Moving is never easy, but relocating out of state or country presents even greater challenges. A single mistake can cost you your fragile items and beloved belongings. To ensure a smooth and safe move, it’s essential to take specific steps before you begin.
This article is the ultimate guide to long-distance moving, providing you with everything you need to know before you go.
Long-Distance Moving: What You Need to Know Before You Go
1. Plan Your Move Early:
When you leave your moving tasks at the last minute, you never complete them. You make an incomplete move, which is expensive and irritating. Therefore, start planning your move as early as possible.
Create a detailed checklist that includes all the tasks, including researching a moving company, which you must inform, admission to the new school, and decluttering. When you start planning early, all your tasks are done perfectly by the time of the move.
2. Declutter The Unnecessary Items:
Moving companies usually charge based on the weight of the items or the number of items to be moved. The more items there are, the more expensive and difficult the move will be. Therefore, decluttering is the best option to tackle this issue.
Visit every room and analyze what you no longer need and will only stay and get dust at your new place. If you find anything like that, either sell, donate, or discard it, as it’ll add up to the moving cost.
3. Go for the Right Moving company:
Don’t be in a hurry to choose a moving company. Selecting the wrong and unreliable moving company can create more problems than ease. Therefore, whatever company you are looking to choose, read its reviews wherever you can find them online. Ask friends and family about the company.
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4. Smartly Pack:
Don’t just pick up the stuff and put it in any box or all types of things in one or a similar box. That will leave you wondering what to unpack first after arriving at your new place. Smartly pack and label each box with the amount of the contents and then remove it. It’ll go in.
Also, create a separate box for the essential things you’ll immediately need upon your arrival at the new place, including important documents, clothes, or toiletries.
5. Properly Plan Your Travel:
Travel plans need just as much attention as packing. If you’re driving, ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the long journey—get a tune-up, check the tires, and plan for rest stops along the way. If you’re flying, book your tickets early and arrange transportation.
6. Take Inventory:
Taking inventory of your belongings may seem like an extra step, but it’s a lifesaver during a move. Create a detailed list of everything you’re packing, from large furniture to smaller items. This way, you can track your belongings, ensuring nothing is left behind or lost.
7. Get Your New Home Ready:
Before you move into your new home, make sure it’s ready. If possible, confirm that essential utilities like water, electricity, and internet are set up. Visit beforehand to clean or arrange for a professional. Take care of any repairs so there are no surprises when you arrive. Being prepared makes settling in much smoother and stress-free.
8. Inform Important People:
It’s essential to let the right people know about your move. Update your new address with your family, friends, and any essential services like your bank, insurance, and subscriptions.
If you’re moving for work, inform your employer and coworkers beforehand. Keeping everyone updated helps avoid issues and ensures you continue receiving important mail and services.
9. Take Care of Yourself:
Moving, especially long-distance, can be physically and mentally exhausting. It’s essential to take care of yourself during the process. Stay hydrated, eat nutritious meals, and get enough rest to avoid burnout. Taking breaks during packing can also help you recharge and stay focused.
This is the ultimate guide to long-distance moving, and you must follow it before starting your move.
FAQs
How far in advance should I start preparing for a long-distance move?
It’s best to prepare at least 6-8 weeks before your move. This gives you enough time to organize, pack, and handle last-minute issues.
What’s the easiest way to stay organized during a long distance move?
Create a checklist and label your boxes! Keeping things in order with a plan will save you time and stress when unpacking.
Do I need to inform my utility providers about the move?
Yes, you must notify your utility companies to ensure services are disconnected at your old place and set up in your new home.