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Moving and relocating can be exciting and adventurous experiences. However, they also come with challenges, which multiply when moving across long distances. Whether moving cross-country or to a distant state, you must navigate some challenges to enjoy a smooth relocation.
You don’t have to be overwhelmed. You can enjoy a seamless and fun experience with proper preparation and expert guidance. This article highlights four moving tips to help you easily navigate a long-distance relocation.
Plan and Prepare Early
Early planning and preparation are important for a successful long-distance move. Depending on your family size, start planning and preparing about a month or three before your moving date.
This preparation period allows you to complete all important tasks while carrying out daily activities without overwhelming yourself. Use a detailed moving calendar to plan important activities such as sorting, packing, changing addresses, and utility transfers. Timely preparation also helps you handle unforeseen challenges without undue pressure and without significantly disrupting your plan and schedule.
Get a Reliable Moving Company
Your chosen moving company greatly impacts your experience. Choose a reliable moving company that fits your preferences and agrees with your terms. Explore various options and get different quotes, but don’t just settle for the lowest options. Check the company’s online reviews, ratings, and client testimonials to avoid a bad experience.
Ensure that your moving company is certified to reinforce reliability. The company must be licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA) and have a valid USDOT number. If you want to move at different times with your property, find moving companies that store your stuff. Ask questions about how they handle disputes, damages, and delays. A company with clear policies will keep your mind at rest while moving your stuff.
Declutter Your Property
Relocating and moving offers the best opportunity to declutter your home and life. Moving with everything you own is not always a good idea. Sort out your stuff and remove unimportant ones. Moving costs are often determined by distance and weight, so decluttering can save you the hassle and the cost of moving. Moving heavy items over long distances may cost as much as getting new ones.
Select some properties to sell and use the proceeds to buy new ones in your new location. Host a garage sale to help you clear out these items. You can also sort out some properties to donate. Timely planning and preparation will help you do this effectively.
Take Inventory and Carry Essential Paperwork
After deciding on the items to move with, take detailed inventory and document them before moving. If possible, make copies of your inventory and take pictures of your most valuable and fragile items, showing their conditions before moving.
Before moving, remember to carry essential paperwork on hand for easier access when you arrive at your destination. This may include your moving contract, identification, and financial documents.
Complete important documentation before moving, such as canceling local subscription services and updating your address and postal service. You can also research license updates and vehicle registration requirements to begin the process immediately after arrival.
Endnote
While moving long distances can be challenging, proper planning and execution can make it exciting and adventurous. Plan and prepare early, select a reliable moving company, declutter your property, and carry the necessary paperwork on hand to enjoy a smooth long-distance move, whether interstate or cross-country.