Moving out of state is not a small undertaking that should be done on impulse or without the proper planning in place. Any long-distance moving operation requires a high level of preparation to ensure everything goes smoothly so both your moving and delivery day can go smoothly. So how do you make sure you have a clear plan ready to go come moving day, and how do you start preparing for a long-distance move? We’ve got a complete checklist to make sure you’re good to go come moving day.
Should I Use Long-Distance Movers?
Before we discuss how to prepare for an out-of-state move, let’s get into the importance of having the right timeline in place and the right movers on your side for your relocation. Because moving out of state can be such a big undertaking, you’ll want to make sure you’re ready for an out-of-state move and aren’t starting too late in the process. Giving yourself a realistic timeline lets you keep stress off yourself, while also keeping your expectations and schedule where they should be.
Not convinced you need professional movers on your side for your long-distance move? Having professional movers on your side for your long-distance move will make your life much easier, and will let you save time and stress. If you’re thinking of trying to move yourself simply because of a cost difference, know that for long-distance moves, the cost of a professional moving company is often comparable to that of a self-moving service - minus the time and effort on your part. When you take into account all of the benefits of using a moving company instead of trying to move yourself, you’ll see why professionals are always the way to go.
Your Out-of-State Moving Checklist
- Find the Right Out-of-State Moving Company
Though you’ll of course receive the best possible long-distance move with __, if our services are unavailable, you’ll need to make sure to do thorough research into finding the right long-distance movers for you. Always make sure to check online reviews, get recommendations from friends and family, and always look up your prospective company’s licenses, accreditations, and insurance.
- Set a Moving Budget
Moving budgets are incredibly important for you to not overspend or be overcharged throughout your p=moving process, and will also let you carve out a little extra to account for unexpected costs without breaking the bank.
- Make an Inventory of Your Home
Once you set your budget and get your movers situated, it’s time to begin the packing process. Take an inventory of your household items and determine what you’ll want to bring and what you’re going to get rid of. Besides the items, you’ll be decluttering or getting rid of, take note of what you’ll be taking with you and the condition of each.
- Begin Packing
Now that you’ve taken an inventory of your items and decluttered what you don’t need or want, it’s time to actually start packing. If you’re not using packing services from your full-service movers, try to source free or low-cost packing materials from friends, family, or local businesses. You can also look for free boxes and other materials on Facebook Marketplace.
- Change Your Address
Don’t forget to change your address and switch over your utilities to your new address before your moving day. This step can be easily overlooked, so make sure to get it out of the way in advance so you don’t forget.
- Prepare Your Trip
Now that you’ve gotten packing out of the way, prepare your own trip to your new home. Because your items will be traveling separately with your moving company, make sure to pack some things to keep with you for the first week or so at your new home. In addition to packing day-to-day items, coordinate your travel plans to your new home for you and your family.
- Get Ready for Moving Day!
After completing all of these steps, you’re ready for your moving day! Have refreshments ready to help out your moving crew, and allow them to do the work for you while you get ready to head to your new home!
Looking for the best long-distance movers for your relocation? Sunrise Moving will provide you with the best services, pricing, and overall experience no matter the size or scope of your out-of-state move. Learn more about what we can do for you today by double checking this moving checklist and taking a look at our other resources.
