8 Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Long-Distance Move
Get A QuoteAre you gearing up for a long-distance move? Whether you’re relocating for a new job, a fresh start, or a change of scenery, we’ve got your back. Moving can be overwhelming, but fear not! Our team at United Van Lines is here to guide you through the process with these expert tips.
Start Planning as Soon as You Know You’re Moving
The key to a successful long-distance move is early planning. As soon as you know you’re moving, start creating a to-do list or checklist. Give yourself at least six to eight weeks for thorough preparation, and if you’re moving in the summer, consider reaching out to movers around three months in advance.
Hire a Reputable Moving Company
Taking on a big move by yourself can be daunting. There is a lot of heavy lifting and other intense labor involved. With so many other things going on now, you’re better off leaving the moving to the experts. And while you may have friends and family to help on one end, you may be on your own on the other.
Hire a reputable moving company that suits your long-distance needs. Opt for a company like United Van Lines, offering full-service moving packages, including packing, unpacking, storage, car transportation, and more. Cutting corners during a move can lead to complications, so choose wisely.
Declutter and Downsize Before Packing
Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter. Go room by room, creating piles for keeping, donating, and discarding. This not only lightens the load but also helps you start fresh in your new home. Decluttering can even lower your moving estimate, making it a win-win!
Buy All of the Packing Supplies You Need
If you’re handling the packing yourself, invest in quality packing supplies. Using supplies specifically designed for moving ensures a smoother packing process.
Make sure you have the following:
- Moving boxes of all sizes
- Packing tape
- Packing paper
- Moving blankets
- Bubble wrap
- Permanent markers
- Labels
- Furniture pads
- Shrink-wrap
- Scissors
- Specialized boxes
Once you have all the necessary packing supplies, the packing process becomes much easier to plan.
Pack Carefully
Before you start packing, create an inventory list to keep track of your belongings. Pack boxes by room, considering how they will be unpacked later. Be mindful of fragile items, and ensure boxes are well-organized to prevent breakage during transportation. Label boxes clearly for easier unpacking.
Move in the Off-Season If Possible
Consider moving in the off-season to save costs. While summer is popular for moving, it can be pricier and more challenging to secure professional movers. Winter, despite its weather challenges, might be a cost-effective alternative.
Plan for Transportation to Your New Home
Whether you’re flying or driving to your new home, plan transportation well in advance. If flying, book plane tickets early to secure suitable options. If driving, keep essential items in the car and turn the journey into a memorable road trip with your family.
Find fun destinations and attractions along the way, visit a national park or two and make some fond memories before settling down in your new home.
Explore More Moving Resources
Did you find our tips helpful? Discover more expert advice and moving guides from United Van Lines. From packing a TV to knowing what items to leave behind, our resources cover everything you need for a successful move.
Choose United Van Lines for a Hassle-Free Cross-Country Move
When it comes to long-distance moves, trust United Van Lines. As America’s #1 Mover®, we understand the effort involved, and our team is dedicated to making your move as smooth as possible. We offer full-service moving packages with services like packing and unpacking, storage, transporting your car to your new destination, moving debris cleanup and removal, and more. Whatever your specific long-distance needs are, United Van Lines can help!