Long distance moves can be incredibly stressful, but with some planning and preparation, you can make your move as stress-free as possible. To do so, start early, get rid of unwanted items, label boxes and create an inventory, hire professional movers, update your address and utilities, and take care of yourself.
1. Get Organized
A long distance move involves more than just moving your belongings to a new home. There is also a lot of planning and organizing that goes into it. For this reason, it’s a good idea to get organized early on in the process. This will help you stay on track and ensure that all of the necessary tasks are completed before your move day.
Start by creating a binder or folder for documents related to your move. Make sure to label everything, and try to stick with a schedule for the tasks that you need to complete. This will help prevent any last minute hiccups that could throw off your whole plan. For example, you might need to hire movers on a specific date or you might need to cancel or transfer your utilities. Either way, staying on schedule will reduce stress and ensure that everything is done correctly.
It’s also a good idea to make a list of all of the people and organizations that you need to inform about your move. This includes your friends, family members, the post office, your employer, and any other important contacts. You should also create a “must-have” bag that contains items you’ll need during your first few days in your new home. This should include things like toiletries, a change of clothes, and any medications you might need. Finally, don’t forget to update your address with the post office and your bank.
2. Get Rid of Unwanted Items
It’s a good idea to sort through your items and get rid of anything you don’t need. This will help you reduce the number of items you need to pack for your move, which in turn will save you money on moving expenses. It’s also an excellent opportunity to reevaluate some of your belongings and consider whether or not they’re worth keeping.
One way to get rid of unwanted items before your long distance move is by selling them online or to a local charity. This is a great way to earn some extra cash and it’s also nice to know that someone else will benefit from your old possessions.
However, it’s important to remember that just because you’re getting rid of these things doesn’t mean that you should throw them away. Some items, like your old books and electronics, can still be of use to other people. Just make sure that you donate them to an organization that will give them a new life and avoid throwing them away.
Another option is to donate your items to a friend or family member. This is a great way to make someone else happy while making your move less stressful. Just be sure to clearly label each box with its contents, as this will make it easier for your movers to find what they need. Additionally, it will prevent your boxes from being misplaced on the truck or accidentally dropped off at the wrong house.
3. Get Your Car Ready for the Trip
Depending on how long your move will be, you should prepare for the trip by making sure all essential items are packed. First-aid kit, travel documents, a map or GPS device, personal hygiene products like hand sanitizers and wet wipes, medicine for any ailments you may have, as well as some warm clothes and blankets (especially if traveling during winter).
It’s also important to check your car’s fluid levels, tire pressure, and braking system. You’ll be driving over different terrains and the brakes will take a beating, so you want to make sure they are in good condition. If you have any doubts, it’s always best to get a professional to do a brake inspection.
As you pack, be sure to place heavy items at the bottom of your vehicle and stack lighter items on top. This will prevent them from shifting during the drive. You should also secure all loose items with bungee cords or tie downs to prevent them from moving around and damaging your belongings during the move.
Since the cost of a long distance move is usually based on weight, it’s a good idea to go through your belongings and get rid of any unnecessary items. Holding a garage sale or donating items to charity can help you lighten your load and save money on your move.
4. Hire Professional Movers
If you’re moving far away, hiring professional movers is a good idea. These professionals will take care of everything, from packing to transporting your belongings. They’ll also have experience dealing with long distance moves, so they know how to handle any challenges that may arise.
To find a good long-distance mover, do some research online. Look for reviews and read testimonials from previous clients. You can also ask friends and family members for recommendations. Once you’ve found a few potential candidates, request in-home estimates. This is an important step because it will help you make sure that you’re getting a fair price for your move.
When you’re planning your move, consider your budget and how much stuff you have to move. If you’re on a tight budget, try to get rid of some of your items by donating them or having a garage sale. This will not only lighten your load but it will also help you pay for your move.
If you’re moving with a partner, it’s a good idea to split up the tasks involved in the move. This will make it easier for you both to stay on track with your responsibilities and will reduce your stress levels. In addition, it will also help to make the process more fun. If you’re unable to split up the work, consider using PODS containers for your move.
5. Update Your Address and Utilities
Notifying companies about your move is one of the most important things you can do. You need to let your insurance providers, tax agencies, utility companies and the post office know that you are moving and provide them with your new address. You should also notify any other service providers that you may have shared your address with such as schools, daycares, churches, attorneys and healthcare practitioners. If you have pets, make sure to notify the veterinarian about your move as well.
Once you have contacted all of the essential service providers, schedule your utilities to be disconnected at your current home at least two days before your move. You should also contact your local energy provider and explore home energy solutions by state to find out what options are available at your new home.
Before leaving your old home, be sure to take photos of your gas and electricity meters so that you can verify that your utilities are transferred to your name. This will help avoid any billing discrepancies down the road. Lastly, be sure to contact your water and waste management company to schedule disconnection at your current home and reconnection at your new home. You can do this online or over the phone and will likely be required to provide a deposit to begin service. This is a task that should be completed early and often to make your long distance move as smooth as possible.
6. Take Care of Yourself
Moving long distance is a stressful process, but with careful planning and organization, it can be made less so. By starting early, getting rid of unwanted items, labeling boxes and creating an inventory, hiring professional movers, updating your address and utilities, and taking care of yourself, you can ensure that your move is as stress-free as possible.
Make sure to set aside some time for yourself during the moving process and schedule tasks like utility installation or school enrollment well in advance of your actual move date. This will help you avoid rushing to get everything done at the last minute and minimize your chances of forgetting something important. You can also keep yourself on track by setting reminders on your phone or computer.
Finally, remember to take care of yourself during the move and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Take a few breaks throughout the day, try some self-care activities, and concentrate on the positive aspects of your move. By following these expert tips, you can make your long distance move as stress-free as possible. Good luck!