Moving Long Distance – Tips and Tricks

When your family faces a pending move, the distance of that move will impact much about how stressful and time consuming it is. Moving across town to a bigger house is not nearly as stressful as a long distance move. If you face a trip that is a bit further than just around the corner, here are some tips to help make it less stressful for you.

Start with Utilities

Getting utilities switched to your name at your new home may be the last thing you think of. After all, getting packed, getting the truck to your house, and actually traveling to your new home may seem more pressing. However, some utility service providers require deposits and significant amounts of time to get things set up in your name at your new residence. Always research companies and inquire as to what you need to do to set up your utilities long before you move, so you are not left without water or heat when you actually move in. The same goes for other services you will want or need right away, such as your cable, Internet, and telephone service. Having these comforts and necessities in place when you arrive at your new home will make moving far less stressful. 

Book the Movers

Whether you are hiring movers or renting a moving van, get the service booked as soon as possible to ensure that the company you want or the van you need is available. If you decide to use movers, choose carefully. Do not simply open the phone book or open a website and call up the first company you find. Use solid references as you choose a company to ensure that you get a one that will treat your valued possessions with care. 

What to Pack First

If you have particularly valuable and fragile items that you can live without for a few weeks, pack these first. This ensures that they are not hastily packed as you get to the end of the moving process and find yourself in a bit of a hurry. Packing your most valuable possessions first means you will pack them carefully and attentively. If you are hiring movers, take the initiative to pack these more valuable items before they arrive. Leave your less breakable and less valuable items in the hands of the movers. 

The Week of the Move

For a long-distance move, give each family member one suitcase. Place a few outfits, some recreational items, and toiletries in this suitcase. You will then live out of these suitcases during the week you are moving. Remember, a long distance move takes more days than a cross-town move, so prepare carefully to ensure you have what you need while the majority of your belongings are in transit.