Moving is one of the most daunting tasks a human can do. It’s even more challenging when you’re setting off on a long-distance move that involves crossing multiple state lines. In this article, we’ll share our experiences and provide valuable tips to help you navigate the process with ease.
Figuring Out How to Move
The first step in preparing for your move is to determine how you want to transport your belongings. This will largely depend on the amount of stuff you need to transport and your budget. You have several options:
1. Drive Yourself
Pack up your car with all your essentials and drive to your new destination.
2. Rent a Moving Truck
Choose a reputable company like Penske or U-Haul, and rent a moving truck that suits your needs.
3. Hire Professional Movers
Let the experts handle everything for you – from packing to driving.
4. Rent a Storage Trailer or Pod
Fill up a storage trailer or pod at your leisure, and have it picked up and delivered to your new location.
Calculating Costs
Before making a decision, research each option thoroughly. Create a spreadsheet (we recommend Google Sheets) to jot down the potential costs of each choice. Unfortunately, there’s no straightforward way to estimate costs without visiting individual websites, inputting your details, and receiving quotes.
To simplify this process, use online tools like ButMoving.com’s move cost calculator or compare prices with trucking companies like Penske and U-Haul.
Our Experience
For our 1,200-mile move, we found that renting a moving truck was the most cost-effective option. However, be mindful of gas costs, which can add up quickly.
To estimate fuel expenses, use tools like GasBuddy to calculate how much you’ll pay for gas along the way.
Keeping Track of Logistics
Once you’ve chosen your mode of transportation, focus on logistics:
- Packing: Start packing non-essential items well in advance, and create a detailed inventory.
- Storage: Research local storage facilities or rent a portable storage container.
- Utilities: Set up electricity, water, internet, and other essential services at your new location.
Road Trip Essentials
Before embarking on your road trip:
- Download Maps: Use Google Maps or Apple Maps to download maps for offline viewing. If you prefer a paper map, consider investing in a road atlas.
- Plan Overnight Stops: Identify halfway points and book accommodations in advance, if possible. We recommend using tools like Travelmath to find the best stopping points.
- Emergency Roadside Kit: Pack a portable air compressor, tire repair kit, jumper cables, and other essentials in case of unexpected situations.
Getting Settled
Congratulations on completing your move! Now it’s time to get settled:
- Unpack and Organize: Take your time unpacking, and create a comfortable living space.
- Explore Your New Community: Join local Facebook groups or use Meetup to connect with like-minded individuals and discover new places.
Conclusion
Moving can be overwhelming, but by breaking it down into manageable tasks and preparing ahead of time, you’ll navigate the process with ease. Remember to stay flexible, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. Good luck on your long-distance move!
