Preparing for a long distance residential move can seem like a monumental task. There are many questions to ask yourself or your family, and multiple list items to check off. Whether you decide to handle every step of this process by yourself with friends and family, or decide to call in professional movers to help you, there are a few things you need to know when you’re preparing for an interstate move.
Preparing Your Family for a Long Distance Residential Move
A long distance residential move consists of multi-step processes. These include the administrative paperwork side of things, like canceling utilities and local memberships, and finding favorites in your new locale. And there are of course many move-related tasks such as truck rental, fuel expenses and various logistics.
Interstate Move Preparation for Home Services and New State I.D.
Before you get into actually packing and moving there are other lifestyle factors to consider. Make sure to handle the following details.
- Research and select your new utility provider. Will your new home use gas and electric, and do you have the right appliances for it? Set up service start dates in the new location and disconnection dates for the old home.
- Select cable and internet providers. If you’re using one of the main national providers, they often make it easy to transfer services (but you’ll want to make sure your provider is available in your new area).
- Remember to update and change your government documents. In the midst of carrying out a big long distance move, it’s easy to put off getting new documents (state I.D. or driver’s license, and submit new voter registration) once you arrive. Additionally, make sure to pack important documents (birth certificates, for example), and safely store this information for all members of your household.
Tips for Preparing Your House for a Residential Move
After you’ve found new local providers for services and selected new schools for the children, the house itself still has to be prepared for your interstate residential move. Follow these tips to make moving day more manageable.
- Decide if you want to do the move yourself or hire professional movers. Each option has its pros and cons, but knowing the factors affecting the cost of hiring long distance movers may help you make your choice. Research companies to make sure they fit your budget and timeline. Keep in mind that a DIY move has to pay for a truck, equipment rental, packing supplies, deposits and more. All of this can add up quickly.
- Declutter and clean your home. This will help you let go of those things you don’t want to take to your new home. This can also be a cost savings if you hire professional movers, as weight affects cost.
- Take an inventory with pictures of your valuables, collectibles and larger items. This step helps you in the unfortunate event something breaks during a move. Make sure you have the proper liability protection as well. Pro movers often offer valuation and coverage for possessions.
- Pack with a purpose. If you choose to DIY move or choose partial-service moving, packing will be a big part of the process. Set a schedule and make a plan of attack for how you want to strategically handle each section of the home. Place taped and labeled boxes in a staging area that’s easy to access. Having the packing complete will make move day load-up go faster, and get you on the road in a timely manner.
- Consider the load-out when you first load up. If you’re moving yourself or working with a team, discuss the order in which you want to take things off the truck in the new location—this will help you load the truck most effectively.
Follow these tips to reduce stress and make the day as smooth as possible. If you move yourself, this preparation saves you in many ways. If you hire long distance moving professionals, this may reduce labor costs.
Hire Award-Winning, Experienced Residential Movers Today
When you’re ready to hire trusted long distance residential movers with 95+ years of experience, National Van Lines and our agents are here and ready to help you. Call us at 800-323-1962 or request a free move quote today.
