Preparation is the key to success when it comes to a long distance move as it will help you avoid pitfalls associated with a long distance move. That is why it is a good idea to prepare well before your long distance move. If you are planning a long distance move, this article will help you by giving you long distance moving tips. So, without further ado, here are tips for a long distance move:
1. Look for A Good Moving Company
Hiring the right moving company can help make a long distance move a smooth process. It is good to take your time when looking for a moving company so that you can choose the right one. Keep in mind that all moving companies are not created equal. Request moving estimates from different movers so that you can find one that offers affordable prices. Here is list of 20 best long distance movers in USA. Ask the movers for the estimates in writing to make it easier to compare the different estimates.
2. Create an Inventory List
Make a list of all the items you will be shipping. This will help you get an accurate price estimate from the long distance movers you hire; help you stay organized while packing your belongings and enable you to track your belongings along the journey. Create the list by going from one room to another, writing down all the things in your house. Once you check an item off at the start of the journey, you will not have to worry about whether it was shipped.
3. Label Each Box While Packing
If you are packing on your own, consider labeling all your boxes. Label the moving boxes according to the items inside and the room it should go in your new house. Doing so will make unpacking easier and make it easy for your movers to know the room that a certain box should be taken to.
4. Ensure that Everything Is Packed Properly
It is very important to ensure that all your belongings are packed properly with the correct boxes, wrappings, and tape. This will help you have peace of mind as you can be sure that your items will arrive safely. Look for boxes, newspapers, and tape to ensure that you have all the materials you need to pack your belongings ahead of time. Also, ensure that all your items are well cushioned inside the boxes and packed to the top. The boxes should also be strong, dry, clean, and infestation free. Keep in mind that packing is important to the success of a long distance move. So, ensure that it is done properly.
5. Consider Moving During Off-Season
Moving during the off-season (winter, fall, and spring) can help you save money as moving companies charge the lowest moving rate amount. Summer may not be a good option if you want to save money as many people move during the summer season and the demand for movers is high. If you can’t move during off-season, consider moving in the middle of the week or the middle of the month as the demand for movers is lower.
6. Downsize
The cost of a long distance move depends on the weight of the items you ship. Therefore, create a list of all the items you have to know those you don’t have to transport to reduce the weight of the items you ship. You can get rid of the items you will not be shipping by selling, donating, or tossing. The 1-year rule can help you determine the items you will ship and those you will not ship. The rule states that you don’t need an item that you have not used for more than 12 months.
7. Insure Your Belongings
It is good to Insure your belongings since they will be shipped over thousands of miles, and many crews will load and unload them. Get proper coverage so that you will not lose a lot of money in case your items are damaged. Before moving, consider the kinds of moving insurance coverage that will suit your needs.
8. Decide Whether or Not You Will Ship Your Furniture
It is cheaper not to move any furniture when it comes to a long distance move. So, determine whether it is necessary to move your furniture. Note that most of the furniture pieces are heavy and will increase the cost of moving as the cost is calculated based on the shipment’s weight.
9. Change Your Postal Address
Since you will be moving to another town or city, you should change your postal address with USPS. It is a good idea to start changing your postal address before moving so that you will continue to receive your mail.
Following the long distance tips above will help you a lot and make your long distance moving hassle-free. So, apply them whenever you are planning a long distance move.