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 spend more money than necessary. At this point in the move, it’s time to choose how you will transport your belongings. Additionally, you need to take the time now to compile the prices of the packing equipment for your moving budget to be more accurate.
- After deciding how you plan to move, you’ll need to write down all the expected expenses.
- Are you opting for professional movers? Start looking up the potential estimates for your long-distance move. Remember that a move during peak seasons will make it harder to find the best movers. By booking early in advance, you’re more likely to get the price and the movers of your choice.
- Contact a real estate agent to start moving forward on selling your home.
12 Weeks Before Moving
With 12 weeks left to go, your move is still far enough away that you can take your time with preparations but need to begin ironing out the finer details.
- Determine how you plan to travel to your new home. Will you take a train, car or plane? Now is the time to book tickets and iron out arrangements for shipping your vehicles.
- Finalize the details with your mover. Get written confirmation of the moving time and date. Be sure to purchase any mover’s insurance currently as well.
- Have kids enrolled in school? Be sure to take the time now to plan for enrollment at their new schools.
10 Weeks Before Moving
Now the ball is rolling leading up to your move. Start spreading the word to friends and family members that you’re moving.
- Start sharing with neighbors, friends, and family that you plan on moving.
- Ask for the blueprints to your new home to make it easier to determine what furniture you need to take with you.
8 Weeks Before Moving
Now is the time to get into the nitty-gritty of moving.
- Start listing all the items you expect movers to transport and all the belongings that you plan to carry on your own.
- Begin purchasing packing supplies like zip ties, bubble wrap, and tape. Try ordering in bulk or finding recycled items from local stores to cut down on costs.
6 Weeks Before Moving
With the move just six weeks away, now is time to get packing.
- Start packing all items you won’t use within the next few weeks, which include out-of-season clothes, extra furniture, books, and the like.
1 to 4 Weeks Before Moving
As your move is just a few weeks away, it’s time to start selling off unwanted belongings, pack all non-essentials, set up your utilities in your new location, and any other similar details.
The Day of the Move
Use your moving checklist to take an inventory of all your belongings and prepare for the big move ahead. Check-in with the movers to make sure everything makes it on the truck, and make sure to solidify your travel plans to get to your new home. Moving requires an extensive amount of planning, but with the right preparation, your upcoming move can be simple. Use this guide as you ready yourself and your family for your move.