Are you considering a long-distance move? Maybe you’re because your job has transferred you, or perhaps your family has outgrown your current home. Whatever the reason, moving long distance can be daunting. But with careful planning and execution, it can also be a smooth transition. In this post, we’ll discuss some of the basics of how long-distance moves work – from timing and costs to tips for making the process go as smoothly as possible. Keep reading to learn more.
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What Is Considered Long Distance Moving?
Most people generally think of long distance moving as moves that are over 100 miles away from their current location. While this is technically true, there are a few other factors to consider when determining whether or not your move is considered long distance.
For instance, if you are moving from one state to another, this is usually considered a long-distance move, regardless of the actual mileage. This is because each state has different laws and regulations regarding moving companies and interstate moves. As such, most companies that offer long distance moving services will only move you if you are going from one state to another.
Another factor to consider is the time it will take to complete your move. While a move that is only a few miles away can usually be done in a day or two, a long distance move will often take weeks to complete. This is due to the fact that your belongings will need to be loaded onto a truck and driven to your new location. In some cases, your belongings may even need to be shipped by plane if you are moving to a location that is too far away to drive.
Considerations
When you’re planning a long-distance move, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, you’ll need to choose a moving date. It’s important to pick a time of year when traffic is lightest – typically mid-late spring or early fall. This will help minimize the amount of time your belongings spend on the road, and also help keep costs down.
Choosing Moving Company
Next, you’ll need to choose a moving company.
There are a few different types of companies that can handle long-distance moves:
Full Service Moving Companies:
Full-service moving companies will pack, load, transport, and unload your belongings for you. This is the most expensive option, but also the most convenient.
Self Service Moving Companies:
Self-service moving companies will transport your belongings, but you’ll be responsible for packing and loading them onto the truck. This is a more affordable option, but requires more work on your part.
Truck Rental Companies:
Truck rental companies will provide you with a truck to transport your belongings, but you’ll be responsible for packing, loading, and unloading. This is the most affordable option, but also the most work-intensive.
Once you’ve selected a moving company, it’s time to start packing. When packing for a long-distance move, it’s important to:
- Pack your belongings in sturdy boxes that can withstand being loaded and unloaded multiple times.
- Label your boxes clearly with the contents and the room they should be unloaded into at your new home.
- Pack heavier items in smaller boxes to make them easier to carry.
- Pack a essentials box with things you’ll need during the first few days in your new home, like toiletries and changes of clothes.
If you’re using a full-service moving company, they will take care of packing for you. If you’re using a self-service or truck rental company, you’ll need to do the packing yourself.
Once your belongings are packed and ready to go, it’s time to load them onto the truck. If you’re using a full-service moving company, their workers will load your belongings for you. If you’re using a self-service or truck rental company, you’ll need to do the loading yourself.
Once your belongings are loaded onto the truck, it’s time for the actual move. Depending on the distance you’re moving, this can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Once you’ve arrived at your new home, it’s time to unload and unpack your belongings. If you’re using a full-service moving company, their workers will unload and unpack your belongings for you. If you’re using a self-service or truck rental company, you’ll need to do the unpacking yourself.
How Much Does Long Distance Moving Cost?
According to the American Moving and Storage Association, the average cost of a long-distance move is about $4,890 (distance of 1,000 miles). Keep in mind that your actual moving costs will vary depending on various factors such as the exact distance of your move, the number of items you need to move, the time of year you move, and the specific services you require.
To get a more accurate estimate of your long-distance moving costs, it’s best to first consider your moving method. For example, hiring full-service professional movers will typically be more expensive than renting a truck and doing the move yourself. However, professional movers can save you a lot of time and hassle, which may be worth the extra cost.
To get a better idea of how much your long-distance move will cost, you can use a moving cost calculator. This tool will help you estimate the cost of your move based on factors such as the distance of your move and the number of items you need to move.
If you’re planning a long-distance move, be sure to get multiple estimates from different moving companies. This will help you compare costs and find the best deal for your needs.
Long-distance moves can be expensive, but there are ways to save money on your move. Here are a few tips:
- Compare moving estimates from multiple companies.
- Look for discounts and special offers from moving companies.
- Ask about bundled services (packing, storage, etc.) to get a better deal.
- Rent a truck or storage unit instead of hiring full-service movers.
- Pack your belongings yourself to save money on labor costs.
- Move during the off-peak season (winter) to get lower rates.
By following these tips, you can save money on your long-distance move. Remember, the cost of your move will vary depending on factors such as the distance of your move, the time of year you move, and the services you require. Be sure to get multiple estimates and compare costs before booking your move.
How Much Time Does a Long-Distance Move Take?
The answer, unfortunately, is not so simple. There are a lot of factors that can affect the length of a long-distance move.
For example, the size of your home will play a big role in how long it takes to pack up all your belongings and load them onto the truck. A smaller home will obviously take less time than a larger one.
The distance you’re moving also plays a role. The further you’re going, the longer it will take to get there. And of course, the time of year you’re moving makes a difference too. Moving during the summer is usually easier and quicker than moving in the winter, when weather can be a factor.
So, while we can’t give you an exact answer to how long your long-distance move will take, we can give you a few estimates based on the factors mentioned above.
For example, a typical long distance move for a three-bedroom home could take anywhere from four to seven days. And a move from New York City to Los Angeles would probably take at least five days, if not more.
Of course, the best way to get an accurate estimate for your move is to contact a professional moving company. They will be able to give you a more detailed estimate based on your specific circumstances.
Long Distance Moving Tips
Making a long-distance move can be a daunting task, but there are some things you can do to make the process go more smoothly. Here are some tips to help you with your long-distance move:
1. Start planning early. The sooner you start planning for your move, the better. This will give you time to research different moving companies and compare prices. It will also give you time to pack your belongings and get everything ready for the move.
2. Get quotes from several different moving companies. This will help you compare prices and services. Be sure to get quotes from at least three different companies.
3. Choose a moving company that offers insurance. This will protect your belongings in case they are damaged during the move.
4. Pack your belongings carefully. This will prevent them from being damaged during the move. Be sure to label all of your boxes so you know what is inside of them.
5. Make sure you have all of your documents in order. This includes your driver’s license, Social Security card, and birth certificate. You will also need to have your insurance information handy.
6. Change your address with the post office. This will ensure that your mail is forwarded to your new address.
7. Notify your utilities of your move. This includes your electric, gas, water, and trash companies. They will need to know your new address so they can send you a final bill.
8. Set up your utilities at your new home. This includes your electric, gas, water, and trash companies. You will also need to set up your internet and phone service.
9. Forward your mail to your new address. This will ensure that you receive your mail at your new home.
10. Have a moving sale. This is a great way to get rid of some of your unwanted belongings. You can also use the money from the sale to help pay for your move.
Moving can be a stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to be. If you plan ahead and get organized, your move will go more smoothly. And don’t forget to ask for help from family and friends. They can be a big help when it comes to moving day.
