Moving all your possessions across town is a big undertaking, and a long-distance change even more so. You have many of the same concerns as an in-town move but on a larger scale. You likely have a certain time frame to complete the transition and you need to get all your belongings to the new destination quickly, safely and securely. The reasons for your change in address may have some implications on how you accomplish this relocation. Here are some things for you to consider.
Putting a Plan Together
If you’re reading this article, then you’re in the earliest stages of coming up with a plan. Several questions need to be asked and answered:
- What size place are you moving from?
- How long do I have to pack, clean, load, transport and unload?
- What will you take and what will you sell, give away or throw out?
- Which out of state movers to hire?
- What other things need to be done as part of the move, such as changing address and switching utilities?
- Are there any special considerations or accommodations you need such as use of a storage facility?
Having a plan with checklists helps you stay organized, ensuring you don’t overlook a critical component of a long-distance move.
Finding the Right Movers
When it comes to a long-distance change, it’s critical that you find the best long distance moving company to get your things where they need to be.
It’s recommended that you get at least three in-home estimates from reputable providers. Even if an employer is subsidizing your relocation expenses, it’s important to find the best and most accurate price estimate. The earlier you can schedule these estimates the better. Plan for at least four weeks ahead of the day you want to make your move. Don’t be swayed by price alone. Reach out to licensed and insured out of state moving companies with proven track records in completing jobs successfully, fairly and affordably. These companies will be upfront and open about pricing and what is included in your quote.
Working Out the Details
Preparing for a successful move isn’t just about finding a price that works for you. There are other details that can make or break your relocation efforts.
- Schedule: One of the biggest differences between an in-town and an out-of-town move is your schedule. A long-distance relocation is considerably longer, and you also need to make sure that it works with your proposed time frame. For example, your current lease may be ending on a date and you have to have everything out before then. You also need to make sure that your intended destination is ready to receive your items, whether that’s a new apartment, house or storage facility. Some moving companies may offer storage services.
- To Pack or Not To Pack: Some people prefer to do the packing themselves, while others look to the movers to take care of this task. Be honest with yourself about the time and effort it will take for you to do the packing. The professionals know the best way to pack your items to facilitate loading, unloading and transporting, and can get the job done better and more quickly.
- Moving Supplies: You’ll need to confirm the supplies that are included with your estimate and what’s available for an additional cost. From boxes to packing materials to moving pads and more, make sure you understand which items are necessary and how best to get them.
- Additional Insurance: Although you should be working with pros who are insured, it may be worth purchasing extra coverage, especially if you own things that are extremely valuable or difficult to replace.
Purging the Trash
Now’s the time to get rid of things that you don’t need or want to take to your new place. The last thing you want to do is invest time and effort in moving trash, especially for a long-distance haul. If you have things worth value, you may consider having a garage or yard sale to make some extra cash. You could also give away items to a local charity. You should also complete a purge and throw away any trash you have.
Relocating out of state is a major task and getting everything squared away requires forethought, planning and great timing. Hiring moving professionals is strongly recommended. A reputable, licensed and insured company is your best bet.