Moving long distance can be a nightmare if you do not plan it correctly. If you are going to move, there are some tips you can use to make the process easier. While you might have thought of some of these tips for long distance relocation before, there are others that you might not have considered.
Consider Your Options
There are a few ways that you can move your possessions long distance, and you need to choose the right one for your situation. Most people choose long-distance moving companies because it is more comfortable. You could also move your possessions yourself or work with a container moving company.
If you are looking for the cheapest option, a DIY move might be your first stop, but this is not the cheapest long-distance move. Renting a van and getting friends and family to help is the cheapest option when moving short distances. The costs of returning the van in a different city or state will add up as will the costs of fuel and overall mileage. A professional moving company can often work out cheaper than a DIY move.
A container moving company is another cheaper option. With these companies, you will have a container that you fill in your own time. The company will then pick up the container and transport it to your new home. Of course, the cost of this option will vary depending on the time you take to fill the container.
Plan In Advance
Once you have determined the moving option you are going to use; you need to plan everything else. You need to plan when you are going to contact professional movers, if you have chosen this option. If you are going to move, you need to plan when you will book your van.
At this point, you should create a schedule for the rest of your move. This includes when you will start packing, which rooms to pack by a set date and when you need to advise everyone about your move. Taking the time to plan everything will ensure you do not forget something.
Research And Contact Moving Companies
If you have chosen to hire professional movers, you need to research and contact them months before your moving date. This is particularly important if you are moving at peak times. The summer months are the busy period for movers, and they will be booked months in advance. Researching and contacting them well before your moving date ensures you can hire the company you want.
If you are moving interstate, you need to look for the US DoT number for each mover. All long-distance movers need to have this number to operate legally. You can use the number to see if there are any complaints against the company. If there are, you should reconsider working with them. You also need to check reviews for the companies to determine the service you will get.
Once you have a shortlist of companies, you need to contact them for an estimate. Long-distance movers will generally complete an in-home moving estimate. If the company does not, you should reconsider working with them. In-home estimates are the most accurate as the movers can see everything they will move and any issues in the building they need to consider. If your home has a small hallway, this can cause problems on the moving day and increase your costs.
Downsize Your Possessions
The cost of long-distance moves is based on a few factors, including the weight of your possessions. If you have furniture that is bulky and heavy, your move will cost more. This is one of the reasons why you should look at downsizing when you move.
A move is also a great time to get rid of items in your home that you no longer need. If you have not used something in the last year, you should consider getting rid of it. This rule should be applied to clothing and appliances that you come across while packing. If you have not used your popcorn maker in a year, it is unlikely you are going to use it in the future.
Depending on where you are moving, you might not need some of the items you have. The multiple thick sweaters in your cupboard may be ideal for snowy winters, but they will not work if you are in California. If you are moving to a different climate, you need to sell or donate the clothing you will no longer need.
There are many tips that you should consider when moving long-distance. These tips include downsizing to save money and have more space for items better suited to your new location. You should also plan and contact moving companies as early as possible. Of course, you need to take the time to research all the moving companies properly before you contact them.