Moving is always stressful, but long-distance moves can be even worse. If you move to a different province, it could take more than one day to reach your new home, making the process longer.
Long-distance moving is a tricky task involving getting your stuff from one place to another, often across provinces or countries. It needs careful planning, from sorting and packing your things to setting up the transport. The goal is to ensure your things get to your new home safely. Many people hire professionals to make this move easier and less stressful.
Learn how to prepare for long-distance moving with these nine tips.
Start planning your long-distance move at least eight weeks in advance. This will give you enough time to gather packing supplies, declutter your home, pack your belongings, research different moving companies, and transfer your utilities.
Planning your move is also about researching your future location so you know exactly what your new neighborhood has to offer. This will ease the transition.
While you can rely on your friends and family to move to another neighborhood, they might have differing views on helping you with a long-distance move. Take your time to research different moving companies that specialize in long-distance moving.
You want to hire reputable movers who are properly licensed and insured. You need to trust them to take good care of your boxes and furniture and make everything go smoothly.
Consider renting a portable storage container if you don't want to hire movers. Portable storage containers are convenient solutions for long-distance moving. Unlike moving trucks, they allow you to store your stuff for some time if you can't settle into your new home immediately.
Your container will be delivered to your current home. You will load it with your boxes and furniture. The company will take it away to bring it to your new home or store it in their facilities for some time.
Preparing for a long-distance move allows you to review all your belongings and decide what to bring to your new home. Declutter your home and get rid of anything you don't want anymore by selling it, donating it, or throwing it away. This way, you won't waste time packing and unpacking stuff you don't want to keep.
As you go through your things, gather all your essential documents, such as your passport, financial paperwork, and medical records. You don't want these packed in random boxes. Keep them together safely and bring them in your car instead of packing them in your moving truck or portable storage container.
Packing for a long-distance move is the same as a regular move. Start by bringing items you don't use often, such as seasonal clothes. In the days before your move, pack the rest of your belongings room by room and label your boxes so you know what's inside. Use plenty of bubble wrap or packing paper to protect fragile items.
Make an inventory list of your belongings as you pack to ensure nothing gets lost during transportation. Don't forget to pack a box or bag of essentials for each household member. This box or bag should contain toiletries, medications, and one change of clothes.
Figuring out how to prepare for long-distance moving is also about planning your route. How long will it take you to get to your new home? Will you drive there?
If you know you won't reach your destination in one day, consider booking your accommodations in advance. This way, you can avoid driving stress while wondering where you will spend the night.
Contact your utility providers to inform them when you will move out. Remember to schedule utility setup in advance. You don't want to arrive at your new home and realize it has no electricity or internet access.
Finally, remember to change your address with the government, bank, insurance company, and any other important party that provides services.
Be sure to notify the post office so you don't lose packages or bills as you settle into your new home. And remember that you don't have to rush to unpack all your boxes as soon as you arrive. Take the time to get comfortable.
