Long Distance Moving Tips

Long-distance moving can be an intriguing experience, no doubt. However, all things considered, it can also prove daunting. Whether you're relocating in search of new scenery, to commence a new life chapter, or for a new job, the idea of packing up all your stuff and moving them to someplace entirely different may seem overwhelming. But it doesn't always have to be that way; there might just be a way to skip the daunting part. How? Just have the right mindset and proper planning! And to help you out even more, this article will share some essential tips and tricks to help you maneuver the hurdles associated with cross-country moves and make your journey to your new home a breeze. Let's get right into it already, shall we?

Planning Your Long-Distance Move

Some moves just need you to load up a van's trunk and get going. However, that doesn't quite apply to long-distance moves, as they typically require much more preparation. In other words, planning your long-distance move is vital to ensure you maintain your organization throughout the move and that the whole process goes as planned. And with the planning tips below, expect nothing but a stress-free move.

Devise a Plan for Your Relocation

You're ready to relocate hundreds if not thousands of miles away with all your belongings. With such a big task on your hands, one thing is apparent—you need a plan! Whether you prefer to prepare a spreadsheet of all relocation-related tasks or just like to let things happen naturally, you might want to consider preparing a checklist of your to-dos regarding your long-distance move. It just makes things easier.

Planning a budget - one of the most important long distance moving tips

Have a Schedule and Stick to It

After coming up with a plan, it's essential that you devise a schedule and adhere to it. You wouldn't want to be rushing at the last minute looking to wrap up everything, especially not when you have time-sensitive tasks to take care of, such as school enrollment and utility installation. Consider adding reminders on your cell or scheduling periods on your calendar for tasks regarding your relocation to remind you of what you need to accomplish and when. With a schedule, you'll be prepared for a successful long-distance move in no time.

Hire a Renowned Moving Company

After comparing prices and reviewing a few in-home quotes, ensure you pick the most reliable and renowned mover possible. While affordability is crucial when choosing a professional moving company, it's vital to remember that sometimes the most affordable long-distance moving option isn't the best. The last thing you want is to fall victim to a moving scam amidst planning your long-distance move. Unsure about how to choose a moving company? There's an entire section on that, which you'll come across as you read on.

Get Relocation Insurance

Whether or not you have many big-ticket possessions, be sure you understand what your insurance covers. Before you move, talk with your agent to discuss the moving-related provisions of your auto and home insurance. Most movers typically offer a limited insurance plan. However, if you have a lot of precious items, it would be best if you buy a more comprehensive insurance plan.

Packing

It's easy to assume that packing is a no-brainer for you or you're rather an accomplished packer. But the truth is, packing all your stuff for a long-distance move can prove a challenge, despite being a unique experience. With these packing tips, however, you can expect your belongings to reach your new home intact and secure. And you may also get to save money.

Avoid Having Too Light or Too Heavy Individual Boxes

Plan your packing to ensure all your boxes are comparable and manageable in size and weight. Each box should include an assortment of light and heavy items for easier carrying. Furthermore, stacking boxes of comparable weight is safer since there's a smaller chance of heavy boxes being stacked on top of their lighter counterparts and squashing them.

Label Your Boxes

We're not talking about scribbling "bedroom" or "living area" over the top. And while you should designate the room in which every box belongs, it would be better to indicate the box's contents as well. This way, you'll save yourself the burden of opening and searching through so many boxes for your espresso machine the day after arriving at your new residence. Quick tip? Consider cataloging your packed items using spreadsheets or images. And you might also want to label items such as hardware, wires, and cords to help you identify what goes where after unpacking.

Get the Proper Packing Supplies

When looking to pack your stuff for a long-distance move, boxes saved from your previous online shopping purchases won't suffice. You'd be better off employing supplies specifically designed for packing and moving. Usually, you can get these items from retailers specializing in moving supplies and equipment or home improvement stores. You may also source free moving boxes and cut costs on supplies. Among the essential moving supplies you'll need include:

Boxes of various sizes
Special crates and boxes for artwork,
electronics, and other fragile items
Scissors
Shrink and bubble wrap
Strapping tape and duct tape
Packing tape
Blank newsprint paper
Furniture pads and moving blankets
Ziplock bags
Thick permanent markers

Only Pack What You Need

Moving offers an excellent opportunity to downsize and declutter. So, before you start packing, set aside items to sell or donate. Get rid of books you won't read again, kitchen appliances you don't really use, and clothes you haven't worn in years. Frankly, if you don't love, use, or need something to live, it would be best to sell it at a yard sale, donate it, or just get rid of it. Doing so will help save money on moving supplies, as you'll use less tape and fewer boxes. Moreover, you'll perhaps only need to rent a smaller moving truck and, equally important, save time packing everything up.

Time to Move

You've done your best to prepare and have packed all your stuff. So, what's next? You've got it right—it's now time to move! Whether you're taking the next flight or hitting the road, these long-distance moving tips and tricks could come in handy to render your long-distance move a success.

