Tips on Preparing for a Cross-country Move
The cross-country move is an exciting time, filled with new sights, sounds, and experiences. However, it is also stressful, as you have to contend with many unknowns, such as how to get to your new home and how long it will take. In addition, a cross-country move can put a lot of strain on the family, so it is a good idea to take steps to prepare yourself as much as possible. These tips will help you prepare well.
1. Start Early
Early preparation is vital in the cross-country movement. First, you have to plan for time differences and the time difference between your old and new homes. The time difference is not an issue when you move to a new house close to your old one. However, it is the primary factor when moving to a new city.
When you move to a new city, you need to plan for the time difference. For example, if you are moving to Los Angeles, you need to prepare for the time difference between New York and Los Angeles.
2. Stay Organized
When it comes to cross-country moves, the more organized you can be, the better! It’s no fun for you, the moving company or anyone else involved if you move at the last minute and still expect to pull off your move in the timeframe you intended for it to take place.
Organizing ahead of time will allow you to get a clear and realistic idea of your move and your costs and give you the time you need to make arrangements for your pets, your children, your work, and more.
3. Set a Schedule and Stick to it
Setting a schedule and sticking to it will ensure everything runs smoothly when preparing for a cross-country move. It would be best if you first created a plan for the preparations for your move. Then, start with the things that will take the longest to prepare and work your way down, leaving yourself with the shortest time for your more immediate tasks.
To begin with, you should run through all the paperwork and organize the information you will need. You should also find a good storage company to store your belongings while you are moving.
4. Consider Downsizing
Downsizing before a cross-country move is essential for many reasons. One of the most important is cost. The less you move, the less you pay in fees. A mover can charge by the pound and the number of rooms, closets, and boxes.
Other than the actual weight and cubic space (as listed on the inventory), the mover will estimate your weight based on what they believe to be the bulk of your goods. Sometimes, a bulky item like an upright piano or a box of books can hold as many as three average-sized suitcases. So a quick trip to the local thrift store can go a long way to reducing your moving costs.
There are several criteria to be considered when picking long-distance movers. The movers should have a good reputation for their service. They should also provide insurance and have a license to operate. The movers should also offer an estimate up-front. With this information in mind, the decision to move may become more manageable.