Moving long distances as a family can be a physically and mentally arduous undertaking. From figuring out optimal routes and transportation methods to setting up your new home that is hundreds of miles away, the task is no easy feat. To help you pull off a seamless transition without having to spend a fortune or stress about the move, here are six tips to consider:
Purge Your Personal Belongings
Moving to another state or country with your family costs a lot of money. Based on a report by the American Moving and Storage Association, the average cost of a long-distance move is $4,300. Depending on your family’s size and moving distance, the actual price may be higher. One way to make sure you stay within your allocated budget is to only bring items that you need or are of value. Anything that you can replace easily and cheaply should either be resold or throw away. In fact, moving is a great time to get rid of anything unneeded, such as those worn-out loose clothing you bought 10 years ago or the cheap furniture that’s starting to give out.
Start Packing Right Away
Once you have thrown away, resold, or donated the items you don’t need or want, it is time to pack the items you intend to bring with you. Start packing as soon as you officially decide to make the move. Most people don’t realize how much stuff they have until they have to pack it for a move. You would be surprised how long packing will take for a family with children. While packing, catalog high-value items to make sure you don’t lose them while in transit. High-value items include electronic appliances, luxury brand clothing, jewelry, and designer furniture.
Get Professional Help
Professional movers can make a huge difference in your moving outcome. What is great about these companies is that they offer different service tiers to cater to different budgets, which means you can pack your items yourself and just have it hauled by a mover for a more affordable price. If needed, full-service long-distance movers are available for those who want a quick and easy solution. Be sure to find a moving company that will take your health and those around you seriously. For example, professional Waltham movers “are conducting all in-home cost estimates remotely in the form of video walkthrough estimates.” Finding a moving company that is taking the necessary precautions for everyone’s safety is an important consideration that should not be overlooked. Regardless of which option is best for your family, getting help is key to moving quickly and seamlessly.
Consider the Needs of All Family Members
Families who have a pet they plan on bringing or a child with certain health complications will have to plan around those family members during the move. For instance, if moving with a pet, your options are to either drive cross country with the pet or have them flown by an airline that services pet passengers. For kids who suffer from health conditions, such as asthma, you’ll need to bring medication, plan for frequent stops, and consult a physician.
Tie Up Loose Ends
If your kids are still in school or you are still working for a company, you’ll need to make arrangements before the move-out date. Consult your current employer if you can work from home or if you can be transferred to a branch in your new state or country. For families with school-aged children, notifying their school in advance is important so they can prepare and finalize your child’s academic records. You should also notify your utility company about your move so they can discontinue your service in time. The same goes for your internet service provider and local bank if any.
Don’t Compromise Safety For Savings
If given a choice, always take the slightly more expensive yet safer option rather than the cheap but potentially risky one. For instance, come moving day, you may want to hire a babysitter to look after your toddler or bring your dog/cat to a daycare facility for a few hours while you are moving boxes. This may cost you a few bucks but at least you don’t run the risk of a box accidentally dropping on them. This can also be applied when figuring out what transportation method you’re using to move with your family. If it’s safer to drive than it is to fly but costs a lot more in gas and lodging, do the drive.
In the end, long-distance moves aren’t a technically complicated task. By planning ahead, getting the right help, and acting quickly, you can carry out a safe and cost-effective move while also having fun in the process.
