Long distance moving can be an enormous task and should be approached carefully. Planning ahead will ensure a more organized transition – to do this, create a checklist with all tasks to be accomplished before beginning.
Canadians adore Roger Hodgson, the iconic voice and composer behind such Supertramp classics as Crime of the Century, Take the Long Way Home and Breakfast in America. If you’re considering long distance moving in Calgary, there are many professional moving companies that provide excellent services designed to help facilitate the move.
1. Plan Ahead
Long distance moving requires meticulous planning. Starting early, researching moving and packing companies, clearing away clutter efficiently before packing efficiently, notifying parties of your move schedule – these all play key roles in the success of a smooth relocation experience.
Decluttering is an ideal opportunity to rid yourself of items you no longer require or use. Sort and categorize them accordingly into keep, donate, and discard piles for easier and faster organization when moving home. The more organized you are, the faster it will go.
Transportation is another integral element of planning. Research your options based on budget, timeline and location to select the one that’s ideal.
2. Pack Early
Long distance moving presents more than just physical challenges; it also poses logistical ones. Careful packing will ensure that all of your possessions arrive intact from one end of the country to the other.
Wrapping fragile items in bubble wrap, covering upholstered furniture in blankets and padding sharp corners are just a few ways you can ensure their arrival safely at their new homes. Strong boxes and packing supplies may also help prevent damage during transport.
Labeling your boxes and creating an inventory are also key steps in moving. Use a binder or folder with divider tabs to keep receipts, inventory lists, calendars, checklists, moving company contracts and any other related documents in one secure place.
3. Get Rid of Unnecessary Items
With less items to pack and move long distance, moving costs will decrease substantially. If there are items which will not be useful or difficult to replace in their new environment, consider getting rid of or selling them off as they could end up costing too much to store or transport.
Appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines can be costly to ship; in many cases it may be less expensive and more efficient to donate or sell them before undertaking a long distance move. Large furniture pieces also pose logistical difficulties and should be disassembled prior to transportation.
Also, ensure you only bring essentials such as clothing, bed linens and toiletries with you – this will save space and weight while making unpacking much simpler – this is especially important if living in a smaller space.
4. Hire a Moving Company
When it comes to long distance moving, hiring a reliable moving company as soon as possible is of the utmost importance. To find the ideal movers, begin by getting estimates from multiple companies and scheduling in-home estimates as early as possible – also ensure your home is ready for their arrival!
To select an effective moving company, it is crucial that not only prices and services are compared but also license and insurance are verified to ensure your belongings will be safe during transit.
Additionally, read reviews written by previous customers to gain an idea of the overall quality and customer service provided by each moving company. Doing your research will make long distance moving much less taxing.
5. Don’t Forget About the Little Things
Long distance moves require extra preparation and planning than traditional moves, so make sure to heed these tips to ensure a successful transition to your new home.
Create a binder with tabs for receipts, packing inventory, calendar events, checklists and other tasks related to moving. This will help keep everything on schedule while not missing any crucial details.
Note that when traveling with children, be sure to pack plenty of snacks and entertainment – both snacks for yourself as well as any entertainment options for them – to keep everyone occupied while driving and help the drive go more smoothly. Also don’t forget to update all important documents with your new address early on in the process – this step should not be overlooked!
6. Consider Insurance Options
When moving long distances, your belongings will be in transit for a longer period, increasing the risk of damage or loss. Therefore, it’s worth considering purchasing moving insurance. Discuss with your moving company about their insurance options and what they cover. If their coverage doesn’t seem sufficient, you can look into third-party insurance providers.
7. Understand Your New Area
Before you move, take some time to research your new area. Look into the local amenities, schools, healthcare facilities, and public transportation options. If possible, visit the area to familiarize yourself with the neighborhood. This will help you feel more comfortable and prepared when you arrive.
8. Prepare for Arrival
Long distance moving means you might arrive at your new home several days or even weeks after your belongings. Plan for this by packing an “essentials” box that you keep with you, containing items like toiletries, a few changes of clothes, important documents, and any other items you might need immediately upon arrival.
9. Settling In
Moving long distance often means starting anew in an unfamiliar place. Once you’ve moved, take time to explore your new surroundings, meet your neighbors, and find local businesses like grocery stores and restaurants. This will help you feel more at home in your new location.
10. Post-Move Tasks
Don’t forget about tasks that need to be done after the move. This includes setting up utilities and internet service, updating your address with banks, insurance providers, and other institutions, and registering for new schools if you have children.
Remember, long-distance moving is a significant life event. It requires careful planning and organization, but with the right approach, it can be a smooth and successful process.
