Gearing up for a long-distance move? The truth is that without proper planning, a long-distance move can be particularly stressful. Make sure your upcoming move is as seamless as possible by using the following checklist: 14 Weeks Before Moving Moving cross-country is generally expensive, and without the proper budget, you’ll…
Many things can unexpectedly happen when you move across the country. While most of these are easy to navigate, some things can become more difficult bumps in the road. Fortunately, you may be able to avoid some common problems by anticipating what to expect. It can help ensure a smoother transition despite navigating so many logistics across a long distance.
1. Delays
Even if you have everything prepared, it’s better to expect delays, especially with a move across the country. It is especially true if you are hiring a long distance moving company, as they can be hours or even a day late to pick up your things. If you are planning to fly as they drive your belongings, then book your flight for the day after the anticipated pickup just in case your schedule is behind.
2. Planning to Moving Pets
When moving pets a long distance, you can either drive or fly them. While driving may seem simple, it’s important to map a route that allows the pet to get regular exercise and bathroom breaks. For airplane travel, it’s crucial to read through the guidelines and double-check to make sure you meet them.
3. Renting a Hotel Room
After they moved everything out of your home, it may be necessary to rent a hotel room to stay in before your flight. You may also need to rent a room at your final destination if your new home will not yet be ready. Plan for this ahead of time to secure the best rates.
4. Needing a Storage Unit
Most moves across the country require a storage unit to keep your things in until your new home is ready. If you need one, it should be rented a couple of weeks before you leave.
5. Last-Minute Shopping
You won’t have the majority of your belongings for weeks when you move across the country. Thus, it’s essential to keep a bag of your most used items with you at all times. However, you should budget for shopping for toiletries and food that you may run out of before your things are delivered.
6. Things Will Break
Even the most carefully packed moving trucks can result in broken belongings. Be careful with boxes as you unload them and make a note of them on a list if you have moving insurance.
7. Meeting Your Neighbors
Talk to your neighbors as you move so they know a moving truck may be blocking their driveway. Most people will be understanding and let you know if they need the vehicle to set aside.
8. Unscheduled Drivers
If you are hiring a moving company, then you may want to anticipate the driver coming earlier or later than the specified delivery date. Avoid potential issues with drop-offs by making sure the company has your direct contact information.
A Long Move Made Easier
By knowing some of what you can expect when moving across the country, you can save yourself some unnecessary stress. From taking a moment to talk to your neighbors to deeply considering the best way to move your pets, the smallest details can make all the difference.
Moving by yourself without professional movers is tough, but sometimes necessary. It can be more comfortable and pleasant with the correct tools. If you do not already own these tools, and you are preparing to move by yourself, you may want to purchase or borrow from friends or relatives. Phases of moving where these tools can help are packing, loading and securing, and hauling.
Packing
- Sandwich bags and a sharpie
According to Cheap Seattle Movers, bags are helpful when disassembly of items occurs. For instance, when you need to disassemble bed parts, there are many screws, nuts, and washers. A clear sandwich bag and sharpie allow you to store and label these small parts.
- Packing paper
When packing with boxes, not everything will fit well. It is true with kitchen glasses, trinkets, and other breakables. Packing paper can eliminate rubbing and bumping while in the box. It can also help pad the items during transport.
- Stretch wraps
Often, stretch wraps for moving come in a roll with handles at the end so you can roll it properly as you dispense it. This wrap can secure things and hold them together. Depending upon what you need to cover, stretch wrap will help ensure safety.
Loading and Securing
- Dollies
Two types of dollies exist that will help in different situations – a furniture dolly and a hand truck. A hand truck has two wheels and is the dolly we are most accustomed to seeing. Professional movers depend upon furniture dollies to save a lot of time, ensure a safe move, and prevent injuries. A furniture dolly is flat and has four wheels. This dolly is great for moving big household items, such as large pieces of furniture.
- Moving pads and blankets
These blankets will protect delicate finishes on furniture as you store and transport them in the moving truck. Wrap whatever you want to safeguard and secure this wrap with tape, bungee, or rope.
Hauling
A tool necessary for hauling is a moving van or truck. There are at least three choices:
- Rent a moving vehicle.
- Borrow a friend’s car.
- Use your vehicle.
When choosing the vehicle, remember that having enough space is essential, especially if you are renting a truck. If you use too big of a trailer, you will waste money. If you use too small of a car, you will need to make other arrangements. For smaller moving jobs, using a pickup or a small trailer will work. Many times, you can rent the necessary tools when you rent the truck.
When moving, have other tools with you. These tools include:
- scissors
- screwdrivers
- hammer
- pliers
- measuring tape
Ideally, you can keep these tools together in a moving toolbox, so you are always ready to go.
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