All around the world, people are moving away from their homes. Over 281 million people lived in a different country from their origin in 2020.

That is a lot of people relocating to other areas. People want to move to new places for many different reasons. Financials, family issues, new jobs, and retirement are some of the most significant factors.

Moving does come with a lot of stress, though. To make the process easier, you need to prepare beforehand.

A long distance move checklist will help you ensure that you have everything and are ready when you leave. Read on to find out more moving tips!

Necessary Documents and Personal Effects

As a long distance mover packing these items can seem tedious, but it’s worth doing it right. Start by gathering passports, birth certificates, social security cards, vehicle registration, insurance information, and anything else you legally need.

Of course, remember to photocopy everything before you pack it! Make sure to keep essential items like laptops, phone chargers, and adapters with you rather than in the moving truck. Finally, if you’re a pet owner, pack the necessary items such as toys, food, medications, and veterinarian records. 

Mode of Transportation 

Your checklist should consider the safest and most cost-effective mode of transportation. You may have several options to consider depending on the distance, the size of your move, and the time frame.

You can rent a truck, tow a trailer, ship via freight, or hire a moving vehicle.

Renting a Truck

You should know the size and weight capacity of the truck you rent. It is so you can estimate the number of trips needed to move your belongings. Be sure to book the rental truck in advance and check for any discounts available.

Make sure you understand the insurance and damage policy—research rental locations to find the one most conveniently located. 

Inspect the vehicle both upon pickup and return to document any pre-existing damages. Also, remember to check if you need equipment such as hand trucks, dolls, and a transit blanket. 

Towing a Trailer

Check the condition of your trailer, including brakes, tires, hitch, and any other necessary parts. Make sure to review the manuals, including the owner’s manual and the vehicle manual. It will ensure you are correctly towing the trailer and know what your towing capacity should be. 

Have your trailer serviced before your move, so all the parts and equipment are functional. If you need to buy any items for the trailer, make sure you have them ready before the move. Ensure you pack all tools, especially a wrench, electrical, and emergency roadside equipment.

Be sure to include secure straps to hold your items in place, and don’t forget your things for the move. Finally, it would help if you also had a plan for storage/parking once you reach your destination. 

Shipping Via Freight

For a cross country mover, you should create a comprehensive checklist of items necessary for shipping via freight. This checklist should include details of the shipping company, their terms, conditions, and estimated delivery date.

It should also specify what items are allowed to be shipped. It will include the weight, size, and fragility of items. Further, if items require special packaging, this should be detailed in the checklist.

It is also beneficial to research and select a shipping company that offers insurance and other protection in case of any damage during transit. Also, the freight shipping cost should be included in the checklist and compared to other alternatives, such as air transportation or traditional moving services.

Hiring a Moving Company

Hiring a moving company vehicle for a long-distance move is an excellent way to make the transition easier and stress-free. Make sure to review the credentials and credentials of any subcontractors they use.

You should also ask for a written estimate and read the company’s agreement in detail. Also, obtain the moving company’s insurance information in the event of any damage or accidents during the move.

Packing Preparations

A long distance move checklist for packing preparations should include an inventory list of items that need to be moved, packing materials, boxes and tape, and a labeling system. A packing timeline should be organized weeks before the move and should include packing up items that are used sparingly.

It’s important to stay organized when packing, such as by packing each room in designated boxes labeled with the room they came from. Supplies such as bubble wrap, packing paper, and dishware/glassware wrapping materials should be bought in advance, as well as stretch wraps and packing tape for a secure and safe move.

You should also take photographs or videos of furniture and items before they are moved and have all electronic items itemized and inventoried. Additionally, have the items that need to be tossed out in a separate area for ease of disposal during the move.

Ensuring Safe Arrival of Belongings

Consider buying insurance coverage that is right for your move, as this will protect your belongings if something goes wrong. Also, confirm the arrival of all your items before your mover departs.

All these steps are important to ensure the safe arrival of your belongings during your long distance move.

Transferring Utilities in New Area

Contact utility companies like electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable providers to notify them of your impending move. The sooner you do this, the more likely you will have uninterrupted service. Do your research to understand if there are any fees associated with switching providers, as well as what promotions or discounts you can take advantage of when moving.

Also, determine whether there is a service period you need to wait to get your utilities set up in the new home. As a safety precaution, consider scheduling the disconnection of services at the current address until after your move. 

Follow This Long Distance Move Checklist Today

Moving long distance requires careful planning and organization. Your long distance move checklist should include packing supplies, insurance coverage, selling or donating items, and professional moving services. Check in with yourself and plan accordingly to prepare for a smooth, stress-free distance move.

Contact a professional moving service today if you need help getting started!

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