How to make long distance moves easier

Moving long-distance is not easy. It is more challenging and more complicated than a local move, and moving expenses are much higher. When moving across the country, the preparation process can be the crucial factor that determines the success of a relocation. There are numerous moving activities and tasks that you need to plan – from finding long-distance movers Potomac MD to packing and organizing all your belongings. Read on and find out how to make long-distance moves easier and ensure a successful relocation.

Create a moving checklist

Moving long-distance is an important life event. It can be quite stressful, even overwhelming at times. If you want to make sure everything goes smoothly plan ahead. Create a moving checklist that includes all your moving activities. You should know exactly what you should be doing before, during, and after the move. Make a moving timeline, gather packing materials in advance, research movers in Potomac MD thoroughly, and create your own packing calendar. This will help you stay focused and on track.

Hiring experienced movers will make long-distance moves easier

The most important part of preparing for long-distance relocation is hiring the right moving company. Research best moving companies in Maryland and find the one that meets all your needs and fits your budget. There are several factors to consider when hiring movers:

• Do they hold a license from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration? Remember that all long-distance movers have to hold the proper licensing and insurance.
• Do they have enough experience with this type of move? Long-distance moves are more complicated than local ones, so your movers should carefully organize and execute every part of your move.
• A competitive price is an important factor, especially if you are moving to the other side of the country. Request several free in-house moving estimates and compare the costs.
• Check your movers’ online reputation. Visit specialized moving websites such as Better Business Bureau and check companies’ comments and complaints, overall marks, and previously submitted comments, and complaints.

Declutter your home and sort your items

One of the best ways to make long-distance moves easier is to know exactly what items you are moving. Don’t move furniture pieces that won’t fit into your new home. Get rid of clothes that don’t fit, items you no longer use or need, old gadgets and kids’ toys, magazines, etc. Bear in mind that total moving costs depend on the size and weight of your items. Sometimes it is even cheaper to buy certain items after the move than to transport your things.

The easiest way to organize all your possessions is to divide them into several groups – items you want to keep, things you can sell or donate, and stuff you should throw away. Not only will you spend less money on movers, but you will need fewer packing supplies and a smaller moving van.

Start packing as soon as possible to make long-distance moves easier

Packing is the most difficult and time-consuming part of the moving process. It can be confusing, and home-movers often wonder where to start. Allow ample time to ensure all your belongings are safely and carefully packed. Use quality packing supplies, moving boxes of various sizes, tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, etc. Once you pack everything, label the boxes. Write essential information such as the destination room that the box belongs in, content inside the box, and handling instructions.

Do you need professional packers?

If you are an inexperienced mover, it might be best to hire a moving company that provides packing services in Maryland. Moving professionals know packing techniques and understand how to handle various items, including those that are fragile and can break easily. On the other hand, if you pack on your own you risk damage to your belongings due to improper packing or handling. Also, your moving insurance doesn’t cover self-packed boxes.

Bear in mind that moving injuries are quite common, especially if you are not used to heavy lifting. One of the most common injuries is strained back which can occur if you don’t correctly lift heavy objects. Also, heavy lifting can cause knee injuries, cuts, scrapes, and even broken toes. So, hire a professional packer who will prepare and pack your belongings, as well as load and unload the moving truck.

Pack an essentials box

This is one of the tricks that can make long-distance moves easier. An essentials box is a bag or box that contains everything you will need during the first few hours or days in your new home. This includes toiletries, a change of clothes, pajamas, snacks, an emergency kit, towels, chargers, medicine, important documents, etc. You don’t want to spend your first night in your new home going through all your boxes. Packing an essentials box will make the first 24 hours after the move less stressful.

In conclusion

Moving across the country is not only the start of a new chapter in your life. It is also a long, tiring, emotional process. And even though you must feel excited about the move, it is perfectly normal to also be scared or stressed out. Moving long-distance is a big job, and people often worry about the safety of their things, getting used to the new environment, and settling in.

Make sure to plan and organize your relocation carefully. Consider every aspect of the relocation, make a timeline of moving activities, and start packing well in advance. This is the only way to avoid possible delays and damage and make long-distance moves easier.