Generally, when moving you need to pick a day, pack a truck, and head out! However, changes to the job, housing and financial markets have meant more and more families are choosing to make bigger moves across the country for new jobs, better housing options, or more financial freedom. If you have been presented with a cross-country move, read ahead to learn about what you need to know.
Plan Ahead for your move
As soon as you know about your move, you need to start making a checklist. If you are moving as a family, try a google doc, or something shareable but ensure that you start recording any tasks you need to complete as soon as possible. If possible, use a calendar so you can input final dates for items like phone and utility appointments that need to be booked in advance.
Hire Professionals for your move
While taking care of your move by yourself could save you money, if you are on a limited time frame or are busy with kids or other preparations, hiring a moving company can save you time and money! Professional packers will know how to conserve space while keeping your items safe, and some will have plans for long-distance moves that will be invaluable to you. In addition, although your moving company might have insurance, consider extra moving insurance if you are taking valuables with you. Get at least 3 estimates from different companies to ensure you get the best price and service that meets your needs. Check out our other blog on how to ensure you are hiring a reputable moving company.
Declutter prior to your move
A cross-country move is an opportunity to begin fresh. It’s time to part with your extras; kitchenware, linens, tools, yard items, toys, and things like decorations and seasonal items. The less you need to move, the easier it will be.
Pack It Right for your move
Once you’ve gotten rid of all non-essentials, invest in boxes that will protect what you are moving. Don’t forget bubble wrap, tape, and labels/markers. These items will be going a long way so put extra effort into protecting them from bumps along the way. For extra protection, label the boxes with your name and phone number as well. In some cases, cross-country moves include other families, this ensures your items end up at the right place. Even if you aren’t moving with someone else, accidents happen and labelling can help items find their way home if they are set down in the wrong spot.
Set up a box of items that you will need immediately upon arrival such as documents and health/id cards. You will also need toiletries, personal necessities, medication, some linens like bedding and towels, and essential kitchenware. Don’t forget soap, disposable kitchenware, chargers, and your coffee maker!
Organize for your move
Where will items be going in your new home? Label your boxes with their new locations in mind to save you time when you arrive. Not only will this help you and your movers unpack more easily, but it will help you plan ahead to ensure that your new location has space for all of your items. Nothing could be worse than moving your hutch or king-sized bed cross country to find out it doesn’t fit your new floor plan. Another organization essential is creating an inventory list. Before your items are loaded you want to ensure that you know where everything is and that it’s getting on the truck safely. An inventory list will also help you ensure everything has arrived and you’ll be able to find it once you’ve reached your destination.
Clean As You go prior to your move
Once you start packing, select one area for your labelled boxes and clean rooms as you empty them. That way when the time comes for the move, you will already be cleaned up and won’t have that to worry about. Cleaning before will also help you assess where everything is, what you need, and what can be eliminated.
Know What moving in will look like
Check out where your moving truck will need to park upon arrival. Are there any regulations about moving in? Will you need access to an elevator, or are there stairs you will need to navigate? Do you have a move-in time window? Ensure that your movers are aware of any move-in instructions before you arrive so it can be as smooth as possible.
saving money when moving
If you are moving within your own country, you can save money in several ways, such as driving your car and family yourself as opposed to having your car moved. Another way to save is to move during the off-season. Summer is the most expensive time to move so choose another time. If you must move during summer, you can choose mid-week or mid-month to also save money.
Moving cross-country can be stressful but with these tips, you can plan ahead and take all the unknowns out of the equation. With professional movers, you can make your move even smoother and save yourself a lot of hassle and headache. Are you getting ready for a move across the country? Contact Mike the Mover today to get a Free Quote from us and find out more about how we can make it easier on you!