A long distance move is any relocation over 250 miles. People make these moves to change locations for various reasons including new job opportunities, family and friends, school and more.
Choosing the right moving company is essential for a stress-free experience. Make sure you scout at least three reputable movers for quotes before making your final decision.
Packing
When preparing for a Long Distance Moves in Miami FL, the process of packing can be one of the most stressful parts. It’s important to start early and have a clear plan of action in order to avoid feeling overwhelmed or rushed.
While it may be tempting to use complimentary boxes from your local grocery store, it’s best to invest in supplies that are made specifically for moving and packing. These supplies are generally stronger and more padded than standard cardboard boxes, which will help protect your belongings during transit.
Another helpful tip for packing is to make sure to keep an emergency kit of essential items that you’ll need while moving. This includes things like toiletries, medication, and personal items. Having these items with you will allow you to stay comfortable during the move and settle into your new home quickly.
Be sure to also keep your important documents on hand during the move, as well. This includes items like your driver’s license, passport, and birth certificate. You’ll also want to keep your credit cards, bank information, and any other pertinent documents safe. If you’re moving to a new state, it’s also important to update your address in any necessary places so that your mail will be sent to the correct place. This will save you a lot of hassle down the road!
Planning
If you’re planning a move, whether it’s across town or across the country, you’ll want to make sure your plans are set well in advance. This helps prevent stress, confusion, and forgetfulness. It also makes it easier to book movers, hotels, and flights.
The exact definition of a local move can vary based on your moving company, but in general, anything under 100 miles is considered a local move. Anything longer than that, or even within the state, is considered long distance.
It’s also important to decide which service is best for you: full-service, container, or rental truck. Full-service movers typically cost the most, but they’re also the easiest to work with. Container movers offer an affordable middle ground between hiring full-service professionals and renting a truck yourself. And truck rentals are the least expensive option, but can be more difficult to maneuver and can require extra fuel costs.
Once you’ve settled on a moving company, make a schedule for when your tasks should be completed. You’ll want to give yourself plenty of time, as long distance moves can be very hectic. And don’t forget to take into account travel arrangements for yourself and any family members who may be joining you. Purchasing airfare, making hotel reservations, and setting up car rental options is best done early in order to get the best prices.
Moving Day
Long distance moving is more than just packing and getting your new home ready to move in. It requires careful planning to ensure that everything you own arrives at your new home on the day you need it. The key to a successful long-distance move is to get organized, start early, and work with an experienced long-distance moving company.
Before your move, make sure you have a good understanding of what your insurance covers and any additional fees that may be added to your bill. It’s important to sit down with your agent before your move and discuss what coverage you have and what coverage you might want to add for the move.
Be sure to get an in-home estimate before your move to avoid hidden costs. It’s important to know exactly what your moving and storage company charges before you sign a contract. It’s also a good idea to ask about additional services like storage and guaranteed delivery dates.
Be sure to pack a box of necessities for the first week in your new home, including toiletries, clothing, bedding, and some food items. This way, you’ll have everything you need until your boxes arrive at your new home. It’s also a good idea, when packing your boxes, to clearly label them with your name. This will help prevent your boxes from being mixed up with other boxes or dropped off at the wrong house.
Getting Started
Getting started is one of the most important aspects of planning for a long distance move. Procrastination will only add to the stress, especially during peak moving season when quality movers are booked fast. To avoid missing out on your ideal moving date, begin the process by getting in-home estimates from multiple movers early in the year.
A long-distance move requires a different approach than a local relocation, so be sure to choose your moving company wisely. Consider options like full-service movers, rental trucks, and portable moving containers. Each comes with its own set of pros and cons, so be sure to research each option thoroughly before making a decision.
Also, be sure to get a clear contract before hiring your movers, especially for a long-distance move. Ask your movers to provide you with an itemized list of costs, services offered, estimated loading and delivery times, and how in-progress questions and concerns will be handled.
Before your move, be sure to create an essentials box that includes items you’ll need right away, such as towels, a few pairs of pants and shirts, toiletries, and some toys for kids or pets. This will ensure that your most important possessions don’t get lost or delayed during the move, and it can also help save money on your packing expenses.