Double-check Your Possessions Before Setting Off

Presumably, you prepared a checklist of all your stuff while packing. With this checklist handy, you will ensure that the professional moving company delivers everything intact, nothing more, nothing less. So, prior to the moving truck leaving, it's crucial that you double-check, if not triple-check, your checklist. This allows them to quickly identify the events that led to lost items.

Schedule Your Move Off-season

Typically, most people like to relocate over the summer. For that reason, professional moving companies are hotcakes during this season, making it arguably the most expensive time of year to relocate. If possible, plan your cross-country move during the off-season to make your relocation easier and save yourself a few hundred bucks. However, if moving off-season isn't an option, you can save money by simply scheduling your move in the middle of the month or on a weekday.

Consider the Delivery Window

Due to the many logistics involved and the intricate nature of long-distance moving, professional moving companies may struggle to identify a definite delivery date. Better put, most cross-country moves take up to a few weeks to complete, and often, you can only be given a hazy delivery window. Therefore, you must plan on living without everything hauled on the moving truck for the first month. To alleviate the tension of waiting for your movers to arrive, you may want to carry your personal necessities and open-first box with you.

Understand Your Move-In Situation

You must be ready when the delivery truck arrives. Since this is a long-distance move, your belongings will likely be hauled in a huge tractor-trailer. If the roads leading to your new house are not tractor-trailer accessible or there's not enough room to park, you may incur additional costs to have your stuff delivered on a smaller shuttle. To avoid being caught off guard by such unexpected events, ask your professional moving company about any possible extra fees before you move.

Choosing a Reliable Long-Distance Moving Company

Relocating to a new city—particularly across the country—can be stressful, to say the least. But it doesn't have to be, and choosing the right moving company could mean the difference between a daunting journey and an exciting moving experience. But how do you pick out the best moving company anyway? Well, here is what to look for.

Experience and Reputation

When picking a professional moving company to help with your long-distance move, remember to assess their reputation and experience. Go for a moving company with favorable customer reviews and a success record in long-distance moving. Analyze the company's social media accounts, webpage, and customer testimonials on sites like Google, Better Business Bureau, and Yelp. This will give you a notion of the service quality and customer satisfaction you can anticipate from the company.

Transparent Rates

Anytime you reach out to professional movers seeking their services, you're given a rate estimate based on the number of workers and hours required. Remember, however, that this quote is just the base rate and other charges like incidental add-ons or packing material costs may be incurred separately. As such, inquire about any possible additional fees. If the company doesn't come out straightforward with this information, consider moving to another relocation service provider.

Communication

When hiring a moving company, it's crucial to pick one that communicates effectively and is responsive to your concerns. It should be easy to reach them by email or phone, and they must be inclined to resolve any concerns you may have about the relocation. Additionally, reliable movers will update you throughout the moving process by sharing relevant information to guarantee a stress-free and smooth experience.

Timeliness

Timeliness is yet another consideration when picking a long-distance moving company. Talk with your mover about the projected delivery time, and ensure they can deliver your belongings to your new residence on time or rather within the stipulated time frame. Choosing movers with a track record of timely service is vital to avoid unnecessary stress and extra costs associated with transit delays.

Insurance and License

A Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) license and proper insurance coverage are must-haves for long-distance moving companies. The license warrants a moving company's credibility, while the insurance protects you from damage- or accident-related liabilities. So, look for these when narrowing down your options to the right cross-country movers.

Your Go-To Long-Distance Moving Services in Texas

As mentioned earlier, long-distance moving can prove a stirring yet stressful experience. However, through excellent preparation, organization, and hiring a reliable moving company, expect nothing but a seamless transition to your new life. With the above tips on planning, the packing process, decluttering, and long-distance moving, we believe you're well-equipped to navigate the whole process confidently.

Avoid the Stress & Work with a Reliable Partner

At Evolution Moving Company, we understand the difficulties associated with long-distance moving and boast the expertise, resources, and experience to guarantee a successful and stress-free relocation. Our team of professional movers is dedicated to delivering top-quality, personalized moving services that conform to your budget and needs. We also offer various services, from packing to transport and storage, for a smooth moving experience. Check out our full list of services and service areas to see what we can do for you. By working with us, you can be confident that your items are in the safest hands. We are insured, licensed, and committed to ensuring a smooth moving process. Moreover, we boast excellent customer service and responsive communication to update you constantly on the process. So, if you're in Texas and planning a long-distance move, you won't need to look past Evolution Moving Company. Contact us today for a free quote, and let us help alleviate the burden of helping you transition to your new residence.

Frequently Asked Questions on Long-Distance Moving

What are the questions to ask long-distance movers?

Before hiring long-distance movers, ask the following questions:

How long have you been in business?
Is your company licensed?
What kind of insurance or liability coverage do you offer?
Can you offer a binding written quote?
Are there any potential hidden charges?
Are you equipped with the right moving equipment to cater to long-distance moves?
Can I move long-distance with a cat or a dog (if you have one)?
What other services do you provide?

Should I tip my long-distance movers?

You are not obligated to tip your movers. However, it is a nice gesture to tip them for their hard work. A tip of $4 or $5 per hour per mover could go a long way.