Moving across the country can be intimidating. However, with the right measures in place, your move can go as smoothly as possible. Take a look at the moving tips you’ll need to keep in mind before, during, and after a long distance move. And remember to enjoy the journey along the way!
Do: Create a Detailed Plan
Preparation is key. Plan out each step of your move and how long each task will take. Many people enjoy the help of a long distance moving consultant who has experience in estimating this accurately. Include info on when you’ll pack, when you’ll hire help, the dates for loading the truck, etc. You should also consider what route you will take and when you’ll stop for rest.
Don’t: Underestimate the Costs
Moving is often more expensive than anticipated, especially when you’re moving cross-country. Consider unexpected costs such as fuel, tolls, lodging, and meals on the road. Another key tip is to have your tires and windshield wipers checked before the road trip so that you can rest assured you will be safe driving in various conditions.
Consider that some items may need to be shipped separately or stored along the way. Many companies offer Storage-in-Transit or longer term options.
Do: Research the Area
Research the area you’re moving to so you have an idea of what your new cost of living will be. Depending on what you’re looking for in a new city, make sure to look into which neighborhoods are best for families, the schools in the district, and the types of activities available in your new city. Other factors to consider include job opportunities, public transportation, and nearby amenities. Finally, make sure your movers(or yourself) understand the access to the new home. Long driveways, steep hills, and overhanging trees can affect pickup and delivery needs!
Don’t: Forget to Change Your Address
You’ll need to update all of your contact information for billing purposes, subscription services, and more. You can fill out a Change of Address form at the post office or on the USPS website You should also notify friends, family, and employers of your new address. Be sure you are using the USPS website directly and not a third party, it should only be $1-2 dollar charge.
Don’t: Wait Until the Last Minute
Many people procrastinate packing until the last minute. Give yourself plenty of time to sort through your belongings and decide what you want to take, what you want to trash, and what you want to donate. You should also consider how best to pack your items for maximum protection in transit. If you are not confident you can do this, it is cheaper to pay professional packers than to break a lot of fragile items!
If you have bulky items like furniture or workout equipment, disassembling them may be necessary and specific tools may be needed. Be sure to give yourselves, and your movers, plenty of time to prepare for these items.
Do: Declutter
Moving is a great opportunity to get rid of anything you don’t need or want anymore. Consider taking an inventory of all your items so that you can plan accordingly. Great ways to get rid of items include donating, selling, or holding a garage sale. Sometimes, it can be helpful to pre-order a dumpster so that you can easily get rid of items you don’t need, saving you time, money, and hassle before your move.
Don’t: Forget to Label Boxes
This is one of the most important tips for a successful long-distance move.
Label all boxes with their contents and the room they should be placed in upon arrival. It’s also helpful to keep an inventory list of everything you are transporting. This will make it easier to locate items if something should get lost or misplaced during the move, and will help keep your belongings safe when packing fragile items.
Do: Get Insurance
Insurance can help protect you financially in the event of theft, damage to your belongings, or other unexpected circumstances. Get a quote from multiple companies and compare policies so you understand what is and is not covered. This will help you decide if the cost is worth it for your journey. Some homeowners or renters insurance policies may cover belongings in the house, but not on the road or at the new destination, so be sure to read the specifics thoroughly and ask your insurance agent about the specifics.
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Don’t: Overlook Important Paperwork
Many people forget to transfer important documents when they move. Make sure you have all your vital records, such as birth certificates and driver’s licenses, in order for a smooth transition into your new home.
Additionally, if you have any pets, make sure their vaccinations are up to date and that you have the necessary paperwork to transport them across state lines. Mapping out various vets and 24/7 animal hospitals along the drive and in your new city is also important to do ahead of time. This will save you, and your pets, plenty of trouble and pain in the future.
Do: Hire a Reputable Moving Company
A reputable moving company can save you time and headaches by taking care of the heavy lifting.
They will also handle logistics like permits, paperwork, and navigating difficult roads. Research potential companies thoroughly to ensure they have a good track record and customer service reviews.
Don’t: Forget to Take Care of Yourself
Moving can be very stressful and overwhelming. Make sure you take time for yourself, rest when needed, and do activities that bring you joy amidst the chaos.
Don’t forget to check in with family members to make sure they are doing well during this transition. With proper planning, your cross-country move can be a smooth and enjoyable process.
How Do I Find the Right Long Distance Moving Company?
When searching for someone to work with, be sure to do your research and check reviews. Ask for references from friends, family, and colleagues. Long distance movers are not made the same. You will need to figure out which benefits are more important to you when choosing. Be cautious! There are many moving scams out there, DO NOT book with a moving broker!
You should also look into the carriers licensing and insurance coverage to make sure they are legitimate and reliable. Get a few quotes from different companies before you decide on one so that you can compare the prices and services offered. It’s also in your best interest to read customer reviews and testimonials to make sure you’re getting the best service possible.
Keep an eye out for what past customers had to say and how their experiences were. Ultimately, find the company that offers you the best combination of benefits to fit your situation, this will allow you to get the move that you are picturing.
A Cross-Country Move Can Be Simple
Making a cross-country move requires a lot of effort, but with the right preparation, you can make it as smooth and stress-free as possible. Just be sure you keep the above guidelines in mind so you can get started on the right track.
We are proud to offer premier moving services that can help streamline your journey. Get in touch with us today to learn more.
