7 Long Distance Moving Tips
If you are planning a cross-country move, then you may be feeling both excited and nervous at the same time! A long-distance move certainly takes a lot of planning and effort. Fortunately, there are ways that you can reduce your stress, and make the transition smoother for yourself, as well as your family.
Here are 7 tips to keep in mind:
1. Plan!
This is the most important factor in a successful move – especially a long-distance move. You need to be well-organized to ensure that all of your valued possessions make it to the final destination, that you arrive at your new home at the right time, and that you have the means to hit the ground running after the move has been completed.
2. Downsize for Long Distance Moving
Trying to transfer every single one of your current possessions to your new residence can add a lot of stress to your move. It can also add a lot of unnecessary expenses.
Instead of trying to take everything with you, make a list of all the items you own that are hardly used. (A good rule of thumb is: if you haven’t used it in a year, then you don’t really need it.) You can try to sell these possessions before the move, or simply give them away, either to family and friends or to a reputable charity.
3. Keep Your Most Valuable Possessions Close to You
When planning for long distance moving, it’s a good idea to pack your most valuable, treasured, and essential items in a separate bag or container, and keep them near at hand in your vehicle, instead of the moving van. These items could include valuable electronic devices, fragile heirlooms that have been handed down through the generations, or even essential personal items, such as toothbrushes and hair combs. Your moving company will give you a list of items that should be transported with you and not on the moving van. Pay attention to this list.
4. Make Travel Arrangements Far in Advance
Trying to cobble together travel arrangements at the last second can be a recipe for disaster. Whether it’s airplane tickets, hotel reservations, or coordinating with a moving company, always endeavor to nail down all the logistics of your move at least a month in advance. That will mean a lot less pressure on you when the big day comes.
5. Make Sure Your Mover is Licensed and Insured
Moving scams are an unfortunate reality in today’s dog-eat-dog world. Avoid the danger of hiring a shady mover by inquiring about the moving company’s license beforehand. You can check on the status of an interstate mover on the FMCSA’s website by typing in their U.S. DOT number.
All reputable moving companies should be able to provide you with the proper documentation.
6. Document the Condition of Each Item Before You Head Out
On occasion, accidents do happen mid-move. Thus, it is wise to itemize your possessions, and document each one’s current condition pre-move. (Some people take pictures of each item as well.) You’ll have solid evidence that the mover was at fault if his/her negligence or recklessness caused damage to your personal property.
7. Shop Around
It’s always a good idea to get quotes from multiple moving companies and compare rates. Not only that but dig into the company’s reputation among previous clients as well. Some fact checking and price comparing can help you to make the best decision for your big move.
At Clark’s Moving, we offer reliable, high quality moving services at reasonable rates. We know a long-distance move can be a real hassle, and we’re here to help make it easier. Reach out to us today to learn more.