As a rule, moving house is difficult. And even if you had eight arms of an octopus and four friends who also have eight arms, you would probably still struggle with the move. But if your house move is only taking you a few miles from your current home, you can maybe afford to be a little careless with the planning. If you overlook anything, you can always come back to sort it out.
However, when you are moving long-distance there is no room for error. If you hire a moving vehicle that is too small, you cannot make the trip twice. And if you are not careful, the cost of moving your belongings may be even higher than the actual value of the items themselves warns Alltrade Management. For long-distance moves, you must plan every detail. And you have to start early.
But the thing is, leaving a familiar place is difficult and going to a strange place is a bit scary. And this might interfere with your ability to get ready. So, to help you navigate the difficult days ahead, we are offering you our list of long-distance moving tips, so you don’t have to create your own. If anything else, these tips will help you save some money.
Start packing immediately
The difficulty of packing can have you procrastinating. Make it easier by breaking it up in batches and doing it in small bits over weeks instead of concentrating it over a few days.
2. Create a packing timeline
Break your packing into small manageable tasks and set a deadline for completing each mini-task. Separate chunks of time – say one/two hours for packing daily.
3. Prepare packing supplies
The quality of packing supplies matters; you don’t want your things getting damaged. On a long-distance move there is little room for error, so use the best materials.
4. Inventory your home
To keep your stuff from going missing, get a notebook and list all items as you pack them, noting the box the item was put into.
5. Sort your stuff
To reduce the cost of moving, sort your belongings. There will be items that are broken, disused, duplicate, or obsolete. Toss them away or donate them. Do not take them with you.
6. Sell, gift, or trash unwanted items
Sort items into things you want to give to friends, donate to charity, sell in a yard sale/eBay,, or discard in the dumpsite.
7. Decide about your furniture
Even if you love your furniture, moving them might cost more than they are worth. Decide what you will leave behind or take with you.
8. Pack the most difficult rooms first
These will usually be areas used for storage (garage, basement, attic, closet, or spare rooms) and the least-used area of the home.
9. Get a list of forbidden items
Even for short-distance moves, there are items that professional movers are not allowed to carry. The list is longer for interstate moves.
10. Pack safely
Double-wrap pointed/sharp objects. Put heavier items at the bottom of boxes. Tape the sides/bottom of boxes securely. Wrap breakables before packing them. No box should exceed 50 pounds.
11. Label all moving boxes
Color code boxes to show the room their contents belong to. Label delicate items. Label boxes to show which ones should be moved first, last, or not at all.
12. Choose an affordable long-distance mover
Shipping costs are determined by the weight of items, so pack only the necessary things. Save costs by asking friends to help you pack. Get estimates from multiple companies.
13. Prepare your pets for the move
Interstate movers cannot move your pets; you may have to use your car. But before you move, get your vet to do a checkup.
14. Pack moving essentials bag
For every member of the family, you need a moving essentials bag. It should contain medications, sanitary items, spare clothes, nightclothes, chargers, games, and electronics.
15. Keep your valuables close
Protect your valuables by keeping them in a separate bag that you keep on your person all the time. Valuables include IDs, documents, jewelry, heirlooms, etc.
16. Get friends to help you
Given that they are not likely to see you in a while; your friends will be most happy to help you with your packing.
17. Avoid accidents on moving day
Designate a moving pathway in the house and keep it clutter-free always. You and your friends should practice safe lifting protocols at all times.
18. Change your home utilities
Contact the utility companies to disconnect the utilities in your current home. Simultaneously contact the utility companies in the new location to connect your new home.
19. Change your postal address
Change your postal address with the United States Postal Service (USPS) if you want to keep getting your mail.
20. Get school and medical records
You will need school records to register your children in a new school and your new family physician will need to see your medical records.
21. Say goodbye to your friends
This is likely going to be the hardest part. We leave you to handle it as you see fit.
Have a safe trip and enjoy life in your new place. Cheers!