Don’t underestimate the time you need to fully plan and carry out a long distance move. Moving last minute is doable when necessary, but you’ll save yourself a lot of headache if you plan early. Even more, you’re likely to spend less money when you plan a long distance move early since you will have the time to fully investigate all of your options. Well before you plan to move, create a check list and assign a due date to each item. This will help you stay on track of your planning and alert you if you are falling behind.
As you compile your list, make sure you include these activities and stay true to your due date.
Pick a Move Out and Move In Date
It’s unlikely you will be able to move on the exact day of your choosing, but picking dates will help you arrange the rest of your plan. You can also investigate some moving companies to see how busy they expect to be around your moving dates. If you plan to move during the summer, the busiest time for the moving industry, you will want to reach out to movers early. The later you call, the fewer days they will have free to help you move.
Expert Tip: The beginning of a month, ending of a month and weekends are the most popular move dates. Consider planning to move during a week in the middle of a month, when long distance moving companies are likely to have a bit more flexibility.
Create a Shopping List of Moving Supplies
If you work with National Van Lines, we will be happy to pack some or all of your shipment, meaning we will also provide the moving supplies. However, if you plan on doing some or all of the packing yourself, acquiring moving supplies will be your responsibility. Estimate how many boxes you will need, if any items will need specialty boxes and if you need equipment to help you move heavy items.
Start gathering supplies a month or two in advance. It’s a good idea to start packing at the same time, putting rarely used or seasonal items in boxes. This will help you gauge how accurate you’ve been and let you know well before moving day if you need to buy more supplies.
Expert Tip: Don’t throw away your receipts! By gathering supplies early, you’ll likely have time to return any items you don’t use. In addition, your moving expenses may be tax deductible.
Alert Utilities and Services of your Address Change
You’ll be surprised how many services you need to notify of your change of address. Start with your utilities and arrange dates to stop service. Certain companies offer ways to move your service to a new address, so make sure to ask. Planning beforehand will ensure you don’t go any longer than necessary without the utilities you need.
Expert Tip: Keep note of every company and service who needs to be notified of your new residence before changing your address. You’ll want to update them as soon as you can after moving.
Planning a move well in advance of moving day will help you avoid extra cost during your relocation. Without rushing, you have time to fully evaluate your plan and locate quality supplies for a fair price. In addition, you’ll be able to tie up loose ends so you don’t continue to pay for services you no longer use after you move.
Start planning your long distance move today by calling National Van Lines at 877-590-2810 for a free moving quote!
