in London and Hertfordshire.  Our  are insulated and temperature controlled, with electronic entry systems, alarmed security, fire alarm systems and CCTV coverage guaranteeing you reassurance that your antiques are in safe hands.

If you are choosing a self-storage facility then we advise that you check the following provisions are in place:-

• Is the temperature controlled? Climate control is essential if you want to keep your antiques in great condition. You may require that a dehumidifier is in place to stop damp getting to your items.
• Are there carts or trolleys available for your use to transport your fine art or furniture – you don’t want to damage it by dropping it. And often these facilities are on many levels, so is there a lift available?
• Is the insurance sufficient at your storage depot? Check that they have their own insurance, or if you are required to have additional insurance covering accidental damage to your precious possessions.
• How secure is the facility? These are valuable items you are storing and it is essential that you can trust they are being kept as safe as possible.  Are the premises alarmed, is there CCTV, any security guards? Make sure you have peace of mind.
• Keep an inventory of everything you have placed in store – you do not want anything to go missing!

If in any doubt at all, why not give us a ring and talk through your requirements.  We can offer help and advice, the right sort of storage and packing and removal services too.

The post Antiques and Fine Art Storage Solutions appeared first on JamStorage.

Here at JamStorage we have the expertise to move your priceless cargo in, out or across London.  We specialise in offering secure fine art and antiques removals and shipping including:-

• Safe transportation of valuable art, delicate furniture, antiques and collectibles
• Specific insurance for your pieces
• Specialised packing and export wrapping
• Fine art packing and storage
• Dismantling and reassembly of furniture
• Dedicated move co-ordinators to ensure great customer service
• Secure, state-of-the-art storage
• Import and Export documentation and customs clearance.

JamStorage are experienced in the shipping and transportation of all forms of arts and antiques both in the UK and internationally, working on behalf of private individuals, insurance companies, auction houses, galleries and dealers. For our international removals we offer regular air and sea freight services.

Our ‘turnkey’ solution includes packing, crating, shipping and transportation and storage.  You will be allocated your dedicated move co-ordinator who will oversee each aspect of your delivery.  This gives you one point of contact at all times and you can be sure that everything will be handled with the greatest of care.

Our removal surveyors will visit you to discuss your requirements for antiques removals including the most suitable packing materials, equipment and the number of staff required.  We can also arrange additional bespoke insurance cover for your high value items. Each removal is given the individual care and attention it deserves, using experienced packers.  Usually the same team will be used to unload and unpack for you too.

We offer the same high level of service regardless of whether you are moving one valuable item or an entire museum! We can cater for single or multi destinations to the UK, Europe and the rest of the world.

Our staff are trained to a high standard and understand the level of care and attention that is needed to move high value items.  They appreciate the fact that items are often unique and irreplaceable and will treat them accordingly.

All clients can benefit from our export wrapping, packing and bespoke crating services.

If you would like to discuss removal and storage arrangements for your fine art, antique or high value possessions please contact us on 0208 166 1665, complete the contact form on the website, or email fineart@jamvans.co.uk.

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We can pack your art or antiques to export standards and can supply bespoke crates to fit any item, to ensure safe delivery. Our staff are trained to a high standard and understand the level of care and attention that is needed to move high value items.

To ensure the safe transportation of your artwork or furniture we have specialised methods of packing and loading. Paper and bubblewrap, where appropriate, are used to protect china and glassware before it is packed in strong boxes with additional padding inside. Anti-scratch blankets are used for furniture as well as a specialised packing and wrapping material that keeps out moisture and provides additional protection for valuable items. If you use plastic sheeting it is possible for moisture to be trapped, condensation to form and mould to develop, so we avoid this at all times.

Frames and mirrors have additional corner protection as these are areas that are most prone to damage.

Porcelain and pottery need special attention as handles and spouts can be easily damaged. It’s a balancing act between the right amount of bubble wrap and packing tape to keep them safe, but not so much that they are damaged when unwrapped or the packaging is cut away. Often a double walled box (or two boxed) should be used to keep the fragile items protected. If you are packing your items yourself have a look through our Packing Guide to see what tips we have to offer.

We advise that instead of packing your fine art and antiques yourself, that you call us to provide our expert packing services and ensure the safe packing and shipping of your precious, valuable pieces. It really is work for experts, and often insurance will only be valid if your possessions have been professionally packed.

