Is a long-distance move in your foreseeable future? A cross-country relocation requires adequate preparation months before the actual move. Everything from choosing a preferred state, town and county to apartment hunting or buying a new home involves in-depth research and thoughtful planning.
You’re likely seeking a place with a reputable school district, employment opportunities, plenty of leisure activities, an efficient transit system, low crime rates, a welcoming community and affordable living. Getting this information requires proactive research, and the actual move is no different. Several logistics must pan out to successfully move your belongings, family and pets from one end of the country to another.
Here are 10 tips to help you prepare for a cross-country move without losing your sanity, finances or possessions.
Begin to determine the logistics of moving to your new location well in advance of the move. There are many factors to consider, including:
Moving is expensive during peak season if you opt to hire a moving company. Busy seasons include holidays and the months between April and September. As demand for moving companies increase during these periods, so do their prices. Therefore, plan accordingly.
A cross-country move is expensive. Before moving, you have to ascertain that your finances are in order. Come up with a plan and budget that ensures you can comfortably afford the move.
Consider your options thoroughly in order to make a decision that will save you time and energy. Hiring a truck and container yourself may be cheap, but it is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Take time to prioritize your finances for a cost-effective long-distance move that works for you.
A schedule enables you to handle every item on your list at the right time. As you plan your move, document all moving tasks and responsibilities in chronological sequence. Be sure to allocate plenty of time for each task on your list, and check that you’ve considered every necessary step along the way.
Long-distance moving trucks have a weight limit for cargo during transit. You will get charged per ton if you hire a moving company. Therefore, the cost of the cross-country move can go up if you have more possessions. You can reduce this expense by downsizing. Have a yard sale and make a few bucks in the process, or donate some things to charity. You can fill out an IRS form for tax deductions for non-monetary donations. You can also gift your friends and family lightly used items.
Discard things you will not use again to keep your cargo light. If you cannot reduce your valuable belongings, you can consider short-term or long-term storage options within your current location. You can then move your items once you have your finances sorted.
An inventory list helps you account for all your possessions, primarily if the move is handled by a third-party company. Maintain a list of each item in your belongings for record-keeping. Have photos and videos of your furniture, valuables and other possessions in order to verify the condition of your belongings after the move. Note if there is any new wear and tear after the move, as insurance covers damages to your possessions that occur during transit.
You need several legal documents before embarking on a long-distance move. Additionally, be sure to safely store all other important documentation such as birth certificates, passports, adoption papers, school records or wedding certificates.
Don’t forget to transfer your personal property insurance. Your insurance provider may have different plans for your new rental or property. Therefore, ensure the coverage is sufficient.
You will also need to cancel services and utilities in your current location and set them up in your new home. Additionally, change your mailing address with the United States Postal Service. Doing these tasks before the move is essential to ensure you have a functioning home once you arrive. Plus, the stress-free transition will give you peace of mind.
A cross-country move is not easy, especially for first-time long-distance travelers. There are rules and regulations, new roads to tread and numerous logistics. For a successful move, you likely need to:
A moving company can do all these tasks and more at a reasonable cost, as they provide their own heavy-duty trucks for long-distance travel as well as packaging materials for every type of item. They can safely transport fragile or special cargo such as musical instruments, valuable collectibles and glass items. Your payment will also include insurance against transportation risks as well as fuel and servicing costs.
A moving company’s experience traversing most routes in the country makes it easy to factor in logistics while in transit, such as time estimations and accommodation, and they will handle most of your legal documents, as well.
Planning a cross-country move can be cumbersome. However, it is also rewarding. A solid plan makes the moving process much more sustainable and cost-effective. Start planning at least four to six months before the move to ensure everything is in place during transit.
Moving companies have the resources, experience and expertise to tackle long-distance moves. They reduce your work and responsibilities during the move, enabling you to settle quickly into your new home. Working with a reputable company also allows for a smooth transition. You can choose between moving companies by comparing their prices and deliverables.
Due diligence is essential for a cost-effective cross-country move. Start creating the right plan for your upcoming long-distance move today.