First Long Distance Move? Here’s What You Need to Know
Moving long distance for the first time can be overwhelming. Fortunately, with proper planning and a bit of help, it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Here is what to expect, how to prepare, and why hiring a reliable moving company like us at Speedy Movers can reduce stress and ensure a smoother transition.
What to Expect with a Long Distance Move:
#1: Extensive Planning
A long distance move requires far more planning than a local move, as you can’t simply drive back and forth from your new home with armfuls of items. You should be prepared to complete more detailed logistical requirements, setting aside plenty of time to do so.
#2: Extra Paperwork
A long distance move also comes with greater paperwork. You will be required to review, negotiate, and sign moving contracts, insurance forms, and more. If this is your first long distance move, having a trusted individual guide you through the process can be beneficial. If you don’t have someone available, we at Speedy Movers are happy to help!
#3: Timing Coordination
Moving long distance requires specific timing coordination. You will need to plan for a departure date, longer transit times, and a move-in date to coincide perfectly. However, this often doesn’t work the way most people think, as there can be a delay on move-in dates, especially if home renovations are required. In this case, planning for that delay by using a Flex Box can be most helpful. Your Flex Box can be stored or placed in a driveway to be unpacked at your preferred convenience, unlike a traditional moving truck that has to be unloaded right away.
#4: Inventory Management
Lastly, organizing your moving inventory (i.e., all of your items) is a critical aspect of a long distance move. You will want to craft a detailed inventory sheet, noting in which boxes items are packed and where you want them to be placed at their final destination. Additionally, high-value or fragile items should be marked with caution notes, especially if they need extra insurance. You should keep a copy of this for yourself and provide one to your long distance movers for their reference. We also recommend taking pictures of large, fragile, or high-value items prior to the move, just in case you need to file an insurance claim later.
How to Plan Ahead for a Long Distance Move:
If you are aware that a long distance move is coming up in the next six months to a year, there are steps you can start taking now to decrease stress and chaos.
Step 1: Book Your Long Distance Movers Early
First, we recommend booking your long distance movers as far in advance as possible, especially if your moving timeframe falls during the summer. This will ensure you get a high-quality moving company before they get fully booked.
Step 2: Create a Moving Checklist & Timeline
Next, you will want to create a moving checklist and a corresponding timeline. This checklist will detail all of the critical and non-critical tasks you need to complete for a successful move, along with their due dates. Think of it as your moving calendar.
For a full list of what this includes, grab our moving timeline checklist.
Step 3: Declutter Your Home
As you start to prepare for your move, now is the perfect time to start decluttering your home and packing non-essential items. We suggest going through closets, garages, and storage sheds to sort items into keep, donate, sell, or trash categories. For the items you decide to keep that you know you won’t need until after your move is complete, you can begin packing them up.
Step 4: Organize Your Moving Fundamentals
Lastly, we suggest you organize your moving fundamentals. This includes assembling important documents, preparing utility transfers, and setting up address changes. Even if you can’t submit them immediately, having them ready to go will make the moving process easier when it arrives.
Packing Tips for Long Distance Moves:
Packing for a long distance move is a lot of work, and it requires a different set of actions than moving just down the street, as items will get jostled on bumpy roads. Here is what we recommend you do:
- Invest in quality boxes and packing materials
- Label all boxes by room and priority
- Pack essentials separately for easy access upon arrival
- Use protective materials for fragile or high-value items
If packing for a long distance move sounds like more work than you are ready for, we suggest you consider professional packing services for peace of mind. This will save you time and effort while guaranteeing your items are packed perfectly.
How Flex Box Can Help:
One’s first long distance move can be a challenge, but a Flex Box can make it easier. Flex Boxes are portable storage units ideal for staged moving. You can pack at your own pace, have your unit transported and stored, and then delivered right to your final destination. Ideal for downsizing, delayed move-ins, or temporary storage, this moving solution can make your first big move easier.
Why Choose a Professional Long Distance Moving Company:
Looking for long distance movers to be your partner on this journey. At Speedy Movers, we are a fully licensed and insured moving company with extensive experience with multi-state routes, schedules, and logistics. We offer reliable communication, transparent pricing, and custom moving plans designed to fit your needs while reducing stress.
Getting ready for your first long distance move? Contact Speedy Movers for a free quote and expert help every step of the way.