Moving companies charge differently for long-distance moves. Some full-service movers charge hourly while others offer flat rates with additional services billed separately.
An important consideration when moving long distance is choosing between container companies or renting trucks; both offer lower costs but more work for you to handle yourself.
When moving long distance, take extra care when packing your items to ensure they arrive in good condition and save on shipping fees. Use quality packaging materials that avoid compression while securely fastening each box with straps; additionally label each one so it can be placed near its respective room upon delivery.
Before moving, taking an inventory can also prove useful in getting an understanding of what items you actually own versus which may need donating or selling.
Pack essential items first when packing: clothing, toiletries and personal documents should all be packed together at once. You should leave bulkier items like pillows and mattresses until last; old blankets or sheets can protect these during transport. Lastly, if moving during a busy period of the year is unavoidable, try scheduling it during an off-peak timeframe to minimize disruptions during your move.
Long distance moves involve two primary costs: moving your items with a company and travel costs (air tickets and hotel expenses). When choosing one of these companies, be sure to compare prices as some may include hidden fees or extra costs that were unanticipated.
Full-service moving companies will offer various moving options and prices will vary based on how much, where, when and when it needs to be delivered. Some companies use either space or weight pricing while others combine both when determining their prices.
When hiring a moving company, make sure your boxes are clearly labeled with your name and phone number for easy identification, helping prevent them from getting misplaced or delivered at an incorrect address. Where possible use reusable boxes as this will reduce packaging costs as well as being beneficial to both the environment and you.
At times, certain items require special care during a move, including large, awkwardly-shaped objects like yard sculptures and furniture or especially heavy pieces such as pianos. You should ask your moving company whether they have the staff and equipment available to them to handle these pieces safely; some even provide storage facilities before or after moving day!
Heirlooms, gifts, and other items with sentimental value should be given special care when moving long distance. Convert analog pictures and film into digital versions for easier transport.
Find ways to save money when making a long-distance move, whether renting a truck for yourself or borrowing dollies/hand trucks from friends/family can reduce expenses associated with renting them from rental services. Also try using eco-friendly packing materials such as reusing boxes and materials – they could reduce both your costs and help the environment!
As soon as possible, plan for your long distance move as soon as possible. This allows ample time for researching moving companies that best suit your needs and budget, planning packing services and transportation, comparing costs and coverage options, as well as packing.
As part of your downsizing effort for your move, it is wise to get rid of items no longer needed – this will reduce the total number of boxes required and associated linehaul charges, thus helping your total transport costs drop accordingly.
One tip for successful long-distance moves is labeling all your boxes clearly; this will make unpacking much simpler! Furthermore, tip your movers if they do an exceptional job; even small contributions go a long way with these hardworking professionals!