Moving can conjure up a roller coaster of feelings, from excitement to fear. Whether you’re upsizing, re-sizing, moving for work, or simply moving locations, it can be a lot to manage.  There are usually so many boxes to pack, schedules to sync, details to cover, and decisions to make, plus every other thing you’re already managing. It just takes a bit of planning and patience, with the right moving partner, to tame the chaos that comes with long-distance moves.

Why Long-Distance Moves Are a Different Ball Game

Local moves, while never fun, are often pretty straightforward. You probably know the area, can make multiple trips if needed, and maybe a few friends can lend a hand. But a long distance move requires a little bit more finesse. The challenge is not just mapping out the route and getting your things from point A to point B.

You have to get it there safely, on time, without going over budget, and without wearing yourself out. When the move is to a different state or coast, you have to add even more to the equation: differing regulations, larger potential for delays, and a bigger potential for financial loss. That’s why the crucial piece is finding a reliable long distance moving company.

The good news is there are many companies to choose from. These professional movers will help you work out the kinks and make the move easy. They have nationwide availability, transparent pricing, and have worked for years in helping families and individuals to move from coast to coast efficiently.

How to Choose the Right Long-Distance Moving Company

While there’s no shortage of long distance movers that claim they will do the job, some are more trustworthy than others. So, when you’re going through your options, be on the lookout for the following factors:

License and Insurance: The movers that help you cross state lines are required to register with the U.S. Department of Transportation. They should be fully licensed and insured, which protects you in case something goes wrong.

Open Pricing: Long distance moves can add up quickly, and the last thing you need is an unexpected sinkhole in your pocket. Always get written estimates from multiple companies and compare them carefully. Thankfully, you can literally get an estimate cost in 30 seconds so getting multiple estimates should be easy. Getting a binding estimate means you won’t pay more unless you add additional items.

Reputation and Customer Reviews: Reviews are pretty easy to find — check Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and other independent sites to find out what previous customers have to say. Widespread complaints about damaged items, surprise charges, or no-show arrivals should be counted as red flags.

Custom Services: Do they pack for you, unload for you, or do they help with transport only? Consider your needs first, and you can save a lot with more of a DIY option.

How to Prepare for a Long-Distance Move

Once you’ve got your mover locked down, it’s time for the real work to begin. Nothing goes well without adequate planning, so take the time to do everything required to get going.

Start Early: Never underestimate how long it’s going to take to pack. Start at least 6 to 8 weeks in advance of your move to put things together. Pack items that you won’t need immediately, like seasonal clothing, decorations, and books, first and pack the more essential items nearer to the top of everything else.

Declutter Before Packing: You’re paying for the weight of every item you move, and you will be happier in your new place if you bring less stuff. So, take a hard look at what should stay and what should go. You’ll want to sell, donate, or recycle anything that you don’t really use anymore. This will make your unpacking process more pleasant once you’re in your new home.

Make a List of Things to Be Moved: Being sure of what you’re bringing is important for multiple reasons. It requires organization. It helps you to get the quotes you need. And if something goes wrong, having a list of everything that should have been moved can be the difference between a loss that’s covered and one that’s not.

Clearly Mark Boxes by Room: Make it easy on yourself and others by labeling your boxes. Identify the room for and content of every box using any method that works for you. For example, try using colored packing tape you can coordinate with signs designating which colored boxes go where. It will make a huge difference when you’re on the other end unpacking.

Long-Distance Packing Hacks: The further your things need to go, the more prone they will be to rattle around, bend, leak, and break. So, find high-quality boxes, pack delicate items very carefully, secure boxes with tape, and don’t over-pack them; you always want to keep boxes under 50 lbs.

If the thought of packing up an entire home isn’t exactly what you feel like doing, you might think about paying the additional funds for professional packing and unpacking services. It is an expense, but if the idea of doing the work makes you mentally fatigued even before it starts, the expense is well worth it. For more tips on easy relocation, check out this resource: https://pennyforyourdreams.com/.

Managing Moving Day Like a Pro

Your preparation will pay off on moving day, but there are still a few things to keep in mind when the big day comes:

• Keep a suitcase with enough clothes, toiletries, money, medications, chargers, and your most important papers on hand.
• Double-check that you have a list of everything that’s being moved.
• Keep your phone charged and stay connected with your moving crew.

Remember to stay calm when problems happen. They’re a lot easier to deal with when you’re calm and you’ve done your due diligence to talk with your movers about what you need, no matter how far the distance of your move.

Unloading all your stuff and setting up in the new house is the equivalent of running a marathon after running a triathlon, but it has to be done. Prioritize setting up your bed, bathroom, and kitchen first. The rest can happen later. Next, examine items for damages and notify your moving company if you find anything.

Almost every one of them has a damage claims process, but it is usually time-sensitive. Find the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, gas station, and hospital. If you’re feeling brave, introduce yourself to your neighbors. A smile and wave can go a long way.

Common Long-Distance Moving Mistakes

Even the most careful mover can make a few of these all-too-common mistakes:

• Waiting too late to book a moving company: The best movers will fill up their schedules, especially during the busy seasons.
• Neglecting to update your address: Do it with the post office, banks, subscriptions, and IDs.
• Not getting pics of your inventory: If you have high-value items, snap pics before the move. It helps with insurance claims. Click here to learn more about property damage claims.

The Bottom Line

Long distance moving is a lot, but if you plan ahead, find the right company, and give yourself time, it becomes totally doable. Whether you’re moving for work, going back to school, or just trying a new adventure, all transitions start with actual planning and moving.

Remember that moving requires experience and trustworthiness. A service must have these traits and more before taking you from point A to point B. Go ahead and embrace the change. It’s probably what you need.