Any move can be a stressful experience. However, moving long distances brings an added layer of difficulty. Thankfully, there are some things you can do to make the transition smoother. For starters, be sure to hire reliable movers. Check their reviews and ensure they have a USDOT number and are licensed to move across state lines. 
When moving long distance, the earlier you begin to prepare for the move, the better. With proper planning and help from experienced movers, the process can be easier and less stressful than you might think.
For example, if you are relocating because of a job change or because you’ve decided to purchase a new home, start researching the area early to find out more about the local community. Make sure to also notify utility companies of your change in address and schedule a time to transfer services.
It’s also a good idea to take inventory of your belongings well before the move. You can use a mobile app or simply get out your pen and paper to write a comprehensive list of your possessions. This way, if something gets lost or misplaced during the move, you can easily check the inventory and determine whether it was moved to your new location. This is especially important if you have expensive or valuable items.
Create a Comprehensive Checklist
Whether you use an app or a notebook and pen, create a comprehensive list of your belongings and their location. You can even categorize your items to make it easier for movers to keep track of what they’re carrying.
For example, you can pack all the kitchen utensils together in one box, and label it “Kitchen Utensils.” This will help ensure that these items don’t get misplaced in transit. This tip is especially important if you’re moving across the country, as it can take weeks before you have access to your basic necessities again.
Another important thing to do is to notify all of your friends and family about your move. You should also let your utility providers know about the switch. This will allow them to disconnect your current service and connect your new one before the day of your move. This is important because it will help prevent any unnecessary charges on your bill. Likewise, you should also update your address with the post office so that your mail can be forwarded to your new address.
Declutter
Decluttering your home before a long distance move is essential to ensure that you only pack what’s necessary. It can also make the packing process much less stressful. Experts recommend sorting your belongings into piles to keep, throw away, sell, or donate. If you are struggling to get rid of items that have sentimental value, try reminding yourself that memories don’t always need to be tied to physical objects.
When starting the decluttering process, it’s best to go room by room at your own pace. Categorize the items in each room into “keep,” “give away,” or “sell” piles. You can even set aside a specific area in the house, such as your closet, for decluttering.
If you want to sell your belongings, organize a garage sale or put them on online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp. If you plan to donate your items, call a local charity ahead of time to make arrangements for pickup. This will save you the hassle of transporting these items to your new home.
Pack Efficiently
When packing for a long distance move, it is important to use the right materials. This will make the process much faster and easier. In addition, using proper supplies will help protect your belongings during the moving process. Ensure that you have the right boxes, tape, bubble wrap and other supplies.
You should also create a timeline for your move. This will help you stay on track and manage your time effectively. You should set deadlines for the completion of each task and coordinate them with your movers, building management, employer and family members. This will ensure that all aspects of your relocation are completed on time and in a timely manner.
It is also a good idea to downsize your belongings before the move. This will reduce the weight of your items and lower your moving cost. Most moving companies charge per pound, so downsizing your belongings will save you money on your move. It is important to be present at the initial truck weigh-in so that you can ensure that your items are accurately weighed.
Notify Important Parties
Long distance moving is a process that requires more planning and preparation than local moves. Whether you choose to hire movers or to do it yourself, a plan should be put in place as soon as you decide on your move date. This will help prevent any unnecessary stress.
When making a plan for your long-distance move, start by notifying important parties of the upcoming move. This includes notifying your current and new utility providers, bank, insurance provider, credit card companies, and subscriptions about your change of address. You should also notify friends, family, and colleagues of your new address so that they can send you mail or packages without any interruptions.
Lastly, it is a good idea to start packing as early as possible to avoid any last minute rush. Begin with items that are not used on a regular basis, such as books or out-of-season clothing, and then work your way towards more essential items such as bedding and kitchen supplies. It is also a good idea to label each box clearly so that you can find them easily during the unpacking process.
Plan Your Transportation
Unlike local moves, long distance moving involves transporting your belongings across states. Therefore, it is important to plan for this event in advance by researching and booking transportation options. This step is particularly crucial when you’re dealing with interstate movers, as these companies are subject to different laws and regulations and must be licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and have proper insurance.
In addition, it’s always a good idea to research moving companies to ensure they have an excellent reputation and are affordable. It’s also a good idea to ask for a written estimate before you hire them to avoid hidden fees. Also, remember to factor in the cost of fuel and labor when planning your budget.
Another important tip is to consider giving your movers a tip. Though it may seem like a small gesture, it’s a great way to show your appreciation for their hard work and dedication to your move. However, it’s important to know that a tip should never exceed 10% of your total moving costs.
Arrange for Utilities
Once you have the date of your move set, it is time to start arranging for utilities for long distance moving. This can include electricity, gas, water and trash services. You will need to contact the utility companies in both states and arrange to cancel service at your current home while transferring it to your new residence. It is best to do this weeks in advance. Contact each provider and ask about the process, timelines and any fees or charges associated with transferring or terminating service.
You should also research providers in your new state and determine what options are available to you. It is important to have this information so that you can make informed decisions about your utility transfer. Be sure to check the quality of customer service and read online reviews before committing to any company. This will help you avoid any surprises down the road. You should also create a home inventory list and keep it updated throughout the process to prevent items from being misplaced or lost.
Keep Important Documents
When moving, there are a lot of things you need to keep in mind. These include your personal and professional documents as well as important paperwork related to the move itself. You should also pay attention to storing these files in a safe place, such as a bank safety deposit box or a home safe.
This will help ensure that your documents are not lost or damaged during the move. You can also use a secure digital storage system to make sure that your documents are easily accessible.
When it comes to the paperwork you should be keeping, there are certain documents that are necessary for your day-to-day life, including birth certificates, credit card statements, insurance policies, property ownership papers, and legal contracts. You should also keep copies of any documents that are unique or personally identifying, such as your drivers license, passport, birth and marriage certificates, and wills. You should also notify your doctors and other financial institutions about your change of address, as this will prevent any billing issues in the future.
