5 Things to Consider When Making a Long-Distance Move
The current pandemic has given many people the option of working from home. That is why making a long-distance move is an easy choice for some. Establishing a home office close to family and friends can be a good idea. Choosing a more affordable area in another state can help as well. Knowing what to consider when making a long-distance move can help make the experience less stressful. Below are the things you need to know.
1. Professional Movers
Using professional movers can save you a substantial amount of effort, time, and money. Companies like uShip can assist in long-distance moves. You can read uShip reviews to find out how well the company satisfies its customers. Doing this for other credible moving companies can give you a broad pool of choices.
Professional movers can do everything for you. They can pack for you based on your instructions. Their care, experience, and mindfulness will ensure the integrity of your belongings. This will save you on damages that often result from DIY packing.
Researching the right professional moving company, like those at Eckert’s Moving, means getting quotes from the credible moving companies you choose. As this happens, asking for a few important details helps establish trust. Check for the company’s updated vehicle registration and US Department of Transportation ID number. Inquiring about the company’s liability insurance and proof of worker’s comp also helps ensure the safety of your property. These ensure the safety and health of the professional movers as well.
2. New Location
A long-distance move is a huge event. It means uprooting and bringing all you can to an unfamiliar place. This may sound scary, but it does not need to be. Accessing information about the new residential area will give you a clearer picture of what to expect.
Proper research will give you the locations of shops, schools, restaurants, churches, and any other establishment you may need. Learning about the area’s cost of living, culture, transportation, and safety also matters. Finding out about the emergency response of the police and emergency medical teams can help give you more peace of mind.
Moving to another location is a huge decision. For some people, it could even mean changing lifestyles or routines. It will be easier to adjust to the new living environment by visiting and immersing yourself in the new environment as a local tourist. Renting a small space in the area or neighborhood you like for a few weeks can allow you to absorb the local culture. You may even get to know potential neighbors.
Staying in the area will also give you the chance to try out the local transportation. This can help form personal landmarks. In case you need to commute for errands, you will not be a stranger to the bus stops, different cab companies, or train terminals. Checking out the transportation apps in the area will help you establish a convenient way to get around as well. Finding out where the rental car companies are will also make your travels easier.
3. Budget
A long-distance move can be costly. Saving for at least six months of daily costs in advance is ideal, as is having a separate moving budget. Lay it all out on a spreadsheet to give yourself a good picture of what you should prioritize when you get there. Expenses for groceries, WiFi, and utilities are only a few of the things to budget for when you arrive at the new place.
Sightseeing and exploration also need a budget. This is another time when knowing the area comes in handy. Do you need any extra gear for new outdoor hobbies? Perhaps getting a pet would be good for you, too. These additional elements to your move need the right budget. Preparing your finances will prevent stress and anxiety on the day you start settling into your new home.
4. What to Keep and What to Purge
This can be a challenging thing to determine. Sentimentality often takes over when it is time to choose which items to throw away and which items to pack. Taking essential appliances like your washer, dryer, or oven will keep you from buying new ones when you arrive in your new home, but you also will have to bring those big items on your cross-country trek with you.
Decluttering before you pack will help retain the most useful items when you move. What do you use regularly, and what do you never use? If you don’t want to throw away the things you’re purging, consider selling them at a garage sale or donating them.
5. Documents, Identification, and Utilities
Updating your driver’s license and any other form of identification is another important step in your long-distance move. Moving within the state allows you to update your documents even before moving day. Presenting proof of new residency, your social security number, your passport, and your current driver’s license will be the documents you need for this. Moving to another state will need a different set of documents. Finding out what they are before the move will help make the process quicker.
Preparing well for your long-distance move is key to its success. It can be overwhelming to even think about moving to a distant town or state. Planning months ahead will help make the transition smoother. The mentioned considerations can help you focus on what the important things are and help prevent you from panicking or even cramming on the big day.
