Moving is always an experience, moving across the country is an even bigger one. Though I’m not moving to the other side of the United States I am going to be moving to a new state and that has made me think about what I need to do.
Every move comes with its own degree of stress, there’s no denying that. However, when it comes to those extra long distance moves, the addition of a few hundred miles can make a big difference.
That difference can be particularly stressful, as well, if not accounted for. So, let’s take a look at a few of the unique challenges of moving across the country, and what you can do to make it a little easier.
Make the best possible use of space
When you hire movers, you’re going to be paying them more if you need to use larger moving vans. You’re also going to be paying more if you’re on the road for longer.
As such, you want to try and cut some of the costs by getting rid of items you don’t need, decluttering your belongings, and organizing how you pack so you can make sure you can get everything into a smaller space.
Make sure your goods are protected
Talk to your moving company about whether or not you need any packing materials or equipment like straps or racks to help secure your goods in place.
The longer they are on the road, the greater the chance that they’re going to be damaged. Most moving teams will provide all the equipment that you need, themselves. However, there’s nothing wrong with checking and staying supplied.
What about your vehicles?
If you have a single car, then it might be easy enough to drive it to the new home yourself. However, if you have more than one vehicle or if you are renting a van and moving your possessions yourself, how do you make sure your car comes with you?
Sometimes, friends might be able to help but most people are going to need professionals who can move your car. That way you also get some guarantee for its safety on the road.
Be sure to triple check all of your possessions
Before the moving process, take the time to look through all of your boxes and possessions. It’s highly recommended that you take an inventory, labelling each box uniquely and noting down what is inside each box.
This way, you can tick off the items as they’re being loaded onto the truck and tick again when they’re being put into the house on the other side. That way, if something goes missing, you can quickly identify and (hopefully) find it again.
Take breaks while driving
If you’re making a drive that lasts several hours, then you should make sure to take care of yourself. Plan some rest stops along the way, not only to fuel up, but also to take some time, hydrate, grab a bite to eat, and stretch your legs. Long-distance driving can be physically demanding and if you don’t take care of yourself, your focus can start to wander on the road.
A long-distance move is going to be demanding, no matter what. However, that doesn’t mean that there’s nothing you can do to make it a little more manageable. Follow the tips above to give yourself an easier time.
This content was origonally published on HollybeeTells.com