8 Tips for a Successful Long-Distance Relocation

The average American moves 11.4 times in their lifetime. But don't let this number fool you. Packing up your things to move to a new place is not often easy.

Long-distance relocations are especially tasking, so you might need to prepare. Below are eight tips to help you move to a long-distance location successfully.

1. Create a Moving Checklist

The moment you know you need to relocate, create a list of things you need to take care of. You might not remember everything immediately. So keep your checklist close by and add to it when you remember something.

2. Declutter

The last thing you likely want when moving across a long distance is to drag a lot of clutter along with you. Remember, the more you have, the larger the van you need. A large moving vehicle significantly adds to your relocation costs. You also spend more on packing supplies when you have more stuff to pack.

Before you start packing, set aside any items you have not used in a long time. You can have a yard sale to get rid of those items or donate them.

3. Make an Inventory of Your Items

Making an inventory ensures you leave nothing behind while packing. Go into each room and list the items you need to pack. After making an inventory of items in your interiors, go outside and note all items you will pack. This includes potted plants, patio furniture, gardening tools, and lawn décor items.

4. Start Packing Early

Packing everything in your house is not a one-day job. You do not want to pack in a hurry and forget essential items or do a poor packing job. Start packing two or three weeks before the moving day.

Start by packing things you don't frequently use, such as holiday decorations, off-season clothes, art, other wall decorations, and family heirlooms. As you pack, put everything in labeled boxes. Pack things that go to the same place in one box.

5. Disassemble Large Items

Disassembling large items like your furniture helps such items to fit better in the moving van. This step also reduces the risk of breaking bulky items. When packing your furniture, wrap the pieces to avoid scratches.

6. Take Your Car to the Auto Shop

Most people drive their cars when moving. When relocating to a faraway place, you want to avoid a situation where your car breaks down in an unfamiliar place. So, a few weeks before you move, have your mechanic check your car and ensure your ride is in good condition.

Tell your mechanic to prepare your car for a long-distance drive. Alternatively, you can service your car, then ship it to your new home to avoid the long drive.

7. Buy Moving Insurance

Most people assume homeowners insurance covers relocation. But that is not the case. Homeowners insurance does not cover property damages from relocation. So, when relocating, purchase moving insurance to be on the safe side.

Most moving companies offer an insurance policy. However, their policy often has limited coverage, so you are better off with more comprehensive coverage.

8. Research Moving Companies

Do not wait until the last minute to contact a moving company. Otherwise, you may find that the best companies are fully booked, forcing you to delay your move. Not all moving companies offer long-distance relocation services. So be specific in your search.

Get quotes from different long-distance movers indicating their prices and services. Choose a mover that gives you the best value in terms of pricing and services. Check online reviews and websites like Yelp and the Better Business Bureau to verify a company's reputation.

Relocating across a long distance can be an exciting experience once you have everything you need for the trip. Your choice of a moving company also determines your experience in a long-distance relocation.