A long-distance move can be a big undertaking with many moving parts. Whether you’re a cross-country veteran or a first-time mover, things can get stressful. Top Notch Moving has been doing long-distance moves for over 25 years, so we are well-versed on the topic. This blog post has important long-distance move tips to help you prepare for your transition. (We recommend you still read our tips for general moving if you haven’t already).
1. Plan Ahead
Mapping out everything you need to do is even more important in long-distance moves. The homeowner often leaves the house for good, which means no going back for loose, unpacked items. Everything must be ready for the movers.
Another step worth mentioning is preparing your travel plans. If you are driving, then scheduling overnight arrangements and finding places to stop and eat in advance can be helpful. This is especially true if your trip is headed toward the more rural West, where stops are sparse. If you are flying or leaving a car, then scheduling a car tow with your moving company’s tow service should be done early.
2. Declutter and Downsize
One of the most helpful things you can do for yourself, and the bill, is to get rid of things. Truck space is precious on long-distance moves. Moving extra furniture you might not use in your new home may stretch your job to an additional truck. On a short-distance move, you may think it’s worth it to bring the extra furniture and other unused items, as the extra truck would cost only a few hundred more dollars. On a long-distance move, however, you are looking at adding potentially a thousand to several thousand more dollars.
During your estimate, they will indicate how full the truck will get and if you are close to needing another truck. This will let you know if you need to downsize at all or if you need to make some hard choices.
3. Pack Strategically
Long-distance packing starts as any other move (one room at a time). The challenge becomes getting to every room. As mentioned already, everything must be packed to ensure it makes it all the way to the destination. In most cases, you can’t make a trip beforehand with your car or come back later for loose stuff. It comes down to planning and organization to ensure you finish the whole house in time.
Another thing to remember when packing items is that depending on the weather, it can get brutally hot or below freezing in the back of the truck. So, keep this in mind, depending on where you are going and what time of year it is.
4. Prepare a Personal Bag
The contents of a personal bag or suitcase will vary depending on how many days your move is, but the premise is the same. You will need to bring clothes appropriate for the weather, where you are and where you are going, along with shoes and maybe a jacket. It’s sort of like packing for a trip. You should also bring things you need to access throughout the move, like medication or a checkbook, or personal effects like passports and important documents.
While your belongings are safe with us, we understand the peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly where certain items are if they are in your own vehicle and instantly accessible. We will be more than happy to load your personal effects in your car if you didn’t get the chance or if it is heavier than you thought.
5. Hire Professional Movers
Enlisting the help of a reputable moving company can relieve significant stress. Professional movers have the expertise and equipment to handle your belongings safely and more efficiently. For long-distance moves, it is strongly recommended that someone from the moving company comes out in person to provide the most accurate estimate. As mentioned, accuracy is critical regarding how many trucks will be making the long haul. With a big job like a long-distance move, you should avoid FaceTime calls and email estimates if you have a lot of stuff.
Long-Distance Move Tips Regarding Budget-Friendly Movers
When it comes to long-distance moves, some people look at Van Lines because they are the cheapest option. While they are budget-friendly, the cost is low because you are sharing a truck with another family’s belongings. This can spread dirt, dust, and bugs or lead to one or more items getting mixed up and dropped at the wrong stop. Van Lines are also less flexible with scheduling, causing you to move sooner or later than preferred. Sometimes, you can have long hold times, leaving you without your belongings for much longer than expected.
The last issue to be wary about with Van Lines is the crew you will get on the unload. The biggest problem reported is when an item breaks and you go through the claim process, the different crews point fingers at each other, and you get stuck paying for the broken item. This is why we have the same crew who loaded also unload your belongings. This makes you more comfortable and is the best way for us to ensure the job is done right. We also only have one family per truck, so belongings can’t ever get mixed up.
6. Communicate Effectively
Everyone should be on the same page for a smooth and successful move. We always have the manager exchange numbers with the customer for long-distance moves. That way, you can reach them at any time, and they can keep you updated on their progress and arrival time. We understand that moving can be stressful, and we are here to assist you in any way possible to help you prepare.
Have a Top Notch Moving Experience
Long-distance moves present unique challenges that require careful planning and preparation. By following these long-distance move tips, you can successfully navigate the challenges of a long-distance move and look forward to settling into your new home.
We hope these long-distance move tips have been helpful. Please reach out to Top Notch Moving if you have a specific concern or question. We are happy to help in any way.
Wishing you the best with your move,
