A long distance move is more than a change of address — it’s a major life change filled with both opportunities and challenges. Moving long distance can stir up a whole range of emotions, including excitement, worry, and stress about the future. Knowing what to expect can help you process these emotions and prepare for what’s next, whether you’re moving for a job, family, or a fresh start. In this blog post, we hope to give you some tools to plan effectively and have a smooth, streamlined experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to give you the clarity and confidence to make your move as stress-free as possible.
Step 1: Preparing for the Move
The first step in any move is to gather details, choose your moving strategy, and develop a plan. Professional moving companies (like Scobey) can help you at the level you need, from DIY to full-service moving and packing. Here’s how to start the process of moving long distance:
Planning and Organization
Set a Realistic Timeline: Begin planning at least two to three months before your move. Break tasks down into manageable, weekly goals. This can help you avoid last-minute chaos!
Create a Detailed Moving Checklist: Include every task, from notifying your current landlord to organizing a farewell party. A comprehensive checklist helps to keep you on track and reduces the risk of forgetting important steps.
To help make the process of moving long distance easier, here’s a free, downloadable moving checklist.
Budgeting for Your Move
How much is the move going to cost? Would DIY or hiring a moving company be the better option for your move? Since every move is different, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of DIY moving vs. hiring a professional mover to make the best choice for your unique situation.
Here are some steps to accurately budget for your move:
Estimate Costs: Beyond the obvious costs like movers and transportation, don’t forget about the cost of packing materials, insurance, and potential storage fees. Use online calculators to get a ballpark figure and adjust based on your specific needs.
Account for Hidden Expenses: Don’t forget about meals on the road, temporary lodging if needed, and costs for setting up utilities at your new home. Planning for these can help avoid surprise costs.
Be cautious of moving brokers! These companies outsource your move to others who might not uphold the standards of professionalism and reliability. Always confirm if you’re dealing directly with a mover and read the agreement carefully to avoid unwelcome surprises.
Researching Moving Companies
Choosing the right moving partner is one of the most important factors in having a great moving experience. Not all moving companies offer the same quality of service. When you’re moving long distance, make sure your potential mover has what it takes to handle your move.
Here are some ways to find a qualified, professional mover:
Find Reliable Movers: Start by asking for recommendations from friends or family. Check online reviews and verify each company’s credentials and licenses with the Department of Transportation.
Consider Getting a Virtual or In-Home Estimate: An in-home or virtual estimate is a great way to get information about the cost of your move. Many companies (like Central) also offer online estimates using your own smartphone. A person can take a video of their belongings, upload it to the mover’s software, and get a quick, no-obligation quote. This not only gives you accurate information, it also gives you an opportunity to interact with your potential mover.
Wondering how to know whether your potential mover has the credentials and authority to handle your move? Check out this post about how to check a mover’s qualifications.
Step 2: Packing and Decluttering
Organizing and decluttering before moving long distance makes a huge difference towards streamlining your move. This step can save you money by reducing the volume of items you’re moving, and it can also help you to start fresh in your new home. By sorting through your items, you can minimize clutter, pack more efficiently, and make settling into your new home smoother and more organized.
Sorting Your Belongings
Declutter: This is the perfect time to decide which items make the cut to come with you to your new home. Separate items into categories: keep, donate, sell, or discard. You might consider having a garage sale or using online platforms to sell items to reduce your load and earn extra money.
Tips for Handling Sentimental Items: Pack these items with extra care. Use padding (like bubble wrap and sturdy boxes), and label them clearly so they receive the necessary attention during the move.
Packing Smart
Once you’ve sorted and decluttered, it’s time to get packing! Using the right materials and packing techniques is super important to ensure your belongings get to your new home without damage.
Moving long distance? Here are some packing pro tips to make sure your items are safe and secure:
Use the Right Materials: Invest in high-quality packing supplies such as sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and padding. This investment protects your belongings and reduces the risk of damage.
Label Boxes Clearly: Include the contents and the room each box belongs to. This will make unpacking more organized and less time-consuming.
Secure Fragile Items: Use appropriate padding and packing techniques, such as wrapping each item individually and filling any gaps in the box with cushioning material.
Special Considerations for Large or Fragile Items
Pack Furniture, Electronics, and Artwork Carefully: For large items, consider disassembling if possible and wrapping each piece. Electronics should be packed in their original boxes if available, or use anti-static packing materials.
