How to Prepare for a Long-Distance Move

13 Oct How to Prepare for a Long-Distance Move

Moving is one of the most stressful things any person can do. Not only are you faced with packing up your entire life, but then there’s the logistics of getting it to your new location and unpacking. And if you’re moving long-distance, that means twice as much work! Fortunately for those who want to avoid a headache (or two) when they move, there are some simple steps you can take ahead of time to make everything smoother. Here are four tips on preparing for a long-distance move.

1. Have a Budget for Your Move

When you’re preparing to move, there are a lot of costs that pop up which you might not have considered. In addition to the movers themselves, if you’re driving your own vehicle as part of your move, gas and tolls will be added expenses. You should also consider any meals you will need during your trip and any lodging costs you might incur for overnight stays.

2. Create a Moving Schedule

It’s important to have a plan in place for when you will pack up your things and when you will have them moved. When planning out your moving schedule, leave yourself time to take care of any last-minute errands or trips that need to be taken before the move commences, as well as ample opportunity to relax once everything is successfully packed up.

3. Prepare All Relevant Paperwork

Any time you move, certain documents need to be carried with you. You will need to have your current lease agreement in order and your driver’s license and/or identification documents. If you’re moving out of state or even out of the country, it’s worth double-checking what specific paperwork you might need for your new location.

4. Hire Professional Movers

Hiring a moving company is an absolute necessity. If you attempt to go it alone, there is a good chance that something will be damaged or lost. While your budget might not allow for hiring full-service movers, you should definitely find one who can at least provide transportation of your goods from point A to point B. Remember to check the following before signing a contract with a moving company:

• Are they licensed and insured?
• How long have they been in business?
• Do they have any reviews or comments from past clients?
• What types of payment do they accept, and exactly what is included in the cost of their services?

In 2018, local moves accounted for about 39% of all relocations. Even though they’re the most popular type of move, you might not realize just how much work is involved whether you’re moving across town or from one state to another. While you can handle a local move on your own, hiring the right moving companies will save you time and money when it comes to your long-distance relocation.