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The Antiques Anonymous Flea Market is an extravaganza organised by the art and antique dealers of Church Street, Marylebone and Alfies Antique Market.  Now in its second year, it is a brilliant event that makes Church Street a focal point for vintage and design fans looking for unique items of jewellery, clothing and furniture.

JamStorage had been invited to attend  by one of the organisers Young & Sons who had seen our removal vans around London and know we have a great reputation for fine art and antiques shipping and moving.  This meant that all the successful buyers could relax knowing that their new purchases would be delivered safely and securely with delivery the same day or the following week depending on their requirements.

Four of the JamStorage crew arrived early and set up our stand.  We’d been allocated our very own security guard who kept us company and entertained us all day.  Luckily we’d brought the gazebo or we might have roasted in the sun.  Church Street itself has a wealth of history having hosted a market that started in the 1800s.  It has become an internationally renowned hub for antique shops and art galleries and is now the focus of one of Westminster Council’s regeneration plan.

The 80 antiques and art dealers who collaborated to create the market ensured there was a huge variety of unusual and rare quality, decorative items.  You can see some of the photos from the day on the Antiques Anonymous Facebook page.

Initially we were stacked high with crates, boxes, bubble wrap and export wrapping, but soon we had a steady stream of customers to wrap, pack and organise delivery of their precious antiques and artwork.  Some customers wanted delivery for later that day, and for others we utilised our storage with instructions to deliver later in the week.  We were also able to organise international delivery using our regular air and sea freight services, with full insurance, arranging import and export documentation and customs clearance.

Not only was there the massive range of contemporary designs, antique furniture, jewellery and clothing, but there was also entertainment with live music and exhibitions, and delicious artisan street food served from pop up stalls.  We had a great day, and even managed to watch the World Cup football as we’d pre-planned to stream it from our laptop.  The football was also shown in the local pubs The Traders Inn and Lord High Admiral, which only added to the great atmosphere!

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The virtual survey system is ideal for smaller home removals and means that you can walk us round your home and show us exactly what you want moved.  We can then calculate the volume, the number of men and vans it would need and how long it would take.  Then we can put together an accurate and competitive quote for your removal.

Many businesses in the home and real estate industries are now making use of virtual technology. Keylet Sales & Lettings have demonstrated this perfectly by using VR to provide viewings of properties through smartphones at any convenient time. It’s all about making the process easier.

We will still be having our surveyors out on the road visiting you in your home or office if you prefer, or if you have a large property or a more complex move, but these new virtual surveys are quick and efficient and you don’t even have to make us a cup of tea!

What do you need?

All you need is a smart phone and internet access.  We recommend using WiFi as it can use up quite a lot of your mobile data.

How does it work?

When you make a removal enquiry, our move co-ordinators will call you to first ascertain if a virtual survey or actual surveyor visit is more suitable, and then will book you in at a time that is convenient for you. If you opt for a virtual survey we need to know if you are using an Android phone or an i-Phone / i-Pad.

We’ll text you the link to the relevant app to download and install.  Once that is done we’ll call you at the designated time and conduct the survey.  It works a bit like a video conferencing call or Facetime.

We’ll ask you to walk us round your home, using your phone’s camera to show us all your belongings that you need to be moved to your new home, or into storage.  We’ll even ask you to show us what’s in your cupboards, garden and in your loft (where possible).  The JamStorage surveyors will be making detailed notes to enable them to put together your removal quote.  We’ll ask you lots of questions and then you’ll be able to show us the parking arrangements, so we can discuss any issues and solutions.

The move surveyors can also look with you via Google Streetview at the new property so we can see if there will be any access or parking issues that need to be addressed there.

From the survey we’ll be able to calculate what size vehicles we’ll need for your move, how many people should be on the move team, and how much packing materials you’ll need.

What are the benefits?

In our experience virtual surveys tend to be slightly quicker than normal surveys, but the real benefits lie in us being able to get your quote out much quicker as the surveyor is already at their desk ready to make a start on it as soon as they end the call with you.  We’ve been booking clients in just a couple of hours after we’ve first met!  It also means that we can quote for other areas of London where we don’t historically send our surveyors, so if you’re looking to move home into or out of London, we are the removal company for you!

What about packing?

Packing materials are included in all our quotes, but we do also offer a full packing service, so if you want to take some of the stress and effort out of a house or office move then just get us to carry out your packing too, assured that it will be to a professional standard.

What about storage?

