7 Long-Distance Moving Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

There’s no question that moving is a stressful life event. In fact, studies revealed that the stress of a move is more intense than that of a divorce. 

If you are facing the challenge of not only a move, but a long-distance move, you’ll be facing a number of situations that can result in unfortunate outcomes. You’ll need a plan to avoid common long-distance moving mistakes and ensure the least amount of stress possible. 

So what should be included on your long-distance move checklist? Follow along to discover the seven long-distance moving mistakes you’ll want to avoid and how to carry out your move with ease. 

1. Procrastinating Packing

When it comes to moving, one of the most laborious tasks is packing. Unfortunately, it’s probably the one task you really don’t want to leave to the last minute.

Many people make a rough estimate of how long it will take to pack and leave the majority of the work to this estimated window. Unfortunately, most of these estimations are not quite right. 

While last-minute packing in any move can add unnecessary stress, a long-distance move really adds to this unfortunate offense. Save yourself the headache and tack at least 3 extra hours onto your planned packing time. The last thing you want to be doing the night before moving to another state is panic packing!

2. Booking Last-Minute Services

Similar to your procrastinated packing, you’ll want to allow yourself far more time than you think you’ll need to secure a solid long-distance moving service. 

The further you move, the more difficult it can be to secure the exact dates you need for your big move. For this reason, you’ll want to book as far in advance as possible. 

Failing to do so could leave you without a home in your current state and with an empty one at the new location. This could result in extra expenses due to storage containers, last-minute booking charges, or simply scrambling to survive in a home with next to no belongings. 

3. Not Arranging Storage

On the subject of storage, if you think you’ll be needing a little extra space for your move, you’ll want to be sure you plan it ahead of time. This is especially important for those who are downsizing or are notorious ‘over packers’. 

If you have your storage facility already booked, your movers can actually deliver specifically marked items and boxes right to the unit. This will save you having to transport it yourself and allow you more space to unpack your priority items first. 

Beyond this, many moving companies actually offer storage services and may have discounts available for bundling your services. Think ahead to save money, space, and stress when moving to another state. 

4. Not Decluttering First

When packing for moves, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to sift through your belongings and get rid of anything you no longer need. 

When we live in one place for some time, it can be easy to forget about what’s packed away in the back of the closet. Instead of packing up your unused items and paying to have them shipped long distances, take the time on this side of the move to declutter. 

As you pack, make piles for donation, trash, and ‘keep’. The items you wish to keep can be packed straight away and any unwanted belongings can be dealt with before entering your new home.

This is another reason to budget extra time for packing!

5. Choosing Inexperienced Movers

The last thing you want to deal with when transporting your items to another state is inexperienced or unqualified movers. 

While a company could just be ‘up and coming’, often times the starting stages of business involve working out the kinks and managing mistakes. If you don’t want to be a part of a new business’s growing pains, it’s a good idea to do your research first. 

Check the reviews of each potential mover on your list and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. Long-distance moves are no small feat, so you’ll need a company that is capable and qualified to get the job done right and on time. 

6. Spontaneous DIY

Managing your move yourself is a great way to save some money, however, if you choose to DIY your interstate move, you’ll need to develop a clear long-distance move checklist. 

Are you using a moving truck? If so, how far in advance will you need to book? Do they have interstate locations where you can return the vehicle? How much will you be charged for high mileage? 

You’ll need to know every detail of each step of your plan to ensure that you don’t end up scrambling between states. Clear up any documentation you need, ask your helpers well in advance, and plan for the unexpected. If this is your first long-distance move, you’re bound to face the odd mistake.

7. Not Planning the Necessities

One of the worst long-distance moving mistakes first-time movers make is forgetting about the necessities between houses. 

Once your home is all packed up and you’re on the road, you’ll need a few things to get by. The number of things you’ll need increases as the distance your moving does. 

First things first, you’ll need to pack enough clothing and toiletries to get you through the move. Even if you do arrive on the same day as your move, having your necessities close by can take the stress off of unpacking. 

Beyond your overnight bag, you’ll need to ensure your transportation is reliable and safe. If you plan to drive your own car to your new home, make sure it’s mechanically sound before setting off. Alternatively, if flying to your new home is more reasonable than driving, make plans ahead to have your car moved professionally. 

Last but not least, pre-book any accommodation, pack medications, and bring along enough supplies to keep your kids and pets entertained on the road. 

Steer Clear of Long-Distance Moving Mistakes

Now that you know the most common long-distance moving mistakes to avoid, it’s time to get to work! From packing to hiring moving services, we’re confident you’ll have a stress-free move with your newly informed long-distance moving checklist.

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