Unlike local moves, long distance ones require more advanced planning and preparation. Rushing your move can leave fragile items broken and valuables lost.
It’s also important to declutter before moving. Getting rid of unneeded items will make the packing and transport process faster and cheaper. Organize your belongings into keep, donate, and throw away categories.
Get Organized
If you are moving long distance, it is a good idea to get organized. This will make the entire process much easier. Keeping all of your receipts, packing inventory, calendars, checklists and other important documents in one binder will help you stay on track and make the move less stressful.
It is also a good idea to go through your possessions and purge any items you no longer use. This is especially important because the cost of your move will be based on how much you ship, so it is best to bring only what you need to your new home. You can donate unneeded items or hold a garage sale to make some extra money.
Another important thing to do is to clearly label each box. This will help to prevent your belongings from getting lost during the move and it will also make it easier for you to find what you need when unpacking. If you want to be really thorough, you can even include a description of what is inside the box on the top.
It is also a good idea to start packing early. This will give you plenty of time to prepare and it will also reduce stress. In addition, it is a good idea to choose a day when there are few other people moving. This will ensure that your movers are available and it will also be cheaper.
Get a Moving Quote
When it comes to moving, it is often a good idea to get quotes from multiple companies. This will help you make sure that you are getting the best possible price for your move. It will also help you to spot any potential red flags, such as a quote that is significantly higher or lower than the competition.
When requesting quotes, be sure to give the moving company a thorough understanding of what you will and will not be moving. This will allow them to provide a more accurate estimate. Also, be sure to ask about any additional fees or services that may be included in your quote. For example, some moving companies offer a “released-value” protection policy that covers up to 60 cents per pound of your items during transit. This can be a great way to protect your belongings against damage or loss.
When it comes to long-distance moves, pricing is typically determined by the total weight of your shipment and the distance between the origin and destination locations. It is also important to keep in mind that if you are moving across state lines, your moving company will need to comply with rules established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regarding interstate moves. This means that your mover will be required to perform a physical survey of your household items and base their quote on the actual weight of your possessions, rather than an estimated weight.
Get Rid of Unwanted Items
Getting rid of unwanted items before a move is a great way to declutter and reduce your moving costs. You can sell or donate items that no longer serve a purpose in your life, such as old books or DVDs you never use. This will help you avoid bringing unnecessary junk with you on your move and can save you money on shipping costs.
Some items, such as clothing and household furniture, can be donated to local charities. Other items, such as electronics or kitchen appliances, can be sold or recycled. Donating these items can help you cut down on the cost of your move, and it will also allow others to enjoy them.
You can also consider selling your household items online. There are a few good options for this, including Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. You can also contact local secondhand stores to see if they have any interest in your items. Lastly, you can always throw out items that are no longer in good condition or just plain don’t work anymore.
If you have items that are extremely delicate or expensive, it’s a good idea to keep them with you in your vehicle during the move or pack them carefully into hand luggage if you’re flying. This will protect them from damage and ensure they’re safe during the trip. This is especially important if you’re moving long distance, where the risk of damage is higher.
Pack Everything You Need
A move isn’t just a matter of tossing all your belongings into boxes and loading them into a van. Moving long distance requires meticulous planning to ensure that everything goes smoothly. This means decluttering, hiring a reputable moving company, packing efficiently, and much more. Here are some expert packing tips to help you get started:
Use quality materials and pack your items in a way that prevents damage. It’s also helpful to label each box with its contents and the room it will go in your new home. This will make the unloading process much easier. Also, be sure to include any fragile items that you have in your possession.
Consider buying some packing supplies, such as bubble wrap and old t-shirts, to keep your items safe during the move. You can also purchase a variety of packing tape to ensure that your boxes stay shut. Finally, don’t forget to include any essential items that you will need right away in your move. This includes medications, pet food, and a few clothes for the first few weeks in your new home.
Lastly, be sure to notify any important parties of your move. This includes your doctor, employer, and any schools that your children may attend. It’s also a good idea to check with your insurance agent to see what your policy covers regarding a move. If you have any questions about your policy, contact your agent as soon as possible to avoid any issues in the future.
Hire a Moving Company
Getting organized for a move is already stressful, but long distance moves add a whole new layer of complication. It’s important to find a reputable moving company to help you get the job done on time and correctly. It’s also a good idea to get a move estimate from multiple companies before making your decision. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs during your move.
Make sure that the moving company you choose is licensed and insured. Check their credentials online and ask for references before hiring them. You should also get a written quote for your move that includes any terms or conditions that could affect the price. It’s not uncommon for some moving companies to overcharge, so it’s important to carefully review the quotes before choosing one.
Make a binder or folder with divider tabs for receipts, moving inventory, packing list, calendar, checklists, and the company contract. Keep it in a safe place so you can access it easily during the move. This will prevent any important information from being lost or forgotten. It’s also a good idea that you change your address in all of your accounts and documents well in advance. Doing this early can save you a lot of stress and hassle. It will also give you enough time to request service from the providers that will need to update your location.
Give Yourself Time to Adjust
When you’re moving long distance, you need to give yourself some time to adjust. This may take longer than you’d expect, but it will make everything much easier in the long run.
When it comes to long-distance moves, it’s often best to have a team. This can include friends, family members, or even coworkers. This can help to save you money and stress. Plus, it will make the process much more fun!
Once you’re ready to start packing, make sure to have a clear plan. This will help keep everyone on track and ensure that nothing gets missed. It’s also a good idea to have a timeline and a checklist of items you need to get done before the move.
Getting rid of unneeded items is another great way to make your move more manageable. You can do this by holding a garage sale or donating items to charity. Just remember to keep any important or sentimental items with you, as they will be the most difficult to ship.
Moving can be one of the most stressful experiences in life, especially when it’s long-distance. By following these long-distance moving tips, you can make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible. So, don’t forget to be patient and stay organized! It will all be worth it in the end. Best of luck on your next big move!