How to properly organize a move over long distance?
Proper planning and preparation are the keys to any successful move. Long-distance moves are stressful and frightening. There’s no doubt about that. You leave everything you know behind in the hope of a brighter future. It’s a new job, new friends, new restaurants, and new weather. Everything is different, and you might question yourself. That’s perfectly normal.
The actual moving process itself isn’t exactly a walk in the park, either. However, the pros at Safebound Moving & Storage have broken down a method that guarantees success for organizing a move over a long distance.
Start Planning Early
Long-distance moves aren’t something you can execute well overnight. They require careful planning and preparation. We recommend you start planning your long-distance move at least three months in advance. You want to begin researching reputable moving companies early in the process, especially if you’re moving during moving season.
We’re talking about the summer – more specifically, May-August. The kids are out of school. The weather is optimal for working outside, and you won’t miss any major family holidays. Those few factors, plus some others, make summer the busiest time of the year for long-distance movers. And the price of your move will be higher in those months because moving companies are in high demand. If you want to get a good deal, consider moving in the winter when moving companies aren’t so busy, and they’re eager for jobs.
Research & Hire A Reputable Moving Company
Trust us. You don’t want to move long-distance by yourself. A DIY move might be fine for local moves, but anything long-distance should be left to the pros if you can afford it. There are an infinite number of things that could go wrong, and you’re better off with the experts.
However, you have to be careful when you’re in the hiring phase of your moving process. The moving industry is notorious for scamming customers who don’t know better. But if you’re reading this article, that shouldn’t be something you have to worry about because you clearly are looking to educate yourself on the moving process.
Refer to websites like the Better Business Bureau and Homeadvisor to assess potential moving companies. Shop around a little bit and see what kind of quotes these companies throw at you. And never jump at the first affordable offer. Companies that low-ball you are likely just looking to collect your deposit and never show up. Unfortunately, that’s all too common in this industry.
Transfer Services & Change of Address
Don’t forget about these necessities. You’ll need to transfer your TV and internet and submit a change of address. The easiest way to submit a change of address form is by going directly to the USPS website. Some other agencies you’ll have to alert include:
- Post office
- Social security administration
- Homeowner or renter insurance
- Bank and credit card company
- Magazine and subscription services
- Gas and electric providers
- Tax agencies
Pack Intentionally
What do we mean by “pack intentionally”? We mean, make a plan for tackling every room in your house and put it on a schedule. You don’t want to be lazing through the house carelessly, throwing a few things into a box at a time. That will surely set you up for a nightmare scenario when it’s time to unpack.
Start with the room you use the least in your home. Pack that room first. Don’t forget to label the boxes as you go. Be specific with your labels, too. If you pack a box with silverware, write “Kitchen – silverware” on the box.
Take a Breath
The most stressful part of moving long-distance is the anticipation. The best way to combat those feelings of unease is by planning ahead and getting your ducks in a row as early as possible. Start planning your move about three months in advance. That should give you plenty of time to get your affairs in order.
When you look for a moving company, do your research and due diligence because not every company is in the interest of helping you move. When it comes to packing, make a game plan and stick to it. If you follow these guidelines, your long-distance move can be easier than you thought.
