If you’re planning a long distance move, you may feel overwhelmed and stressed out. That’s why we’re giving you 7 helpful tips to prepare for an easier move.
The rise of our global economy has made it easier for people to be more mobile.
On average, over 7 million Americans move to another state every year.
More millennials, in particular, are choosing to move to places where they want to live. In previous generations, folks moved where the work was.
Moving can be both an exciting, and a stressful experience. It’s exciting to start a new adventure in a new place. But it can be stressful to leave everything and everyone you know for unknown territory.
If you’re planning a long distance move, don’t feel like you have to figure out everything on your own.
Here are some of our top tips for having a successful long distance move.
Use professional movers for your long distance move
Moving can be expensive. The cost of buying or renting a new home, traveling to the new location, and taking time off for the move can add up quickly.
Given all these costs, it can be tempting to save money by moving your possessions yourself. In the end, however, you and your family will be much happier if you hire a professional mover.
Think of it this way. The average person moves about 11 times in their lifetime. By contrast, professional movers move every day.
A reputable moving company will pack your items in an effective way that keeps them safe. They can wrap your furniture to keep it from being damaged.
Additionally, moving is also very stressful. Hiring professional movers to handle items like heavy furniture will take a lot of pressure off of you and your family.
When choosing a moving company, make sure to do your research. A reputable company will be able to give you a free quote. Also, always go with a company that offers insurance to protect your items.
Find out what your company’s relocation policy is
During the moving process, many people forget to talk to their boss about what their options are.
If you are moving to a different job with the same company, you may be able to get relocation reimbursement. Or, if you are relocating for a new job, your new employer may provide the same benefit.
In addition to reimbursement, you may be able to get some flex time off to complete your move.
If you can, time your move strategically
The busiest time of year to move is over the summer.
This has a lot to do with the school calendar. Families with children prefer to move over the summer so they don’t have to pull their kids out in the middle of the school year. Also, adults who work in schools move in the summer because they have time off.
Families with children prefer to move over the summer so they don’t have to pull their kids out in the middle of the school year. Also, adults who work in schools move in the summer because they have time off.
In other cases, folks might be planning a move because they intend to further their education at a faraway university.
If you are not bound by any of these kinds of restrictions, then you may want to consider delaying your move until the fall or winter. This can help you save money on your moving expenses.
Start packing as soon as you know you’re moving
The first rule of moving is that packing always takes longer than you think it will.
As soon as you decide to move, it’s time to start getting your items packed up. Otherwise, you’ll end up packing at the last minute.
Now I know what you might be thinking. “How can I start packing? I’m not moving for six months, and I’m still using this stuff!”
The key is to start by packing up the rooms that you use least often. For instance, if you have items that have been in storage for a while, these are good to start with.
Then, you can move to seasonal items that you’re not currently using. Also, any items that you don’t use every day can be packed. Your books, board games, DVDs, and similar items are good examples.
Downsize
That said, while it is important to start packing with items you don’t use every day, make sure not to pack everything.
As you’re packing up your items, you should also begin purging them. For instance, if you haven’t used an item for over a year, you’re probably not going to start using it.
Also, think about what you will need at your new home. Are you moving to a different climate? Then you might not need all of the clothes you currently have.
Furthermore, there are some items that are worth moving, and other items that are better to buy when you get there.
For instance, the average lifespan of a mattress is ten years. If your mattress is approaching that age, then it might make more sense to just replace it.
Stock your new kitchen with essentials
Your new home won’t quite feel like home until you make your first meal there.
As soon as you move, you should take some time to make sure your kitchen is properly stocked. Having these essentials on hand will make the adjustment easier.
Make sure to get shelf-stable foods like rice, pasta, tomato sauce, and canned vegetables. Other essentials like spices, salt, vinegar, oil, and sugar are good to have on hand.
Also, stock your fridge with milk, eggs, and butter. Once you have these staples on hand, you will have the basic ingredients you need for many recipes.
Learn to love your new neighborhood
The final step to any long distance move is adjusting to your new neighborhood.
Take some time to go out for walks, and get to know your neighbors. Try new restaurants, or hit up a bar for happy hour.
Another great way to learn about your new neighborhood is by checking out the local culture. Visiting museums and art districts can make for a great afternoon.
Have you done a long distance move? What would you have done differently? Let us know in the comments!