A long distance move is a major project for any family. There are many preparation steps that must be taken before the trip can even begin. Moving farther than your current city takes more effort that just calling the first moving company listed after an Internet search. You want a seamless move by qualified and licensed cross country movers. Take an in-depth look at how to prepare for a long-distance move. No detail will go overlooked when you know the steps involved.
1. How to Pack
Most cross country movers would suggest learning how to pack before handling any other detail. Follow these tips to protect your belongings during the long haul.
a. Start Early
As soon as you know that a move is approaching, start packing early. Collect cardboard boxes, tape, bubble wrap and other accessories for the packing process. Out of state movers will caution residents to narrow down their packing volume by holding a garage sale. Selling or donating items that aren’t of use anymore will make packing much easier than taking everything in the home.
b. Focus on Items to Pack Now
After clearing the home of any clutter, gather the items that you want to keep but aren’t used on a daily basis. Family heirlooms, holiday decorations and similar items don’t need to be on hand between now and the move. Place them into their respective boxes, label the container and stack them in a corner. Taking one less chore out of your to-do list will make packing easier down the road.
c. Use Quality Packing Materials
Don’t select the thinnest cardboard boxes around. You want quality packing materials for your move. Because the boxes will be traveling hundreds of miles, the cardboard must withstand some vibration and changes in temperature. Ideally, select heavy-duty boxes designed for your items’ weights. Long distance movers can always point out the best selections for your needs.
d. Be Aware of Specialty Items
Take a look at your household’s belongings. Items such as pool tables and grandfather clocks must be handled with extreme care. In some cases, the items should be disassembled before the move and reassembled at the new home.
Some cross country moving companies have experience with specialty items, so ask them about their detailed services beforehand. If they don’t have a particular service, they might have a colleague that can help out.
e. Label With Diligence
Out of state moving companies can be systematic with their unloading processes if your boxes are properly labeled. Add labels to each box on at least two sides, such as kitchen or bedroom. As movers unload the boxes, they can place them in their respective rooms. Your unpacking process is then simplified after the movers complete their job. You’ll be able to find everything with ease.
For more expert tips on packing, check out our article on how to pack for a move!
With the packing all set for long distance moving companies, it’s time to focus on the route ahead. Both the movers and residents should know about the route and any challenges that might arise.
2. Knowing the Route
Moves with cross country movers are unique because you don’t necessarily know the route ahead. You may have never driven the path that will be perfect for the moving truck. Explore the reasons why the route is so important to your long distance move.
a. Stick With the Truck
A long-distance move will often tempt residents to take a flight to the destination while the long distance movers haul the cargo. Ideally, you want to stay with the truck. Although your movers are professionals, there may be delays and unforeseen realities that arise. You don’t want to be hundreds of miles away with a problem on the road.
b. Plan the Route
Most out of state moving companies can help you plan out a route that’s safe and accommodating for the truck. Remember that the truck’s size and weight must be accounted for when crossing state lines, bridges and entering tunnels. The route that you might take in a car can be vastly different than the moving truck’s pathway.
Consider the best path for the moving truck, including possible mountains to traverse. Ideally, the most straightforward and flat pathway is the best choice.
Understand how different routes can affect your cost by clicking here.
c. Pick Out Rest Stops
The employees with long distance moving companies are dedicated to their work, but there must be resting periods along the designated route. Select a pathway that includes regular rest stops. They should be conducive to moving trucks and their size. The out of state movers should have a chance to stretch, rest and eat at these stops.
Think of the rest stops as a perfect place for your refreshment period too. Driving long distances is wearing on the mind and body.
d. Reserve Motels
Because most out of state moves cover hundreds of miles, an overnight stay for at least one night is typical. Be sure to reserve a motel or hotel that can support a moving truck in the parking lot. Your movers might have suggestions too.
These properties should be well lit so that your belongings are safe in the truck overnight. Read reviews on these properties before you make any reservations. Your overnight adventure should be relatively uneventful.
Your route is all planned out, but weather-related delays can derail any good plans. Discover the best seasons for a move with out of state movers. The outside temperatures can make a big difference in your experience.
3. Best Seasons
As you consider various long distance moving companies, timing your move during the right season should be part of your preparation process. Plan far ahead so that the best season arrives with a low cost and mover availability.
a. Explore the Fall
Most out of state movers agree that fall is the best season to move. Between September and December, fewer people move because of school or work commitments. Cross country movers might actually be slow with their appointment quantities.
Pick a weekday during the fall to schedule your move. You’ll have a competitive price and ample dates to choose from.
b. Sneaking Into Spring
The next best season to move is during the spring. Consider early spring because many people are still too busy to move. You should be able to sell a home or find a rental with ease during this period.
Out of state movers may have some appointments on their books, but there’s still availability. Simply schedule your transition early on to lock in the best rates.
c. Winter With Good Weather
Moving during the winter isn’t suggested, but it can work for some situations. If you’re moving between two regions with mild to moderate weather, you can secure some low-cost prices. Any areas with ice or snow, however, are more conducive to a fall or spring move.
d. Avoid Summer
The majority of cross country moving companies are busy during the summer. Families who don’t want to uproot their children will wait until the school year is over to move. If you can avoid this season, it’s best to do so.
Movers will charge premium prices and their availability remains limited. The weather might be too hot in some areas, which makes any packing and transition a more difficult process than it should be. If you must move during the summer, keep in mind that prices and availability will be a concern.
Give yourself time to research out of state moving companies before you make any final decisions. This research process is just as important as packing or timing the move. Use these best practices to move forward with your long-distance transition.
