16 Steps to Plan a Long-Distance Move in 2021

Any move is a hassle. But if you are planning to move a long distance, and even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the stress level increases to a maximum. Is there a way to make moving easier? Sure. Our guide will help you successfully cope with this.

1. Do not postpone planning for later

No one has ever said: “I should have started planning the move later and not worried about the organization.” You may be tempted to postpone planning – after all, the task ahead is immense. In fact, the earlier you start, the less pressure you will feel, and the more chances that you will have time to do everything on time.

2. Make a schedule

So, you have outlined a list of things that need to be done. Now make a schedule and assign a certain time to each task. Use an online planner or a regular paper and pen – whatever is convenient for you. Pay special attention to urgent tasks, such as enrolling children in a new school or updating passports for moving abroad.

3. Choose a reliable moving company

Compare reputable carriers offering long-distance transportation. Look for a company that has successfully established itself in the transport services market. Check moving company reviews before hiring the movers.

Request a calculation of the cost of moving, based on the set of services that you need, and the volume of transported property.

For a more accurate assessment, use the services of a professional consultant. This can be done both at home and virtually. Do not trust a company that sets the price by email or by phone.

4. Calculate the cost of moving

The cost of moving for a short and long distance is different. Estimate the approximate amount of moving expenses in order to correctly allocate the budget. In addition to paying directly for transportation, think about additional costs, for example, property insurance when moving or the cost of staying in a hotel for the first night in a new city.

5. Check important documents and invoices

Check (and double-check!) the necessary documentation for moving: customs declarations, visas, valid driver’s license, etc.

Make sure that the utilities are connected before your arrival. Not the best start is to move into a new house without heating, hot water or Internet.

6. Start packing early

If you are going to partially or completely pack your own things, start early. Such things as currently unnecessary seasonal clothing, it is better to pack a few months in advance.

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE: do not leave the kitchen for last. There are a lot of fragile items that need to be packed with special care.

7. Get rid of unnecessary things

Do not pack things that you do not use (and do not pay for their delivery). Get rid of the junk before moving, selling, giving away, sending for recycling or throwing away everything that does not fit into your exciting new life.

8. Make a list of “Not subject to packaging”

If you are moving abroad, keep in mind that some items are prohibited for transportation between countries. The current list of illegal items can be found on the website of the customs service.

9. Make a plan for furniture and household appliances

Furniture weighs a lot, so it is expensive to transport it. If you don’t have a collection of valuable antiques, it may be better to get rid of the excess and buy new furniture upon arrival. (In addition, you will be able to choose those sofas, tables and accessories that will complement your new home).

10. Sort things by room

Organizing things as they are packed will greatly facilitate your subsequent unpacking and arrangement. Keep things separately, each in a room reserved for it. For example, put together all the bed linen, clothes and toys from the nursery.

11. Buy high-quality consumables

Nothing relieves the stress of moving more than having a large number of high-quality consumables at hand. Buy moving boxes that are big enough to protect the mirror, or strong enough to hold your favorite books. Tape dispensers, bubble wrap, clean wrapping paper, as well as markers – all this you will need.

12. Pack for long-distance travel

Moving long distances can also be a challenge for your belongings, so pack them carefully. Provide additional rigidity to fragile objects: secure them securely to minimize shaking.

A great option is to hire a packer. This will save you valuable time before moving. In addition, professional movers know how best to protect your property.

13. Mark the boxes

In case the movers are transporting several loads of different customers at the same time, make sure that your boxes do not get mixed up with someone else’s and are not lost. For greater security, specify your name, new address and phone number on each of them.

14. Keep track of valuable things

Carry very fragile, valuable or dear things in your personal car or hand luggage if you are traveling by plane. Carefully pack them and label them with your contact information, in case of an unexpected loss.

Do not forget to take a set of essential things with you when moving, for example, medicines or a favorite baby blanket.

15. Plan your trip in advance

You have already found an excellent moving company for transporting things over a long distance. It’s time to think about transport for the family. If you are driving your own car, conduct a technical inspection and fill it with gasoline in advance. If you are flying by plane, book seats.

Do not forget to also buy a safe carrier for your pet. 

16. Prepare everything for the work of movers

If necessary, reserve a parking space and an elevator for movers. Also, make sure that the path to your door is free of potential obstacles.

If possible, place all the boxes and other items that need to be transported in one part of the house. When the team of movers arrives, show them where everything is, and then do not get in their way.

Prepare drinking water for the team and plus some cash to tip for excellent service.