9.8% of Americans move yearly, which can be for various reasons. Maybe they want to relocate to a tranquil town, far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Or perhaps the increasing cost of living in their current city might be pushing them to seek more affordable options elsewhere. In states like Arizona, where housing costs are 20% higher than the national average, many people have no choice but to move to a more budget-friendly location. The housing costs in Tucson, a major city in this state, are 6% higher than the national average.
Regardless of the motive behind your move, taking on a long-distance relocation, especially if it’s your first time, can be incredibly challenging. But don’t fret; we’re here to help. We have compiled 5 essential tips to help you plan a successful long-distance move, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.
1. Hire a Reputable Moving Company
One of the most critical decisions when planning a long-distance move is choosing a reputable moving company. To begin with, research several moving companies and read reviews from previous customers. Request quotes from various companies to compare services and prices. While cost is crucial, it should not be the sole determinant in your decision-making process.
Look for companies with a track record of successfully handling long-distance moves. There are bound to be problems along the way, and experienced movers will know how to manage them.
For instance, just this July, a major thunderstorm struck Tucson, causing strong winds of 60mph and road closures. In such a case, you must look for a Tucson long distance moving company with several decades of experience handling moves. They will have the knowledge and expertise to navigate alternate routes and tackle such problems effectively, minimizing delays and ensuring the safety of your belongings.
Carefully examine the range of services each moving company provides. While most moving companies offer basic services like packing and unpacking, some may offer more advanced services that can significantly assist your move. Vehicle shipping, for example, can save you costs and time on hiring a separate auto shipping company. Storage services can also be invaluable, especially if there is a gap between your move-in and move-out dates.
As you review the pricing provided by each moving company, be cautious about potential hidden fees. Some companies may impose extra fees for services such as furniture disassembly, navigating stairs, and handling bulky items. And remember that the average cost of a long-distance move falls within the range of $2,200 to $5,700, so if a moving company offers a quote that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t sacrifice the safety of your belongings for a few hundred dollars.
2. Try and Move During the Off Season
We understand that for most people, the timing of a move is often dictated by various factors beyond their control, such as job relocations, lease agreements, or family commitments. But if you have the flexibility to choose when to move, we highly recommend considering the off-season for your relocation.
Moving companies are generally less busy during this time, offering discounted rates and special deals to attract customers. If moving during the off-season is not feasible for you, consider moving on a weekday rather than a weekend, as weekdays are generally less busy for moving companies, and you may be able to negotiate better rates.
And aim to schedule your move near the middle of the month. Many people tend to move at the beginning or end of the month when leases commonly start or end. By avoiding these peak times, you may find more affordable moving options.
3. Declutter Before You Pack
Statistics show that 80% of the items we keep in our houses are never used. We tend to form emotional connections between our sense of self and the possessions we consider ours. But moving is the perfect opportunity to break free from this tendency and declutter our lives. It’s time to let go of that dusty old lamp that no longer works and those handbags you received as gifts but know you’ll never use.
Decluttering helps you save costs on moving. Every additional item you bring adds to your belongings’ weight and volume. And decluttering also reduces the amount of packing and unpacking you’ll have to do.
As you declutter, you have several options for disposing of the items you no longer need. You can host a yard sale or use online platforms like eBay and Facebook Marketplace to reach a broader audience. If you feel generous, consider donating the items to a local charity. This way, your pre-loved possessions can find new homes where they’ll be appreciated and used.
4. Pack Like a Pro
Knowing how to pack efficiently is a skill that can save you costs and make the entire moving process much smoother. These expert packing tips will help you pack like a pro:
- Cut handles into your boxes: This makes handling the boxes much more effortless and reduces the risk of accidental dropping.
- Pack heavy items at the bottom: This creates a stable foundation, ensuring that delicate or lighter items on top remain protected during transportation.
- Use big boxes for light items and small boxes for heavy items: Large, heavy boxes are notoriously challenging to handle and often lead to complaints from professional movers. Instead, opt for smaller boxes for heavier items, as they are easier to carry.
- Utilize every inch: Don’t leave any space unused in your boxes. Fill gaps with clothes, towels, or any other soft items that can fit snugly.
- Roll your clothes: This saves space and helps keep your clothes wrinkle-free.
- Wrap fragile items in clothing: With this one, you save on the cost of bubble wrap, provide cushioning for your delicate items, and pack two things in one, optimizing space in your boxes.
- Label boxes by rooms: This simple organizational step will save you a lot of time during unpacking, as you’ll know exactly where to find each item.
- Tape your boxes well: Seal off the bottom and top seams securely with packing tape. And make multiple wraps around the top and bottom edges, where stress is most concentrated.
5. Update Your Address Before You Move
Before you move, you must inform the authorities and update your address with the relevant institutions. Start by notifying your bank, credit card companies, and utility providers. This ensures that your financial and billing information is updated, and you won’t miss any important notices or payments during the move.
And don’t forget about the online platforms. Popular online services like Amazon, UberEats, PayPal, and other e-commerce platforms often store your address for delivery. Ensure your address is updated to avoid any delivery hiccups.
Conclusion
In conclusion, planning a long-distance move requires careful attention to detail and a well-thought-out strategy. Following the tips above will definitely put you on the path toward a smoother and less stressful move to your new home. Good luck!
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