Tips for a Long-Distance Move
A long-distance move is hectic but exciting too. It is an opportunity to start your life in a different place and make memories with new people. The excitement of moving to a new place also stems from the possibility of personal and professional growth. The thought of exploring unfamiliar surroundings and experiencing a different culture ignites adventurism.
However, amidst the excitement, the process of a long-distance move is also stressful. The logistical challenges involved in moving over a long distance and thoughts about ensuring the safe transport of your belongings can induce anxiety.
Things become a bit easier if you know the nitty-gritty of moving long distances. Moving also becomes more manageable if you live in a metropolitan such as Miami, where finding external help, such as reliable movers, is much easier. There are many reasons that may push you to move from Miami, such as the high living costs (which are 21% higher than the national average, according to Payscale) or the warm weather. In that case, you should find movers in cities like Miami that can provide services tailored to your exact needs.
That, of course, is just one tip. For a few more of them, consider the tips below to make a long-distance move easier.
- Hire a long-distance mover as early as possible
Hiring a long-distance mover should be the first step when planning your move. A professional moving company can offer various services, including packing, loading, route planning, and handling any technical requirements. However, you must do enough research to find the right moving company that can safely transport your belongings.
Finding a reliable and cost-effective moving company is typically easier in a big city like Miami because of multiple options. This allows for bargaining, comparing rates, and selecting the best option. However, you must also note that reliable and experienced Miami long distance movers are also expected to be busier, considering the sheer number of projects they handle.
Therefore, it is best to contact them as soon as you know about your move. This will provide ample time to compare rates, and the contacted companies will have the time to develop the perfect moving plan.
Additionally, tropical climates like that of Miami’s can also pose unique challenges, including heat, humidity, and the potential for storms, requiring time for planning. Contacting the moving companies earlier allows them to consider these climatic factors and suggest the optimal moving date for you.
- Get the new place cleaned
If you don’t want to be greeted by dust and debris, it is essential to get your new house cleaned before moving in. Arriving at a clean house is important because it provides a welcoming environment and eliminates potential health hazards.
Since you are coming from a long distance, cleaning the house on your own may not be feasible. However, you can hire professional cleaning services to help you with move-in cleaning. Thoroughly communicate your preferences and expectations; they can clean the house one day before your arrival.
If you feel uncertain about letting the workers clean the house on their own, consider reaching out to the seller or landlord of your new house to request their help with cleaning. They may be willing to provide cleaning services (either free or for a fee) as part of the closing process.
- Checked the new house for any issues
Before moving to your new house, make sure to get it checked for any potential issues to avoid surprises and ensure a smooth transition.
One of the areas you must inspect is the plumbing of the house. Make an effort to check the faucets, sinks, toilets, and showers, inspecting them for leaks, proper drainage, and smooth water pressure.
Look for stains on the walls, mold, and mildew growth in nooks and crannies; these issues don’t only highlight water damage but also hidden plumbing issues. Also, check if the water heating system of the house is working properly.
In addition to plumbing, you also need to assess the electrical system in your new house. Check all the electrical boards and circuit breakers to ensure they are in good working order. Take an electrician with you to check faulty electrical connections, flickering lights, frayed wires, and overloaded circuits. Faulty electrical systems can pose a major safety risk.
Besides checking plumbing and electrical issues, take a thorough round of the house to look for other repairs. Here is a list of the things you must assess before moving in:
- Look for cracks or gaps that may compromise energy efficiency
- Check windows and doors for proper functionality
- Examine the roof for any missing shingles,
- Assess the HVAC system for proper functioning
Inspecting the house for any potential repairs is essential because arranging repairs and renovations while the house is vacant. So, it is better to address these issues before moving in with your family and belongings.
- Declutter your house
Relocating to a new house is the perfect opportunity to declutter and remove all the unnecessary stuff from your house. Decluttering has both financial and mental health benefits. There is ample research that states that clutter induces stress and anxiety.
Clutter makes ensuring an organized environment in the house challenging, leading to forgetfulness and increased frustration. When moving to a new house, navigating through a cluttered space when packing makes you lose focus by increasing visual and mental distractions. Removing clutter creates a more organized space where boxes can be neatly packed and stacked.
As for the financial benefits of removing clutter, reducing unnecessary stuff means having less stuff to pack and transport over long distances. This not only reduces the moving cost by reducing the physical load but also saves time and decreases the chances of careless handling and damage.
Step-by-step process of decluttering
You can start decluttering by visiting each room and sorting your stuff into different piles. For ease and organization, you can label these piles as keep, donate, sell, or discard.
- The “keep” pile comprises everything worth taking to the new house.
- The “donate” pile contains items that are extra or are no longer in use. It could include crockery, cloth, machinery, etc. You can contact your local charities; most often, they are willing to arrange a pickup.
- Next, create a ‘sell’ pile with items you don’t intend to take to the new house but can sell for a good price. You can label everything with price tags, organize a yard sale, and let your friends, neighbors, and family know about it.
- Lastly, put all the stuff which can neither be sold nor taken to the new house in the “discard” pile.
Conclusion
Preparing for a long-distance move requires time to search and hire a moving company, declutter your house, get it checked for any repairs, and much more. Make sure you plan your move extensively to avoid any problems during the process and after reaching the new house.
