While any relocation project brings unique challenges, cross-country moves can be even more complicated. Moving to a different state requires specific, logistical planning and can have a far longer timeline than staying within the same city or state. Here are 10 no-sweat tips for a long-distance move.
1. Start Organizing Early
Create a checklist of everything you need to do before the move happens. Arrange all tasks in order of highest to lowest priority. Put a deadline beside each responsibility, so you know when you’re accountable for completing it.
2. Hire Experienced Movers
If you try to DIY a cross-country move, the complexities involved can quickly overwhelm you. A professional interstate moving company will take the worry and stress off your shoulders.
3. Set Your Budget
The costs involved with a long-distance move can be more expensive than other relocations. The good news is that a moving company can quote you a price based on your home’s size and the distance to your destination, helping you budget accordingly.
4. Consider Shipping Your Car
Often, people moving cross-country find that shipping their car to their new destination is safer and more convenient than doing the driving themselves. If you can’t afford to take several days off work for a long road trip or if spending that much time in the car sounds unimaginably boring, you’re probably better off paying for a shipping service.
5. Choose What Stays and What Goes
Since heavy or bulky furniture can significantly increase the cost of your interstate move, you’ll need to decide whether you want to transport all your belongings to your new destination. For example, if your couch has seen better days and you know you need a new one, why pay more to have it moved across the country?
6. Pack Your Trickiest Rooms First
Prioritizing the most complicated packing jobs can relieve a lot of the tension that comes with moving far away. Start with storage areas like basements, attics, garages and spare bedrooms. You can also save yourself time by hiring professional packers to help with some or all these tasks.
7. Be Aware of What You Can’t Pack
When working with a cross-country moving company, there are limitations to what you can pack and transport to your new destination. For example, it’s illegal to move anything flammable, explosive or corrosive. You also can’t have your mover move pets, plants or any perishable foods.
8. Get Pets Ready for the Move
If you are flying to your new location, ensure the vet has approved your pet to travel on an airplane and review any health conditions that could pop up. If you are driving, map out where to stop for restroom breaks and make reservations with pet-friendly hotels.
9. Pack a Suitcase for Yourself and Your Family
When you move a long distance, it can take time for all your items to arrive at your new home. For that reason, have a suitcase containing all the things you may need until your furniture catches up to you. This essential bag should contain clothing, prescription medications, toiletries, a first-aid kit, jewelry and important documents like birth certificates and passports.
10. Make Time to Say Goodbye
Not only are you moving out of your home, but you are also moving away from an area where you likely have established roots. When you move cross-country, you may not see your friends and family in person as often as you would like anymore. Luckily, with technology, you can easily stay in touch with those you leave behind.
Trust Us to Simplify Your Cross-Country Move
A long-distance move may seem daunting. However, when you work with an experienced interstate moving company, you can enjoy a smoother, less stressful experience. We can help you throughout the process, from packing your precious belongings as if they were ours to delivering them safely to your destination. Best of all, we are available 24/7 with only one hour’s notice.
To learn more about what makes Fox Moving and Storage the leading locally owned interstate relocation company in Knoxville, please contact us to request your free quote.