Moving home is an exciting yet challenging experience, especially so when it involves a long-distance move.
Whether you’re relocating for a new job, pursuing educational opportunities, moving closer to family, or simply seeking a change of scenery, proper planning and organization are key to ensuring a smooth transition.
In this blog, we, as a trusted removals company, will guide you through the essential steps to prepare for your long-distance move.
Start Early
Ideally, you should start planning at least 8-12 weeks before your move date, but for those of you moving long distance, we would recommend you plan even earlier. We would go as far to say, as soon as you know you’re moving, even if it’s a year away, to start planning for the move. The earlier you begin, the better you can manage your time, reduce stress, and avoid any last-minute hiccups.
For those who love a spreadsheet – create a timeline, work backwards from the end point and break down tasks week by week to stay on track.
Declutter and Downsize
This is an activity that you can start well in advance! Decluttering is where we advise everyone to start. Moving costs are going to be more costly if you are moving long distance or abroad, so you will only want to take what you need. Go through every room in your home and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. Reducing your belongings also makes packing easier. Be brutal – if you have not looked at or used something in two years, it’s time to let it go!
Hire a Professional Removals Company
Choosing the right removals company is crucial for a successful long-distance move. Look for a reputable company with experience in handling long-distance relocations. Get multiple quotes, read reviews, and ask for recommendations from friends or family. A reliable removals company will provide packing services, transportation, and peace of mind during your move. We’ll give you a head start – use us!
Create an Inventory
Make a detailed inventory list of all your belongings. This is especially important if you are moving abroad and shipping your items. It will help you keep track of your items and ensure that nothing gets lost during the move. Include descriptions and photographs, and consider using inventory management apps or spreadsheets to stay organized.
Plan Your Packing
Proper packing is essential to protect your belongings during a long-distance move. Don’t try and save money on packing materials! Go for high-quality packing supplies, including sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and tape. Label each box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs to, making it easier to unpack at your new home. Take special care to wrap fragile items to prevent breakage.
A good removals company can provide packing materials and some, like us, offer a packing service.
You also need to remember that, unlike with shorter moves you may have made in the past, lots of back-and-forth trips aren’t an option. You need to be confident that all your things will fit in the van on the day, and that they’ll be safe and secure for the journey.
Notify Important Parties
Notify important parties and institutions about your move, such as your current and future utility providers, the postal service, banks, schools, and any subscriptions you have. This ensures that your services are transferred or cancelled as needed, avoiding any delays or disruptions.
Remember, you cannot pop round to your old home to pick up post or packages.
Plan Your Travel
If you’re driving to your new destination, plan your route in advance, making reservations for accommodation along the way if necessary. If you’re flying, book your tickets and accommodation well ahead of time. Also, remember to arrange transportation for your pets if you have them.
Keep Essentials Accessible
Everyone should pack a “moving day” essentials bag that contains items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. This may include toiletries, clothing, chargers, important documents, medications, and basic kitchen supplies. For long distance journeys, we would recommend you pack for a couple of nights. Traffic jams, travel delays or breakdowns could mean you or your belongings arrive at your new home later than planned!
Keep this bag with you during the move to ensure quick access.
Stay Organized
Throughout the moving process, stay organized by keeping all important documents, receipts, and contact information in one place. This will help you address any unexpected issues that may arise during your long-distance move.
A long-distance move can be a significant life change, and careful planning is key for a smooth transition. By starting early, hiring a reputable removals company, such as Painless Removals, decluttering, and staying organized, you can reduce the stress and hassle associated with long-distance relocation.
We can help you with your long distance move – get in touch for a quote.
