When you’re moving long distance you have to worry about more than just packing up your house. You’ve also got to pack for the trip.
If it sounds like something that’s looming on the horizon, this article is for you. It’s all about what to consider when you’re packing up and heading down the trail a ways.
Plan Out Your Moving Day Box First
There are certain things that you’ll need in transit and on the first day once you reach your new home. This is what goes in your moving day box.
Pack like you would for a short vacation. Include:
● A few changes of clothing
● Toiletries
● Medications
● Towel
● Glasses, dentures, etc.
Set all of these essential items aside and save them until the very end of packing. Have each family member pack up a small suitcase or duffel bag with the items above.
Decide What Will Get Packed in Your Vehicle
While the professional movers can handle the truck, you can use your personal vehicle for additional storage. It’s a good idea to pack as many valuable and irreplaceable items in your car as possible. That way you’ll be able to keep an eye on things every step of the way.
Just like your moving day box, decide what you want to pack in your vehicle well in advance. That way you can make sure you don’t run out of space on moving day. Use these car packing tips to maximize every inch of space.
Get Serious About Downsizing . . . Even the Big Items
Downsizing should be a part of every move since it saves money. But when you’re moving across country it’s about more than going through your closet and kitchen cabinets.
Everything is fair game when you’re doing a long distance relocation. Carefully consider whether you want to haul bulky furniture, big screen TVs and appliances or just sell them off before the move.
Leave the Specialty Items to the Pros
Moving a piano, pool table or grandfather clock is difficult enough when you’re moving down the road. Trying to haul it across country significantly increases the chance of damage. For specialty items you’re better off letting the pros handle the packing.
Label Boxes Properly
Labeling boxes is a good idea no matter how far you’re moving. When you’re handing things off to others to move long-distance, labeling is even more important.
In addition to noting what’s in the box and what room it goes in, include your name and new address. This is an extra safeguard in case your boxes are transported with other people’s items or there are stops along the way.
Be Extra Protective With the Packing
The further you have to go the more likely it is that something will get shuffled around in transit. Being extra careful with the packing will pay off in the long run.
● Don’t skimp on the packing materials. Load up on packing paper and bubble wrap.
● Take the time to wrap each item individually before putting it in a box.
● Items should be packed in tightly so there isn’t shifting within the box while things are being moved around.
● Make sure all packing boxes and containers are in good condition.
● Never overload a box. Check the bottom for the maximum weight a box can hold.
● Use specialized boxes as needed for fragile items.
Of course, insurance is an essential part of protecting your property. Federal law only requires that moving companies offer $0.60 per pound in coverage. In addition to finding a moving company that offers extra insurance, you can purchase full-value coverage for better protection.
Don’t know where to start when it comes to packing for a long distance move? Professional packing services from Square Cow Movers take the stress out of a long-distance move. With locations all around the country we can get your boxes where they need to go!
Original Source: https://squarecowmovers.com/packing-long-distance-move/