If you aren’t able to move into your next property immediately, or you don’t want to take all of your belongings to your new home, we offer storage facilities. Find the full details here or just call us to discuss, or ask your surveyor.

The post Introducing our New Virtual Survey System appeared first on JamStorage.

Set out the reasons that have instigated your plan to relocate. Be clear about the positive reasons to move your business – more space, closer to customers or business partners, a source of skilled or specialised workers, cheaper property costs. Also consider the potential risks such as relocation costs, the loss of key employees who don’t want to relocate, disruption to your services, any increases in the costs of logistics or property leases. Include detailed expenses in your plan so you can make the right business decision based on facts, not just gut feelings.

Your business property

An office relocation can result in a reduction in your overhead expenses if you move to a more energy efficient building (reduced heating, lighting, air-conditioning costs), or if you have more room to house additional equipment and therefore don’t have to outsource so much work. Moving to a less expensive area may result in a lower mortgage or cheaper rent, or a much larger business property for the same costs. A new building can also mean a better working environment with an up to date digital infrastructure and conference rooms.

Your customers

Consider the attributes of your clients or customers. Are they willing to travel for your services, or would you gain significantly more customers if you moved nearer to your main customer base? Would it affect your customers if you relocated to a cheaper area further away? It is no use saving money on rent or property if you then lose most of your customers and have to rebuild from scratch. Moving to a new location may make it easier for new customers to find you and for existing customers to visit you, leading to higher sales figures.

Your logistics

Consider the cost of your logistics. Could you save substantial amounts of money in transport or delivery costs if you moved to a different area? Would that be worth any potential increase in rent or property prices? It may be possible to decrease your delivery costs or shipping time to customers if you pick the right location.

Your employees

What about employment costs? Certain parts of the country demand higher wages than others. If you relocated to a cheaper area could you make savings in your wage bill? Or if you relocate to a more expensive area, like London, would you also have to dramatically increase your pay structure to attract the right staff? A move to the right area may help you attract better employees and keep them longer.

Once you’ve decided that it’s the right time to relocate your business and have found the right property, then it’s time to call JamStorage! We will send one of our experienced surveyors to gather your requirements and provide you with a quote. We’ll assign you a dedicated move manager who will devise the most efficient and cost-effective way to carry out your commercial relocation that minimises down time for your business.

The post The Advantages of Relocating your Office appeared first on JamStorage.

• Plan well in advance – see our Planning an Office Move article for an overview.
• Ditch the junk before you move – as with a home removal, you don’t want to pay or spend time moving items that just aren’t required in the new office. It is possible to donate office equipment (including phones, photocopiers, printers, computers, redundant office furniture) to charity or to recycle them?
• Do you really need all that paperwork? – depending on how brilliantly organised your admin team are there may be files and files of out of date paperwork stored in your cabinets. Go through them and discard anything that is out of date or not relevant any more. Be careful though, make sure you keep all your accounting records for the right time period, customer records, warranties etc. And of the paperwork you are chucking out, dispose of it properly with regard to data protection.

• Find the right removal company – of course you can possibly move yourself and if so, start packing early and get the right packaging materials. Or leave it to the experts! Start looking for a removal company a couple of months in advance, that way you give yourself plenty of time to find the right company at the right price with availability that suits you. Get several quotes, make sure you ask for insurance details (and ask for proof). JamStorage are a member of the British Association of Removers. We are fully health and safety compliant and will carry out any risk assessments required. We hold £5million public liability and £10million employers liability insurance cover. All moves include our standard liability cover up to £50,000 per move. Any additional cover would need to be declared and we can quote separately for this.
• Mark or number your boxes – don’t just label the top, do the sides too, so it’s easier to find what you need in a hurry. It’s useful to number the boxes and generally list the contents so if anything goes missing you can trace it more easily or know what to claim for.
• Packing your electronic equipment – it’s a great idea to back up all your computers and data to a removable hard drive or to the Cloud before you move. Computers can get damaged in transit and although the machines can be replaced, the data can’t! All computer monitors should be wrapped individually in bubblewrap or thick blankets and the cables bagged up and labelled so you know where they came from.’ Printers should have their cartridges removed, scanners and copiers have their lids taped down.’ Sounds like a time-consuming job?’ It is, so why not use the JamStorage packing service too? You can have the piece of mind of knowing that all your valuable equipment is packed professionally, by experienced packers, and your staff can continue with their real work for as long as possible up to the move day.

The post Steps to include in your office move plan appeared first on JamStorage.