Step 3: Handling Logistics
Before moving day, it’s important to make sure logistics are in order. Many people get so busy packing that they forget about other details. Here are some things to handle pre-move so that settling in goes off without a hitch:
Updating Personal Information
Change of Address: When you’re moving long distance, notify the postal service, banks, credit card companies, and any subscription services about your new address. This way you’ll continue receiving important mail and services without interruption.
Transfer Utilities and Subscriptions: Schedule disconnections and reconnections of utilities like water, electricity, and internet. Align these changes with your moving date to streamline the transition to your new home.
Planning Travel to Your New Location
Book Flights or Plan Road Trips: Consider the most convenient and cost-effective travel method for your family. If driving, plan your route and accommodations in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
Consider Travel Logistics for Pets: Research pet-friendly accommodations and ensure your pets have the necessary vaccinations and travel carriers.
Understand Regulations: When you’re moving long distance, make sure you understand moving regulations. There are federal guidelines outlining the transport of goods across state lines. Moving plants, pets, and firearms can be tricky because each state has their own regulations. A moving partner (like Central) can help you understand these guidelines so you can be prepared.
Managing Legal and Financial Documents
Safeguard Important Documents: Keep documents like leases, contracts, identification, and financial records in a secure, easily accessible place (not packed in the moving truck!). Consider using a digital backup for extra security.
Step 4: Moving Day
The big day is here! Staying organized and calm is key to a successful move. By keeping a close eye on the process and ensuring you have essentials within reach, you can help everything go smoothly and reduce stress for yourself and everyone involved.
Coordinate With the Movers
Ask Questions: If possible, be available to provide the movers with any special instructions so that you have the information you need. When you’re on-site, you can ask questions and get answers quickly.
Communicate Clearly: Keep an open line of communication with the moving crew to address any immediate concerns and ensure everyone is on the same page. Moving long distance requires coordinating logistics and timelines. Your mover should help you stay informed during the process.
A great moving partner (like Central) prioritizes communication. Your move coordinator will keep you in the loop if there are delays and can help you get information quickly. Need a carpet cleaner? What about storage services? Your move coordinator is also a hub for services you might need!
Staying Calm and Organized
Keep Essentials Handy: Pack a separate bag with essentials such as snacks, chargers, a first-aid kit, and important documents. This ensures you have easy access to necessities and don’t have to rummage through packed boxes.
Manage Stress: Take breaks, stay hydrated, and try to maintain a positive mindset. While you’re focused on the move, don’t forget to take care of yourself, too!
Step 5: Settling Into Your New Home
Congratulations! You’re home! In this last step of the moving process, here are some things you can do to start on the right foot in your new location.
Inspecting Your Belongings Upon Arrival
Check for Damages or Missing Items: Before the movers leave, inspect your items for any damage or missing pieces. Take photos of any issues and contact the moving company promptly to file claims if necessary.
Unpacking and Organizing
Prioritize Rooms: Focus on setting up rooms you’ll be using first (like the kitchen and bedrooms). This can help you and your family start adjusting quickly.
Set Up Utilities and Services: Make sure your utilities are functioning, and set up any necessary services, such as internet and cable, to make your home comfortable.
Exploring Your New Neighborhood
Familiarize Yourself With Surroundings: Take walks to explore your neighborhood. Visit local parks, stores, and community centers to get acquainted with your new environment.
Build Connections: Introduce yourself to neighbors and consider joining local groups or clubs to integrate into the community and create a sense of belonging.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How far in advance should I start planning a long distance move?
Ideally, starting the process two to three months in advance is recommended. But a great moving partner (like Scobey) can help you have a streamlined move regardless of your timeline.
2. What’s the best way to find affordable movers?
Compare quotes from multiple companies, check reviews, and consider recommendations from trusted sources.
3. How do I handle moving pets or plants long distances?
Research regulations, ensure you have the proper carriers, and prepare for their comfort during the journey.
4. What should I do if my belongings are damaged during the move?
Quality moving partners make every effort to make sure all your belongings arrive safely. But if something unexpected happens and an item is lost or damaged, document the damage with photos and contact the moving company immediately. The mover will help you through the next steps in their claims process.
Moving Long Distance With Confidence
By following this step-by-step guide, you can make your long-distance move smooth and successful. Embrace this new chapter with confidence, knowing you’re well-prepared to take on the challenges! We hope this helps as you start planning so that you can focus on the exciting opportunities your new home brings!
