1. Start Planning Early
The earlier you start your long distance moving preparations, the more time you will have to make sure that you move flows smoothly. Depending on the size of your home, distance, and the number of items you own, you might start planning 30 to 60 days in advance.
2. Figure out your move strategy
Strategize on the best and simplest route to take for your move. Take into account issues such as accessibility, traffic, or weather conditions etc if time is of the essence.
3. Keep your movers in the loop
Be as clear as possible on what you expect the long distance company to do. If necessary, put all instructions in writing to avoid any doubts cropping up in future. While it is great to try to provide the company with all the necessary information at the initial stages, you should get the contact details of the representative whom you can keep in constant contact with.
4. Pick the right transportation
There is no point of shooting yourself in the leg when it comes to a long distance move. You might just want to visit the company’s yard to make sure that they have the right equipment for your move. Depending on how far your destination is, make sure that the transportation in use can handle the move.
5. Seize the opportunity to purge
This might be the right time to dump or give away items that you do not use in the home. This not only reduces the weight of the moving truck, but it also gives you a chance to start afresh in your new home.
6. Put together a packing kit
The staff should work systematically in packing the items of your long distance move. It is all about detail. You would rather provide too much detail than scanty detail. The more detailed you are, the better the chances that you will be able to recognize any damage to your goods. Use the relevant packing kit to record such details.
7. Green your move
Choose green moving materials. This is not only cheaper in the end, but it also protects the environment in the process. Reuse or recycle some green moving materials to save money and moving time.
8. Reuse boxes
Recycle and reuse boxes. This will save you some money and assist you to do your part in promoting green long distance moving practices.
9. Take inventory
Have a detailed list of how many items you are moving. The more the detail, the better picture you will have of the condition of the items. Detailed inventories are also important when it comes to claiming insurance.
10. Label everything!
Label the top of the boxes. This makes it more convenient for the team that is involved in your long distance move to unpack the items. This is also necessary to help protect damage to fragile goods.
11. Find out your condo rules
Get to know the rules of your new location to be able to pick the most appropriate time and date for your long distance move.
12. Pack in things you need to pack
Always go for less where necessary. Sell or give out any items that you might not have need for.
13. Prepare a moving day kit
Keep a moving day kit for your long distance move. In this kit, keep the bare essentials that you might need to use immediately after you get to your destination.
14. Be ready for your movers, whether hired or friends
Plan ahead and always confirm the previous day as to when the movers will be arriving at your premises.
15. Protect your valuables
Keep your valuables safe and make sure you are aware of where they are at any given time during the long distance move. If necessary, travel with the box containing your valuables for some extra protection.
16. Delay deliveries
For items that are yet to be delivered at your old premises, make plans for them to be delivered to the new area that you are relocating to
17. Don’t mistake belongings for trash
Do not pack items in trash bags as mistakes might happen. If you cannot avoid using trash bags, make sure you label them correctly to avoid confusion.
18. Hook up essential services
Arrange with you service providers to have all your services and bills transferred to your new residence. Make sure to cancel services that you no longer have use for.
19. Find a pet sitter for the day
Get a pet sitter to keep your pets during the long distance move.
20. Make nice with your new neighbors
Moving to a new location requires some readjustment. This means that you will have to go out and meet your new neighbors. Once you are done unpacking and arranging your furniture, it might just be a great idea to invite them for dinner.
21. Treat your movers
The long distance moving staff has done a great job for you. It is always a great idea to show your appreciation in cash or in kind. You might also leave positive reviews for the supervisors. On the flip side, do not shy away from reporting poor service.