Moving Tips for Long Distance Movers
Planning a long distance move? Creating a list of moving tips for long distance movers begins with the ‘file.’ The moving file will be vital to the smooth moving experience. Plan to keep receipts, contracts, maps, tickets and other documents related to the move in this file. The file will be useful before, during and after the move.
Moving Tips
The following moving tips may be adjusted according to the time frames necessary. Some people only have a few weeks to plan a long distance move so some items may be moved to the bottom of the list in accordance to personal priorities.
Prior to Moving
Prior to actual moving, take some time to research or explore the destination city and area. Many states and cities have online web sites that feature local landmarks, shopping districts, entertainment available and restaurants. Relocation packets may also be obtained from the local chamber of commerce. If using a realtor, they should also have a list of local utilities, city maps, phone books and other service oriented providers that will prove useful in settling in.
During this stage of the move, begin ordering moving supplies or picking them up. A clear out of nonessential items can also pare down what is unnecessary for the move. This is an ideal time to clean out closets of old clothes and the casual detritus of living. Be sure to tackle the clear out on a room by room basis.
- Do you really need the item?
- Does it have sentimental value?
- Is it ever used?
- Will it have a place in the new home?
- Difficult to replace? This is a good opportunity to host a yard sale. Involve kids in the process by letting them keep any money from items that they sell in the yard sale.
Take an inventory of live plants. These can be sold at the garage sale, given away to friends or moved by car. They will not be shipped with boxes and furniture. Be sure to label boxes as they are packed for ease of unpacking later.
Items that are difficult to replace or have sentimental value should be shipped separately or carried personally to ensure safety (photo albums, birth certificates, diplomas, and computers).
Be sure to use up or discard any items that cannot be moved:- Hazardous chemicals (cleaning materials, aerosol cans)
- Perishable foods
New Home Checklist
Moving tips for long distance movers means also planning ahead for the arrival at the new home. This means packing ‘necessities’ separately that includes suitcases for clothing, kids toys, entertainment for the move and arrival and a few other key items that will be useful in the first few hours and days in the new home. These items may include, but are not limited to:
- Disposable place settings
- Scissors, utility knife, tape
- Prescriptions and pain relievers
- Toiletries
- Relocation file, pencil, paper
- Instant coffee or tea, water and snack food