Planning a long distance move can be a harrowing experience from start to finish. It involves planning, packing, and organization from the get-go. Long distance moves always require lots of preparation and patience to get through them with your sanity intact.
For this reason, read on for tips on how to make your long distance move as easy as possible.
1. Don’t leave your planning until the last minute
As soon as you find out that you are moving, that is when you should start formulating a master list of all the things you will need to do. Start by writing down everything trip-related task that will need to be done, whether it is on your computer in a spreadsheet or on a piece of paper you tack up on your refrigerator.
Don’t wait until the last minute to plan a moving checklist when you have to organize a long distance move.
2. Research and book a reputable moving company ASAP
Don’t pick the first moving company that you come across. Research multiple companies and compare their prices. Ask friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors what moving company they used and what their experience was like. Check out honest online reviews from people who have used the company before. Consumer Affairs is one website that can help you find the right company for your trip.
When you do find New York movers that you like, book them right away. Don’t get caught without a moving company because you waited too long to secure them!
3. Start downsizing your belongings right away
Once you know you are going to be moving, start planning on what you need and what you can get rid of. The less you have to pack and move, the better! Start going through closets, dressers, drawers, and other rooms of your house and make a pile of everything you don’t want anymore. Consider selling your unwanted items online or in a yard sale. You could even end up making some extra money for the trip!
For larger items, contact local companies who will come and take them off of your hands for you for free, such as the Salvation Army.
4. Organize carefully while you pack
If you are packing your own items, take the time to organize everything neatly. You may be tempted to throw everything into random boxes just to get it out of the way, but you’ll make life a lot easier in your new home if everything is carefully packed.
Pack by room or area when it is time to start. For example, instead of boxes labeled “office,” pack everything that belongs in and on your desk while labeling accordingly. Label each box clearly with a black magic marker.
5. Pack “open first” boxes
You don’t want to scramble to find the things you really need when you get to your new home after a long distance move. Make sure to pack a few boxes that you keep close to you during your move that you will need as soon as you get to your new home. The boxes should include a few dishes, a pot, and a pan, silverware, toiletries, towels, phone chargers, and anything else that you will need as soon as you get to your new place.
This will be especially helpfully if you hire movers who may get to your home after you do.