Long-distance moves can be really stressful, especially if you have young children, elderly family members, or pets with you. When you move far away, there are a lot of details to think about, like where everyone will sleep, how to get your things from one place to another, and how to keep everyone comfortable on the long journey. All these extra things can make everyone feel more stressed. It’s like going on a big trip, but you have to bring everything with you!
Simplified has been helping people (and pets!) move to, from, and around the Boston area, across the country, and even to other countries for over 20 years. Moving can be a big deal, and it’s important to have experts moving consultants like Simplified to make sure everything goes smoothly. You wouldn’t want moving to be scary or upsetting—it should be an exciting adventure! When you think about moving as a fun chance to start fresh, it can be really good for your mental health and make the whole experience better. Simplified knows how to make that happen. Get our moving tips to simplify your move no matter where you are in the process.
Here are six expert tips for long-distance moves
- Find the best movers: Did you know that many moving companies outsource out-of-state moves to other companies? The team that packs you up may not be the same to unload when you arrive at your new home. Make sure you know and are comfortable with who your movers are every step of the way. The Simplified Moves team can meet with different moving companies to acquire estimates and make sure you pick the perfect moving company for you.
- Insurance: A lot can happen between packing up your belongings and when the movers arrive at your new home. Check with your insurance company to see if your property is covered during a move. If not, ask the moving company what sort of insurance coverage they provide should an unfortunate accident occur.
- Pack smart: Whether you’re packing yourself or having professionals do it, our number one packing tip is to make sure all boxes are labeled. Include a box of “Day One” items. These are handy things you can use immediately – pots, pans, a mix of clothing – that will be useful, especially if all the unpacking doesn’t get completed the first day. And if there are other items you’ll need immediately upon arrival, take those with you. Examples are personal documents, hygiene products, and small personal electronics such as tablets. This will save time and reduce stress once you arrive at your new home.
- Know your delivery window: You’ll be hard-pressed to find a long-distance mover who can give you an exact arrival date for your items. Some may offer this for an additional cost. With this in mind, be well-versed in the delivery window for your belongings. It could be anywhere from seven days to three weeks or longer. If you need to reschedule your move, contact your movers right away so your items arrive to the right place at the right time.
- Move-in logistics: Is your new place a single-family on acres of land with plenty of space to park a moving truck? Or are you moving into a condo in a managed building in the middle of a busy downtown neighborhood? Know the parking situation for your moving truck. Know the move-in rules for managed buildings – many require parking permits, insurance certificates, and elevator holds. Especially for college students, there are often moving guidelines provided by the school that need to be abided by.
- Research your new neighborhood: You’re not just moving your belongings to a new home; you’re moving your entire life. And getting to know your new area can be daunting and take a lot of time. Simpified can help you figure out how to navigate your new life. Whether it’s what schools your children will attend, your closest grocery store, or the best dog walkers, we will research and vet all of the possible options.
Moving is stressful, no matter how you slice it. But when you factor in that you aren’t just moving to a different neighborhood in the same city but to an entirely different state or country, things start to get really complicated. If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, reach out regarding our Simplified Moves Program. We can help you prioritize your tasks and take care of anything you don’t have time to do.