Across States and Beyond: Your Guide to Long Distance Moves

According to a recent US News report, many people are rethinking how and where they live. Whether it is the rise of remote work giving people the freedom to move wherever they want, or the need to relocate for a better employment opportunity in an uncertain economy, long-distance moves are on the rise. Whatever your reason for making the leap, this guide will give you everything you need to know to prepare for a successful long-distance relocation.

Start Planning Earlier Than You Think You Need To

With a local move, you can sometimes get away with planning a few weeks out. A long-distance move is a different story. The more time you give yourself, the better positioned you will be to handle all of the details that come with relocating far from home. Our moving timeline checklist is a great tool to help you stay organized and on track from the very beginning.

There are logistics to think through that simply do not apply to local moves. If you are driving to your new home, will you need to stop overnight at a hotel? Possibly multiple nights? Research and book accommodations ahead of time, and make sure to look for pet-friendly options if your furry family members are making the trip with you. If you are flying, arrange your flights early and check the airline’s pet policy if needed.

Research Your Moving Company Carefully

Not all moving companies handle long-distance moves, so it is important to do your research before committing to anyone. Get multiple quotes, read reviews, and make sure the company you choose is fully licensed and insured for long-distance moves. Ask specific questions about how they handle belongings during transit and what their claims process is for damage. Choosing the right moving partner makes an enormous difference in how smoothly everything goes.

Take Decluttering More Seriously Than Ever

We always recommend decluttering before any move, but with long-distance relocations, every single square inch of space matters. The less you bring, the less it costs and the easier everything becomes on the other end. Go through your home, room by room, and donate or sell anything you do not expect to need or use in your new home. Do not move on to the next room until the one you are working in is completely finished. Starting this process as early as possible gives you the breathing room to make thoughtful decisions rather than rushed ones.

If you need guidance on how to approach the decluttering and packing process, our packing tips cover everything you need to know to get your belongings ready for a long haul.

Prepare Your Car for the Journey

If you will be driving to your new home, make sure your car is in good shape before hitting the road. Schedule a maintenance check, top off your fluids, and pack an emergency kit with water, snacks, and a roadside assistance kit. If you do not already have an AAA membership, now is a great time to sign up. You can never be too prepared when traveling a long distance, and having a backup gives you real peace of mind on the road.

Handle the Administrative Details

Notify Schools and Healthcare Providers

If you have children, contact their current school as soon as possible to let them know about the move and arrange to have their records transferred to their new school. Do the same with your doctors, dentists, and any specialists your family sees regularly. Getting medical records transferred before you leave means you will not be scrambling to track them down once you arrive somewhere new.

Plan Time for Goodbyes

The weeks before a long-distance move are hectic, but do not let them pass without being intentional about spending time with the people and places you love. Plan a going-away gathering so you can see your friends and family before you go. Make a list of your favorite local spots and carve out time to visit them one last time. These moments matter, and you will be glad you made the time for them.

Arriving at Your New Home

Explore Your New Surroundings

Once you have arrived and the initial chaos of moving day has settled, take some time to explore your new neighborhood. Find your nearest grocery store, pharmacy, and park. Check out local restaurants and community spaces. The sooner you start getting familiar with your surroundings, the sooner your new location will start to feel like home. Our guide to settling in after a move offers plenty of tips to help you feel comfortable quickly.

Celebrate Your Arrival

Moving long-distance is a remarkable milestone and deserves acknowledgment. Take a moment to celebrate the start of this new chapter. Treat yourself and your family to a special meal or a fun activity to mark the occasion. You worked hard to get here, and that is worth celebrating.

Ready to Make Your Long Distance Move?

For all of your local Cleveland area moves and long-distance relocations, Eyring Movers is here to provide exceptional service for you and your family. We are based on the west side of Cleveland and regularly help people move between here, Cincinnati, Columbus, and everywhere in between. Contact us today for a free moving quote and let us help you get to your next destination with confidence.